This one is going to be more for the love of architecture and nature than the affordability I am afraid, however I wanted to do a post that displayed some of the most beautiful eco lodges in Costa Rica. Why? Because they are pushing forward the sustainable agenda of Costa Rica which is something we should all be excited about whether we can afford to stay or not.
If you are a sustainable conscious explorer or family, I think you are going to love the five picks below and find them intriguing as they all offer something slightly different. They are not your usual beach get away (although one pick is on a private island!) They are retreats, nestled in the Costa Rica landscape. They offer solitude, a sanctuary from the usual urban noise of our otherwise chaotic life. They allow you to be at one with yourself and the environment, embedding you into the greens, blues and golden browns of mother earth. A place where the sounds of the rainforest will be your bedtime chorus and the animals will be your wake up call.
Costa Rica is known for its lush rainforests, stunning beaches, and its commitment to environmental conservation. It is a top destination for travellers seeking a balance between luxury and sustainability. The country is a world leader in ecotourism, with a goal to become carbon neutral by 2050. For environmentally conscious travellers, Costa Rica offers a wealth of eco-friendly accommodation that allow guests to enjoy the country's natural beauty without harming the environment.
Eco-lodges in Costa Rica go beyond simply being “green” they actively support local communities, protect the biodiversity of the region, and implement sustainable practices like water conservation, renewable energy, and organic farming.
In this post, we’ll explore five of the most breathtaking eco-lodges in Costa Rica, each offering a unique experience that blends luxury, sustainability, and a deep connection to nature. But first lets look at where they are located on the map.
As stated above this one is simply about the love of architecture and the joy of writing about it, and helping you all discover the very best sustainable and architecturally engaging vacation spots on planet earth. Places that have been created and crafted by a detail orientated eye to enhance the environment. So lets look at where they are on the map before looking at them individually.
5 Insanely Beautiful Eco-Lodges in Costa Rica on the Map
No.1. Lapa Rios Lodge – Osa Peninsula
No.2. Pacuare Lodge – Pacuare River
No.3. Finca Rosa Blanca Coffee Farm & Inn – Central Valley
No.4. El Silencio Lodge & Spa – Bajos del Toro
No.5. Isla Chiquita – Gulf of Nicoya
5 Insanely Beautiful Eco-Lodges in Costa Rica
No.1. Lapa Rios Lodge – Osa Peninsula
Location: Osa Peninsula, on the edge of Corcovado National Park
Website: https://www.laparios.com/
Average price per night: $500 to $1,000 USD per night depending on the season and room type.
What makes it special: Lapa Rios Lodge is an award-winning eco-lodge nestled in a 1,000-acre private rainforest reserve, overlooking the pristine Pacific coastline. The lodge operates on 100% renewable energy and is committed to wildlife conservation, with proceeds supporting reforestation and local education programs. Guests can immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Osa Peninsula, home to 2.5% of the world's biodiversity.
Sustainability practices: Solar energy, rainwater harvesting, waste composting, and strict wildlife protection policies.
What to do: Go on a guided rainforest hike to spot scarlet macaws, sloths, and howler monkeys, take a night jungle walk, or enjoy a birdwatching tour. Guests can also participate in community outreach projects and learn about sustainable farming.
Why eco-conscious travellers will love it: Lapa Rios is deeply committed to the conservation of the rainforest and community engagement, ensuring that your stay actively contributes to preserving the environment and local culture.
No.2. Pacuare Lodge – Pacuare River
Website: https://www.pacuarelodge.com/
Location: Along the banks of the Pacuare River, surrounded by lush jungle
Average price per night: $400 to $900 USD per night depending on the season and accommodation.
What makes it special: Pacuare Lodge is an intimate eco-retreat accessible only by rafting down the river or by hiking through the rainforest. This off-grid paradise offers a true immersive experience in nature. Each eco-friendly bungalow/ lodge blends seamlessly with the jungle surroundings, offering guests the chance to wake up to the sounds of the river and wildlife. The lodge was named one of the world’s best eco-lodges by National Geographic.
Sustainability practices: No electricity in rooms (candlelit evenings), renewable energy systems, local organic produce, and reforestation projects.
What to do: Thrill-seekers can go whitewater rafting or ziplining, while those seeking relaxation can enjoy a rainforest massage or dip in the natural pools along the river. The lodge also offers sustainable tours to learn about the surrounding indigenous communities.
Why eco-conscious travellers will love it: The lodge’s minimal impact on the environment, reliance on sustainable materials, and its efforts to preserve the local indigenous Cabécar culture make it a perfect choice for responsible travellers.
