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Green Iguana
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Sustainable StandardKindly pay careful attention to the following information.
Most of the international carriers fly into San José (SJO) & Liberia (LIR) Int’l Airport from all major cities of US, Canada, Europe and Latin America where our guests make connection to Puerto Jimenez airstrip in the Osa Peninsula.
The small planes serving San Jose city, Liberia town and Puerto Jimenez are often a new experience. Flying time is less than 1 hour, unless stopping en route. Depending on the airlines’ schedules, you may land in order to drop-off or pick-up other passengers in Quepos, Palmar Sur, Drake’s Bay or Golfito. If you land in Liberia town, you may fly to San Jose first and then fly to Puerto Jimenez (the local airlines don´t have a direct flight from Liberia to Puerto Jimenez).
There are two local airlines offering domestic service to Puerto Jimenez from San Jose & Liberia: Nature Air and Sansa. Nature Air flights leave from the Pavas airport 20 miles from San Jose Int’l Airport and Sansa flights leave from a terminal next to the international airport. In some cases, it is possible to connect from other destinations like Quepos, Liberia, Arenal, Punta Islita and other sites to Puerto Jimenez, but it is important to check with our office for availability.
All in-country flights have a 25 lbs. baggage limit per person. Additional luggage can usually be accommodated for an extra charge. If you carry more than 30 pounds you will be required to leave your luggage in San Jose until the next flight with space available, which might entail waiting until the next day.
We prefer to make your in-country flight 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. Also, if we make the reservation we can manage any problems that might occur.
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 rainforest at night: the crickets, the cicadas and the kinkajous. All this is very intentional. At the same time, we are fully equipped for emergency communications and have transportation available to Puerto Jimenez and local hospitals.
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 peaceful and wilderness experience that can be appreciated.
Communication between the office and the hotel is by marine radio. We have several trips daily by car between the two locations to transport faxes or messages. To make a personal telephone call it will 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 or phone service. It’s a feeling we all need to experience more often: to disconnect and decompress!
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 possible while respecting their need for safety and nature’s space.
The whole cast of rainforest 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. 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 as 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 rainforest creatures and nothing is looking to bite them. While you will see many new forms of life there is little risk with the ordinary exercise of common sense. We are promoted as a "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. One wouldn’t even think to suggest that this rainforest Ecolodge should enclose its rooms and then have to provide air conditioning. That is also impossible since there is no municipal electricity source; we use generators as the main alternative.
We have a very high client satisfaction index. But Lapa Rios is not for everyone nor can it be made that way.
International visitors require a valid passport together with onward travel documents. When travelling to Costa Rica guests must ensure that their passport is valid for at least 6 months after their entry date. All passport holders should verify with their travel agent or relevant consulate concerning visa entry requirements. If you are extending your journey to other countries, please establish entry requirements for those countries as well.
Costa Rica is a healthy place in which to live and travel. While disease control centres abroad tend to prescribe every injection and pill imaginable, this tends to be unnecessary. No immunizations, shots, inoculations or vaccinations are required to enter Costa Rica. However, it would be wise to check with your personal physician for individual recommendations. Be careful, but not overly cautious.
It is very important that you drink plenty of water. It is generally recommended that guests drink at least 2 to 3 litres of water per day to limit the effects of dehydration. This excludes tea, coffee and alcoholic beverages, which act as diuretics and therefore can contribute to dehydration.
Water throughout Costa Rica is generally safe to drink directly from the tap, and at Lapa Rios the water comes from a pristine well, up in the rainforest. Guests have told us it is the best water they have ever had, delicious and safe. We have the water tested on a regular basis to insure it's quality. Remember to bring your refillable water bottle, or purchase one at the hotel, to take full advantage of this healthy treat that the rainforest of Lapa Rios offers you.
In the case of an emergency, a medical clinic is located 30 to 45 minutes from the lodge. We always have a vehicle on property in case emergency transport is necessary. Additionally, Puerto Jimenez has an emergency 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 of 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. Please make sure you bring enough of your personal medications, both prescription and over-the-counter, as the pharmacy in Puerto Jimenez only offers basic medicinal products.
