Canvas and Orchids Retreat

The river tents were a highlight. We stayed in N3, right over the river, and could jump in from our private terrace. The water was warm and clean for swimming, though not for drinking. Our tent was huge, had everything we needed, and the ceiling fan kept us comfortable. We slept with just the mesh closed, then woke to coffee and the sunrise. Hot water was brought out at 5am. It was my first glamping stay, and a great place to try it. The staff, from Owner Anna to Ravi, Bona, and the restaurant, boat, guide, and housekeeping teams, were helpful without hovering. They’re all locals, keen to make international guests happy, share what they know about the village and forest, and build new skills. Everyone knew us by name, so we never had to give a room number when ordering. Meals and drinks were good and not too expensive, with a la carte breakfast, plenty of strong coffee, and a choice of set menu or a la carte at dinner. We tried both over our three nights. Canvas & Orchids is a wonderful setting for slowing down, enjoying the views, and having some local experiences. The boat transfers there and back rounded out the trip. A noisy toddler did take away from the peaceful atmosphere, and some guests smoked despite the no-smoking policy, with smoking allowed on private terraces too. Those were minor gripes during a spectacular stay. If remoteness, quiet, and the price have you hesitating, it depends on whether peace and time to unwind are what you’re after.

We'd happily come back to Canvas and Orchids. The resort's story and support for the community were lovely to hear about, and Paulo, Ravy, Bona and the rest of the team made us feel safe and very well looked after. Everyone was so friendly and ready to help. The food was fantastic and freshly made, even the lunch packed for our waterfall trip. Morning coffee and a cookie were left out for us each day, just in time to watch the sunrise. A really memorable stay.

We spent a week here and had a blast. The local village outing let us see how our guide lived and visit his kids' school. We also planted mangroves for the future, and did the roughly 13 km, 8-hour jungle trek. All the trips were really nice. Naren was our private guide and made the tours, and the whole stay, a 10/10. Thanks to everyone, and I hope you keep it up.

The river and jungle views from my terrace were amazing, and the tents themselves are remarkable. I had the right mix of relaxing, swimming and fishing in the river, and trekking through the jungle. The food was delicious, and the team looked after me from arrival right through to leaving. My stay at Canvas & Orchids Retreat lived up to everything I expected. Big thanks to Anna, Valentin, and the whole team for making it such a magical place.