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Pacuare Rafting and the Pacuare Lodge

  5.0 (1 review)
From USD $289.00 Per Person

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Itinerary

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Start city(s):
End city(s):
Trip length:
Activities: Jungle Lodge, Class 4 Whitewater, Class 1-3 Whitewater, Wildlife Viewing
Destinations: Pacuare River
Min/Max group size: -
Comfort: First Class
First Class
Difficulty: More Difficult
More Difficult
*Details may vary with dates. Select dates to see exact details.

detour Opinion:
Is this trip for me?

The Pacuare Lodge is a wonderful trip combining a fun whitewater rafting experience with a very comfortable eco-lodge.  Great accomodations and food add to the experience of this fantastic river trip.  Additionally, the lodge is very environmentally sensitive, and has won a number of awards for its green practices.


...read customer reviews
...view photos

Picture yourself on one of the planet’s top white water rivers, paddle in hand, a gaze of triumph and excitement on your face as you enjoy mile after mile of Costa Rica’s most mesmerizing rainforest environment. Then imagine the wonder and beauty of an unspoiled paradise that offers a stay in private bungalows, which feature private bath, beds with top-quality mattresses, verandas, and where peace and tranquility are cherished. Welcome to the Pacuare Jungle Lodge.

Passionate rafters from around the world agree the Pacuare River offers some of the most scenic class III-IV white-water rapids anywhere. The Pacuare River and the Pacuare Protected Zone are located between the coastal lowlands and the country’s highest mountain range. This pristine jungle region, considered one of the most important protected areas in Central America, is still inhabited by the Cabecar Indians.

Advantageously situated inside this protected wilderness is our very special jungle getaway, the Pacuare Lodge, accessible to travelers through our overnight white-water rafting tours on the Pacuare River. The lodge and bungalows are completely surrounded by tropical rainforest. Enormous trees and rainforest inhabitants live in natural harmony alongside the lodge itself.

The Pacuare Lodge was designed and constructed to blend with the surrounding environment, affecting minimal impact, and has been recognized by the World Tourism Organization as one of only sixty-five examples throughout the world of good practice in sustainability and ecotourism.

The two-story eco-lodge has a comfortable, rustic dining area on the first floor and an open-air lounge on the second floor with sitting areas and hammocks. Guest rooms are modern wooden bungalows with thatched palm roofs, carefully designed in an indigenous style to blend into the surrounding forest. Nestled within a forest that has stood sentry for eons, each bungalow comes complete with private bathroom and shower, as well as freshly linened beds that promise a languid repose, surrounded by the intoxicating scents of the tropical rainforest.

For an added touch of luxury, reserve our honeymoon suite.

Highlights

The Pacuare River is one of the top 10 rafting trips in the world for fun whitewater and amazing scenery

The Pacuare Lodge offers the only accommodation along the Pacuare River with private bungalows with private bath, beds with top-quality mattresses, and private porches

Our trained chef prepares exquisite gourmet food

The Pacuare Lodge has been designed, constructed, and operated under principles of Sustainability
...view more details

Abbreviated Itinerary

Day 1: Travel from San Jose to the Pacuare River, raft Class III whitewater to Pacuare Lodge.

Day 2:After an early morning hike we depart by raft, running Class III and IV rapids before returning to San Jose in our private bus.
...see full itinerary

Why should I choose this trip? What makes it better (different) than other trips?

The Pacuare River is on of the best and most scenic rivers in the world, and the Pacuare Lodge is the most comfortable lodging along the river---a fantastic combination!
...view more details

What kind of person will enjoy this trip?

People looking for a bit of excitement who want to explore a beautiful rainforest canyon, but want the luxury of a comfortable, private bungalow combined with three course meals prepared by a trained chef.
...view more details

Overview

Itinerary

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Customer Reviews

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Detailed Itinerary

Day 1
This exciting outdoor adventure begins when you are picked up at your San José hotel in a comfortable minibus and transported through the old capital city of Cartago and the lush green farmlands blanketing the slopes of the Irazú and Turrialba volcanoes. Before arriving at the banks of the Pacuare River, you’ll stop to enjoy an authentic Costa Rican breakfast. When you arrive at the river, our expert guides will provide you with the rafting gear and explain safety precautions before the rafting adventure begins. Once in the water, you’ll experience sheer exhilaration as you face the challenge of each huge wave, battling surging waters down miles of raging rapids. The river passes through scenic canyons where crystal clear waterfalls plummet down into the rapidly coursing river below. Tall trees and dense green vegetation come right down to the water’s edge. The thick undergrowth of this protected area provides shelter for a variety tropical animals and birds, including some endangered species.

