Lapa Rios Eco Lodge
Cabo Matapalo
Lapa Rios is an award winning, high-end Eco Lodge found on the southeastern tip of the Osa Peninsula. It is remotely located in a private 1000-acre nature reserve comprised of one of the last wild lowland Pacific rainforests in Central America making this a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, nature lovers, and environmentalists. Listed in National Geographic’s Unique Lodges of the World, Lapa Rios claims recognition as the first hotel awarded the 5-leaf Certification for Sustainable Tourism from Costa Rica’s Tourism Board. It is also one of the coveted Cayuga Collection award winning eco resorts. Designed to have minimal impact on the environment, every structure has been built with materials amassed locally, including naturally fallen trees. Its financial gains benefit the local community by providing jobs and education.
Lapa Rios is exquisitely situated at the southernmost point of the Osa Peninsula where the Pacific Ocean meets Golfo Dulce. Surrounded by rainforest, the lodge is within hiking distance to three pristine, undeveloped beaches. The remoteness of the area is most easily accessed by an airstrip roughly 12 miles away in Puerto Jimenez. San Jose’s international airport offers 5 flights per day that take approximately 50 minutes each way. Please note that all in-country flights have a 25lb baggage limit per person. Included in your stay, Lapa Rios’ friendly staff will meet you at the Puerto Jimenez airport with a cool refreshing drink and shuttle you to the lodge roughly 45 minutes through the jungle. Driving from the country’s capital takes approximately 7 hours one way and is not advised after dark.
Staying at this stunning lodge is enhanced by its proximity to the diverse Corcovado National Park. The entire area supports the protection of several endangered species like the Scarlet Macaw, jaguar, puma, and Great Harpy Eagle. Activities include guided nature hikes such as the Starfish Walk and Early Birds tour, horseback riding, swimming, kayaking, surfing, fishing, and more. Guided hikes range from easy to challenging as you are escorted into the rainforest to enjoy waterfalls, rivers, and bio-diverse ecosystems.
Hotel amenities feature a lovely pool, slide shows at happy hour, rooftop lookout, plus 3 meals a day are included and made from fresh organic ingredients. Massage, Reiki, Yoga and Chi Kung are all available on-site. Lapa Rios includes 2 guided hikes free for guests staying at the lodge. Additional guided hikes from the hotel help support the cost of trail maintenance and land acquisition.
The 17 private, thatched roofed bungalows are strung along a steep trail 350 feet above the ocean across 3 ridges overlooking the sparkling Pacific. Each one has its own private balcony offering amazing views of the jungle and ocean. Lapa Rios allows children 6 and older due to the height and rocky nature of the hotel’s setting. Whether traveling with family, honeymooning, or backpacking solo, you’ll find the right size bungalow awaits.
Latitude: N 8° 23' 48.21"
Longitude: W 83° 17' 17.25"
