Laguna Lodge

The grounds were lovely and well cared for, and the pool was clean and inviting, with a built-in jacuzzi. I enjoyed a couple of nights here on an organised tour. Getting there takes an hour by riverboat, but I still gave the location 5 because there’s nowhere on this peninsula with easy access. The rooms get a 4 from me, as there’s no wifi in them and very few outlets for charging phones. The welcome drink was delicious, though the rest of the food was rather bland.

It’s seriously hot and humid, though I suppose that’s what you expect in a rain forest. The pool was the same temperature as the air, so even that felt very warm. Still, it was a great experience: wildlife everywhere, a little town up the river, a small-plane flight in, and a beach visit to watch turtles lay their eggs. The food was acceptable, if not great, and the accommodation was basic. There were only fans, which just moved the hot air around. But that’s the rain forest.

Walter’s enthusiasm and 34 years of experience guiding visitors to Costa Rica made this visit especially memorable. We stayed at Laguna Lodge from 16 to 18 January this year, as the first part of our Costa Rican adventure, on an organised two-night full-board tour. Walter met us at our overnight accommodation in San Jose and guided us by coach and boat to the Lodge. The trip took about 4 and a half hours, with a breakfast stop at an excellent cafe. Along the way, he pointed out what we could see from the windows and introduced us to the idea of

A memorable stay in the best sense. Though the location is right in the jungle, we still felt safe and comfortable. It’s a great base for beach walks and boat trips. It isn’t luxurious, but everything works and it’s clean.