The first day on the river is an exciting journey that takes just over an hour and a half. When you arrive at the Pacuare Lodge, you’ll find a unique jungle oasis nestled in a most remarkable setting. Huge trees and flowering shrubs dot the perfectly manicured rolling green lawns on the banks of the river. Modern wooden bungalows with thatched palm roofs are spaced out beneath the trees, providing both privacy and serenity. The two-story main lodge has breezy dining facilities on the first floor, and relaxing chairs and hammocks in the open-air second floor lounge. After a hearty lunch, you can try the Pacuare Canopy Adventure, take a guided hike to a waterfall in the forest, play dominoes or cards, or just relax. Happy Hour begins as twilight descends, and the guests can gather to relax and share their experiences. Shortly after, you’ll be served a gourmet dinner by candlelight. Whenever you feel ready, you can head to the comfortable bungalow that awaits you, complete with private bathroom, comfortable beds and clean linen. The special Honeymoon Suite is a spacious bungalow tucked up on a wooded knoll away from the rest of the camp. It features a large tiled bathroom with solar-heated water and giant picture windows that frame the jungle view, as well as a unique hanging bridge that leads from the balcony across to a private platform in a giant tree.

Day 2
In the morning, you’ll awaken to a harmonious melody created by the sound of the river rushing by and the sweet songs of the tropical birds from the thick of the forest. After a delicious buffet breakfast, we’ll launch the rafts again for the second day of our river expedition. Rafting becomes even more thrilling as you begin to use the skills and experience gained the day before. You may stop to explore side streams that lead to striking waterfalls and pools with a natural waterslide that tempts you to jump right in. Later on, a tasty midday meal of sandwiches, fruits and dessert will be served on an overturned raft along the water’s edge. The day ends with the triumph of having conquered one of the wildest and most scenic rivers in the world. At the river take-out, you can change into dry clothes at our private facilities before boarding the comfortable microbus for the return to San José.

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Additional Services

This provider can help with your other additional needs

  • local flights
  • transfers
  • additional accomodations
  • trip extensions
... and other requirements.


Request these additional services when you check availability above

What's Included

2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 Happy Hour, 1 dinner with wine, round-trip transportation from your San José hotel, experienced bilingual guide, accommodations at the Pacuare Lodge, use of rafting equipment and guided hike

Not Included

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Overall Rating:

5.0
1 customer review
Destination:
5.0000 5.0
Activity:
5.0000 5.0
Equipment:
5.0000 5.0
Food:
5.0000 5.0
Guides & Service:
5.0000 5.0
Provider Rating: 5
1 trip review
Equipment:
5.0000 5.0
Food:
5.0000 5.0
Guides & Service:
5.0000 5.0
Social & Environmental Responsibility:
5.0000 5.0
Trip Rating:
5
Destination:
5
Equipment:
5
Activity:
5
Food:
5
Guides & Service:
5

Pacuare Rafting and the Pacuare Lodge

by morty, Aug 25, 2006

This was the highlight of our trip to Costa Rica and we want to send all of our friends on this trip. I have rafted many rivers in the western US but rafting in Costa Rica is an unparalleled experience that I will remember forever. We stopped along the river to swim in crystal clear pools below several waterfalls as toucans and parrots flew over our heads. The lodge was impressive--rainforest showers with beautiful tropical wood floors (all made from trees from the property) were stunning. The food was fabulous---fresh, locally grown and prepared by a trained chef. Everyone applauded the first dinner as it was the best food we ate in Costa Rica. The zip line is definitely worth it but may not be worth it if you have already done a few elsewhere on your Costa Rica trip. I would definitely consider this if you want an adventure combined with a bit of luxury. The honeymoon treehouse looks incredible and I wished we had stayed there.

Overview

Itinerary

Dates & Prices

Customer Reviews

Details

Photos

What's Included

What's Included

2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 Happy Hour, 1 dinner with wine, round-trip transportation from your San José hotel, experienced bilingual guide, accommodations at the Pacuare Lodge, use of rafting equipment and guided hike

Transportation On Trip

Transportation Description

We will pick you up in one of our private buses in San Jose at your hotel for the several hour drive to river, stopping for breakfast along the way. At the end of the trip we will return you to your hotel in the evening.

Transportation Types

Private Van
Private Bus

Average hours/day travel

2 hours

Lodging - Accommodations

What are the accommodations like?

The lodge and bungalows are completely surrounded by tropical rainforest. Enormous trees and rainforest inhabitants live in natural harmony alongside the lodge itself. The Pacuare Lodge was designed and constructed to blend with the surrounding environment, affecting minimal impact, and has been recognized by the World Tourism Organization as one of only sixty-five examples throughout the world of good practice in sustainability and ecotourism.