No.3. Finca Rosa Blanca Coffee Farm & Inn – Central Valley
Location: Santa Bárbara, in the Central Valley region
Website: https://fincarosablanca.com/en/
Average price per night: $250 to $500 USD per night depending on the room and season.
What makes it special: Located on a certified organic coffee farm, Finca Rosa Blanca offers a blend of eco-friendly luxury and cultural immersion. The lodge promotes sustainable coffee production, with tours that educate guests on how organic coffee farming can benefit both the environment and the local community. The inn is decorated with local art and sustainable materials, providing a luxurious yet eco-conscious retreat.
Sustainability practices: Certified carbon-neutral farm, solar energy, organic farming practices, and water conservation techniques.
What to do: Take a coffee plantation tour, where you’ll learn about sustainable agriculture, participate in a coffee-tasting session, or explore the beautiful surrounding cloud forests. The lodge also offers farm-to-table dining using organic ingredients grown on-site.
Why eco-conscious travellers will love it: Finca Rosa Blanca’s focus on sustainable coffee production, support for local artisans, and its commitment to environmental stewardship make it a fantastic eco-friendly destination with a cultural twist.
Top of the Top: Check out the Rosa Blanca Suite (sleeps 4) this duplex sits atop of the entire complex and and has simply stunning views across the landscape which you can enjoy from your very own
No.4. El Silencio Lodge & Spa – Bajos del Toro
Location: In the misty cloud forests of Bajos del Toro
Website: https://www.elsilenciolodge.com/
Average price per night: $400 to $700 USD per night depending on the season and accommodation.
What makes it special: Set in a 500-acre private cloud forest reserve, El Silencio Lodge is a serene eco-retreat designed to blend luxury with environmental responsibility. The lodge's architecture seamlessly integrates with the natural surroundings, providing guests with uninterrupted views of the lush forest and nearby waterfalls. El Silencio offers the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure, surrounded by pristine nature.
Sustainability practices: Carbon-neutral operations, use of renewable energy, and a reforestation initiative that allows guests to plant trees as part of their stay.
What to do: Explore the cloud forest with a naturalist guide, go horseback riding through the mountains, or indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment. You can also enjoy birdwatching and discover over 250 species of birds, including the elusive quetzal.
Why eco-conscious travellers will love it: El Silencio Lodge is dedicated to preserving the biodiversity of the cloud forest and actively promotes sustainability through carbon offset programs and eco-initiatives that protect the surrounding environment.
No.5. Isla Chiquita – Gulf of Nicoya
Location: On a private island in the Gulf of Nicoya
Average price per night: $250 to $400 USD per night depending on the tent and season.
What makes it special: For a unique glamping experience, Isla Chiquita offers luxury tent accommodations on a small, secluded island. This eco-lodge provides guests with the opportunity to reconnect with nature, enjoy panoramic ocean views, and partake in marine conservation efforts. Each luxury tent is sustainably designed to minimise its environmental footprint while maximizing comfort and connection to the surrounding wilderness.
Sustainability practices: Renewable energy, minimal plastic use, local organic produce, and marine conservation programs.
What to do: Take a kayaking tour to explore the mangroves, go snorkeling to discover vibrant marine life, or hike along nature trails on the island. The lodge also offers sustainable fishing tours and hands-on marine conservation experiences.
Why eco-conscious travellers will love it: Isla Chiquita’s commitment to marine conservation, sustainable building practices, and its support of local communities make it an exceptional eco-lodge for travelers seeking both adventure and sustainability.
Costa Rica offers an incredible range of eco-lodges that provide an immersive experience in nature while promoting sustainability and conservation. From remote rainforests to serene beaches, these five eco-lodges offer luxury, comfort, and environmental responsibility, making them perfect for eco-conscious travellers. Whether you want to raft down rivers, explore coffee plantations, or simply unwind in the cloud forest, each of these lodges offers a chance to experience Costa Rica's incredible biodiversity while ensuring your travel is eco-friendly.
Ready to book your next eco-friendly adventure in Costa Rica? Explore these stunning eco-lodges that combine luxury with sustainability, and make sure your trip leaves a positive impact on the planet. Plan your stay today and discover why Costa Rica is the top destination for sustainable travel. Make sure to subscribe for more eco and architectural travel tips and inspiration!
If you are on a bit more of a budget exploration then follow my own journey through Costa Rica where I give hints, tips and tricks about exploring this magical part of there world, its made for mobile so take it with you or just scroll and dream to your leisure. We have also put together a comprehensive blog on the safety of Costa Rica which is worth checking out if you are talking it on solo.
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