For those guests with specific dietary requirements please ensure Lapa Rios is notified prior to arrival. We can accommodate most reasonable requests. Please also notify us of any medical condition you may have prior to your arrival. This includes any difficulty walking stairs, allergies such as, bee stings, nuts, shellfish, etc
It is a condition of booking that the sole responsibility lies with the guests to ensure that they have comprehensive travel and medical insurance to cover themselves as well as any dependants or travelling companions, for the duration of their trip to Costa Rica. This insurance should include but is not limited to the following:
Choosing to hike and learn about the rain forest interconnectedness with our several trained, experienced local guides provides both you an authentic local interpretation and also the community employees continued economic support.
Walking tours are best arranged after you arrive by checking with the reception or talking personally with the guides. Some of our tours, like the Early Bird Tour and Waterfall Hike are offered every day. The schedules for the rest of the walking tours depend on the availability of the various guides. We do not know more than a day or two in advance which tours will be available on a particular day or at a particular hour. All tours are offered at least every other day. Due to limited space we recommend that if you are interested, you book the Corcovado National Park in advance.
Since Costa Rica is located right in the tropics and close to the Equator, the country is characterized as a Rainforest or a Very Humid Tropical Forest. It has two well-defined seasons: a dry season from December to April and a rainy season from May to November. The months of July and August are typically wet through-out Costa Rica, but on the Pacific coast, the rain generally occurs during the afternoon or evening. Warm temperatures with highs in the 80s Fahrenheit (30 Celsius) and lows in the 70s Fahrenheit (22 Celsius) are characteristic year-round.
We experience a short mid-year mini-dry season towards the end of July and beginning of August when rainfall decreases significantly for three or four weeks, especially in the northern Pacific. The rainiest months of all are September and October, especially in the southern Pacific. The beaches and lowlands experience high temperatures of the low-eighties to nineties and low temperatures of the high-sixties to mid-seventies.
The "green season" (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.
Jan |
Feb |
Mar |
Apr |
May |
Jun |
Jul |
Aug |
Sep |
Oct |
Nov |
Dec |
|
Avg. Max. Temp. (F) |
91 |
92 |
92 |
91 |
90 |
89 |
89 |
89 |
90 |
89 |
89 |
90 |
Avg. Min. Temp |
72 |
71 |
73 |
73 |
73 |
72 |
71 |
71 |
71 |
71 |
71 |
71 |
Avg. Rainfall (inches) |
6.30 |
5.70 |
8.00 |
11.00 |
18.90 |
17.50 |
18.90 |
20.90 |
22.00 |
27.70 |
22.30 |
11.60 |
Due to our small size and the need for flexibility to accommodate different arrival and departure dates as well as guests’ varying levels of health and fitness,, we cannot guarantee reservations for specific numbered bungalows. We hope you understand. At the same time, if you have special physical requirements that you know of in advance, please let us know so that we can help you have a more pleasant stay. Remember, bungalow access requires stair climbing in Lapa Rios.
All of our working staff contributes to your stay at Lapa Rios. Though tipping is exclusively at your discretion, travel agents have suggested that $10 per person, per day is an appropriate general tip. With the exception of nature guides, all gratuities will be divided among the entire staff. If a particular member of our staff provided you exceptional service, you may request a special envelope from the reception and leave a tip for them individually. For your information, Costa Rican laws specify that restaurant staff automatically receives 10% gratuity for all food and beverages purchase. Please leave all gratuities in the tip box found in Reception.
You will soon notice that there are many bumpy roads in Costa Rica. To get from the Puerto Jimenez Airstrip to Lapa Rios, you will have to take a 45 minute trip in one of our Jungle Taxis. Be prepared for a bumpy ride and crossing rivers. But if you are lucky, you will see birds or monkeys along the way.