The two-story eco-lodge has a comfortable, rustic dining area on the first floor and an open-air lounge on the second floor with sitting areas and hammocks. Guest rooms are modern wooden bungalows with thatched palm roofs, carefully designed in an indigenous style to blend into the surrounding forest. Nestled within a forest that has stood sentry for eons, each bungalow comes complete with private bathroom and shower, as well as freshly linened beds that promise a languid repose, surrounded by the intoxicating scents of the tropical rainforest. For an added touch of luxury, reserve our honeymoon suite.

Lodging Types

1 Nights Jungle Lodge

Average number of rooms in boat/lodge/hotel average

6-10

Lodging capacity (Average)

20

Details

Provider Social and Environmental Responsibility

Safety is our primary concern, and we spare no effort to provide the highest quality, most enjoyable experience possible. Our excellent track record reflects this profound concern for the safety of our guests. We are affiliated with SWISSRAFT, the largest adventure tour operator in Europe, and back our tours with years of experience working with a variety of clients. Our bilingual guides instruct guests on all safety measures before each trip, and a fully stocked first aid kit is available at all times. Aventuras Naturales reserves the right to cancel any trip or change rafting trips to an alternative river or section because of weather, unsafe water conditions or any other circumstances that could endanger the safety of our guests and guides. In case of a total cancellation, a full refund will be given.

The Pacuare Lodge was built with a minimum impact on the river and rainforest site where it is located, and is accessible only by boat or helicopter. Lanterns and candles provide light, as there is no electricity at the lodge. No trees were cut to built the bungalows and main lodge. Lumber was purchased from a sustainable reforestation project operated by small farmers. The roofs are made from palm leaves installed by Cabecar Indians living in the area using their traditional style. Near the lodge we have purchased nearly 30 hectares of primary rain forest that was in danger of being cleared. Because our goal is to preserve this untouched virgin forest, no visitors are allowed in this area.

Tell me about the safety precautions and plans for this trip.

Safety is our primary concern, and we spare no effort to provide the highest quality, most enjoyable experience possible. Our excellent track record reflects this profound concern for the safety of our guests. We are affiliated with SWISSRAFT, the largest adventure tour operator in Europe, and back our tours with years of experience working with a variety of clients. Our bilingual guides instruct guests on all safety measures before each trip, and a fully stocked first aid kit is available at all times. Aventuras Naturales reserves the right to cancel any trip or change rafting trips to an alternative river or section because of weather, unsafe water conditions or any other circumstances that could endanger the safety of our guests and guides. In case of a total cancellation, a full refund will be given.

Maximum Age

None

Travel Provider

Provider Name

Aventuras Naturales/Costa Rica Nature Adventures

Why should I choose this provider?

At Aventuras Naturales, we understand how important it is to interact with nature to experience a deeper and truer appreciation for life. Founded in 1986, Aventuras Naturales specializes in white-water rafting, mountain biking and hiking tours, and owns and operates the Pacuare Lodge, in the jungle near the Pacuare River. The adventures we offer give visitors an opportunity to experience the rich tropical biodiversity of Costa Rica while enriching their own lives. Our team takes pride in offering quality adventure tours that stand far above most tours offered in Costa Rica.

Provider FAQ's

Pacuare Lodge FAQs:

