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Green Iguana
We have found that an increasing number of travelers today seek an experience that goes beyond the standard tourist vacation. As a guest at Lapa Rios, we invite you to have a truly unique and authentic Costa Rican experience and Experience, Learn, Connect and Relax.
Rooms tend to fill up two to six months in advance, sometimes even earlier. We recommend that you investigate space availability now if you think you would like to come and stay with us; make a reservation now to guarantee the dates that you want. We must advise you that we do not recommend that you stay less than four nights if you are leaving or arriving by plane. From our experience, a minimum of four nights is needed to experience all there is to do and see when staying at Lapa Rios Eco-lodge.
Driving is not recommended because of the cost, the time, and the roads. The trip is 7 - 10 hours depending on stops and weather. People who have more than 3 weeks in Costa Rica might consider it as the experience is challenging and the scenery is interesting and varied. If you choose to drive, follow these directions, but make sure to check local road conditions before you leave (with your rental car agent). In some cases there might be land slides, broken bridges or other obstacles to overcome.
Flying:
Almost all of the people who visit Lapa Rios fly on domestic daily scheduled air. It is relatively inexpensive and the flight is only about 40 to 50 minutes long. The airstrip is in Puerto Jiménez right next to the Lapa Rios office and from there you will travel in our 4X4 Lapa Rios safari truck for 45 minutes to get to the Lapa Rios property. There are two local airlines offering domestic service to Puerto Jimenez from San Jose : Nature Air and Sansa. Sansa flights leave from a terminal next to the international airport and Nature Air flights leave from the other airport closer to San Jose in Pavas. In some cases, it is possible to connect from other destinations in Costa Rica. We will be more than happy to arrange in-country flights for you. Please note that all domestic flights in Costa Rica are certified as being Carbon Neutral and will compensate all carbon emissions emitted by your flight.
Domestic Flights from San Jose to Puerto Jimenez: If you need domestic flight arrangements, below you'll find the Nature Air and Sansa schedules. Please advise us your choice according with your travel itinerary.
We can arrange in-country flights for you:
We prefer to make your in-country flights arrangements for you. We can guarantee the reservation easier and more securely from here and can access space on the in-country airlines when no one else can do it. Also if we make the reservation we can manage any problems that might occur.
Nature AirWe can arrange the round-trip flights leaving San Jose at 6:00 AM, 8:30 AM,
10:50 AM or 3:15 PM on NATURE AIR from San Jose - Pto Jimenez - San Jose.
The return flight on NATURE AIR departs Puerto Jiménez at 7:10 AM, 9:30 AM,
11:50 AM or 4:15 PM and arrives in San Jose (Pavas airport) at 8:05 AM,
10:20 AM, 12:40 PM and 5:30 PM respectively.
The cost for NATURE AIR is $129 one-way per adult or $258 round trip per
adult. Nature Air uses only twin motor engines.
Very important: Nature Air flies from and to Pavas Airport which is located 30 minutes away from San Jose International Airport. We can arrange transportation for you from one airport to the other.
SansaWe can arrange round-trip flights leaving at 5:45 AM, 9:24 AM, 10:53AM, 12:18 PM and 2:32 PM on Sansa from San Jose - Puerto Jimenez.
The return flight on Sansa departs Puerto Jiménez at 6:55AM, 12:27 PM, 1:28PM and 3:42 PM and arrives in San Jose at the International airport at 07:53 AM, 11:55 AM, 1:25 PM 2:51 PM and 5:05 PM.
The cost for Sansa is $114 one-way or $228 round trip per person.
Very important: Sansa airline flies from and to San Jose International Airport.
We recommend you take an international flight into the San Jose International Airport. Depending on what time you arrive in Costa Rica, you might be able to connect to Lapa Rios the same day on a domestic flight from San Jose to Puerto Jimenez. We are happy to help you arrange your domestic flight as well as airport transfers in San Jose and Puerto Jimenez.
The following is a list of suggested items to bring on your holiday. Please bear in mind the luggage restrictions on the domestic flights are 25 pounds per person.
We ask our guests not to use electric hair dryers as this would be too much of a strain on our biodiesel powered generators. Thanks for your understanding.
The one thing we cannot ever apologize for is nature. We do everything we can to preserve the natural environment and bring the rainforest and its inhabitants as close to our guests as we can get them while respecting their need for safety.
The whole cast of jungle characters is present. We do not use insecticides or herbicides so as not to affect the food chain for all the little critters that attract progressively larger and larger critters that everyone wants to see. The wildlife is abundant in the common areas and near the bungalows. The bungalows themselves are visited by a variety of small insects and creatures but nothing large or dangerous. We recommend that when going to the main lodge for dinner that guests turn off all interior room lights so as to attract a few critters as possible by the time they return.
Tolerance of this ever present animal population is a necessary compromise in order to enjoy it here. Human beings are not in the food chain of the jungle creatures and nothing is looking to bite them. While they will see many new forms of life there is little risk with the ordinary exercise of common sense. We are promoted as “deluxe wilderness adventure.” We are not “Manhattan deluxe” or “Paris luxury”. We are in the rainforest. Bugs and insects are everywhere. Our bungalows use nursery shade cloth for walls rather than regular screens because mold and fungus will quickly grow on any kind of small gauge screening. It will look bad, obstruct ventilation, obscure the view and eventually smell. This allows for the passage of breezes but also small insects as well. It would be ridiculous to suggest that this jungle ecolodge should enclose its rooms and then have to provide air conditioning. That is also impossible since there is no municipal eletricity source and we must use generators.
There are many different kinds of insects, bugs, beetles, spiders, iguanas, lizards, toads, butterflies, scorpions, snakes, birds, and many large and small mammals. There is something to be seen moving constantly. There is no flat land and no standing water in and around Lapa Rios. That means there are almost no mosquitos - ever ! Sometimes after an extended rain we have some and for that reason insect repellant is a good idea. Any good brand that works where you live will work as well in Costa Rica.