Departing the Lapa Rios office you will pass Puerto Jimenez’s shallow harbor, the soccer field and post office, medical clinic, stores and restaurants. You’ll see the local Children’s Library built by volunteers; Lapa Rios donated the furniture. After driving past the Osa Peninsula’s only bank and gas station you’ll bump along a dirt road for 45-60 minutes, first riding through cattle pastures cleared of trees generations ago. The primary forested ridges on your right angle closer to the road and ocean as you move south. If you interested in spotting wildlife along the way, alert the driver—he’ll try to point out birds and animals using their common names. (The Lapa Rios staff is from the local community and native Spanish speakers. They learn and practice English, the travelers’ language. What they lack in proficiency is rectified with enthusiasm and kindness.) You’ll cross several rivers, some over simple bridges and others by fording. Your driver will point out the Carbonera Primary School located at the border of the Lapa Rios Reserve. This school was built and is supported by Lapa Rios guests—a demonstration of Travelers’ Philanthropy: people giving back to places they visit. Barring a school holiday, one of our staff escorts guests to the school twice weekly.
Depending on the road condition you should arrive at Lapa Rios within an hour. Our staff will welcome you, host your check-in and offer an Ecolodge orientation: what to do/not to do, outline tours and activities, explain ecotourism’s sustainable practices and answer questions. If you arrive during a mealtime, feel free to proceed to the restaurant; check-in and orientation will follow. By the time you complete your Welcome to Lapa Rios, your luggage will have been delivered to your bungalow. Bienvenidos!
Enjoy gourmet meals in the middle of a rainforest with a window to the wild at Lapa Rios Ecolodge. Since its beginning the multi-award winning resort offers gastronomical delights that greatly enhance the enjoyment of their guests.
The lodge’s restaurant Brisa Azul specializes in freshly-cooked international cuisine infused with a hint of the tropics and offers breathtaking vistas and an experience of the rainforest like none other. Although remote and isolated (no phones or internet) Lapa Rios serves food and beverages not usually offered in the wilderness. Some meals rotate daily, focusing on fresh fruits, and vegetables with local fish, chicken and meat. A full service bar mixes favorite beverages, fresh juices, wines and spirits. Breakfast and lunch are a la carte and dinners are from a menu that changes on a daily basis.
We pride ourselves in running a model Ecolodge and offering the best experience possible for such a remote location. If there is anything you feel that we can do to enhance your experience, please do not hesitate to contact the managers. If you have a problem, please bring it to our attention at the time, giving us a chance to try and rectify it immediately, as it may be difficult to resolve later on.
Watch your step wherever you go. Stop moving when looking around and examine surfaces before grabbing. Lapa Rios is full of natural surprises—be aware of your surrounding environment.
Avoid walking without a flashlight at night. Remember, it is dark by 5:30! While we have lights installed on the Lapa Rios property, these lights provide only minimal lighting (too many bright lights would frighten many of the nocturnal animals that inhabit the rain forest). Flashlights are available at reception.
Take the time to read the guest information book found in your bungalow, the Lapa Rios Story and the Sustainable Certification manual available in the library or reception. These books contain a wealth of information about the
history of Lapa Rios, its mission, goals and current projects.
Remember to turn off all lights and fans when you exit your bungalow. Energy conservation is very important for all of us, especially in this remote area lacking an electrical grid (we produce our energy with a biodiesel generator).
Use the biodegradable soap, shampoo and conditioner in your rooms, and make use of recycling receptacles below the sink. These products were specifically chosen to minimize our impact on the surrounding environment. Rather than leaving your non-recyclable trash in the Osa, please take it out with you.
Remember to always travel responsibly, choosing destinations where your travel choice makes a difference to the local culture and environment. We would also like to recommend you our sister hotels for your stay in Costa Rica:
Arenas Del Mar Beach & Nature Resort
(Manuel Antonio)
A stunning, luxury and sustainable 38 room upscale beach and nature resort with spectacular views of the Manuel Antonio National Park on the Central Pacific coast of Costa Rica, nestled in eleven acres of rainforest with private trails and two tree-shaded sandy beaches. Guest rooms, apartments and suites offer spectacular ocean views, upscale dining in two hotel restaurants with a focus on fresh local ingredients, pools with views of the rainforest and the beach, a spectacular Spa and personalized service that exceeds guest expectations. Arenas del Mar is a model project for sustainable development strictly following the guidelines laid out by the Costa Rican Certification for Sustainable Tourism (CST). info@arenasdelmar.com
Latitude 10 Resort
(Santa Teresa)
This 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. info@latitude10resort.com
Harmony Hotel
(Guiones Beach, Nosara)
The perfect combination of low-key luxury, nature, wellness and sustainability. Situated on the Guiones beach in Nosara, Costa Rica (a spot well renowned for its beautiful surroundings and impressive surf), an excellent place to unwind, relax and get in tune with your natural rhythm.
