Best Eco-Lodge in Costa Rica? My Top 7 Picks for 2023

Best Eco-lodge in Costa Rica - Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Eco Sanctuary

Are you looking for the best eco-lodge in Costa Rica?

Look no further! I’ve done all the hard work and narrowed it down to my top 7 picks for 2023.

From the best luxury eco-lodges and beachfront villas to rustic cabins nestled deep in the jungle, there are great options for every budget and niche interest.

Imagine waking up each morning surrounded by lush rainforests and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean…

You can explore miles of trails on foot or horseback, go zip lining through the canopy, or relax with a good book while listening to birdsong from your hammock… I don’t know about you but I’m itching to start packing my bags for a warm and relaxing getaway! 🙂

Let’s jump into some details!

Still not sure what an eco-lodge is? Check out my recent article, What Is An Ecolodge And How Does It Work (The Future of Travel Explained), with everything you need to know about eco-lodges and the move toward sustainable travel.

What Is The Best Eco-Lodge In Costa Rica?

My Top Pick
El Silencio Lodge & Spa

Best Luxury Eco-Lodge: El Silencio Lodge ($$$)

Highlights

  • Located in the heart of the Bajos del Toro cloud forest
  • Luxurious accommodations surrounded by lush vegetation
  • The spa offers a variety of treatments incorporating local ingredients and traditional techniques
  • Activities such as guided hikes, bird-watching tours, and zip-lining through the canopy
  • focus on locally-sourced and organic ingredients for its dining
  • The perfect combination of luxury, adventure, and relaxation

Guest Rating on Booking.com

Price

$$$

Region

Bajos del Toro cloud forest

Overview

El Silencio Lodge & Spa is a hidden gem in the heart of the Bajos del Toro cloud forest. The eco-lodge is tucked away in a secluded valley, surrounded by lush vegetation and the soothing sounds of nature. The lodge’s architecture is beautifully designed to blend in with the surrounding environment, and the accommodations are luxurious and comfortable.

One of the highlights of El Silencio Lodge is the spa, which offers a variety of treatments that incorporate local ingredients and traditional techniques. The spa’s setting is truly tranquil and provides the perfect environment for relaxation and rejuvenation.

The lodge also offers a variety of activities for guests to experience the natural beauty of the cloud forest. Guests can take guided hikes, bird-watching tours, and even zip-line through the canopy. The knowledgeable and friendly staff are always happy to help plan activities and provide recommendations.

The food at El Silencio Lodge is also noteworthy, with a focus on locally-sourced and organic ingredients. The dining room offers stunning views of the forest and the meals are always delicious.

Overall, El Silencio Lodge & Spa is an incredible eco-lodge that offers luxury, adventure, and relaxation all in one. It’s definitely worth considering for your next Costa Rican vacation and I highly recommend it as one of the best eco-lodges of 2023.

Pick #2
Amazonita Ecolodge

Best for Traveling with a Group of 6: Amazonita Ecolodge ($)

Highlights

  • Amazonita Ecolodge is a secluded and peaceful getaway in the heart of the Costa Rican rainforest
  • Rustic, but comfortable, with a focus on using renewable energy sources
  • Offers guided hikes, bird-watching, horseback riding, waterfall visits, and more
  • The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, providing recommendations and help in planning activities

Guest Rating on Booking.com

Price

$

Region

Overview

Amazonita Ecolodge is a hidden gem nestled in the lush rainforest of Costa Rica. The eco-lodge is a great destination for travelers who are looking for an affordable, secluded and peaceful getaway, surrounded by nature. The lodge’s location, in the heart of the rainforest, offers guests the opportunity to experience the diverse flora and fauna of the area.

The accommodations at Amazonita Ecolodge are rustic yet comfortable, with a focus on sustainability. The rooms are simple (private cabins that sleep 6) but have all the necessary amenities, and the lodge’s use of renewable energy sources is commendable.

