Costa Rica is a country overflowing with lush rainforests like Monteverde, diverse wildlife like what you’ll see in Manuel Antonio, and pristine beaches like those in Uvita. It’s a paradise like no other for eco-conscious travelers. Eco-lodges in Costa Rica offer a unique blend of comfort, sustainability, and authentic experiences, making them an ideal choice for those who seek a deeper connection with nature. These are the best of the best when it comes to luxurious and eco-friendly digs in Costa Rica.
What Is an Eco-Lodge?
Eco-lodges are designed to minimize their impact on the surrounding ecosystem, often utilizing renewable energy, water conservation methods, and eco-friendly materials. In Costa Rica, they go a step further, often blending seamlessly into the lush landscape and offering guests an intimate encounter with the country’s rich biodiversity. This is the ultimate way to experience the beauty of Costa Rica to its fullest.
1. Kunken Boutique Hotel & Spa, Bahia Chal – $450/night
Kunken stands as one of the most tranquil Costa Rican eco-lodges, specializing in sustainable luxury. This small hotel and spa, tucked away on a private reserve, offers an intimate connection with nature. Each room is thoughtfully designed to harmonize with the natural surroundings, featuring eco-friendly amenities and panoramic views of the forest. The hotel’s holistic spa, drawing on the healing powers of the earth, offers treatments such as body scrubs, facials, massages, and more.
Kunken takes you on a journey into mindful living, where every element, from the locally sourced cuisine to the nature-inspired activities, is curated to enhance your connection with the environment. Here, you can explore the essence of pura vida, immersing yourself in the pristine beauty of Costa Rica, knowing your stay contributes positively to the planet.
2. Esquinas Rainforest Lodge, Golfito – $330/night
Right in the heart of the Piedras Blancas National Park lies Esquinas Rainforest Lodge, a testament to Costa Rica’s dedication to conservation and sustainable living. This eco-lodge, surrounded by unspoiled tropical rainforests, offers an authentic jungle experience fit for any nature enthusiast. With a limited number of rooms, the property ensures a peaceful and intimate stay, allowing you to wake up to the sounds of exotic birds and the rustling of leaves.
The lodge operates on principles of sustainability, making extensive use of solar power and supporting local community projects. There are plenty of opportunities for bird watching, hiking along the lush trails, and exploring the nearby mangroves. The experience at Esquinas is not just about enjoying the natural beauty of Costa Rica but also about learning and participating in its preservation.
3. Arenal Kioro, La Fortuna – $300/night
Situated in the shadow of the majestic Arenal Volcano, this eco-lodge has gorgeous views of one of Costa Rica’s most iconic natural landmarks while also boasting a commitment to sustainability.
Each suite is designed to maximize the stunning volcanic views while providing luxurious comfort. The rooms are spacious and elegant, with large windows that invite the natural beauty inside. Guests can unwind in the hot spring pools, directly fed by thermal waters from the volcano, or take relaxation to the next level at the spa.
The cherry on top? The lodge practices energy efficiency, conserves water, and supports community initiatives. It’s an ideal destination for those who seek to indulge in the wonders of nature without compromising on luxury and responsible travel.
4. Chachagua Rainforest Hotel & Hot Springs, Chachagua – $280/night
Chachagua Rainforest Hotel & Hot Springs is a haven set in the vibrant Costa Rican rainforest near the Arenal Volcano and La Fortuna. Staying here is an experience that immerses you in the heart of nature, with comfortablel accommodations that exude authentic rustic charm. Here you’ll have hot springs on-site, offering a tranquil oasis for relaxation and perfectly complementing the serene surroundings.
What sets Chachagua apart are the unique experiences it offers. Guests can go on guided walks to discover the nocturnal life of the rainforest, join a birdwatching tour to spot some of the area’s most exotic species, or learn about sustainable farming practices at the lodge’s organic farm. These experiences not only enrich your stay but also deepen your connection with the natural world, which is one of the top reasons to opt for an eco-lodge instead of a chain hotel.
5. Santa Juana Lodge, Quepos – $175/night
Santa Juana captures the essence of Costa Rica’s rural heritage and breathtaking natural beauty. Nestled in the lush hills near Manuel Antonio National Park, this lodge offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. For convenience, the lodge offers a shuttle service to and from the San José airport, ensuring easy access to this hidden gem.
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Its unique mission is centered around community and environmental conservation. The lodge actively engages in preserving local culture and natural resources, making your stay here contribute positively to its sustainable initiatives. The experience at Santa Juana is enriched by the community connection, allowing guests to understand and participate in local conservation efforts.
Whether you’re exploring the nearby trails, partaking in the cultural experiences, or simply soaking in the serene atmosphere, Santa Juana Lodge offers an authentic and meaningful Costa Rican experience.
6. Senda Monteverde Hotel, Monteverde – $500/night
Senda Monteverde Hotel is located in the cloud forest of Costa Rica, providing guests with an incredible opportunity to connect with nature. Guests can enjoy guided walks in the adjacent Aguti Wildlife Reserve, where the rich biodiversity of Monteverde comes to life.