Sometimes near sundown there are some “no-see-ums” but their presence is very temporary and usually not bothersome. At the beach there may be sand fleas and “no-see-ums” and protection might be advisable there. Corcovado Nationl Park with it's huge lagoon is another story and insect repellant for that tour is advisable.
We have a very high client satisfaction index. But Lapa Rios is not for everyone nor can it be made that way.
Since Lapa Rios began, honeymoon and anniversary couples attest to their truly tranquil and authentic rainforest holiday at the Eco-lodge and reserve. While all weeks during the year are a great time to enjoy the Lapa Rios experience, we recommend couples book the months January or February, April to June and then September to November. These months have few school holidays thereby limiting families-with-children traveling to Costa Rica.
Lapa Rios will let you create the romantic honeymoon that you have always dreamed about:
Plant a tree in the lodge's private rainforest reserve and leave a memory of your unforgettable honeymoon.
Enjoy a unique romantic candlelight dinner by our swimming pool, overlooking the rainforest and magnificent Golfo Dulce that drifts away into the ocean.
What about a romantic boat ride in the nearby Golfo Dulce with a nature guide? Depending on the time of the year, you might be able to see sea turtles, whales and possibly swim with dolphins.
Adventure into nature: horseback ride along a pristine beach or hike into unspoiled rainforest waterfalls, featuring natural pools that will regenerate your soul.
Pamper your body with a unique massage in our rainforest-view massage room. Maybe some Yoga on our yoga deck overlooking the Golfo Dulce and Pacific Ocean.
Enjoy a once in a life romantic Waterfall Luncheon experience next to a wild waterfall and surrounded by the magnificent rainforest and the sound of the wildlife in a private area reserved especially for you.
Check-in time is : 2:00 PM
Check-out time is: 11:00 AM
Although remote and isolated, the quality, freshness and variety offered at the Lapa Rios will truly surprise you. Meals rotate daily, focusing on fresh fruits, vegetables with local fish, chicken and meat. Lapa Rios can handle almost any dietary preference or restriction. We try to integrate as much organic food into our menu.
The water on our property is from a spring nestled deep within our forest reserve. It is 100% potable and delicious to drink, so please bring your refillable water bottle and enjoy water that is “pura vida” while you explore Lapa Rios and it’s surroundings. You can also purchase a stainless steel (food grade and BPA free) bottle at the hotel.
To learn more about our campaign to cut back on plastic waste and protect our waters please visit our Taking Back Our Water page.
What is the weather like at Lapa Rios?
Lapa Rios Eco-lodge, and the Osa Peninsula in general, is characterized by warm, breezy days, with highs of 82 - 92 degrees, lows 75 - 85. Because of afternoon clouds, August through November are cooler months, with highs in the 70s. Temperatures during January through April are in the mid-80s. ??From the middle of December to the end of April it is rare that it will rain at all. This is the summer season here and excellent sunny weather can be guaranteed. The "green season", usually from May to November, is probably the best time to experience a true rain forest. All outdoor activities are still offered, as the rain is very warm and actually quite pleasant. It generally will rain three to four times per week, usually in the late afternoon and evening.
Weather in Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a tropical country located between 8 and 11 degrees north of the equator. It has twelve bioclimates, three different rainfall regimes and many microclimates, so researching its climatological conditions can be an almost never-ending task.
Although Costa Rica is considered to have a stable climate, it is important to note that different temperature and weather conditions may be experienced within the same day, or within short distances, due mostly to the rugged terrain of this mountainous country. There are two well defined seasons: the rainy/green season (invierno), and the dry/summer season (verano), with one main difference between them: rainfall averages. Dry season runs from December to April, and the green season from May to November. Rainfall averages for the country may reach the highest point during the months of September and October -- approximately 650 mm per month.
Seasonal changes don't bring significant changes in temperatures, although nights may be cooler in some areas during the rainy season. Mornings will most commonly be sunny all year round. San José is located 1150 meters above sea level, and has a moderate temperature throughout the year. It may go as low as 15º C at nighttime, and up to 26º C during the day, giving rise to the image of San José as a city with an eternal spring climate. The Intermontane Central Valley where San José lies has an average temperature of 20º C, and may actually be considered as dry compared to the humidity of the Caribbean Slope. When it rains, temperatures will drop slightly, mostly because of humidity and winds.
The Caribbean coastline has an average temperature of 21º C at night, and 30º C during the day. The rainy season has a rainfall average of 224 inches (5,600 mm) per year, along the coast, on the eastern face of the mountains and in the Caribbean lowlands. In most of Costa Rica the peak periods of rainfall occur during May to June and September to October, although precipitation remains substantial throughout the period. Though it is considered to be the wettest region of the country, rains usually occur in the late evening and nighttime. Due to humidity and trade winds, temperatures will remain low, and even drop noticeably during rainy nights.
The Pacific coast is warmer than the Atlantic by 3º to 5º C. The northern part of the country is totally dry for six months of the year. Rainfall averages only 59 inches (1,500 mm) a year in the northwest and central part of the country. The South Pacific region, where Lapa Rios is located, is generally wetter than its counterpart to the north. General rainfall will reach up to 197 inches (5,000 mm) a year. High mountainous areas, such as the region surrounding Costa Rica 's highest peak Cerro Chirripo, have cold, windy and cloudy conditions all year round. Chirripo remains below 10º C (50º F) during the day, and may experience temperatures as low as 0º C (32º F) at night. Frost and even snow have been reported (okay, just once in the last century). As a general rule, temperatures decline with elevation at a rate of approximately 3.5 Fahrenheit degrees per thousand feet in Costa Rica (6.5º C per 1000 m). Thus, average December temperatures vary from 79ºF (26ºC) at Orotina on the coast, to 66ºF (19ºC) in San José at 3500 feet (1100 m), to a chilly 43ºF (6ºC) in Villa Mills at 10,000 feet (3050 m).
First-time visitors to Costa Rica often neglect to bring a warm jacket with them after reading about the climates of the coastal regions and the Central Valley . A medium-weight fleece jacket is ideal.
