Top 10 Best Eco Lodges

With its unrivalled biodiversity and breath-taking natural scenery, Costa Rica has long been a haven for environmentally concerned tourists looking for an authentic and sustainable experience. Eco resorts that redefine luxury and provide a harmonic fusion of comfort and environmental responsibility are tucked away within this Central American gem. Join us on a tour of Costa Rica's top ten luxury eco lodges, each of which serves as a special entryway to the nation's pristine jungles, stunning beaches, and thriving wildlife.

1. Aguas Claras

Located on the golden sand beaches of the Caribbean coast, Aguas Claras is hidden away in the village of Puerto Viejo in Limon Province. Full of art work from both the owner and various local artists, this boutique, luxury hotel features 6 bungalows, 6 themed suites and a 2 story Caribbean House. Aguas Claras lies on the doorstep of warm tropical waters, coral reefs and the golden soft sands of Chiquita Beach. Spend your days snorkeling in the warm waters, lounging in the sun by the pool or meditating in the tranquil surroundings, or even enjoy yoga in the open-siden wooden yoga sala hidden in the jungle gardens.

2. Aguila de Osa

Aguila de Osa is a a charming ecolodge set on the western edge of the small town of Drake Bay, in the north west of the Osa Peninsula, at the mouth of the Rio Agujitas. The comfortable rooms blend perfectly into their surroundings, with hardwood and tropical design. The open-sided dining room offers wonderful views over the bay, while you enjoy freshly-prepared food, much of it sourced from the lodge's own farm. The lodge offers a wide range of activities on land and water to explore the incredible wildlife of Osa and its surrounding ocean.

3. Nayara Tented Camp

Sustainable luxury tents, situated on stilts surrounded by beautiful grounds that are full of tropical plants, a refuge for birds, monkeys and sloths. You can watch sloths snoozing the Guarumo trees whilst you reset and recharge on the hillside alongside the spectacular views of the Arenal volcano. Based on the luxury canvas lodges, these traditional African safari style tents offer private plunge pools and hot springs and there is a garden with an outdoor swimming pool, access to a fitness room and sauna.

4. Origins Luxury Lodge

In the high jungle valleys of Costa Rica lies Origins Lodge - remote, unique and luxurious. This stunning lodge looks out over an expansive valley from its mountainside perch, nestled in the tranquil surroundings of a private estate, but close enough to the jungle for an adventure. With 7 private lodges and an infinity pool overlooking the mountains and valleys, this adult-only luxury resort is ideal for an intimate tropical getaway.

5. Arenas Del Mar

Uniquely combining the natural world and beach life, Arenas del Mar caters for those looking for more than just a luxury getaway. Set within 11 acres of tropical forest and just a short walk from Manuel Antonio National Park on the Pacific Coast, this is where the jungle meets the sea. With 38 rooms and suites available, the walls are peppered with Costa Rican artwork by local artists.

6. Lapa Rios

Within a 1,000 acre private nature reserve the lodge boasts spectacular views over the last remaining lowland tropical rainforest in Costa Rica and on to the glistening ocean; it is hard to imagine paradise as anything but this. Built using locally sourced materials, the 17 individual, thatched huts are built over 350 foot above sea level to catch the ocean breeze, overlooking where the Pacific Ocean meets Golfo Dulce.

7. Pacuare Lodge

This unique, luxury eco-hotel is situated on the banks of one of the world’s most scenic, white-water wonders, the Pacuare River. Named as one of National Geographic’s Unique Lodges of the World, at Pacuare Lodge even your journey is an adventure, as you arrive via white water rafting. 20 suites surrounded by tropical rainforest, where exotic birds sing and colourful butterflies flit between the trees. This unparalleled location, the simple yet sophisticated indigenous Cabécar-inspired architecture, farm-to-table exquisite cuisine, and luxurious lodges come together to offer an experience like no other. Renowned for its activities that inspire an enjoyment for nature whilst protecting and preserving the pristine environment. Activities range from adrenaline pumping to sublime. After waking up each morning to the glorious sound of birds singing, head out on a day's adventure hiking, canyoning, climbing, rafting, or just relax at the lodge watching the wildlife and listening to the sounds of the jungle. Experience candlelit gourmet cuisine, accompanied by fine wines and enjoy a 20 meter long infinity pool, framed by the lush rainforest. Those looking for privacy can enjoy luxurious suites with their own private plunge pool.

8. Monteverde Lodge & Gardens

Located in the Tilarán Mountain Range at 4,600 ft. above sea level on the edge of the world’s best known mid-elevation cloud forest, Monteverde Lodge is the ultimate lodging experience for the discerning nature traveler. The hotel offers beautiful gardens, and a running stream and small waterfall which provide a habitat for riverine birds and a host of reptiles and amphibians. With just 28 rooms, each designed to provide direct contact with the forest, every room is equipped with a coffee maker, air conditioning, telephone and security box. With an on-site restaurant, Jacuzzi, and bar, this is a relaxing setting from which to enjoy the sights and sounds of the Monteverde Cloud Forest.

9. Playa Cativo

A beautiful eco-lodge situated on the beachfront overlooking the Golfo Dulce and backed up against the remote Piedras Blancas National Park. It is also an excellent base from which to explore the nearby Corcovado National Park. With only 18 guest rooms, all of which are tastefully furnished and surrounded by nature, Playa Cativo Lodge provides a unique luxury and wilderness experience.

10. Tortuga Lodge & Gardens

For nature lovers and adventurers, Tortuga Lodge & Gardens, located on Costa Rica's Caribbean coast, offers an excellent rainforest escape. This river resort integrates seamlessly with its tropical environment, offering visitors a peaceful, secluded experience. It is located between the Tortuguero River and lovely plantation-style gardens.

There are 29 rooms at the lodge, each with a stunning view of the Tortuguero River and opulent amenities. The hotel places a high focus on the comfort of its guests, including free Wi-Fi, a nightly turndown service, and useful extras like rubber boots, walking sticks, and umbrellas for excursions into the rainforest.

The exclusive natural reserve at Tortuga Lodge is what makes it stand out among other accommodations in Tortuguero. Visitors can participate in daily nature treks led by knowledgeable naturalist guides, who also arrange excursions to see turtle nesting locations, boat and kayak excursions along the Tortuguero River, and more. The lodge also offers hammocks, calm seating spaces, and fishing poles to encourage guests to relax and take in the surrounding scenery.