info@harmonynosara.com
Finca Rosa Blanca Coffee Plantation & Inn
(Santa Bárbara de Heredia)
Upon arrival and departure from Costa Rica, we highly recommend that you stay at our sister hotel Finca Rosa Blanca Country Inn easily located 15 minutes from Juan Santamaria International Airport. Surrounded by coffee plantations, volcanoes and lush gardens, Finca Rosa Blanca is a renowned hideaway, famous for its organic gourmet cuisine, superior comfort and service to their guests. Finca Rosa Blanca, along with Lapa Rios were the first two hotels in Costa Rica to achieve the highest level of 5 green leaves in Certification of Sustainable Tourism. info@fincarosablanca.com
Day 1 Arrive to Puerto Jimenez airstrip where you will be greeted by the Lapa Rios Reservations staff. You will be guided to the Office where refreshment will be offered. After disconnecting with the outside world you are ready to continue the adventure in the rainforest in a bumpy and scenic road during 45 minutes.
When arriving to the Lodge you will be met by the Lodge’s Management who will guide you for the main facilities while explaining about Lapa Rios mission, vision and goals.
Rest your body and soul after a delicious lunch taking a nap in the hammock of your comfortable suitta thatched roof bungalow and get ready at 5:30 p.m. for the Night Walk hike. This tour gives you the opportunity to enjoy the magic rainforest during the night in a two hours hike where you will observe amazing creatures difficult to see during the day.
After the hike an exquisite three courses meal will be waiting for you, ending this way your first day at Lapa Rios.
Day 2 Wake up with the stunning sunrise behind the Golfo Dulce in front of your eyes. Sign up in the Reception the previous day in order to have fresh coffee in your room.
Have a delicious breakfast with tropical fruits and locally harvested ingredients before getting ready for the Wild Waterfall Hike starting at 9:00 a.m. Return to the Lodge just for lunch at 12:00.
Prepare your senses to take one hour of a therapeutic massage and join other guests afterward at Lapapalapa Bar for a tropical cocktails.
Day 3 Get ready with the sunrise for another day of adventure. If you would like to experience more about the nature kindness of the Osa Peninsula you might want to experience the Golfo Dulce Dolphin Tour and Caña Blanca. Have a light breakfast and leave Lapa Rios at 6:30 a.m. to Puerto Jimenez where the tour starts sighting for dolphins and other creatures, stop at Caña Blanca Wildlife Sanctuary and return to Lapa Rios at 1:00 p.m.
For the rest of the afternoon relax on the sun bed in your private balcony while hearing the toucans, macaws and sound of the waves and join us at the scenic Brisa Azul Restaurant for a glass of wine or cocktail before dinner.
Day 4 Have a cup of fresh coffee in your bungalow while absorbing the fresh breeze of the morning.
You might leave the fourth day of your stay at Lapa Rios to get immersed in the real rainforest. The Osa Trail hike leads you into the deep primary forest in the Lapa Rios private reserve. The tour departs Lapa Rios at 8:15 a.m. and returns at noon.
In the afternoon take time to relax in the fresh water pool with gorgeous scenarios.
Day 5 If you have a flight out of Puerto Jimenez at noon or in the afternoon, you might wake up early and take the Early Bird guided tour. This tour leaves at 5:30 a.m. and returns at 8:00 a.m. During the tour you will spot a wide variety of migrant and stationary colorful birds as in no other part in Costa Rica.
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