There is no flat land and no standing water in or around the Lapa Rios property, which means that we are fortunate enough to have very few mosquitos. Sometimes near sundown "no-see-ums" will appear near the beach, but in general, their presence is very minimal.
There is a medical clinic located only 45 minutes from the main lodge. We always have a vehicle on property in case emergency transport is necessary. Additionally, Puerto Jimenez has a 24-hour flight service that transports patients to the nearby hospital in Golfito (an eight minute flight) or to San Jose (a fifty minute flight). In case of an extreme emergency, a helicopter can be ordered from San Jose and land in a nearby field.
Medical care in Costa Rica is very high quality and considered to be the best in Central America. San Jose especially has excellent hospitals, medical facilities and doctors that attend almost exclusively to foreign residents and travelers.
No immunizations, shots, inoculations or vaccinations are required to enter Costa Rica. The only notable disease problem reported in some locations of the country in the last few years is occasional localized dengue fever (spread by mosquitoes in certain urbanized locations with stagnant water and a history of the disease). However, it would be wise to check with your personal physician for individual recommendations. Some physicians prefer for their patients to obtain typhoid immunizations and persons who plan to visit certain coastal areas are advised to take malaria pills. Reported cases of malaria in the Caribbean lowlands and coastal zone have occasionally been noted in recent years, so it would be wise to take preventive measures. Up-to-date recommendations on such preventive measures are issued by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The CDC office issues health advisories via FAX for travel throughout the world. (Information provided by ICT).
We customarily ask our direct bookings to prepay us by Credit Card. We send you a credit card authorization form by e-mail or fax and you send us back the completed form. You may pay for your extra charges at the lodge by credit card as well. We prefer Visa or Mastercard, but also accept all other mayor credit cards such as Amex and Diners.
Prepayment. All reservations must be paid in full 30 days before arrival. Most people use credit cards. A first night guarantee deposit is due immediately your reservation is confirmed.
Cancellations and refunds. We have 2 policies. A tough one we have never needed to use and the policy we actually follow:
1. The written policy is that a cancellation within 45 days forfeits the first night and a cancellation within 30 days forfeits the entire balance due.
2. The policy we actually follow is that a cancellation penalty only applies when we are full and the cancellation comes within 30 days of arrival. If we were not full and not turning down other reservations there is no charge and a full refund is given. In all cases we attempt to make the reservation available to another guest, and if we do a full refund is given in the case of the cancelled reservation.
We only charge for an actual loss when the reservation goes unused.
This is to advise you of our policy regarding groups. Lapa Rios will not able to accept any large, group or family reservations, (more than 3 bungalows per group ) during our High Season from 1 November to 16 May. Our policy is to accept groups of larger numbers only during our Green Season from 16 May to October 31. During the Green Season we limit the group size to no more than 6 bungalows per group.
The reason for this is because of the large number of group reservation requests in the High Season, particularly during the Holiday Seasons, and our limited space of only 16 bungalows. Since our facilities and services are best suited for the individual nature traveler we have found that we are not able to serve our best and most loyal clientele if we allow our space to be filled far in advance by large groups. Groups larger than 6 bungalows, even during the Green Season, often interfere with the ability of our other guests to enjoy their stay here to the fullest. While this policy may be unfortunate in certain circumstances or in individual cases it will work to give you, our good clients, the greatest access to the limited space of Lapa Rios for the largest number of interested people and guarantee that when they come they will experience a truly quiet, restful and natural experience in the wild.
Although Lapa Rios is an ideal location for a family vacation, we discourage you from bringing children less than five years of age along with you. The lodge and rooms are immersed in the rainforest and situated a steep hill. Additionally, we do not have any babysitting services on property. With that being said, however, we do accept children of all ages and have had a number of families on the lodge most often for holidays, school vacations and spring break; please note, however, that it might not be the most relaxing vacation for Mom and Dad!
Lapa Rios does not have air conditioning; we are a low impact ecolodge that works rigorously to reduce our impact on the surrounding environment.
However, while this may come as a shock to some, we have found that the majority of our guests are quite comfortable. The architectural design of Lapa Rios Eco-lodge permits the constant flow of air through screen walls and creates a fresh, breezy environment.
We have no Internet or phone access on the Lapa Rios property. In fact, we don’t even play music at dinner! Instead, we ask that you listen to the sounds of the jungle at night, the crickets, the cicadas and the kinkajous.
All this is very intentional. Lapa Rios is in a wilderness setting 12 miles from the office communication center. We aim to take full advantage of this isolation to concentrate on the peace and wilderness experience that can be appreciated. Communication between the office and the hotel is by marine radio for emergencies. We have several trips daily by car between the two locations to transport faxes or messages. To make a personal telephone call it would be necessary to take a 45 minute taxi ride to the office.
After your stay at Lapa Rios, you will thank us for not providing internet nor phone service. It’s a feeling we all need to experience more often. Disconnect and decompress!!
The Lapa Rios experience is one of full immersion into the remote rainforest of the Osa Peninsula. There are no phones and internet connections available for guests in the rooms or at the reception. You can use a computer or a phone at the Lapa Rios reservations office in Puerto Jimenez. However, Lecently, the cellular phone coverage by the local telecommunications provider has improved to the point that now, most cellular phones work and if you bring your own smart phone, you will be able to connect to the internet. We recommend you leave your phone turned off to really experience the “decompression” and relaxation of being away from it all.
Yes, we have electricity on property. However, due to our goal of trying to maintain a minimal environmental impact, we have limited capacity 24-hour generator supplying electricity for all of our bungalows. With that in mind, please remember to leave your hair dryers at home. Hair dryers demand huge amounts of electricity and have been known to shut down the electricity for the entire lodge! Electric razors, battery chargers, computers and most other appliances that do not operate on resistive heating, however, do not affect the system and can be used without problems.
All 16 bungalows are private and open to the sea; they are spacious and can sleep up to 4 people in 2 queen size beds. Each has an indoor (solar-heated) shower and a private garden shower, 2 sinks, one hammock, closets, and a deck overlooking the rainforest and the ocean. All bungalow access requires stair and path walking. There is 24-hour electricity available for battery charging. We will attempt to accommodate specific bungalow requests when possible, but due to the nature of our location we cannot always accommodate such requests.
