Fodor's Expert Review Tiskita Jungle Lodge

On road between Pavones and Punta Banco, Pavones, Puntarenas, 60704, Costa Rica Fodor's Choice

This last-outpost ecolodge, near the border with Panama, is a draw for bird-watchers as well as nature lovers, yoga enthusiasts, and adventurers who want to really get away from it all in relative comfort and at an affordable, all-inclusive price. Built from fallen trees are comfortable wooden cabins on stilts with rustic furniture and tiled bathrooms. Cabin No. 7 has the most privacy, with an outdoor rain-forest shower, screened windows on three sides, and a huge porch looking onto a beautiful ocean view. The property includes a vast orchard with more than 125 varieties of fruit trees that attract plenty of wildlife. Surrounding it are 800 acres of primary and secondary forest, a habitat for the more than 275 species of birds, including more than 65 scarlet macaws, the result of a 10-year release program. The best---and most relaxed---birding is from a deck chair beside the pool. A 90-strong troop of squirrel monkeys also roams the property, which includes a large yoga deck with an ocean view. Trails invite you to explore the jungle and a cascading waterfall with freshwater pools. Simple, healthy meals using local produce are served in an open-air dining room during set times. The beach, with swimmable waters, is a steep 10-minute downhill walk. Rates include two guided forest tours, all meals, plus coffee, tea and juices throughout the day. The owners sell their own cocoa butter and chocolate bars made in house. 

PROS

  • unrivaled wildlife viewing and birding
  • splendid natural isolation
  • friendly, knowledgeable owners

CONS

  • some steep walks to cabins in forest
  • no A/C
  • not a lot of privacy in joined double and triple cabins, which share verandas

QUICK FACTS

$$$$

HOTEL INFO

Phones: 2296–8125

HOTEL DETAILS

17 rooms
Rate Includes: Closed May–Nov. except to groups of 8 or more, All-Inclusive, All-inclusive package includes all meals, 2 guided tours

What’s Nearby