Where is the Pacuare Lodge located?

Pacuare Lodge is situated in Costa Rica's Atlantic region, within the Pacuare Protected Zone, approximately 20 miles from the town of Siquirres, at an altitude of 770 feet. You can find it on Google Earth using the following coordinates: 10° 00′ 00”.00 N, 83° 31′ 55”.00 W.

Which hotels do you provide pick-up and drop-off services for?

We offer scheduled pick-up and drop-off at the Hilton Garden Inn, Park Inn, and Grano de Oro Hotel. Pick-up is at 6 am, and the tour returns to San José around 6 pm on the departure day. If staying at a different hotel, you can reach these locations on your own or we can assist in arranging transportation for an additional fee, including from areas outside San José.

Can I reach Pacuare Lodge by car or public transport?

Due to its remote location, the lodge is not directly accessible by car or public transport. However, you can drive or take a bus to Siquirres and meet us at our warehouse. From there, we provide a transfer to the lodge by raft or ground transportation. Our sales representative will confirm your pick-up time at the meeting point.

Will I have breakfast on the way to the river?

Yes, we'll stop at a rustic, scenic mountain view restaurant for a traditional Costa Rican breakfast en route to the river.

How long does it take to get to the river?

The journey to the river takes between 2½ and 3 hours, depending on your hotel location.

Do you offer ground transportation to the lodge?

Yes, we offer various options including land entry and departure, or a combination of land and river transport. Pacuare Lodge also has an onsite helipad for helicopter arrivals (additional fee).

Are your facilities non-smoking?

Yes, all facilities at Pacuare Lodge, including bungalows, the main lodge, and the deck, are non-smoking.

Is there onsite staff available 24 hours?

Yes, in case of emergency, our resident manager and security staff are available 24 hours a day.

Does your lodge accommodate families with small children?

Pacuare Lodge is an ideal family destination with adventurous and cultural experiences. Due to our remote location and activity nature, we have a minimum age of 7 for staying at the lodge. The rafting tour requires a minimum age of 12. Ground transportation is available for children ages 7 to 11.

How far in advance should I book my trip?

It’s best to book as early as possible, especially during the busy mid-December to January period. Booking one to two months in advance is recommended.

Do I need experience for white water rafting? Is it safe?

No experience is required. Our tours are designed to be safe and enjoyable for those in reasonably good shape, even if it’s your first time rafting. Safety is our top priority, and our bilingual guides are highly experienced and certified in first aid, CPR, and swiftwater rescue training.

Is there internet service available at the lodge?

Yes, free WiFi is available in our suites, reception area, and restaurant. However, due to our remote location, internet connectivity may occasionally be unstable.

What happens if rafting access to or from the lodge is canceled?

If unsafe river levels force us to cancel rafting, clients will access or leave the lodge by ground transportation via a 4×4 vehicle (approx. 45-minute ride). A minimum of 2 passengers is required for the rafting tour.

What is included in the trip?

Your Pacuare Lodge Adventure includes: Pick-up in San José, transfer to the lodge (choose rafting or 4×4 vehicle), accommodation in a suite, 8 included experiences (Canopy Tour, Tropical Canyoning, Bird-Watching, Cabecar Indigenous Hike, Ancient Trail & Hidden Waterfall Hike, Rural Experience, The Loop, Sustainability Tour), daily a la carte meals, afternoon coffee with homemade pastry, rafting or ground transfer out, and return transfer to San José.

What is the minimum and maximum age for river adventures?

The minimum age for White Water River Rafting In is 9 years old, and White-Water River Rafting Out is 12 years old, with a minimum weight of 65 pounds and a maximum of 275 pounds. Participation depends on river conditions, mobility, physical condition, and size, and is subject to the river guide's approval.

What is the recommended length of stay at Pacuare Lodge?

A minimum of three nights is recommended to fully enjoy the lodge. Our Adventure Packages include 8 unique onsite experiences, dining, and a spa.

What is the weather like?

Expect varied weather in Costa Rica’s tropical rainforest. Mornings are generally sunny and clear, with afternoon rain showers. Temperatures range from the mid to upper 80’s (28 – 30 C) during the day, and evenings may require a light jacket.

When is the best time to visit Pacuare Lodge?

Costa Rica is a year-round destination, with peak seasons from December to April (Dry Season) and June through August (rainy afternoons). River levels are higher during the rainy season, especially September to November. For more availability, consider visiting from late April to early June or September to late November.

Who can participate in the activities?

Any person who is physically fitted to do soft adventure activities such as whitewater rafting, canopy tours, canyoning, hiking, etc. The minimum age is 12 years old, and we cannot accept people with recent surgeries, pregnant women, or people who are not physically or mentally fitted for this type of activities.

Are alcoholic beverages included?

A selection of wines, spirits, and liquors are available for purchase from our wine cellar and bar.

Are mosquitoes and bugs a problem?

We’re located deep in the jungle, yet mosquito complaints are rare. Our bungalows are well-screened, and it’s important to keep doors closed. We recommend insect repellent for late afternoon outings or hikes.

Are phones available?

An IP telephone system is available at the reception area for emergency contact.

Do I need vaccination to visit Costa Rica?

