Award-winning ecolodge offering rustic bungalows, 40 miles (64 km) of hiking trails, and open-air dining.

### Overview

Rios Lodge, a distinguished and award-winning ecolodge, presents itself as a serene sanctuary of unparalleled comfort. It is idyllically nestled within the boundaries of a sprawling private reserve, strategically positioned at the very mouth of the majestic Pacuare Gorge. This remarkable lodge, constructed with a profound commitment to sustainability, showcases reclaimed wood in its architecture and is powered entirely by hydroelectricity, serving as a true testament to the principles of eco-conscious hospitality. The lodge comprises 17 beautifully designed bungalows, each offering a unique and immersive experience. What sets Rios Lodge apart is its exclusivity: access to these bungalows is only possible via an invigorating hike through the lush rainforest or an exhilarating river raft journey down the Pacuare River.

While the on-site amenities are intentionally limited to minimize environmental impact and preserve the pristine nature of the location, the lodge compensates with unparalleled access to an array of outdoor recreational activities and opportunities for exploration. This access is undoubtedly the main and most compelling highlight of a stay at Rios Lodge, promising an unforgettable adventure for nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike.

### Pros

Staying at Rios Lodge offers several compelling advantages:

* The lodge is meticulously equipped with everything you might need during your entire stay. Given its remote location deep within the rainforest, venturing off-site is not an option, ensuring you have everything necessary for a comfortable and enjoyable experience within the lodge’s grounds. This thoughtful provision allows guests to fully immerse themselves in the surrounding natural beauty without worrying about logistical concerns.
* Surrounded by a vast and protected rainforest reserve, Rios Lodge offers exceptional opportunities for outdoor recreation and unparalleled wildlife viewing. Guests can embark on guided hikes, explore hidden trails, and witness the incredible biodiversity of Costa Rica, from colorful birds and playful monkeys to elusive creatures of the night. The sheer abundance of flora and fauna makes every moment a chance for discovery.
* The mandatory hike or exciting river journey required to reach the lodge adds an extra layer of adventurous excitement to any stay. This unique mode of access sets the tone for an unforgettable experience, transforming the arrival and departure into integral parts of the overall adventure and fostering a deeper connection with the surrounding environment. The journey itself becomes a cherished memory.

### Cons

However, it is important to consider some potential drawbacks:

* There is no option to venture off-site during your stay. This makes Rios Lodge less suitable for travelers who prefer to independently explore the surrounding area at their own pace and discover local towns or attractions. The lodge is designed to be a self-contained experience, emphasizing immersion in nature rather than independent exploration of the region.
* The challenging traverse required to reach the lodge makes it inaccessible or difficult for travelers with limited mobility. The hike and the river rafting journey may pose difficulties for individuals with physical limitations, making it crucial to assess one’s abilities before planning a visit. Alternative lodging options may be more suitable for those with mobility concerns.
* Due to its remote location, amenities are deliberately limited on-site. There is no spa, swimming pool, laundry service, or fully-equipped fitness center. Furthermore, WiFi access is minimal and restricted to common areas. This intentional lack of modern conveniences encourages guests to disconnect from technology and fully embrace the natural environment.
* The bungalows are not equipped with air-conditioning. While the rainforest climate is generally pleasant, some travelers may find the absence of air conditioning uncomfortable, particularly during the warmer months. The natural ventilation and the cool breezes from the river are meant to provide a refreshing atmosphere, but individual preferences may vary.

### Authenticity

Rios Lodge offers an authentic and immersive Costa Rican experience. The lodge comprises just 17 rustic bungalows, thoughtfully designed and inspired by traditional Indigenous Cabécar building techniques. These accommodations offer a harmonious blend of simplicity and modernity, featuring hydroelectric power for sustainable energy, reliable hot water, and eco-friendly shower toiletries. The surrounding 2,040-acre private rainforest reserve represents the largest of its kind within the entire Pacuare region. The unique experience of hiking or river rafting in and out of the lodge further enhances the adventurous spirit of a stay at Rios Lodge, creating an unforgettable and deeply authentic connection with the natural environment and local culture.

