Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
From the Puerto Jiménez-Carate road, the poorly marked turnoff for Cabo Matapalo is
on the left-hand side, then through a crumbling cement gate (called 'El Portón Blanco').
Those who intended to surf their way down the country will find expert waves at Playa
Pan Dulce. The best swell is from the south and it can be surfed at all tides, sometimes
reaching double-overhead height.
Tours
Psycho Tours
ADVENTURE TOUR
(Everyday Adventures; 8353-8619;
www.psychotours.com
; tours US$45-120)
Naturalist Andy Pruter runs Psycho Tours, which offers high-adrenaline adventures in
Cabo Matapalo. His signature tour is tree climbing (US$55 per person): scaling a 60m
ficus tree, aptly named 'Cathedral.' Also popular - and definitely adrenaline inducing - is
waterfall rappelling (US$120) down cascades ranging from 15m to 30m.
For the tamer of heart, excellent three- to four-hour guided nature walks (US$45) tap in-
to the extensive knowledge base of Andy and his staff members.
Sleeping
This area is off the grid, so many places do not have electricity around the clock or hot wa-
ter. Reservations are recommended in the dry season (mid-December to mid-April). Prices
given are high-season rates and include three meals unless otherwise stated.
Encanta La Vida
LODGE
(
8376-3209, 2735-5678;
www.encantalavida.com
;
Cabo Matapalo; s/d from US$209/294;
)
The enchanted life, indeed. Gorgeous breeze-cooled, wood-beamed structures - from
round tree houses to romantic, free-standing
casitas
- are scattered at the foot of a jungle-
clad backdrop. Howlers and spider monkeys regularly travel the treetops, while pairs of
great curassows stroll shyly below. The food is brilliant, the atmosphere chilled and the
location a perfect base for exploring the cape. An ocean-view yoga terrace is available for
practice anytime and for classes; surfboards are available to rent; and tours can be ar-
ranged by the accommodating staff.
