We are planning on going on the 2 day/1 night trip to Tortuguero. Which of these hotels would you recommend for the trip?
Pachira Lodge, Mawamba Lodge or
Tortoga Lodge

Pachira is my favorite. There's a new section of Pachira -- I don't know what they're calling it -- but that's really my favorite. Cool little triangular shaped cabins. I have photos if you want to see them. Mawamba has good food and the people are nice but the rooms are very, very basic. Most of the places in Tortuguero are basic, but Pachira is a little cheerier.

Sandy

My only experience is at Mawamba Lodge, we totally enjoyed it!

The food was delicious, the pool inviting, the grounds lovely, the rooms - yes very basic but did have hot water and an extremely good ceiling fan! I enjoyed being between the canal and the ocean. The staff were unbelievably attentive. Excellent bar!

Would certainly go back!

I haven't been to Pachira or Tortoga, so I can't compare them. We were at Mawamba Lodge for 2 nights in 2001 and really enjoyed it. The cabins are simple, but we thought our room was really beautiful with all the wood in the bedroom and the stonework in the bathroom. The pool was lovely and so refreshing on a hot day. 3 meals a day were included in the package and the food was always good (and I'm generally a picky eater). We saw so much wildlife on the early morning canal tour -- Caymans, river otters, monkeys and many birds. Tortuguero is a special place -- wherever you decide to stay.

The Mawamba lodge told me that we could pick up a rental car at the Rio Danta Restaurant in Guapiles and then drive to Arenal instead of going back to San Jose. Has anyone done that? How far is the ride from Guapiles to Arenal?