Pacuare Lodge

An idyllic riverside jungle lodge, hidden in the depths of the rainforest and reachable only by raft

As your raft enters the rapids, there’s no time to panic: your guide is commanding you to "Paddle forward!" and suddenly there’s an exhilarating rush as the raft is borne up on an unseen wave and sent spinning down into a whirlpool eddy, sending your heart racing, before you emerge effortlessly onto the smooth river again, floating calmly between tall trees and hanging creepers. Exotic birds dart all around you. Then you arrive: secluded in this paradise setting, Pacuare Lodge sits on a bend in the river amid gorgeous gardens filled with tropical flowers. Each of its beautifully designed cabins has luxurious bathrooms, beds draped with mosquito nets, and is lit only by candles at night.

Walk along a winding path to the tall open-sided palenque and sip caipirinhas before dinner - surprisingly sophisticated cuisine is served under the moon, next to the murmur of the river. Awake to birds calling all around you, monkeys swinging in the trees and hummingbirds flitting in the flowers outside your window. Pacuare Lodge will be the highlight of your trip to Costa Rica.

Highs

• This is a unique chance to be isolated in the rainforest, immersed in nature but with fine wines and excellent food
• The palm-thatched wooden cabins are rustic but pretty luxurious and each has a 360 degree rainforest view. It's worth paying extra for the huge River View Suites and Linda Vista Suites
• The staff are charming - everyone seems to love welcoming you, creating a warm and uplifting atmosphere
• The rafting is unforgettable. It might sound alarming but it feels amazing. Those who don’t fancy it can be brought by jeep and a basket across the river!
• Amazing activities are on offer, such as the hike to visit the Cabecar indigenous community and their curandero (medicine man)
• Pacuare Lodge is carbon neutral

Lows

• It's pricey, but it's a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and all meals and local transportation are included
• There's no phone, no internet and no TV. That’s the whole point
• Rafting might prove too much for older guests, or those who like to enjoy nature free of adrenaline rushes. Consider the option of a jeep plus a river crossing in a basket
• There's no electricity in most cabins, so no air conditioning is available, and there’s the possibility that bugs will get in, though your cabin windows are mosquito screened. Be prepared and you’ll love it