Costa Rica is a nature lover’s paradise, with vast rain and cloud forests and a huge diversity of animals. Thanks to its small size and good infrastructure, national parks and attractions are easily accessible. For those seeking adventure, there are plenty of choices: kayaking, tubing, climbing volcanoes and surfing in the ocean near the white beach of Nosara. Enjoy a stay at one of the following breathtaking eco-lodges during your trip through Costa Rica. Pura Vida! Where the world can’t find you…
1. The Retreat
The Retreat is an award-winning luxury wellness resort that focuses on holistic renewal and complete tranquility. Located atop a crystal quartz mountain in Atenas, the resort benefits from a unique energetic landscape and one of the best climates in the world. Recently added is Santosha: an exclusive enclave within the resort that takes the experience to an even higher level of luxury. Surrounding an imposing Guanacaste tree are ultra-luxurious lofts with 180-degree ocean views, a social wellness club with a high-end gym, a serene yoga shala and Mystique, a rooftop culinary experience with panoramic views of both the mountains and coastline.
2. Ecolodge Lapa Rios
Lapa Rios Eco Lodge is located on the rugged and breathtaking Osa Peninsula, a paradise for wildlife, nature and beach lovers. You will wake up to the sounds of the jungle, while colorful macaws fly past your residence high among the trees. The rainforest here is home to monkeys, pumas, toucans, tree frogs and countless other species. Together with some of the best guides and naturalists in Costa Rica you will discover nature in a direct and real way, from medicine walks to starfish walks along deserted beaches. After a tasty dinner in the open-air restaurant, fall asleep with the sound of the waves in the background.
3. Origins Luxury Lodge
Influenced by Costa Rica’s pre-Colombian architecture, Origins Luxury Lodge is one of the few places in the country where this forgotten history comes alive. High in the mountains of Bijagua, overlooking vast valleys and pristine rainforest, an experience like no other awaits. From your lodging, guided hikes, wildlife-spotting, a visit to the Tenorio volcanic area or water-based activities are easily arranged. Combining luxury and comfort with the raw beauty of the wilderness, the lodging is the ideal starting point for an adventure in the heart of Costa Rica.
4. El Silencio Lodge & Spa
El Silencio Lodge & Spa is just an hour and a half from San José, in the middle of the tropical cloud forest and surrounded by rugged mountains. ‘Silencio’ means silence, and that is exactly what you will experience here: peace and tranquility, surrounded by the sounds of nature. The lodge is located on a 500-acre estate, amid forests with hidden waterfalls. Designed by one of Costa Rica’s leading architects, Ronald Zurcher, the building blends seamlessly into its natural surroundings. In the restaurant, enjoy delicious dishes straight from the estate’s organic farm. End the day on the terrace by the fire pit and be carried away by the sounds of nature.
5. Nantipa
Nantipa is a boutique hotel completely inspired by nature, located on the beach of Santa Teresa. The hotel is hidden in lush vegetation and features gardens that invite quiet exploration. ‘Pura Vida’ can be felt everywhere here: the nearby Cabo Blanco National Park is home to a rich variety of wildlife, the surrounding waters are full of colorful marine life ideal for snorkeling, and the nearly one and a half kilometer long soft sandy beach invites you to relax or walk.
6. Kura Boutique Hotel
Kura is a luxury eco-hotel that takes tropical minimalism as its guiding principle. Located deep in the rainforest of Uvita, the adults-only hotel offers breathtaking views and a comfortable environment where you can enjoy delicious meals and a soothing spa. With the constant sound of the ocean in the background and a rich array of wildlife, from toucans to other exotic birds, you will feel completely immersed in nature here. Secluded and intimate, Kura is the ideal place to recharge and relax in comfort.
7. Nayara Tented Camp
Choose to stay at the unique Nayara Tented Camp, located in the Arenal region. Inspired by African safaris, the spacious tents are a blend of eco-friendly luxury with a local “Pura Vida” vibe. A great place far from civilization and close to nature where you can unwind to the soothing sounds of the jungle. The resort’s facilities include a swimming pool with swim-up bar and a restaurant with large terrace surrounded by the beautiful rainforest. Also, you can enjoy plunge pools with water from hot springs in the middle of Costa Rica’s dense forest.
8. Hotel Aguas Claras
Hotel Aguas Claras is located on the tropical Caribbean coast of Costa Rica, surrounded by exuberant wildlife and beautiful beaches. This boutique hotel, near Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, features beautifully decorated bungalows and suites in Victorian-Caribbean style, creatively using recycled materials. Each room was designed by renowned Costa Rican artist Elizabeth Steinvorth. The interiors reflect the natural beauty of the surroundings, creating a harmonious connection between indoors and outdoors. Enjoy a gastronomic experience at the barefoot luxury restaurant Papaya, where local flavors and fresh ingredients take center stage.
9. Hideway Río Celeste
Hideaway Río Celeste is located on an 80-acre rainforest reserve at the base of Tenorio volcano in northern Costa Rica, one of the most biodiverse areas in the world. The casita has been awarded a One MICHELIN Key in The MICHELIN Guide 2025, a recognition for exceptional accommodations worldwide. Guests can choose between a Forest View or Garden View Casita and enjoy breathtaking rainforest views, rare wildlife and natural hot springs. The accommodation offers three cozy dining areas, a pool, Jacuzzi, spa and a Jungle Gym.
Travel proposal
Does a stay in one of these Eco-Lodges sound interesting? We would love to help you put together your dream trip. Travel Designer Robert will put together a customized trip, completely tailored to your needs: the highlights you want to explore, the type of accommodation that suits you and the desired trip duration.
