Pacuare Lodge

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Pacuare Lodge located?
The Pacuare Lodge is located in the Atlantic region of Costa Rica, within the Pacuare Protected zone, about 20 miles from the town of Siquirres, at an altitude of 770 ft. Locate the Pacuare Lodge with Google Earth. Coordinates: 10° 00′ 00”.00 N, 83° 31′ 55”.00 W
At which hotels do you provide pick-up and drop-off services?
Pacuare Lodge has scheduled pick up and drop off locations at the Hilton Garden Inn, Park Inn, and Grano de Oro Hotel. Pick up time is at 6 am. Tour returns to San José approximately at 6 pm. on the day you depart from the Lodge.

If you are staying in a different hotel you can get to these locations on your own or let us know and we would be more than glad to assist you coordinating transportation for an additional cost. We can also provide transportation from areas outside of San José.
Can I get to the Pacuare Lodge by car or public transportation?
Due to its remote location, our lodge is not directly accessible by car or public transportation. You can, however drive or take a bus to the town of Siquirres and meet us at our warehouse. From here you will be transferred to the lodge either by raft or ground transportation. Our sales representative will inform you the pick-up time at the meeting point.
Will I have breakfast on the way to the river?
Yes. En route to the river we will stop at a rustic, yet scenic mountain view restaurant for a traditional Costa Rican breakfast.
How long does it take to get to the river?
Depending on your hotel, it will take between 2½ and 3 hours.
Do you offer ground transportation to the lodge?
Yes, we do. In fact, you can choose from a range of options that include entry and departure by land, as well as a combination of land and river transport. Pacuare Lodge has a helipad onsite, arrival by helicopter is also an amazing way to check into the Lodge (additional fee).
Are your facilities non- smoking?
All the facilities at Pacuare Lodge including our bungalows, main lodge and deck are non-smoking.
Does Pacuare Lodge offer onsite staff 24 hours?
In case of emergency, our resident manager can be contacted 24 hours a day and our security staff are available 24 hours.
Does your lodge cater to families with small children?
Pacuare Lodge is the perfect destination for a family holiday, with great variety of adventurous and cultural experiences. Given our remote location and nature of our activities we have a minimum age of 7 to stay at the Lodge. The rafting tour requires a minimum age of 12. We do offer ground transportation to and from the lodge for guests that wish to bring children ages 7 to 11.
How long in advance should I book my trip?
The sooner the better! Mid-December through January are particularly busy, so at least a month or two in advance is highly recommended.
I have never been white water rafting before, do I need any experience? Is it safe?
Our tours are designed to be fun and safe for individuals in reasonably good shape and require no special skills or abilities. Many of our guests are first time rafters who have thoroughly enjoyed their experience with us. Safety is our primary concern, and we spare no effort to provide the highest quality, most enjoyable experience possible. A fully stocked first aid kit is available at all times during your trip. Our bilingual guides are some of the best in the field, highly experienced, and certified in first aid, CPR and swiftwater rescue training. Many of our guides have additional certifications such as wilderness first aid and wilderness first responder. We are happy to boast that in almost 22 years of offering river trips we have experienced no serious accidents.
Is internet service available at the lodge?
Yes, we have free WIFI available in our suites, reception area & restaurant. Please consider that due to our remoteness our internet connection might be unstable in occassions.
What happens if the rafting access in or out to/ from the lodge is cancelled?
On occasion we are forced to cancel the arrival and/or departure by river rafting on our overnight trips to Pacuare Lodge due to unsafe water levels on the river. Under these conditions, clients will access or leave the lodge via ground transportation by 4×4 vehicle (approximately a 45-minute ride ).