Where is the Pacuare Jungle Lodge located?_The Pacuare Jungle Lodge is located in the Atlantic region of Costa Rica, within the Pacuare Protected zone, about 20 miles from the town of Siquirres.
At which hotels do you provide pick-up and drop-off services?_We provide pick-up and drop-off service at most hotels in the San José (Costa Rica’s capital city) area. Our sales representative will confirm to you the exact pick-up time for your trip (between 6:00 am – 7:00 am, depending on the hotel). Expect to be back at your hotel at approximately 6:00 pm on your day out of the lodge.
Can I get to the Pacuare Jungle Lodge by car or public transportation?_Due to its remote location, our lodge is not directly accessible by car or public transportation. You can, however, drive or take a bus to the town of Siquirres and meet us at our warehouse. From here you will be transferred to the lodge either by raft or ground transportation.
Will I have breakfast on the way to the river?_Yes. In route to the river we will stop at a rustic, yet scenic mountain view restaurant for a typical Costa Rican breakfast.
How long does it take to get to the river?_Depending on your hotel, it will take between 2_ & 3_ hours.
Do you offer ground transportation to the lodge?_Yes we do. In fact, you can choose from a range of options that include entry and departure by land, as well as a combination of land and river transport.
I have never been white water rafting before, do I need any experience? Is it safe?_Our tours are designed to be fun and safe for individuals in reasonably good shape and require no special skills or abilities. Many of our guests are first time rafters who have thoroughly enjoyed their experience with us. Safety is our primary concern, and we spare no effort to provide the highest quality, most enjoyable experience possible. A fully stocked first aid kit is available at all times during your trip. Our bilingual guides are some of the best in the field, highly experienced and certified in first aid, CPR and swift-water rescue training. Many of our guides have additional certifications such as wilderness first aid and wilderness first responder. We are happy to boast that in almost 20 years of offering river trips we have experienced no serious accidents.
What is the minimum and maximum age for participating on the river adventure?_The minimum age is 12 years old and there is no maximum age. However, our guides will make all final decisions regarding whether they feel an individual is capable of participating in our rafting adventure.
Does your lodge cater to families with small children?_As our minimum rafting age is 12, most of our guests are couples, groups, or families with older children. We do offer ground transportation to and from the lodge, so guests can, if they wish, bring small children. However, the activities and facilities are geared for older children and adults.
When is the best time to come to the Pacuare Lodge?_Costa Rica attracts visitors all year round but the peak season is from December to April (Dry Season) and June through August (which is usually rainy in the afternoons). The river levels are higher during the rainy season (particularly September – November), which makes for a rollicking river ride. You will find more availability at our lodge in late April through early June and September through late November.
How long in advance should I book my trip?_The sooner the better! Mid December through January are particularly busy, so at least a month or two in advance is highly recommended.
What is the weather like? _In Costa Rica’s tropical rainforest it is best to be prepared for all kinds of weather. In general, expect most mornings to be sunny and clear followed by rain showers in the afternoon. During the day the weather will be hot and humid with temperatures in the mid to upper 80’s (28 – 30 C). Evenings are usually clear and occasionally may even require the use of a light jacket.
What is the recommended length of stay at the Pacuare Jungle Lodge?_We have had guests stay as long as a week; however, and depending on the optional tours you are interested in, a stay of two or three nights is ideal.
What is included in the trip?_Transportation from San José, bilingual guide, typical Costa Rican breakfast in route, Pacuare River rafting tour or ground transportation to the lodge (depending on preference), professional guides and equipment, all meals (gourmet dinners with wine), bungalow stay, welcoming cocktail, hot beverages, lunch along the river, use of private installations at river take-out, return transportation to San José with guide.
What types of meals are provided at the lodge? Do you cater to guests with special meal requirements?_If you have read any of our guest comments, you will have quickly noticed that our meals are very highly regarded. This is not by accident, as we have put much effort and expense into the quality of the food we purchase and the training of our local chefs.
All our meals are served communal style in the main lodge. Breakfast is buffet style, and includes a healthy assortment of eggs, pancakes, cereal, tropical fruit, yogurt, homemade bread, juice, coffee and tea. Lunch tends to be a pasta type meal such as pizza, pasta, cous cous and salad. Dinner is the main meal at our lodge. Here you will enjoy a candlelit three-course meal that features wine, a soup or salad entry, a choice of prime cuts of beef or chicken/fish with vegetable side dish, and desert.
With advanced notice we can usually fulfil most special meal requests. So if you are a vegetarian or require a special meal, please let our sales representative know at the time of your booking.
Are alcoholic beverages included?_Wine is included with the evening meal. Additionally, our Happy Hour includes a complimentary beer or fruit punch and we also have available a nice variety of spirits and liquors that may be purchased separately._Top
What should I pack?_Please go to our recommended packing list for a detailed description of items to bring, as well as what to do with luggage you plan to leave behind.
Are mosquitoes and bugs a problem?_Although we are located deep in the jungle (too deep for the mosquitoes to even find us!!), we have had very few complaints about bugs from our guests. Our bungalows are well screened, so the important thing is to keep your bungalow door closed at all times. For late afternoon outings, or hikes into the rainforest, we highly recommend a good dousing of insect repellant.
Should I be concerned about malaria?_The short answer is no. Although the CDC (Center for Disease Control) does list certain provinces of Costa Rica as posing a possible malaria risk, the truth of the matter is that these are isolated outbreaks occurring in areas far from tourist traffic. We strongly recommend you follow your physician’s advice in this matter – but as far as we know, in recent years no tourist has contracted malaria in Costa Rica.
How do you get supplies to the lodge?_Practically everything you see at the lodge has been transported in by raft. This includes your luggage (in airtight containers), all food supplies, drinks, room supplies, as well as the beds and furniture (everything down to the last toothpick). Additionally, all waste is sorted and then rafted out to be recycled. Much of the lodge’s allure and rustic charm is due to the fact that it is not directly accessible by road.
Will I be able to do laundry during my trip? _No. Laundry service is not available due to the logistical issues referred to above.
Does my bungalow have hot water?_We are in the process of installing solar heated water in all of our bungalows. At present, five of our bungalows offer heated water. Please consult with our sales representative for availability.
What are the differences between the bungalow types (standard, superior, honeymoon suite)? _Standard: Our standard bungalow comes with a king size and single bed, private bathroom and veranda._Superior: Our superior bungalows are larger than our standard option and feature a canopy king size bed and single bed, a spacious private bathroom with rainforest view, solar heated water, teak flooring and veranda._Honeymoon Suite: Our spacious and airy honeymoon suite is perched on a jungle-laden hilltop overlooking the lodge facilities, and provides guests with sweeping views of the Pacuare River and surrounding rainforest. A hanging bridge leads from your bungalow door to your very own private look-out platform, located in a towering tree. The suite amenities are very similar to our superior bungalows.
Is there electricity at the Pacuare Jungle lodge?_No. We have found this to be one of the most attractive features of the Pacuare Lodge Adventure. The quiet and candlelit ambience make for a much more enjoyable and romantic experience. You will experience nature’s sounds as never before, and enjoy a soothing peace and tranquility that will renew your mind and spirit. That said, we do have a small generator that we use in the kitchen for our cooking needs.
Are phones available?_The Pacuare Lodge does have a solar powered phone system that may be used for emergency contact.
Is it safe to drink the water from the tap?_Yes. Our tap water comes from an uncontaminated spring originating in the mountains high above the lodge and is tested periodically to ensure its quality. We do, however, provide bottled water for those who prefer it.
What activities are available at the lodge?_Several optional tours are available that allow you to explore the rainforest and surrounding communities in a variety of exciting ways:
The Pacuare Canopy Adventure:A thrilling adventure where visitors glide amid a tropical rainforest canopy._The Day Break Activity Tour: An early morning tour that explores the impressive variety of plant and animal life native to this area (led by a naturalist guide)._The “Bajo del Tigre” Experience: A horseback riding tour (optional four-wheel drive safari available) to the jungle community of “Bajo del Tigre”._The Cabecar Indians Tour: Enjoy a fascinating cultural exchange with a Cabecar Shaman (participants should be in reasonably good shape as the tour involves some strenuous hiking).
*All these tours should be booked in advance
In addition to the above tours, the second floor of our main lodge boasts several hammocks (just steps from the soothing sound of the river), board games and a well-stocked collection of nature books. You can also enjoy a friendly happy hour in the late afternoon or simply relax amid a majestic rainforest.
What happens if I need to cancel my tour?_Please go to our Terms & Conditions section for detailed information on trip cancellations.
What happens if the tour is cancelled?_On rare occasions (approximately 5 days per year) we are forced to cancel the Pacuare River overnight tours on the second or third day due to unsafe weather conditions. In these cases, clients will hike out of the lodge to a point where the bus can meet them (approximately a 15 to 45-minute hike), and will then proceed to have lunch at a restaurant, before being returned to San José. A partial refund will be given under these circumstances (US$95.00 p/person for Pacuare 2-day tours, US$170.00 p/person for Pacuare 3-day tours taken out on Day 2, and US$95.00 p/person for Pacuare 3-day tours taken out on Day 3). In rare instances, a tour may be cancelled beforehand due to extreme weather conditions. Should this happen, you will be entitled to a full refund.

