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Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge: An Eco-Lodge Paradise

Discover a secluded rainforest eco-lodge in Costa Rica's Osa Peninsula, offering adventure, relaxation, and a deep connection with nature.

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Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge is an award-winning eco-lodge nestled on a 165-acre private reserve bordering the Piedras Blancas National Park in Costa Rica's Osa Peninsula. Accessible only by boat, this remote haven offers a unique blend of rainforest and ocean experiences, emphasizing sustainability and harmony with nature.

A brief summary to Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge

Local tips

  • Pack light clothing, swimwear, and comfortable hiking shoes to fully enjoy the rainforest and water activities.
  • Bring binoculars to enhance wildlife viewing opportunities, especially for birdwatching.
  • Inquire about guided tours in advance to explore the rainforest and learn about the local ecosystem.
  • Be prepared for a boat transfer to the lodge, as it is only accessible by water.
  • Consider visiting during the humpback whale migration season (July-November) for a chance to witness these majestic creatures.
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Getting There

  • Boat

    Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge is only accessible by boat. Most visitors arrive by flying into either Golfito or Puerto Jimenez. From Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in San Jose, domestic airlines such as Sansa Airlines offer flights to Golfito. The flight is approximately 50 minutes. Once you arrive at either airport, a Playa Nicuesa representative will meet you and transport you by boat across the Golfo Dulce to the lodge. The boat ride is approximately 35 minutes. This boat transfer is typically included in your reservation.

  • Driving & Boat

    Alternatively, you can drive to Golfito from San Jose. The drive is approximately 4.5 hours on well-maintained roads. Take the Coastal Highway (Route 34) and the Pan-American Highway (Route 2) to Rio Claro, then Route 14 toward Golfito. In Golfito, park your car in a secured lot, such as at Marina Bahía Golfito. Nicuesa Lodge can arrange to pick you up from there by boat. Parking at Samoa del Sur Restaurant and Cabins near the marina costs $15 per day. The boat ride from Golfito to Playa Nicuesa is approximately 35 minutes and is usually included in your reservation.

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Discover more about Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge

Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge offers an immersive experience in one of Costa Rica's most pristine environments. Founded in 2001 by Michael Butler, the lodge arose from a vision to create a sustainable retreat deeply connected to the surrounding wilderness. The lodge is located on the Golfo Dulce, a critical habitat for migrating Pacific Humpback Whales, dolphins, and hammerhead sharks. What sets Playa Nicuesa apart is its commitment to ecotourism and conservation. The lodge was constructed using naturally fallen trees and recycled materials, and it harnesses solar energy. Accommodations include private cabins and guest houses, all featuring open-air bathrooms, canopied beds, and verandas with rainforest views. Guests can enjoy a variety of activities, including hiking through the rainforest, kayaking in the Golfo Dulce, snorkeling, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Guided tours are available for waterfall treks, birdwatching, and exploring the diverse flora and fauna. For relaxation, guests can indulge in yoga classes, massages, or simply unwind in a hammock by the sea. The lodge's open-air restaurant serves fresh, local cuisine, with an emphasis on seafood, tropical fruits, and locally grown vegetables. Playa Nicuesa's dedication to sustainability has earned it recognition, including the highest rating in the Costa Rica Certification for Sustainable Tourism Program and the Ecological Blue Flag Award. It's a place where visitors can connect with nature, enjoy thrilling adventures, and contribute to the preservation of this unique ecosystem.

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