Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Sleeping & Eating
Laguna del Lagarto Lodge
LODGE
( 2289-8163;
www.lagarto-lodge-costa-rica.com
; s/d/tr US$51/75/80; )
Surrounded by rainforest, this German-run lodge is legendary among bird-watchers. Rustic
screened rooms share large, hammock-strung verandas. It's not fancy, but it's wild and
lovely, with chances to get up close and personal with wildlife. There are 10km of trails,
and canoes to explore the surrounding lagoons, where caimans dwell and Jesus Christ liz-
ards make tracks across the water's surface.
Mi Pedacito de Cielo
LODGE
( 2200-4782, 8308-9595;
www.pedacitodecielo.com
; s/d/tr US$65/75/85; )
Perched above the Río San Carlos, 'my little piece of heaven' is a rustic retreat, with 14
wooden bungalows offering river and rainforest views. Swing in the hammock-chair to
watch the sunset and listen to the rainforest come alive. Super-friendly service and excel-
lent home-cooked meals are perks, as is the attached rainforest reserve with hiking trails.
Maquenque Eco-Lodge
LODGE
( 2479-8200;
www.maquenqueecolodge.com
; r incl breakfast from US$106; )
Set on 60 glorious, bird-filled hectares, 14 unique and lovely bungalows overlook a lagoon
and tropical garden. The place is a birders' paradise, with countless species flocking to
feeders and fruit trees on the grounds. The onsite restaurant serves excellent home-cooked
food, primarily using ingredients from the 'green garden' on the grounds.
Prices include a guided morning rainforest hike, a student-led tour of a local school and
use of canoes on the lagoon. The lodge also offers guests a chance to support sustainable
tourism by planting a tree in the rainforest.
Getting There & Away
Getting to Boca Tapada is an adventure in itself. The nearest town of note is Pital, north of
Aguas Zarcas. After passing through Pital, turn right after the church on the right and soc-
cer field on the left, and continue through the village of Veracruz. At the Del Huerto
