Lapa Rios

Lapa Rios Lodge is set in the rainforest, about a 45-minute drive from Peurto Jimenez. It feels like an oasis, with lovely grounds, helpful staff, and good food. There are tours on the property, as well as options run by outside tour groups.

We came as travel agents for a site inspection, and we’ll definitely consider Lapa Rios for our clients. The team handled our delayed flight with effective, clear communication and great problem solving. The place itself is stunning, from the beach and forest to the food, guides, service, and attention to detail. The views are incredible, and honestly, I was delighted our flight was canceled so we could stay another night. Juan from maintenance even climbed a six-meter tree to retrieve my drone after it got stuck while I was filming for marketing. The guides I met, Danilo and Jeffry, seemed to read the forest. I’m sure the others are great too. Eliar, Sandra, Gabriel, and the rest of the waiters were lovely. The cooks were wonderful as well. You don’t usually see them, but I popped into the kitchen to ask for rice for the drone. Marcel and Goryina in concierge were outstanding.

The location is beautiful and the surf spot is easy to reach, but this place is very remote, with nothing around besides the hotel. We had a gorgeous room with an ocean view, yet bugs filled the beds every night even though we were careful to keep the doors and windows shut. We changed rooms after the first night, then realized it happened in the new room too. The restaurant menu stays the same and is very expensive if you aren’t on the all-inclusive plan. I wished there were a cafe, a shop, or something nearby.

We spent three nights here and would gladly return. The room was beautiful, especially the indoor and outdoor showers, and the lodge sits on a hill among forest with ocean views and wildlife all around. Staff were fabulous. Vilma and Sandra looked after us so well at meals, and the food was excellent. We went on excursions with Danilo and Edwin, who knew a lot about the wildlife and took great care of us. We saw all four kinds of monkeys, sloths, and loads of birds. I can’t wait to come back.