Important: Lapa Rios needs advance notification regarding any inability to walk steps.
The Lapa Rios property is located 300 feet above the ocean. It is about ten minutes walking distance from most bungalows. The beach is very isolated and tranquil, and offers plenty of opportunity to walk around and explore. Expect to see wildlife such as monkeys, toucans or Scarlet Macaws near the beach. There are no rip tides or undercurrents and swimming is generally safe.
However, we like all of our guests to know that while the beaches surrounding Lapa Rios are beautiful and pristine, we consider our main attraction to be the rainforest surrounding the property. Do not expect to find the beach chairs, umbrellas, white sand or crystal clear waters that you may find in a destination such as Jamaica. There is some fairly good snorkeling in the area, but most good snorkeling destinations are located on the other side of the GolfoDulce and usually require a boat ride to arrive.
The bungalows are about 300 feet above the ocean and it is about a 7 minute walk to the beach and the ocean. The return walk is uphill and steep and takes about 15 min. The beach is normally deserted and offers good walking and exploring. There are very few shells but it is very scenic and serene. There are no rip tides or undercurrents and it is good for swimming. While swimming at the beach is good and safe the main attraction for most of our guests is the rainforest and the wildlife, not the ocean. It is a "Pacific" beach and not the white sand or crystal clear waters of, for example, Jamaica.
There is shade at the high tide mark but no lawn chairs or umbrellas. You will probably encounter more hermit crabs crawling along the beach sand than you have ever seen in any one place before. There are small and harmless but nevertheless quite numerous. Sometimes there are sand fleas and "no-see-ems" but usually they are no real problem. Mosquitos are rare here both at the main lodge and along the beach.
There is some fairly good snorkeling but it is across the gulf and you would have to go by boat.
We have world class surfing right in front our our property. The area is generally known as "Matapalo" and is composed of 3 point breaks. They are called "Matapalo", "Backwash" and "Pan Dulce". They are all long right waves of varying difficulty, increasing as one gets closer to Cabo (point) Matapalo where the Golfo Dulce meets the Pacific Ocean.
There is a community of about 35 surfers and their families who have bought property in front of these locations and come to visit their land and surf during the year. According to these hardy souls the location is incredible though not large. For this reason it is felt that it needs to be kept a secret for those who own land in front of these precious spots.
Transporting boards can be a problem since the 2 daily scheduled air carriers Nature Air and Sansa and the local bus company will not accept reservations for boards and will accommodate them only when space allows and then, sometimes, only when they feel like taking them. Usually they will carry a short board (up to 8 feet ) without much discussion. The longer the board the more difficult it is to convince them to take it. The surest way for long boards is to send or bring them in a rental car or a chauffeured van. This can be expensive.
We are a luxury rain forest preservation and ecotourism destination and have nothing designed especially with surfers in mind. We have lots of them come and stay with us and they are very welcome and have a wonderful time. The greatest numbers seem to come from July to November. The best surf seems to occur from August to December.
The bungalows are located in the rainforest on a ridge overlooking the Golfo Dulce and Pacific Ocean. Depending on the exact location of your bungalow, getting to the nearest beach takes about 10 to 15 minutes walking. Coming back up to Lapa Rios may take longer depending of you physical condition. We offer beach pickups twice a day to bring you back up to the lodge.
“Lapa” is the Costa Rican name for the Scarlet Macaw, a magnificent bird that can be found in the Lapa Rios property. When the owners of Lapa Rios, John and Karen Lewis, first visited the Lapa Rios site, they spotted a number of Scarlet Macaws flying across the jungle, appearing much like a river (or “rio” in Spanish) of Scarlet Macaws. Since then, they decided to name their property “Lapa Rios” (or “River of Scarlet Macaws” in English).
Upon request, we can arrange a mini van or microbus to pick you up from the San Jose international airport and take you to your hotel in San Jose. We can arrange to pick you up the next morning and take you to the airport to catch your flight to Lapa Rios. We work with a very reliable company whose drivers are dependable, honest and speak English. This tour company can also transport you to other destinations in Costa Rica, including, Manuel Antonio, Monteverde, Arenal, Turrialba, Quepos, Peninsula de Osa, Nosara , Liberia and any other place accessible by car.
If you choose to drive, let us know ahead of time, and then please call us during the day while you are en route to advise the approximate time of your arrival in Puerto Jimenez. We need to know this in order to advise our personnel at the Eco-lodge and provide the transfer in our vehicle to Lapa Rios in the event you do not have a 4-wheel drive vehicle or one with good ground clearance.
Driving from San Jose to Lapa Rios.
During the Green Season, May to December, 4-wheel-drive is recommended. By road from San José take the Inter-American ( Pan Am ) Highway ( Ruta 2 ) to San Isidro de General ( 2 - 3.5 hrs ) . An interesting rest stop for refreshments is at Ojo de Agua ( Km # 76 , 1 -1.5 hrs ) Continue through Buenos Aires ( 1 - 1.5 Hrs ) to Palmar Norte ( 1 - 1.5 hrs ). Thirty-three kilometers past Palmar Norte take a right turn at Chacarita. At Chacarita you will see a service station by the name of " Corcovado ". The right turn to Puerto Jiménez is directly after the service station. On this paved road you will drive 44 km to Rincon where the pavement ends. 33 more kms will take you through La Palma and eventually on to Puerto Jiménez( 1 - 2 hrs ). When in Puerto Jiménez, please check-in at the office. We are at the corner of the landing strip and the cemetery. Feel free to ask anyone in the town where the Lapa Rios office is. We will give you directions to Lapa Rios from there ( 3/4 - 1 hr ).
An alternative route is to drive from San Isidro to Dominical ( 3/4 - 1 hr. ) and follow the coast road to Palmar Norte. This route is shorter and faster but is not a paved road. Approximate travel time is 7-10 hours depending on stops, sightseeing,weather and road conditions.