Important note: a minimum of 2 passengers is required to operate the rafting tour.
What is included in the trip?
Every Pacuare Lodge Adventure Includes: Pick-up in San José and transfer to the Pacuare Lodge at scheduled times (choose arrival via exciting white-water rafting trip or 4×4 vehicle), accommodation in one of our fabulous Suites,, 8 experiences included during your stay (Canopy Tour, Tropical Canyoning Tour, Bird-Watching, Cabecar Indigenous Hike, Ancient Trail & Hidden Waterfall Hike, Rural Experience, The Loop, Sustainability Tour), daily a la carte breakfast, lunch & dinner, afternoon coffee with delicious homemade pastry, rafting out of the lodge (ground transfer also available) and transfer back to San José with guide (scheduled times).
What is the minimum and maximum age for participating on the river adventure?
White Water River Rafting In minimum age of 9 years old and White-Water River Rafting OUT minimum age of 12 years old and minimum weight of 65 pounds and maximum weight limit of 275 pounds. Due to the nature of white-water rafting guests may not be allowed to participate due to river conditions, mobility, physical condition, and size of guests. The final decision if a guest may raft or not is subject to the approval of the river guide the day of rafting.
What is the recommended length of stay at the Pacuare Jungle Lodge?
We have had guests stay as long as a week. Our Adventure Packages include 8 unique onsite experiences (Canopy Tour, Tropical Canyoning Tour, Bird-Watching, Cabecar Indigenous Hike, Ancient Trail & Hidden Waterfall Hike, Rural Experience, The Loop, Sustainability Tour) included during your stay. Unique dining experiences and a spa where we harness the rainforest’s natural energy to create a healing environment unlike any other.

A minimum of three nights is recommended to truly enjoy the destination.
What is the weather like?
In Costa Rica’s tropical rainforest it is best to be prepared for all kinds of weather. In general, expect most mornings to be sunny and clear followed by rain showers in the afternoon. During the day the weather will be hot and humid with temperatures in the mid to upper 80’s (28 – 30 C). Evenings are usually clear and occasionally may even require the use of a light jacket.
When is the best time to come to the Pacuare Lodge?
Costa Rica attracts visitors all year round but the peak season is from December to April (Dry Season) and June through August (which is usually rainy in the afternoons). The river levels are higher during the rainy season (particularly September – November), which makes for a rollicking river ride. You will find more availability at our lodge in late April through early June and September through 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 superior selection of wines from around the world may be purchased from our wine cellar. Additionally, our upstairs bar includes a nice variety of spirits and liquors that may be purchased separately.
Are mosquitoes and bugs a problem?
Although we are located deep in the jungle (too deep for the mosquitoes to even find us!!), we have had very few complaints about bugs from our guests. Our bungalows are well screened, so the important thing is to keep your bungalow door closed at all times. For late afternoon outings, or hikes into the rainforest, we highly recommend a good dousing of insect repellant.
Are phones available?
The Pacuare Lodge does have an IP telephone system at the reception area that may be used for emergency contact.
Do you require vaccination to visit Costa Rica?
If you are travelling from outside Costa Rica, please consider that you may require vaccination against some diseases found in other parts of the world. There is no risk of yellow fever in Costa Rica, although Costa Rican government requires proof of yellow fever vaccination only if you are arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever. We recommend you ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US.
Does my bungalow have hot water?
Yes, we have solar-heated water and a gas water-heating system backup in all of our bungalows and suites.
Food Allergy and Food Intolerance
While we do our best to reduce the risk of cross-contamination in our restaurant and food service, we cannot guarantee that any of our dishes are free from allergens and therefore cannot accept any liability in this respect. Guests with severe allergies are advised to assess their own level of risk and consume dishes at their own risk.
Is it safe to drink the water from the tap?
Yes. Our tap water comes from an uncontaminated spring originating in the mountains high above the lodge and is tested periodically to ensure its quality. Refill It, Support the Planet – Pacuare Lodge contribute to reduce the amount of disposable water bottles by using only refillable bottles during our activities. We do not sell or provide plastic bottled water.
Is there electricity at the Pacuare Jungle lodge?
At Pacuare Lodge, we use clean energy generated by 3 high-tech hydroelectrical turbines and 204 solar panels. This energy powers the lighting in our suites, common areas, and electrical outlets for charging small devices such as mobile phones & laptops. We also work to raise guest and staff awareness by posting educational material about the efficient use of water and electricity and how to reduce consumption in our operative actions. Because of their high energy requirements, the use of hair dryers and flat irons is not permitted at the lodge.
Should I be concerned about malaria?
The short answer is no. Although the CDC (Center for Disease Control) does list certain provinces of Costa Rica as posing a possible malaria risk, the truth of the matter is that these are isolated outbreaks occurring in areas far from tourist traffic. We strongly recommend you follow your physician’s advice in this matter – but as far as we know, in recent years no tourist has contracted malaria in Costa Rica.
What activities are available at the lodge?
8 unique experiences are included during your stay at Pacuare Lodge: Canopy Tour, Tropical Canyoning Tour, Bird-Watching, Cabecar Indigenous Hike, Ancient Trail & Hidden Waterfall Hike, Rural Experience, The Loop, Sustainability Tour.