Trip FAQ's

Trip FAQ's

Where is the Pacuare Jungle Lodge located?
The Pacuare Jungle Lodge is located in the Atlantic region of Costa Rica, within the Pacuare Protected zone, about 20 miles from the town of Siquirres, at an altitude of 770 ft. Locate the Pacuare Lodge with Google Earth. Coordinates: 10° 00' 00''.00 N, 83° 31' 55''.00 W

At which hotels do you provide pick-up and drop-off services?
We provide pick-up and drop-off service at most hotels in the San José (Costa Rica’s capital city) area. Our sales representative will confirm to you the exact pick-up time for your trip (between 6:00 am – 7:00 am, depending on the hotel). Expect to be back at your hotel at approximately 6:00 pm on your day out of the lodge.

Can I get to the Pacuare Jungle Lodge by car or public transportation?
Due to its remote location, our lodge is not directly accessible by car or public transportation. You can, however, drive or take a bus to the town of Siquirres and meet us at our warehouse. From here you will be transferred to the lodge either by raft or ground transportation.

Will I have breakfast on the way to the river?
Yes. In route to the river we will stop at a rustic, yet scenic mountain view restaurant for a typical Costa Rican breakfast.

How long does it take to get to the river?
Depending on your hotel, it will take between 2½ & 3½ hours.

Do you offer ground transportation to the lodge?
Yes we do. In fact, you can choose from a range of options that include entry and departure by land, as well as a combination of land and river transport.