The lodge also offers a variety of activities for guests to experience the natural beauty of the rainforest. You can take guided hikes, bird-watching tours, horseback riding tours, and even go for a refreshing dip in one of the many nearby waterfalls.

The staff at the lodge is friendly and knowledgeable, and they are always happy to help plan activities and provide recommendations.

Each cabin at Amazonita Ecolodge is equipped with a kitchen and there is also a small restaurant nearby.

Overall, Amazonita Ecolodge is a great destination for travelers who are looking for an authentic and sustainable experience in the rainforest. It’s perfect for those who are looking to disconnect from the hustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature.

Pick #3
Lapa Rios Lodge

Best for Learning About Local Nature: Lapa Rios Ecolodge ($$$)

Highlights

  • Situated in a 1,000-acre private nature reserve surrounded by lush rainforest and overlooking the Pacific Ocean, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
  • Luxurious and comfortable accommodations with a focus on sustainability and using renewable energy sources
  • Experience the natural beauty of the Osa Peninsula through a variety of activities like guided hikes, dolphin watching, and kayaking
  • Knowledgeable and friendly staff provide recommendations and help with activity planning
  • Serves delicious meals made with locally-sourced and organic ingredients

Guest Rating on Booking.com

8.4

Price

$$$

Region

Osa Peninsula

Overview

Lapa Rios Ecolodge is a stunning eco-lodge located on the Osa Peninsula in Costa Rica. The lodge is situated in a 1,000-acre private nature reserve, surrounded by lush rainforest and overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The location of the lodge is truly breathtaking, and it’s a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

The accommodations at Lapa Rios Lodge are luxurious and comfortable, with a focus on sustainability.

The rooms are beautifully designed and have all the necessary amenities, and the lodge’s use of renewable energy sources is commendable. The lodge also offers a variety of activities for guests to experience the natural beauty of the Osa Peninsula as well as important practices around sustainability.

You can take guided hikes, go dolphin watching, kayaking, and so much more.

The staff at the lodge is friendly and knowledgeable, and they are always happy to help plan activities, provide recommendations, and help you learn about the area you are staying in.

The food at Lapa Rios Ecolodge is also noteworthy, with a focus on locally-sourced and organic ingredients. The lodge serves 3 delicious a-la-carte multi-course meals daily.

Overall, Lapa Rios Ecolodge is an incredible eco-lodge that offers luxury, adventure, and relaxation all in one.

Pick #4
Pacuare Lodge

Best Honeymoon Location: Pacuare Lodge ($$$)

Highlights

  • 20 exclusive and personalized suites with private terraces and breathtaking views
  • Intimate eco-hotel with a commitment to environmental sustainability
  • Stunning infinity pool overlooking the rainforest and spa with yoga classes
  • Friendly and attentive staff ensure a comfortable and memorable stay

Guest Rating on Booking.com

9.8

Price

$$$

Region

Pacuare, Caribbean region

Overview

Pacuare Lodge is an exceptional luxury eco-hotel located in the heart of Costa Rica’s lush rainforest.

With only 20 suites, this intimate hotel offers a truly exclusive and personalized experience for guests.

The accommodations are beautifully designed and blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings.

Each suite features private terraces with stunning views of the river and the surrounding jungle. The lodge also features an incredible infinity swimming pool overlooking the rainforest. You’ll also enjoy the spa and can sign up for riverside yoga classes for an extra wellness boost.

The hotel’s commitment to environmental sustainability is evident in every aspect of its operations, from the use of renewable energy sources to the incorporation of local materials in the construction of the buildings.

The staff is friendly and attentive, ensuring guests have a comfortable and memorable stay.

Overall, Pacuare Lodge is a top choice for travelers looking for a luxurious Costa Rica eco-lodge.

Pick #5
Finca Luna Nueva Lodge

Best Budget Option: Finca Luna Nueva Lodge ($)

Highlights

  • Affordable eco-lodge with a variety of accommodations, including private rooms, bungalows, and suites.
  • Committed to sustainability, using renewable energy, organic farming, and conservation of the local environment.
  • Delicious organic and locally-sourced cuisine, and cooking classes.
  • Surrounded by pristine rainforest, and offers easy access to a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, bird-watching, and river rafting.

