Kunken Lodge

We came by boat as cruisers and bought a day pass. It came with a welcome drink, a typical Costa Rican lunch, use of the pool and water toys, and access to the grounds. Kunken means "welcome," and the staff certainly made us feel that way. They were amazing and very helpful, and the food was really good. If paradise is what you’re after, this is it!

We’d been on a four-month road trip around Costa Rica with our children, a rooftop tent, and a spirit of discovery, stopping occasionally to work remotely, breathe, and reflect on the week. After an overnight adventure in the beautiful Corcovado National Park near Drake Bay, we came to Kunken Boutique Hotel, a little paradise tucked away in paradise. The shifting light and sky and the whole setting were breathtaking, beyond what a photo could capture. But the people gave the place its soul. We were lucky to meet the owner, Francisco, who came to Costa Rica on a journey and fell in love with this spot five years ago. His love and vision show in every detail, from the natural building materials to the heartfelt food and the team. Josie and Johanna welcomed us with real warmth, kindness, and care. Their hospitality made our stay. The hotel is a stunning destination, but more than that, it has a feeling created by the people who work there. Everything invites you to slow down and reconnect: kayaking, stargazing, resting, breathing. The food is simple and delicious, made with fresh ingredients and love. The design feels raw and grounded, all wood, openness, nature, and Pachamama in every corner. One night isn’t enough if you can stay longer. Let the place stay with you and remind you how good it feels to simply be. Kunken is a refuge, a reset, and a return to what matters.

We were at Kunken lodge for a few days over Easter, and the staff were very friendly. They had a great range of cocktails and other drinks. We ate with all kinds of wildlife in view, especially a pair of breading Macaw. The room was comfy, and the nature-designed shower gave us a thrill. Watch for the howler monkeys. We hope to visit again next year!

My friend and I came from the States for a 14-day trip around the Osa peninsula. We snorkeled, hiked through rainforest, explored waterfalls, and went on a tuna fishing charter. On the way to our last stop in Mogos, we took a random, beautifully carved-out road and ended up at this breathtaking resort. I thought it couldn’t be real, but Josie and Alejandro laughingly assured me it was. We still had another 20-minute drive to our location, but first we had a great lunch and a beer outside while watching the most beautiful rainstorm I’ve ever seen. I was so overwhelmed by the surroundings that I immediately asked how much it would cost. My buddy left, and I stayed for three nights. It’s the most incredible stay I’ve had, and I don’t think anything will top it until I go back. The room was huge and breathtaking, with comfy beds, a private lawn, and a wraparound deck. The sounds of nature all day and night were calming. Wildlife lives in its own habitat, and I was grateful it shared a few peaceful nights with me. It was hot and there’s no A/C, but I slept fine. Bugs are unavoidable in the rainforest, though they didn’t bother me. Just pick up after yourself, like anywhere else. The room service staff were amazingly hospitable. They greeted me every morning, asked how I slept, and offered breakfast, a smoothie, and coffee. Breakfast was five courses and left me feeling light but full. My room was cleaned daily, and they did my laundry too. The chefs were top notch. Shoutout to Josie, who made the best papaya smoothies and helped create the drink menu. The fresh sugar cane drink was a close second to my favorite, and I’m pretty sure there was a papaya shortage after I left. Alejandro was great behind the bar, making fire drinks whenever I called on him. There are endless activities, and if they don’t have something you want to do, they bring it to you. I had the most incredible jet ski ride on the pacific, ever. The whole stay was worth every penny. Anyone looking for an incredible, surreal experience should go to the Kunken. Remember, you’re in someone else’s country, and they do things their own way. Nobody is in a hurry, things move slower down there, and they don’t like the "Karen" type. I loved that and think you should respect it. Learn some Spanish. Almost nobody speaks English, and why should they? My Spanish isn’t very good, but I could navigate and communicate effectively. They respected that. I’ll never forget the staff who took such good care of me and made it unforgettable.