I have never been white water rafting before, do I need any experience? Is it safe?
Our tours are designed to be fun and safe for individuals in reasonably good shape and require no special skills or abilities. Many of our guests are first time rafters who have thoroughly enjoyed their experience with us. Safety is our primary concern, and we spare no effort to provide the highest quality, most enjoyable experience possible. A fully stocked first aid kit is available at all times during your trip. Our bilingual guides are some of the best in the field, highly experienced and certified in first aid, CPR and swift-water rescue training. Many of our guides have additional certifications such as wilderness first aid and wilderness first responder. We are happy to boast that in almost 20 years of offering river trips we have experienced no serious accidents.

What is the minimum and maximum age for participating on the river adventure?
The minimum age is 12 years old and there is no maximum age. However, our guides will make all final decisions regarding whether they feel an individual is capable of participating in our rafting adventure.

Does your lodge cater to families with small children?
As our minimum rafting age is 12, most of our guests are couples, groups, or families with older children. We do offer ground transportation to and from the lodge, so guests can, if they wish, bring small children. However, the activities and facilities are geared for older children and adults.

When is the best time to come to the Pacuare Lodge?
Costa Rica attracts visitors all year round but the peak season is from December to April (Dry Season) and June through August (which is usually rainy in the afternoons). The river levels are higher during the rainy season (particularly September – November), which makes for a rollicking river ride. You will find more availability at our lodge in late April through early June and September through late November.

How long in advance should I book my trip?
The sooner the better! Mid December through January are particularly busy, so at least a month or two in advance is highly recommended.

What is the weather like?
In Costa Rica’s tropical rainforest it is best to be prepared for all kinds of weather. In general, expect most mornings to be sunny and clear followed by rain showers in the afternoon. During the day the weather will be hot and humid with temperatures in the mid to upper 80’s (28 – 30 C). Evenings are usually clear and occasionally may even require the use of a light jacket.

What is the recommended length of stay at the Pacuare Jungle Lodge?
We have had guests stay as long as a week; however, and depending on the optional tours you are interested in, a stay of two or three nights is ideal.

What is included in the trip?
Transportation from San José, bilingual guide, typical Costa Rican breakfast in route, Pacuare River rafting tour or ground transportation to the lodge (depending on preference), professional guides and equipment, all meals (gourmet dinners), bungalow stay, welcoming fruit punch, hot beverages, lunch along the river, use of private installations at river take-out, return transportation to San José with guide.

What types of meals are provided at the lodge? Do you cater to guests with special meal requirements?
If you have read any of our guest comments, you will have quickly noticed that our meals are very highly regarded. This is not by accident, as we have put much effort and expense into the quality of the food we purchase and the training of our local chefs.
All our meals are served communal style in the main lodge. Breakfast is buffet style, and includes a healthy assortment of eggs, pancakes, cereal, tropical fruit, yogurt, homemade bread, juice, coffee and tea. Lunch tends to be a pasta type meal such as pizza, pasta, cous cous and salad. Dinner is the main meal at our lodge. Here you will enjoy a candlelit three-course meal that features a soup or salad entry, a choice of prime cuts of beef or chicken/fish with vegetable side dish, and desert.

With advanced notice we can usually fulfill most special meal requests. So if you are a vegetarian or require a special meal, please let our sales representative know at the time of your booking.

Are alcoholic beverages included?
A superior selection of wines may be purchased with the evening meal. Additionally, our upstairs bar includes a nice variety of spirits and liquors that may be purchased separately.

What should I pack?
Please go to our recommended packing list for a detailed description of items to bring, as well as what to do with luggage you plan to leave behind.

Are mosquitoes and bugs a problem?
Although we are located deep in the jungle (too deep for the mosquitoes to even find us!!), we have had very few complaints about bugs from our guests. Our bungalows are well screened, so the important thing is to keep your bungalow door closed at all times. For late afternoon outings, or hikes into the rainforest, we highly recommend a good dousing of insect repellant.

Should I be concerned about malaria?
The short answer is no. Although the CDC (Center for Disease Control) does list certain provinces of Costa Rica as posing a possible malaria risk, the truth of the matter is that these are isolated outbreaks occurring in areas far from tourist traffic. We strongly recommend you follow your physician’s advice in this matter – but as far as we know, in recent years no tourist has contracted malaria in Costa Rica.

How do you get supplies to the lodge?
Practically everything you see at the lodge has been transported in by raft. This includes your luggage (in airtight containers), all food supplies, drinks, room supplies, as well as the beds and furniture (everything down to the last toothpick). Additionally, all waste is sorted and then rafted out to be recycled. Much of the lodge’s allure and rustic charm is due to the fact that it is not directly accessible by road.

Will I be able to do laundry during my trip?
No. Laundry service is not available due to the logistical issues referred to above.