Driving from Dominical
During the Green Season, 1 May to 1 December, 4-wheel-drive is recommended.
From Dominical drive South along the coast road (on route 34) until Cortés (1 - 1.5 hrs ). You will turn left before actually getting into the center of town and follow the road to Palmar Norte ( 15 min. ). At Palmar Norte turn right (South) on the CarreteraInteramericana. Thirty-three kilometers past Palmar Norte take a right turn at Chacarita. At Chacarita you will see a service station by the name of "Cocovado". The right turn to Puerto Jiménez is directly after the service station. On this paved road you will drive 44 km to Rinc÷n where the pavement ends. 33 more kms will take you through La Palma and eventually on to Puerto Jiménez( 1 - 2 hrs ). When in Puerto Jiménez, please check-in at the office. We are at the corner of the landing strip and the cemetery. Feel free to ask anyone in the town where the Lapa Rios office is. We will give you directions to Lapa Rios from there ( 3/4 - 1 hr ). Approximate travel time just from Dominical is 3.75 - 5.5 hours depending on stops, sightseeing, weather and road conditions.
Driving from San Vito. ( 3 - 4 hrs. )
Do not go to Golfito. The ferry to Puerto Jiménez is only for people not cars. Go to Puerto Jiménez and then direct to Lapa Rios. Check in with us at the office before heading out of town for any last minute road information. You should have no trouble reaching the hotel in your own car.
To get to Puerto Jiménez from San Vito follow road to Cuidad( Villa ) Neily. Then take the Inter-American Highway back towards San Jose past Rio Claro ( approx. 30 km further ) to Chacarita. It may not be on your map as "Chacarita" but at that location there is a gas station called " Corcovado ". Turn left there and take the road to Puerto Jiménez. Feel free to ask anyone in Puerto Jiménez where the office of Lapa Rios is. We are at the airstrip in Puerto Jiménez. From there we can give you the exact directions to the hotel.
Try to arrive in Puerto Jiménez no later than 4:00 PM to avoid darkness in your trip to the hotel. The hotel is 20 km from Puerto Jiménez and the trip takes about 45 minutes.
Please view the MAP of Costa Rica
Ecotourism: What is it?
Ecotourism is defined as responsible travel to natural places, which conserves the environment and sustains the well being of the local people. Lapa Rios is considered by orgnizations like the Rainforest Alliance to be a pioneer and model in ecotourism not only in Costa Rica but worldwide. Goals and Action
Preparing for your tour
All guided tours in the Lapa Rios Reserve help support the ongoing maintenance and land preservation. Choosing to hike and learn with a knowledgeable local guide gives the community continuing economic support and demonstrates that this diverse lowland tropical rain forest left standing is more valuable than one cut down.
Our reception staff and guides are happy to answer questions, make arrangements and help you select appropriate tours. An experienced guide will accompany you on all the tours in the Lapa Rios Reserve. Lapa Rios tries to keep the maximum number of participants to 6-10 people. Because of this limited number we encourage guests to register their names at the front desk for tours. Please accommodate those leaving Lapa Rios before you. The longer tours generally leave after breakfast or lunch; the night walk returns by 8PM for a late dinner. Unless prepaid, the cost of all tours will be charged to your account, payable at checkout.
Non-guided walks are encouraged only on the trail closest to the lodge, or along the beach and main road. There is a self-guided tour pamphlet for the trail near the main lodge. If going into the forest without a guide please advise the staff of your anticipated route and approximate time of return. The forest is dark, as early as 4:30 P.M. on cloudy days! There are NO TRAIL SIGNS within the reserve.
Please note that all forest trails follow mountainous terrain and require a certain amount of exertion. NOT ALL TOURS ARE MEANT FOR EVERYONE. Some are difficult, some easier. Use the walking sticks. Keep your eyes down when walking. When you want to look at something, stop moving! Look before touching. Use footwear with good treads - rubber boots are available; the boots are more comfortable with high top socks. Snacks are provided for longer tours. Long sleeves and long pants are not necessary; shorts and a T-shirt are adequate for all hikes. Insect repellent usually is not necessary, neither are hats nor sunglasses. Always have a big drink of water before leaving on a hike - you will perspire and the extra fluid will help lessen your fatigue. Take a bottle of water when going on ANY tour. We always have it available—just ask at reception.
We recommend that you take a look at our portfolio of tour experiences (link to that page) and have a bit of an idea of what you would like to do at the lodge. However, specific plans on when to go where are best done when you are in Lapa Rios. A lot will depend if you are in the mood for action and activities or just taking it easy and relaxing. Weather and tide conditions also play a role.
The Rain Forest Ridge Walk Experience
The rain forest ridge walk is one of the tours offer here at Lapa Rios. The terrain is mountainous with the ridges separated by clear running streams. As you walk along the top of a ridge, you can look directly into the mid-canopy of many trees growing down slope. The path along the ridge and the forest floor are fairly open. Saplings and shade-tolerant shrubs are everywhere, but walking between them is easy. Almost no direct sunlight reaches the forest floor, and the path is littered with decomposing leaves. The ambience is hued in shades of green, gray, and brown. The humidity is high, but the temperature is a pleasant 25 degrees Celsius.
The beginning of the trail passes through some previously cut second growth. Quick- growing sun-loving plant species grow here, like Balsa and Heliconia. Heliconia has large broad leaves and stupendous birds-of-paradise-like flowers. Three species of hummingbirds buzz around fighting for position, all eager to sip the heliconia's rich nectar. A young heliconia is not yet in flower, and is still unfurling its 50 cm. long leaves. The rain forest contains the greatest number of plant and animal species in the world, but almost everything is uncommon. This is because each organism is a specialist. Numerous insects, including rolled-up-leaf beetles and rolled-up-leaf beetle predating spiders, live in the furled heliconia leaves. As I bend the leaf down for all to peer at the insects inside, six disc-winged bats explode out of the funnel. A rare phenomenon, these little bats roost during the day stacked up one on top of another inside the furled leaves. The slightest movement alerts them, as they are subject to predation by omnivorous Squirrel Monkeys. Everyone on the tour, including the guide, is startled and thrilled at what we have experienced.