### Location

Rios Lodge is beautifully situated in Limon Province, nestled on the verdant banks of the majestic Pacuare River. Although the nearest town, Bajo Tigre, is located just a few miles away, accessibility to the lodge is intentionally limited. Guests can only reach the lodge via their choice of either a thrilling river raft journey or an invigorating hiking trail. When booking your stay, you will have the opportunity to select your preferred mode of transportation. The mile-long hiking trail typically takes around 30 minutes to traverse, while the river raft journey can take several hours, depending on river conditions. Due to the remote location of the lodge and the logistical considerations surrounding transportation, venturing off-site during your stay is generally not feasible. The emphasis is placed on enjoying the natural surroundings and the lodge’s offerings.

### Rooms & Bathrooms

The 17 charming bungalows at Rios Lodge are categorized into three main room types: Classic Rooms, Deluxe Rooms, and Suites, with increasing space and luxury as you upgrade. All rooms maintain a simple and rustic aesthetic, featuring beautiful reclaimed wood flooring and comfortable beds, with few other elaborate furnishings. Each room includes a private bathroom that has been recently updated with modern tiling and refreshing walk-in showers. Every bungalow also has a delightful outdoor sitting area, offering mixed and captivating views of the serene Matsu Creek and the flowing Pacuare River. The Suites are significantly more spacious than the other room types and are highly recommended for guests seeking a touch of added luxury. For budget-conscious travelers, the lodge has recently introduced an EcoHostel option, offering eight-bed bunk rooms with shared bathroom facilities.

### Wildlife

Prepare to be fully immersed in a pristine slice of Costa Rica’s primary rainforest, a haven for an abundance of remarkable wildlife. The area is home to playful howler monkeys, slow-moving sloths, colorful toucans, and even the elusive and majestic jaguar. The private reserve features an impressive network of 40 miles (64 kilometers) of well-maintained trails, offering fantastic opportunities for incredible wildlife viewing. Organized outings are also available, led by experienced and knowledgeable local guides whose keen eyesight can be invaluable in spotting some of the more hidden and elusive animals, enhancing your wildlife encounter.

### Amenities

Rios Lodge prioritizes outdoor adventures and experiences; therefore, it intentionally lacks many of the amenities typically found in a standard hotel setting. There is no on-site spa, fitness center, or swimming pool, though the area boasts several natural waterfall pools within easy walking distance from the lodge. WiFi access is limited to WhatsApp communication within the common areas, and laundry services are unavailable. However, the comprehensive outdoor activity package is exceptionally rewarding and provides an unforgettable experience. Activities available on-site include exhilarating guided ziplining tours through the rainforest canopy, exciting tubing and rappelling adventures down the river, invigorating hikes through the jungle, relaxing horseback riding excursions, and much more.

### Family-Friendliness

Due to the unique transportation requirements for accessing the lodge, children must be at least six years old to participate in the river rafting journey to the lodge and twelve years old to raft out of the lodge. Younger children are welcome to hike, but in general, the lodge is more suitable for families with older children who are capable of handling the journey and the remote environment. The lodge offers a family discount as every child beyond the third child in a family receives a discounted rate. The Family Suites are the best room type for families as they offer extra spaciousness and can comfortably accommodate up to four people. Many of the outdoor activities available at the lodge are popular with children, though certain activities have specific age restrictions.

### Other Highlights

The resort takes care of all your dining needs, providing three delicious meals daily that are included in your stay. These meals feature fresh, locally sourced produce and include a variety of vegetarian-friendly dishes to cater to different dietary preferences. Additional drinks and snacks can be purchased à la carte. Yoga mats are available for travelers who wish to participate in group yoga sessions or simply stretch independently. Furthermore, travelers who choose to hike out of the lodge are treated to a bonus stop at the beautiful Pacuare Butterfly Garden during the shuttle portion of their journey, adding an extra touch of enchantment to their departure.

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Hotel Information

2.5-star Hotel

+506 8448 9502

Calle 38

https://rioslodge.com/

Wifi – Check On Request

Parking – Check On Request