Does my bungalow have hot water?
Yes, we have solar heated water in all of our bungalows and suites. However, as we are dependent on the sun for our hot water, there are occasions when the water will be lukewarm.

What are the differences between the bungalow types (superior, honeymoon suite)?
Garden-view Bungalow: Our superior bungalows are larger than our standard option and feature a canopy king size bed and single bed, a spacious private bathroom with rainforest view, solar heated water, teak flooring and veranda. Click here for details.
River-view Junior Suite: Our river-view suites are much larger than our Garden-view bungalows and feature a private terrace and deck, two solar heated showers (one alfresco!) canopy king size bed and a breathtaking view of the river and surrounding rainforest. Click here for details.
Honeymoon Suite: Our spacious and airy honeymoon suite is perched on a jungle-laden hilltop overlooking the lodge facilities, and provides guests with sweeping views of the Pacuare River and surrounding rainforest. A hanging bridge leads from your bungalow door to your very own private look-out platform, located in a towering tree. The suite amenities are very similar to our superior bungalows. Click here for details.

Is there electricity at the Pacuare Jungle lodge?
No. We have found this to be one of the most attractive features of the Pacuare Lodge Adventure. The quiet and candlelit ambience make for a much more enjoyable and romantic experience. You will experience nature’s sounds as never before, and enjoy a soothing peace and tranquility that will renew your mind and spirit. That said, we do have a small generator that we use in the kitchen for our cooking needs.

Are phones available?
The Pacuare Lodge does have a solar powered phone system that may be used for emergency contact.

Are your facilities non- smoking?
All the facilities at Pacuare Lodge including our bungalows, main lodge and deck are non-smoking.

Is it safe to drink the water from the tap?
Yes. Our tap water comes from an uncontaminated spring originating in the mountains high above the lodge and is tested periodically to ensure its quality. We do, however, provide bottled water for those who prefer it.

What activities are available at the lodge?
Several optional tours are available that allow you to explore the rainforest and surrounding communities in a variety of exciting ways:

The Pacuare Canopy Adventure: A thrilling adventure where visitors glide amid a tropical rainforest canopy.
The Day Break Activity Tour: An early morning tour that explores the impressive variety of plant and animal life native to this area (led by a naturalist guide).
The Cabecar Indians Tour: Enjoy a fascinating cultural exchange with a Cabecar Shaman (participants should be in reasonably good shape as the tour involves some strenuous hiking).
In addition to the above tours, the second floor of our main lodge boasts several hammocks (just steps from the soothing sound of the river), board games and a well-stocked collection of nature books.
Therapeutic Rainforest Massage
Experience the energy of a tropical paradise with our deep tissue Therapeutic Rainforest Massage

What happens if I need to cancel my tour?
Please go to our Terms & Conditions section for detailed information on trip cancellations.

What happens if the tour is cancelled?
On rare occasions (approximately 5 days per year) we are forced to cancel the Pacuare River overnight tours on the second or third day due to unsafe weather conditions. In these cases, clients will hike out of the lodge to a point where the bus can meet them (approximately a 15 to 45-minute hike), and will then proceed to have lunch at a restaurant, before being returned to San José. A partial refund will be given under these circumstances.

Provider Policies

Trip Specific Policies

Please note: On rare occassions (approximately 5 days per year) we are forced to cancel the Pacuare River overnight tours on the second or third day due to unsafe weather conditions. In these cases, clients will hike out of the lodge to a point where the bus can be met (approximately a 45-minute hike) and will have lunch at a restaurant before being returned to San José. A partial refund will be given under these circumstances (US$95.00 p/person for Pacuare 2-day tours, US$170.00 p/person for Pacuare 3-day tours taken out on Day 2, and US$95.00 p/person for Pacuare 3-day tours taken out on Day 3).

Cancellation Policies

Pacuare Jungle Lodge is owned by Aventuras Naturales S.A., Costa Rica
Agreement
Enrollment in and payment for tour or a package implies agreement and acceptance of the terms and conditions set forth below. In this agreement, Aventuras Naturales may be referred to as the "Operator" or as "Aventuras Naturales."

Payments
A 50% deposit is required at the time of booking to guarantee the services listed in the itinerary. The remaining payment of 50% is due no later than 30 days prior to tour departure. Reservations made within 30 days of arrival will require a full payment at time of booking. 