If traveling from outside Costa Rica, vaccinations may be required depending on your origin. There is no yellow fever risk in Costa Rica, but proof of vaccination may be required if arriving from a high-risk area. Consult your doctor for recommendations.

Does my bungalow have hot water?

Yes, all bungalows and suites have solar-heated water with a gas backup system.

Food Allergy and Food Intolerance

While we strive to minimize cross-contamination, we cannot guarantee dishes are allergen-free and cannot accept liability. Guests with severe allergies should assess their own risk.

Is it safe to drink tap water?

Yes, our tap water comes from an uncontaminated mountain spring and is periodically tested. We encourage the use of refillable bottles to reduce plastic waste.

Is there electricity at the lodge?

Yes, Pacuare Lodge is powered by hydroelectric turbines and solar panels. Lighting and outlets for small devices are available, but high-energy devices like hair dryers are not permitted.

Should I be concerned about malaria?

There’s no need to worry about malaria at Pacuare Lodge. While isolated outbreaks have occurred in some areas, these are far from tourist routes. Follow your physician’s advice, but no tourist has contracted malaria in Costa Rica in recent years.

What activities are available at the lodge?

Your stay includes 8 unique experiences: Canopy Tour, Tropical Canyoning, Bird-Watching, Cabecar Indigenous Hike, Ancient Trail & Hidden Waterfall Hike, Rural Experience, The Loop, and Sustainability Tour. Relax at our spa and enjoy unique dining experiences. All activities require a minimum of 2 passengers.

What are the differences between suite categories?

• Jaguar Villa: Luxurious and perched by the river, offering a tropical rainforest experience with elegant comforts.

• Linda Vista Villas: Spacious suites with breathtaking views of the river and rainforest, featuring a king-size bed, indoor/outdoor showers, a long deck, and a private dipping pool.

• Canopy Villa: A honeymoon suite on a hilltop with sweeping views, accessible via a hanging bridge to a private lookout platform.

• River View Suites: Tranquil suites with a private terrace offering stunning river and jungle views.

• Garden Suites: Suites with a private terrace, heated showers, and views of the surrounding rainforest.

What happens if I need to cancel my tour?

Please refer to our Terms & Conditions section for detailed cancellation policies.

What to pack?

Visit our recommended packing list for details on what to bring and instructions for luggage you plan to leave behind.

What types of meals are provided? Do you cater to special diets?

Meals are highly regarded, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner served in our main lodge or deck. We can accommodate most special dietary needs with advanced notice.

Where can I charge my devices?

You can charge devices in your room or at our reception area.

Is laundry service available?

Yes, laundry service is available for an additional charge.



Pacuare Lodge

About Us

Founded in 1986, our company is one of the oldest and most respected tour operators in Costa Rica.

At Pacuare Lodge, we combine luxurious appointments, unmatched service, and our celebrated sustainability philosophy with the natural gifts that the Pacuare River gives us. Each of our bungalows is a unique, separate dwelling that’s close enough to the restaurant and reception that you won’t get lost on your way to dinner, but far enough in the rainforest that you’ll be fully immersed in the magic of our surroundings.

What We Offer

We specialize in customized experiences that include everything from thrilling whitewater rafting adventures to romantic honeymoon getaways. We pride ourselves on quality outdoor trips that stand above the majority of adventure tours offered in Costa Rica, on exceeding our customer’s expectations, and on ensuring that every tour is entertaining, informative, and utterly unique.

In Harmony With Nature

The Pacuare Lodge was built with minimal impact on the river and rainforest . No trees were cut to build the bungalows and facilities. Instead, lumber was purchased from a sustainable reforestation project operated by small farmers.

The Pacuare Lodge is engaged in various projects to study and conserve the wildlife in our area, in partnership with Costa Rican Universities and nonprofit organizations. We’ve also partnered with local communities to help improve their basic services and livelihoods, while working to raise environmental awareness. With your support, we can accomplish even more to ensure that the Pacuare River’s natural and cultural treasures are preserved for future generations.

Our Professional Staff

A spirit of adventure and true concern for the environment are just two of the driving forces for our staff.

Our bilingual guides embody this spirit of adventure and demonstrate their concern for our precious environment on every trip to the wilds of Costa Rica’s tropical rainforests and beautiful rivers. Our guides are the best in the field and are highly experienced professionals who are certified in first aid, CPR, and swift-water rescue training. Many of our guides have additional certifications, such as wilderness first aid and first responder. Our top-notch office staff can develop custom programs and itineraries to meet the needs of the most demanding clients, whether couples or larger groups.

They are some of the best in the field, highly experienced, professional guides who are certified in first aid, CPR and swift-water rescue training. Many of our guides have additional certifications such as wilderness first aid and wilderness first responder. Our professional office staff can develop custom programs and itineraries to meet the needs of the most demanding clients, whether couples or larger groups.

Safety Comes First

Safety is our primary concern, and we spare no effort to provide the highest quality standards and equipment, while striving for the most enjoyable experience possible. Our bilingual guides instruct guests on all safety measures before each trip, and a fully stocked first aid kit is available at all times. We reserve the right to cancel any trip or because of weather, unsafe water conditions, or any other circumstances that could endanger the safety of our guests and guides.

Contact Us Now!