The Pacuare River

In the Atlantic region of Costa Rica there is a protected zone of incomparable beauty that begins near the town of Siquirres and covers approximately 25,000 acres as it descends down the Talamanca Mountain Range. This is the area known as Pacuare, which constitutes one of the most important protected areas in the region. High annual rainfall, along with its proximity to the lowlands combine to nuture the complex life systems whose abundance make for extraordinary scenic beauty. This area is still inhabited by the Cabecar Indians, whose hut dwellings are spaced far apart over large distances rather than being clustered as was true of most native tribes. The Pacuare is their lifeblood, and you can hike the same paths that this indigenous tribe still uses. Trails in the Pacuare Rainforest wander in all directions, cutting through the mountains and permitting exploration, with time to understand and appreciate the beauty of this unique tropical rainforest.

The Pacuare River, located within this zone, offers some of the finest white water in Latin America. This officially designated Wild and Scenic River winds deep inside impressive primordial rainforest. Remote and scenic waters course through a wilderness of dense vegetation covering the sides of steep gorges that rise above the riverbanks. The thick undergrowth provides shelter to jaguars, ocelots, monkeys, sloths, and numerous other species of animals and birds.

Pacuare Lodge

Nestled deep inside the Pacuare protected zone, on the banks of the Pacuare River and amidst enchanting and captivating rainforest, is our very special jungle getaway, the Pacuare Lodge. A true eco-lodge, here you are completely surrounded by nature in its purest and most primitive state. The two-story Pacuare Lodge has comfortable, rustic dining facilities on the first floor, and sitting areas with sofas and hammocks in an open-air lounge on the second floor. Modern wooden bungalows with thatched palm roofs have been carefully designed in an indigenous style to blend into the surrounding forest. Each hides beneath giant trees that have stood guard over this forest for eons, and comes complete with private bathroom and shower, comfortable bed, and fresh linens.

The Pacuare Lodge serves as a base for hiking into the surrounding rainforest, experiencing our unique Pacuare Canopy Adventure, or just relaxing amidst this jungle paradise. The Pacuare Lodge is available as part of a Pacuare two-day or three-day tour, with the option to travel one or both legs by helicopter. Our Community Support Program works to benefit the residents of this remote, rural area.