Cancellation Policy
Cancellations must be received in writing, either by fax (+506 - 253-6934) or e-mail (info@crna.co.cr) no later than 30 days in advance of your trip. Cancellations made with less than 30 days written notice will be charged the first night’s lodging (this refers to the per person actual cost of a night in your bungalow class). Cancellations made with less than 15 days written notice will be fully charged at 100% (the entire package rate). We strongly recommend cancellation insurance.
Note:
During the Christmas season (December 20 – January 05) cancellations must be received no later than 45 days in advance of your trip. Cancellations made with less than 45 days written notice will be fully charged at 100%.
Refunds
A full refund will be provided for cancellations made 31 days. This will be done either by check or with a reverse charge to your *credit card (credit may take 6-8 weeks to appear on your balance statement). No refund will be made for no-shows, whether voluntary or caused by airline delay or cancellation.
* A 4% charge will be deducted from all credit card refunds
Insurance 
Aventuras Naturales is covered with an insurance policy issued by the National Insurance Institute of Costa Rica (Instituto Nacional de Seguros). However, we strongly suggest that your agency, or the clients themselves, arrange for a short-term traveler's insurance covering baggage, accident/life and trip cancellation. Please note that Costa Rica's insurance industry is state-owned, and the insurance that we are permitted to purchase for our trips is limited. If the rare occurrence of an accident should happen, the client will be responsible for paying for medical attention received at the time of service and will need to contact his/her insurance company directly for reimbursement upon return to their home country. Aventuras Naturales is not responsible for covering any medical costs not specified in our insurance policy, including transportation to/from medical services, translation or interpretation services or hospital deposits; nor are we liable for a client's inability to make the required payment. 

Safety and Liability
We will spare no effort to provide you with the highest quality, most enjoyable experience possible. Aventuras Naturales' guides are among the best in the business and each is trained in Standard First Aid, CPR, and Swift Water Rescue. They will instruct you on all safety measures before each trip and will advise you as the trip progresses. A fully stocked first-aid kit is standard equipment on every trip. However, outdoor and adventure activities can be physically demanding with inherent elements of danger beyond our control. Aventuras Naturales (its owners, associates, agents and employees) assumes no responsibility for injury, loss, damage to person or property, or for additional expenses due to acts of God (sickness, weather, etc), strike, detention, riot, war, quarantine, thefts, civil disturbances, or government regulations or restrictions. We are not responsible for any accidents, delays, inconveniences, expenses or mishaps of any kind whatsoever resulting entirely, or in part, from the negligence of others or from causes beyond our control. We reserve the right to decline to accept, or to retain, any person as a tour member for any reason that affects the operation of the tour, the rights and welfare or enjoyment of the other tour members. A refund of the recoverable land tour services is the limit of Aventuras Naturales liability in this event. We cannot allow persons under the influence of alcohol or drugs on any of our trips. No refunds will be given under such circumstances.

Medical and Health 
Persons with known medical conditions, pregnancy, dietary restrictions or problems should make them known to Aventuras Naturales well before arrival. Aventuras Naturales will make every effort to accommodate dietary or other requests, at times with an additional cost to the client. We reserve the right to disqualify anyone at any time during the tour if it is felt that the individual is physically incapable of performing an activity and/or if that individual's continued participation would jeopardize the safety of the group or handicap the normal functioning or scheduling of the tour. Aventuras Naturales assumes no responsibility for special arrangements necessary or problems experienced for or by passengers physically unable to participate in the planned activities with no previous notification.

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TESTIMONIALS

I would recommend this trip to a friend in a second. The trip to the Galapagos was Outstanding. The Letty was wonderful; the naturalists were the greatest; the food was superb; the crew excellent; (I\'m running out of adjectives) I would recommend the whole thing and your agency also. You really provided excellent service and information. I felt I could email or call you with any questions and I knew you would answer quickly and I felt honestly. For just taking a chance finding you on the internet, I was very fortunate.

-- Joyce P, Galapagos Islands on the Eric, Letty, Flamingo I

The Inca trail trek can only be described as magical. I tried my best to be cynical, but it didn’t work. This trip was pure magic and absolutely perfect. The logistics of the trip were impeccable. The ground transportation was on time and they made sure I was able to obtain my boarding pass and pay the airport tax at each leg of the trip. Out on the hike, my guide Oswaldo was fabulous. The food on the trail was amazing. The chef created simple and fresh meals that were bursting with local flavor.

-- Terry B, Inca Trail 5-day with Andean Adventures

Just returned from Costa Rica last night ... trip was a GREAT SUCCESS! We all thank you VERY MUCH for arranging the trip.

-- Bob Fenchel, Custom Costa Rica with Camino Travel

We’ve been home just over a week now and I just wanted to send you a quick note to let you just how fantastically well everything went! Ok, so we did end up paying the full whack (which I’ve decided just not to think about!). However, we had a fantastic guide and everything ran really smoothly and we had a fantastic time. From being collected from the hotel (Vieja Cuba which was lovely) to being looked after once we got to the Galapagos it was all just perfect, so thank you very much for being an important part of our fabulous trip. Cheers Greg !

-- Marayka K., Galapagos Multisport 7-Day Adventure

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