Why You Should Stay in Pacuare
Located on Costa Rica’sCaribbean slope (about two hours east ofSan Jose), Pacuare is a remote jungle area that draws adventure seekers and nature lovers. If you’re eager to disconnect from the hustle and grind of modern life, there’s no better place for it.
Outdoor Adventures in Whitewater Rafting
The Rio Pacuare is aworld-class whitewater rafting destination, renowned as one of the planet’s top rivers for its thrilling class II-IV rapids. Not only are they fun, they carve through dense rainforest and dramatic jungle canyons that create a bigger sense of immersion.
Sustainable Lodgings in the Jungle
Accommodations here are limited, eco-focused, hard to reach, and designed to complement the river’s rugged beauty. They offer an escape where the roar of rapids and calls of toucans and monkeys become part of the background noise.
Good for All Kinds of Travelers
The Pacuare area is perfect for couples, groups, or families with teens. It offers fewer lodging choices than busier tourist spots, yes, but this ensures an intimate, adventure-driven stay centered around its legendary rafting.You won’t regret it!
Pacuare Lodge: The Favorite Spot by the River
Pacuare Lodge is the premier choice of accommodations in this area. Set along the riverbank surrounded by some 850 acres of protected rainforest, this is one ofCosta Rica’s top eco-resorts. It’s such a fantastic location that National Geographic called it one of theworld’s top unique lodges.
Jungle Immersion with the Best Amenities
The experience at Pacuare Lodge is just like no other. Its thatched-roof bungalows feature wooden interiors, private terraces with hammocks, and candlelit ambiance, with no electricity in rooms to enhance the jungle experience. Guests enjoy locally sourced meals at the Nairi Awari Restaurant, included in the stay. Taste dishes like grilled fish, rice and beans, fresh tropical fruits, and homemade desserts. The lodge’s spa offers treatments using natural products, such as coconut or cacao-based massages, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure.
Rafting, Eco-Tourism, and On-Site Activities
The lodge offers adventure right from arrival, with options to reach it by whitewater rafting, which is what most people do. On-site activities include hiking, birdwatching, zip-lining, and visits to a nearby indigenous village. Pacuare Lodge is ideal for couples, honeymooners, or groups seeking a sustainable, nature-focused stay. It’s best for adults or families with kids over 12, as rafting access has age restrictions. The lodge’s commitment to eco-tourism, with Level 5 sustainability certification, makes it a top pick for environmentally conscious travelers.
Other Accommodations in the Pacuare River
Due to its remoteness, there aren’t many other accommodation options in the rainforests of the Rio Pacuare. This isn’t a regular community or town: it’s a remote jungle river. There are lodges run by whitewater rafting companies to stay along the river, but that’s really most of it. These places tend to offer rustic cabins with shared bathrooms, ceiling fans, and access to guided rafting or hiking tours, catering to travelers who want a simple stay focused on the river’s thrills.
Some of the put-in points for whitewater rafting are relatively close to the town of Turrialba, and there are accommodation options there. For the most part, people either stay at Pacuare Lodge, the rafting lodges, or pass through on all-day rafting trips from San Jose.
Ready to Experience Pacuare’s Thrills?
Staying on the Pacuare River puts you in the heart of a deep tropical rainforest, with the sound of the water and wildlife all around. And while the main attraction is definitely whitewater rafting—bringing adventure seekers from all over the world—the area also offers hiking, birdwatching, and cultural tours to indigenous communities.
The area’s isolation keeps crowds low, offering a peaceful retreat compared to busier rainforest locations likeArenal orManuel Antonio. It really is an often overlooked destination because it’s off the beaten path, but it’s also absolutely perfect for the right traveler. If you think you’re up to it,contact us. We’ll get you here!
FAQs about Places to Stay in the Pacuare River
Its remote jungle setting and world-class whitewater rafting make it ideal for adventure and nature lovers.
Two to three nights is ideal to enjoy rafting, hiking, or birdwatching and relax in the rainforest.
It’s better for families with teens, as activities like whitewater rafting have age restrictions.
Yes. For travelers who don’t want whitewater rafting, it’s possible to reach Pacuare Lodge by road or even by helicopter.
Whitewater rafting, hiking, zip-lining, birdwatching, and indigenous village tours are popular in this remote jungle area.
It’s hot with afternoon showers most of the year. Pack lightweight clothes, sturdy shoes for hiking, and a rain jacket. Lodges provide mosquito nets and fans.
Yes. It’s a remote, rural, low-crime area with friendly locals. Stick with guided tours for rafting or hiking, and keep valuables secure.
Yes. A stay here combines well with the Arenal Volcano area, San Jose, and beach destinations.
Not outside of your lodge, no. Accommodations like Pacuare Lodge include meals, due to the remoteness of the area.
Most lodges limit electricity for a nature-focused stay, with wifi in common areas.