Further up the trail, a completely camouflaged brown snake slithers across the path and stops alongside. Its head is narrow indicating it is nonvenomous. Its coloration is exactly the same as the dead leaf litter it inhabits. It is one meter long and has an orange underbelly. It hunts for small lizards, frogs, and invertebrates. All of us crowd around as it "freezes". After we have enjoyed this forest denizen, I approach the snake, and it rapidly and stealthily moves out of sight.
Our next stop is a huge 40 m tree with enormous buttress roots. Buttress roots are what support the tree in the thin rain forest soils. This one has 2m. high plank roots holding up the base, like a pedestal with feet. Knowing the tree, I search the fallen leaf litter for some “semillas adorable”, or adorable seeds. Within a minute, I have gathered a palm full of tiny scarlet red and black seeds, as rain forest souvenirs for the guests. Everyone, of course, is enchanted. I can only reason that the seeds are colored brilliantly, in order to advertise the toxic compounds contained within. An unpalatable taste will prevent their being masticated by rodent seed predators.
We walk quietly now enjoying the lushness, the immensity, and the tranquility of the forest. A flowering vine here, a large woody liana there, a giant termite nest, and a whistled bird call complete the scene. Suddenly, a movement is detected beside the path. “A snake!” someone shouts. The guests step aside, as I move forward to identify the serpent. A three meter long Boa Constrictor, thicker than your calf, lays coiled inside the buttress roots of a tree. There is an iridescence to its scales that shimmers when a patch of sunlight reaches its huge bulk. It is disturbed by our scrutiny, and moves slowly to a more sheltered location beneath a fallen tree. A nonvenomous predator, the boa is still a formidable foe. It has a large powerful jaw, with which it bites its prey and lifts it off the ground. It then wraps its coils around and continues to constrict, until its victim finally suffocates. It neither preys upon, nor fears humans. It is merely cautious and wary. Two of the tour participants approach with fascination. Two others keep a comfortable distance away. All are duly impressed.
We walk still further. The forest is ominously quiet. Only the sound of our footsteps disturbs the silence. It is late afternoon and the sky is darkening. The cloud cover builds and a light rain begins to fall. Overhead a crashing of branches is heard. Monkeys! We proceed forward looking ever upwards for the source. A moving branch is sighted, and a dark body is seen flying through the air. We search for a window through the vegetation, and spot four Howler Monkeys feeding in the canopy. They are strict herbivores, and we watch as they selectively munch leaves and walk about the branches. At last we are noticed, and a huge din erupts from the dominant male. Hoo - Hoo - Hoo - Hoo - Hoo -Hooah - Hooah - Hooah - HOOOAH !! Like a cross between a howling dog and a roaring lion, the alarm call of a Howler Monkey is a never-to-be-forgotten sound. One of the monkeys creeps to the end of a limb and then leaps to an adjacent tree out of view. Two others clamor up a hanging vine into the very densest portion of the tree top. The male remains in a guarded, but provocative posture inflating his cheek pouches like Louis Armstrong - howling for all he's worth. Within minutes, other unseen members join the chorus.
We continue on, and almost immediately encounter a group of birds. Warning cries are sounded, and several scatter upon our arrival. I quickly assess the remainder of the flock with my binoculars. Two ant-tanagers "chak" from the under story. Three ant-birds are "cheering" above the forest floor. Two wood-creepers hang from the trunk of a large tree. And a chicken-like ant thrush high steps away through the leaf litter. All these birds together can only mean one thing - an army ant swarm!
I scan to locate the swarm. Thousands of ants have just crossed the path and are foraging around a tree fall. The carnivorous ants dislodge all animals in their path, and the birds are quick to take advantage of this plethora of easy prey. We watch as various birds dart in and out amongst the ants capturing insects trying to escape. Together the tour group approaches the scene of carnage. Behind the attacking swarm are columns of ants crossing the path to and fro. Those returning to the nest are carrying the body parts of the insects and soft-bodied invertebrates that they've caught, stung, and dismembered. Those coming from the nest are non-sexual female soldiers arriving to reinforce the advancing swarm. Sub-majors patrol back and forth along the columns to protect the workers, and ensure that the "booty" is not filched by robbers. I warn the guests that these ants are very aggressive and pack a horrific bite. We walk through the swarm hastily, and kick the ants off our boots when we reach the other side. Everyone escapes unscathed. Thank heavens for tall rubber boots!
The drizzle continues, and eventually increases into a steady rain. Binoculars and cameras are stowed away into backpacks, and we walk on. Ponchos are virtually useless, as the humidity that builds up from within is as wet as the rain that falls from above. I proclaim to everyone that no one has ever melted or frozen to death in a tropical rainstorm. Reassured, we resume in silence.
Tromping through the mud, we listen to the pounding of the raindrops on the forest floor. Ahead I discover a rainfall bonus. Preferring wetter conditions, numerous poison-dart frogs now begin to appear along the trail. 5-6 cm. long, these black terrestrial amphibians are streaked with bright lime green. They hop conspicuously about searching for small insects. It is a dangerous method of feeding for a diurnal animal in a forest full of predators. It is thought that poison-dart frogs first evolved skin toxins to make themselves unpalatable, and then bright colors to better educate their enemies. Dangerous only when eaten, I deftly grab one so all can "ooh" and "aah" at this gorgeous forest inhabitance. We finally arrive at the lodge - wet, tired, and full of wonder and enchantment. Just another day in paradise...
Darrel Hutchinson, former guide at Lapa Rios
Occasionally seen at Lapa Rios
Would You Like to Offset the Emissions Caused by your International Flight to Costa Rica?
Carbon offsets are voluntary donations made by individuals, companies, or governments that compensate, or offset, greenhouse gas emissions from transportation, electricity use, and other sources. In an effort to promote sustainable development and tourism, the Costa Rican Ministry of Environmental Affairs has created a program in which tourists can compensate the carbon emissions caused by their international flights by investing in programs that preserve and reforest natural areas within Costa Rica.