Guest Rating on Booking.com

9.2

Price

$

Region

Alajuela

Overview

Finca Luna Nueva Lodge is a unique and affordable eco-lodge located in the Costa Rican rainforest and can be reached by bus or car from San Jose. The lodge offers a variety of accommodations, including private rooms, bungalows, and suites.

The prices are reasonable considering the level of luxury and services provided, making it a great option for budget-conscious travelers. The lodge’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its use of renewable energy, organic farming, and conservation of the local environment.

One of the things that makes Finca Luna Nueva Lodge stand out is its focus on wellness and holistic living. The lodge offers an herbal medicine workshop, yoga classes, some of the best yoga retreats, whitewater rafting, as well as fun activities like a chocolate tour, and more!

The lodge’s restaurant serves delicious organic and locally-sourced cuisine, and also offers cooking classes.

Pick #6
Origins Lodge

Best for Foodies: Origins Lodge ($$$)

Highlights

  • Dining experience designed by Michelin Star chef and locally-sourced ingredients, and rejuvenating spa treatments using local ingredients.
  • Luxurious accommodations with stunning rainforest views
  • Sustainability-focused with the use of renewable energy and organic farming practices
  • Unique experiences, including guided night walks and local culture/history day trips

Guest Rating on Booking.com

9.7

Price

$$$

Region

Bijagua de Upala, Alajuela

Overview

Origins Lodge is an exceptional eco-lodge located in the heart of the Costa Rican rainforest. The lodge offers luxurious accommodations with stunning views of the surrounding rainforest and easy access to a variety of outdoor activities.

The lodge’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its use of renewable energy, organic farming, and conservation of the local environment.

One of the highlights of Origins Lodge is its location, as it is surrounded by pristine rainforest which you can enjoy through a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, bird-watching, and even a sugarcane wine tour!

The lodge also offers an array of unique experiences, such as guided night walks to spot nocturnal animals and day trips to explore the local culture and history.

The staff is friendly and attentive, ensuring guests have a comfortable and memorable stay.

The food served is delicious and made with locally-sourced ingredients by a French Michelin Star chef! You can also book cooking classes for a deeper understanding of local food.

The lodge’s spa and wellness center offer a variety of treatments using locally-sourced ingredients, making it a great option for those looking to relax and rejuvenate during their stay.

Pick #7
Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Eco Sanctuary

Best For Active Travelers: Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge ($$$)

Highlights

  • Pacific coast location is perfect for swimming and kayaking.
  • Environmentally sustainable practices with purified water systems and absence of plastic bottles.
  • Friendly and knowledgeable staff with guided bird and animal watching excursions.
  • Delicious locally-sourced food, comfortable rooms, and daily yoga classes for a rejuvenating stay.

Guest Rating on Booking.com

9.6

Price

$$$

Region

Osa Peninsula

Overview

Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge is a true paradise for nature lovers. The lodge is situated on the Pacific coast, making it an ideal location for swimming, paddling, or kayaking.

The lodge’s commitment to environmental sustainability is evident in its use of purified water systems and the absence of plastic bottles, which is a great way to make a positive impact on the local environment.

One of the highlights of the lodge is the friendly and helpful staff, who are always willing to assist guests and make their stay as comfortable as possible. The guides are knowledgeable about the local birds and animals, and they made the excursions very interesting and educational.

The food is delicious and made with locally-sourced ingredients, and the rooms are clean and comfortable. The lodge also offers a morning yoga class, which is a great way to start the day and rejuvenate the body and mind. I love to travel with a foldable yoga mat for trips like this.

Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge is a small paradise that offers a unique and unforgettable experience. The lodge offers a variety of packages including a “Rainforest Multisport Escapade” and “Yoga Bliss” which are great options for anyone looking for a more structured experience.

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