The hotel’s sustainability philosophy includes support for the community, cultural preservation, and responsible tourism practices. Its design and operations are thoughtfully crafted to minimize impact while maximizing guest comfort and providing a unique experience. Each room at the hotel boasts an elegant, contemporary design, with panoramic views of the cloud forest, ensuring a stay that is both luxurious and in harmony with nature.
7. Tortuga Lodge & Gardens, Tortuguero – $515/night
Tortuga Lodge & Gardens stands out for its unique location and immersive experiences. Situated in the remote Tortuguero region, accessible only by boat or plane, this property offers a true escape into the heart of the rainforest.
What sets Tortuga apart is its deep integration into the surrounding natural and cultural landscapes. The lodge provides an authentic connection to the local way of life, with opportunities to explore the intricate waterways by boat, witness the area’s rich wildlife, and learn about local conservation efforts.
Here you won’t find TVs in the rooms, and the minimal use of electric devices ensures a peaceful and unplugged experience, so guests can fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty and tranquility of Tortuguero. This is the ultimate place to experience Costa Rica’s wilderness in its most unspoiled form.
8. Isla Chiquita Glamping Hotel, Isla Jesusita – $210/night
Isla Chiquita takes the concept of eco-lodging to a new level. Located on Jesusita island in the Gulf of Nicoya, this hotel offers a unique glamping experience, combining the rustic allure of camping with most of the bells and whistles you’d expect at a luxury resort.
The essence of Isla Chiquita is its commitment to regenerative hospitality. Guests can immerse themselves in a range of activities that are both regenerative and enriching, like island-hopping adventures, bioluminescence tours, and artisanal fishing experiences.
Each tented suite offers an elegant and comfortable setting, with breathtaking ocean views and the soothing sounds of nature. This unique location, away from the mainland’s hustle, provides an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature and engage in mindful travel experiences that leave a positive impact.
9. Trogón Lodge, San Gerardo de Dota – $170/night
Nestled in the cloud forests of San Gerardo de Dota, Trogón Lodge offers a serene escape for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers alike. This eco-lodge is renowned for its exceptional bird-watching opportunities, particularly for spotting rare quetzals, one of Costa Rica’s most iconic and colorful birds.
At Trogón, guests are invited to immerse themselves in a range of experiences that celebrate the natural beauty of the area. Guided bird-watching tours, trout fishing, and hikes along scenic trails are just a few of the activities that allow guests to connect with the surrounding environment. The lodge also organizes cultural experiences, such as traditional Costa Rican cooking classes, providing a deeper understanding of the local lifestyle. The accommodations are cozy and rustic, and you can listen to the sound of the Savegre River and the calls of exotic birds while you rest.
10. Suitree Experience Hotel, Guanacaste – $600/night
Suitree Experience Hotel in Guanacaste redefines the concept of eco-friendly lodging with its innovative approach to sustainable tourism. This treehouse-inspired hotel is a perfect choice for travelers looking for a unique way to connect with nature without compromising on comfort.
At Suitree, each accommodation is thoughtfully designed to minimize environmental impact while maximizing guest comfort. The hotel’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its use of renewable energy, water conservation practices, and eco-friendly building materials.
Suitree invites guests to become part of a larger movement toward responsible and regenerative travel. It’s a destination where luxury, sustainability, and cultural immersion coexist in perfect harmony.
11. Si Como No Resort and Wildlife Refuge, Manuel Antonio – $290/night
Si Como No Resort and Wildlife Refuge, located in the lush hillsides of Manuel Antonio, stands out not just for its stunning views and elegant accommodations but also for its commitment to wildlife conservation and sustainability. Along with rooms and facilities crafted to blend seamlessly with the jungle landscape, guests can indulge in the luxury of two on-site restaurants, a full-service spa, and multiple swimming pools, all while being surrounded by Costa Rica’s rich biodiversity.
The Wildlife Refuge, part of the resort, is a testament to Si Como No’s dedication to environmental stewardship. Here, guests can experience the country’s wildlife up close, learning about local conservation efforts and the importance of preserving Costa Rica’s natural heritage.
12. Kintiri Glamping, Nosara – $340/night
Kintiri Glamping offers a unique, eco-friendly retreat in the heart of one of Costa Rica’s most sought-after destinations: Nosara. This glamping site has the essence of camping, but with the luxuries of a boutique hotel. Kintiri offers spacious and elegantly designed tents, each equipped with comfortable beds, private bathrooms, and stunning views of the surrounding nature. The attention to detail extends to sustainable practices and minimal environmental impact, ensuring a stay that’s as conscious as it is luxurious.
Whether you’re looking to relax in a tranquil environment or explore the rich biodiversity of Costa Rica, Kintiri Glamping provides the perfect base. It’s an opportunity to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature in a serene, stylish setting.
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Exploring Costa Rica eco-lodges reveals a world where the best aspects of nature meet mindful hospitality. Each unique property offers a way to experience the rich landscapes and vibrant culture of this beautiful country, from luxury glamping under the stars to intimate wildlife refuges.
So, which one will you choose?
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