If you would like to calculate and offset the emissions caused by your flight to Costa Rica, visit here.
What is a “Carbon Market”?
The carbon market is a growing industry where countries, individuals, or businesses can trade "carbon credits" for mandatory or voluntary purposes.
The 1997 Kyoto Protocol imposes caps on greenhouse gas emissions in most developed countries, but allows the countries to meet their commitments through an arrangement known as the CDM (Clean Development Mechanism). Under the CDM, countries can meet commitments through the sponsoring of emission reduction projects in developing countries. These projects generate “carbon credits,” which can then be traded in markets such as the European Climate Exchange.
A secondary, "voluntary" market exists where private businesses and individuals can buy and sell carbon credits for non-compliance reasons. Businesses may be interested in carbon markets for corporate sustainability reasons, green marketing initiatives, or as trial runs in anticipation of future emission reduction requirements. Merril Lynch, for example, invested $9m in a deforestation project in Indonesia earlier in 2008.
The voluntary market operates through registries like the Chicago Climate Exchange, and non-governmental organizations like Carbonfund, The National Carbon Offset Coalition, and Powertree. Other groups cater to individuals wanting to offset "personal emissions," including TerraPass.
Carbon Markets in Costa Rica
In Costa Rica, five current projects are generating tradable carbon credits through the Clean Development Mechanism. These include hydro power, wind power, landfill gas, and waste projects.
Unfortunately, projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions from deforestation cannot be used under the CDM, and reforestation/afforestation projects are costly and burdensome for developing countries. There are not any CDM-affiliated afforestation or reforestation projects in Latin America.
Costa Rica's forests have, however, created carbon credits in the voluntary markets. In fact, the first forestry offset project recorded on the Chicago Climate Exchange was one involving the reforestation of pasture land in Costa Rica, led by the Precious Woods Group.
The CCBA (Climate, Community, and Biodiversity Alliance), a partnership between research institutions, corporations, and environmental groups, has facilitated voluntary projects in Costa Rica, as well as in Brazil, Nicaragua, and Panama. Recently, the CCBA has approved a program that will make approximately 1,935,000 metric tons of carbon emission reductions available for trading, through the avoided deforestation of rainforests in the Central Volcanic Mountain Range in Costa Rica.
Costa Rica's future presence in the carbon market will depend on whether the successor to the Kyoto Protocol includes reduced emissions through deforestation projects (also known as REDD projects). These projects, although excluded from the Kyoto Protocol, are becoming increasingly more important: deforestation is responsible for 22% of carbon emissions. Additionally, they may be easier to administer in developing countries than reforestation/afforestation projects.
The CST is a national certification program designed by the Costa Rican Tourist Board (ICT) to classify hotels and resorts in Costa Rica based on their sustainable practices, policies and actions that protect the environment and benefit the local culture, history and local communities. Please visit our Sustainability section to learn more about Sustainable Tourism, our practices and the CST. Lapa Rios has received the highest level of Certification (Five green leaves) for the second time in a row in 2008.
Cayuga Sustainable Hospitality is a Costa Rica based hospitality management company that develops and manages ecolodges, sustainable resorts and green hotels in Latin American and the Caribbean. All Cayuga properties are certified or in the process of being certified for their sustainable practices, nature conservation and the improvement of the local communities where they are located. To learn more about what we do, why we are unique and how we can help you please click here.
LOCATION :( Do not send mail here)
LapaRios , Puerto Jimenez, Peninsula de Osa, Costa Rica, Central America (506) 2735-5130 Fax (506) 2735-5179
Dialing Tip : If you are calling from the USA dial 011 first in front of our phone number. Simply dial: 011 (506) 2735-5130
MAILING ADDRESS :
LapaRios
P.O. Box 02331- SJO - 706
Miami , Fl 33102 – 5331
www.laparios.com, info@laparios.com
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Pura Vida (POO-rah VEE-dah), used by Costa Ricans since 1956, literally translated means “Pure Life.” Contextually, it means “full of life,” “purified life,” “this is living!” “going great” It is used as a greeting, a farewell, and to express satisfaction.
The phrase has become widely known in the United States and Europe. Some foreigners view the phrase as an expression of a leisurely lifestyle, of disregard for time and wanton friendliness. However, Costa Ricans use the phrase to express a philosophy of strong community, perseverance, good spirits, enjoying life slowly, celebrating good fortune, whether small or large.
Pura Vida also means “I am doing alright”, “I am doing perfect” and “thank you”.
Expats who adopt the expression properly get a big smile in return. It is an acknowledgment of the Costa Rican attitude towards life.
A stay at Lapa Rios Ecolodge in Peninsula de Osa is certainly one of the highlights of a visit to Costa Rica. However, there are many other popular destinations that are worth a visit. Depending on your budget and time available for travel, we recommend you visit some of the country’s active volcanoes (Arenal, Poás, Irazú, Rincón de la Vieja) and the world famous cloud forest reserve at Monteverde. For a more active experience, a trip to Manuel Antonio is recommendable. Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast also offers a great variety of sights from the giant turtle nesting beaches in Tortuguero in the north to the laid-back beach environment further south. Guanacaste has Costa Rica’s best beaches.
Please contact Cayuga Travel (www.cayugaonline.com/travel) if you need help with further travel arrangements. We will be happy to help you with the planning of the rest of your trip to Costa Rica and can set up a nice itinerary including different areas of the country. Take a look at www.cayugaonline.com/travel or e-mail us at travel@cayugaonline.com in order to be able to suggest the best option for you. We cannot assist you with the international airfare, but can take care of all the rest of the details such as lodging, transportation, tours, or other.
We recommend two beach locations that we consider to make a great match with the Lapa Rios experience.
