Hotel in Limón Province, Costa Rica
Pacuare Lodge
Accessible only by raft or horseback, this remote jungle lodge on the Pacuare River offers the ultimate eco-luxury adventure. Thatched bungalows lack electricity but feature candles, private decks with river views, and exceptional cuisine. Activities include rafting, zip-lining, and indigenous community visits.
Pacuare Lodge — known formally as Pacuare Lodge by Böëna — sits deep within a 340-hectare protected private rainforest reserve along the Río Pacuare in Costa Rica's Limón Province, accessible only by white-water raft or a combination of vehicle and hiking trail. The journey to the lodge is itself a defining feature of the entire stay: guests navigate Class III and IV rapids through steep forested gorges before arriving at what is regarded as one of the most celebrated eco-lodges in the Western Hemisphere, recognised by the MICHELIN Guide in 2025 and consistently ranked among the finest jungle retreats in Central America.
The lodge's thatched-roof bungalows and suites are constructed on elevated platforms overlooking the roaring river, each featuring private decks suspended in the forest canopy. Several room categories are intentionally without conventional electrical lighting, relying instead on candlelight and kerosene lanterns to create a deeply immersive wilderness atmosphere. Premium suites include private suspension bridges connecting the main structure to outdoor shower pavilions with open-air views into the primary jungle. All accommodation uses sustainably harvested local timber throughout.
Dining at Pacuare Lodge is central to the experience. The open-air riverside restaurant prepares gourmet meals using ingredients from the lodge's organic gardens and partnerships with local Cabecar indigenous communities, with a menu that evolves seasonally. Multi-course candlelit dinners on the riverside deck are a signature experience. Breakfast consistently features tropical fruits, eggs, and locally roasted coffee.
Activities available include guided white-water rafting on the Pacuare River, zip-lining through the primary forest canopy, guided rainforest wildlife hikes, and visits to the indigenous Cabecar community living on the ridge above the reserve. A spa facility operates using plant-based treatments drawing from Amazonian and Costa Rican herbal traditions.
The lodge accommodates a maximum of approximately 24 guests at any time, ensuring an exceptionally high staff-to-guest ratio and highly personalised service. The intimate scale and remote setting make it a premier choice for honeymoons, significant anniversaries, and immersive nature retreats far from conventional tourism.
Amenities
- riverside bungalows
- spa
- restaurant
- white-water rafting
- canopy tours
- waterfall hikes
Visit / Book / Contact
- Official website
- Phone: +506 2224-3070
Location
Pacuare River, Limón Province
9.7167, -83.6000 — View on map
Highlights
- Arrives by white-water raft through Class III–IV rapids on the Río Pacuare — the river journey is a signature part of the stay
- MICHELIN-recognised eco-lodge with thatched bungalows on elevated riverside platforms in a 340-hectare private rainforest reserve
- Candlelit gourmet dining in an open-air riverside restaurant incorporating organic gardens and Cabecar indigenous-sourced ingredients
- Guided visits to the Cabecar indigenous community on the reserve ridge, alongside canopy zip-lining and wildlife hikes
- Maximum 24 guests at a time ensuring a premium staff-to-guest ratio and fully personalised service throughout the stay
Tips
- The raft-in arrival covers 2–3 hours of river; guests who cannot raft may arrange an alternative access route via vehicle and trail — confirm this option with the lodge when booking.
- Pack in waterproof dry bags for cameras and all electronics; the raft entry means luggage will get wet during transfer.
- All-inclusive rates are standard; confirm exactly which activities, tours, and transfers are covered before booking to avoid unexpected additions.
- Bring lightweight warm layers — evenings on the Pacuare River can be noticeably cool despite the tropical latitude.
- Advance booking is essential; the lodge's small 24-guest capacity means it fills months ahead during peak season (December–April).
FAQ
Is the raft-in arrival mandatory for all guests?
The primary access is by white-water raft, but an alternative route via vehicle and trail can be arranged for guests unable to participate in rafting. Availability varies by conditions; this must be confirmed with the lodge when making reservations.
Is there electricity in the rooms?
Electricity provision varies by room category. Some bungalows are designed for candle and lamp lighting to maximise the wilderness atmosphere, while premium suites have limited solar-powered electricity. USB charging is available in the main lodge building.
What is included in the lodge rate?
Most bookings include all meals, guided activities such as rafting, hiking, zip-lining, and community visits, along with transfers. Specific package inclusions vary by season and room type; check the confirmed itinerary at booking.
Is the lodge suitable for families with children?
The lodge welcomes children, but the remote jungle setting, raft-in access, and adventure-focused activities are best suited to older children and teenagers. Infants and toddlers face practical challenges given the river arrival and uneven forest terrain throughout.
Accessibility
Pacuare Lodge is not accessible to guests with significant mobility limitations. The raft-in river access, elevated wooden platforms, suspension bridges, steep canopy stairs, and uneven jungle terrain make wheelchair navigation impossible throughout the property. Guests should have a reasonable level of physical fitness and comfort with outdoor terrain.
When to visit
The Pacuare River is navigable year-round, but water levels are highest and most dramatic from June through December, offering powerful rapids. The dry season from December through April provides easier logistics, sunnier skies, and still excellent rafting conditions.