The Harmony Hotel, Guanacaste (www.harmonynosara.com)
Nested into the sleepy coastal town of Nosara, Costa Rica, 14 miles from the nearest paved road, high standards of sustainable living meet the creature comforts of low key beach life. Inspired by the old school tropical destinations of eras that appreciated low key glamour and total escape, the Harmony is the perfect setting for people to get in tune with their natural rhythm. Just beyond the Harmony’s bananas trees, a cant miss coconut palm marks the arrival at Playa Guiones, one of the best surf spots in Nosara. Here you will find what you are looking for in the perfect atmosphere. Whether it is a relaxation, adventure, nature, good waves or just beautiful beaches, the Harmony Hotel is the right place for your vacation. For more information, visit www.harmonynosara.com.
Arenas del Mar Beach and Nature Resort, Manuel Antonio (www.arenasdelmar.com)
Arenas del Mar is a beach and nature resort located next to Manuel Antonio National Park on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica. "Unique and spectacular beach and nature experiences combined with highest levels of comfort and sustainability in a local Costa Rican setting" define the concept of Arenas del Mar Beach Hotel. This Manuel Antonio resort caters to tourists that are looking for more than just another high end resort experience. Arenas del Mar Hotel offers a luxurious lodging experience in harmony with Costa Rica's nature in a spectacular beach and rainforest setting. Guest rooms, apartments and suites offer spectacular ocean views, upscale dining in two hotel restaurants with a focus on fresh local products and personalized service that exceeds guest expectations. Arenas del Mar is the perfect base to explore the area around Manuel Antonio and Quepos on the Central Pacific coast of Costa Rica. Tours and activities offered in the area include whitewater rafting, mangrove kayak and boat tours, guided rainforest hikes, ocean kayaking, catch and release sport fishing, Canopy Tours and horseback riding excursions. For more information, visit www.arenasdelmar.com.
Finca Rosa Blanca,when arriving or leaving Costa Rica, we highly recommend the Finca Rosa Blanca Country Inn www.finca-rblanca.co.cr, an intimate small hotel surrounded by coffee farms outside of San Jose but only twenty minutes from the international airport. Like Lapa Rios Eco-lodge, Finca Rosa Blanca works rigorously on its sustainability program and has been awarded five green leaves by Costa Rica’s Certificate for Sustainable Tourism (C.S.T.), a certification program endorsed by the Costa Rican government that awards tourism operations leaves for their level of sustainability.
Grano de Oro Hotel situated on a shady street just off Paseo Colón, San José's main thoroughfare, Grano de Oro Hotel is a true oasis, a sanctuary in the heart of a bustling city. Converted from a Tropical Victorian mansion, the hotel maintains the warmth and comfort of a private home. See www.granodeoro.com for more information.
We recommend two beach locations that we consider to make a great match with the Lapa Rios experience.
The Harmony Hotel, Guanacaste (www.harmonynosara.com)
Nested into the sleepy coastal town of Nosara, Costa Rica, 14 miles from the nearest paved road, high standards of sustainable living meet the creature comforts of low key beach life. Inspired by the old school tropical destinations of eras that appreciated low key glamour and total escape, the Harmony is the perfect setting for people to get in tune with their natural rhythm. Just beyond the Harmony’s bananas trees, a cant miss coconut palm marks the arrival at Playa Guiones, one of the best surf spots in Nosara. Here you will find what you are looking for in the perfect atmosphere. Whether it is a relaxation, adventure, nature, good waves or just beautiful beaches, the Harmony Hotel is the right place for your vacation. For more information, visit www.harmonynosara.com.
Latitude 10 Resort, Santa Teresa (www.latitude10resort.com)
Latitude 10 Resort was built as a private resort and is now available to the public. As the winner of the 2008 Grand Award in the International Class for second homes, the resort leaves nothing to be desired in luxury and elegance in its natural setting, providing interaction with the jungle and it’s beachfront location. Staying at Latitude 10 is like staying with good friends at their luxury beach house. You will experience personalized service and attention to detail in a relaxed, yet classy atmosphere. Breakfast and pre-dinner hors d’oeuvres are included in your rate as well as your private in room mini bar. For more info and reservations please visit www.latitude10resort.com.
Arenas del Mar Beach and Nature Resort, Manuel Antonio (www.arenasdelmar.com)
Arenas del Mar is a beach and nature resort located next to Manuel Antonio National Park on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica. "Unique and spectacular beach and nature experiences combined with highest levels of comfort and sustainability in a local Costa Rican setting" define the concept of Arenas del Mar Beach Hotel. This Manuel Antonio resort caters to tourists that are looking for more than just another high end resort experience. Arenas del Mar Hotel offers a luxurious lodging experience in harmony with Costa Rica's nature in a spectacular beach and rainforest setting. Guest rooms, apartments and suites offer spectacular ocean views, upscale dining in two hotel restaurants with a focus on fresh local products and personalized service that exceeds guest expectations. Arenas del Mar is the perfect base to explore the area around Manuel Antonio and Quepos on the Central Pacific coast of Costa Rica. Tours and activities offered in the area include whitewater rafting, mangrove kayak and boat tours, guided rainforest hikes, ocean kayaking, catch and release sport fishing, Canopy Tours and horseback riding excursions. For more information, visit www.arenasdelmar.com.
Cayuga Travel (www.cayugaonline.com/travel)
We will be happy to help you with the planning of the rest of your trip to Costa Rica and can set up a nice itinerary including different areas of the country. Take a look at www.cayugaonline.com/travel or e-mail us at travel@cayugaonline.com in order to be able to suggest the best option for you. We cannot assist you with the international airfare, but can take care of all the rest of the details such as lodging, transportation, tours, or other.
The amazing beaches and natural scenarios, plus the warmth of the local people and the friendly weather are just a handful of distinctive features that make Costa Rica one of the most romantic destinations in the world. Visit us here and let us plan the honeymoon of your dreams.
Wellness is all around in Costa Rica: weather on deserted beaches, with the song of invisible creatures of the night or on dark-green jungles. Visit ushere and let us take you on that journey.
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What Our Guests
Have To Say
"He who creates a garden, works hand in hand with God" How true for you and your
team!! thank you, humbly thank you! Only through this place, we can enjoy the beauty
of our planet. We willsurelybe back!"
Julie Baker