You can also relax at our Jawa Juü Spa and enjoy unique dining settings.

Important note: all activities included in the Adventure Package require a minimum of 2 passengers to operate
What are the differences between suite categories?
Jaguar Villa: Perched on a bank of the Pacuare River with a privileged view of that pristine waterway and the surrounding tropical foliage, the Jaguar Villa is our most luxurious suite. It was designed to give guests the experience of being in a tropical rain forest without sacrificing comfort. A simple yet elegant ambiance combines tasteful details.

Linda Vista Villas: Perched on a ridge amidst exuberant tropical greenery, the four Linda Vista Villas offer unforgettable views of the Pacuare River and surrounding rain forest. Those bright and spacious (230-square-meter) suites are the Pacuare Lodge’s premier accommodations, with a simple, natural design and exquisite décor that perfectly complement the verdure and profusion of the surrounding jungle. The suites offer a level of luxury that belies their remote location – a king-size bed with Simmons Beautyrest mattress, Egyptian cotton sheets, a spacious bathroom with indoor and outdoor showers and a long deck and a private dipping pool fed by spring water.

Canopy Villa: Our spacious and airy honeymoon suite is perched on a jungle-laden hilltop overlooking the lodge facilities and provides guests with sweeping views of the Pacuare River and surrounding rainforest. A hanging bridge leads from your suite door to your very own private look-out platform, located in a towering tree.

River View Suites: Retreat into tranquil luxury and design. Your spacious River View Suite includes a private terrace that opens on to stunning views of the Pacuare River and the surrounding jungle.

Garden Suites: Our garden suites feature a private terrace, two heated showers (one alfresco!) canopy king size bed or two canopy full size beds and a breathtaking view of the surrounding rainforest.
What happens if I need to cancel my tour?
Please go to our Terms & Conditions section for detailed information on trip cancellations.
What to pack?
Please go to our recommended packing list for a detailed description of items to bring, as well as what to do with luggage you plan to leave behind.
What types of meals are provided at the lodge? Do you cater to guests with special meal requirements?
If you have read any of our guest comments, you will have quickly noticed that our meals are very highly regarded. This is not by accident, as we have put much effort and expense into the quality of the food we purchase and the training of our local chefs.

All our meals are served in our main lodge or deck. Breakfast includes a healthy assortment of eggs, pancakes, cereal, tropical fruit, yogurt, homemade bread, juice, Turrialba cheese, gallo pinto (a delicious traditional breakfast of rice, bean, and spices), coffee, and tea. Lunch tends to be a pasta-type meal, or you can choose from a variety of salads with ingredients produced in our organic farm. Pastries and coffee are available during the afternoon. Dinner is the main meal at our lodge. Here you will enjoy a candlelit three-course meal that features a soup or salad entry, a choice of prime cuts of beef or chicken/fish with vegetable side dish, and dessert.

With advanced notice we can usually fulfil most special meal requests. So, if you are a vegetarian or require a special meal, please let our sales representative know at the time of your booking.
Where can I charge my devices?
You may charge batteries in your room or in our reception area.
Will I be able to do laundry during my trip?
Pacuare Lodge offers laundry service at an additional charge.

ARRIVAL BY RIVER


There are no roads to Pacuare Lodge, so we use the river. The majority of our guests arrive at our lodge after rafting on one of the world’s top whitewater rivers…

There are no roads to Pacuare Lodge. So we use the river. The majority of our guests arrive at our lodge after rafting on on one of the world’s top whitewater rivers. Before the put-in we drive through Costa Rica’s old capital city, Cartago, lush farmlands that blanket the slopes of Irazu and Turrialba volcanoes, and finally the rushing waters of the Pacuare River.

Once you’re in the river, Costa Rica’s natural splendor surrounds you. Silver ribbons of waterfalls plummet down emerald-green cliffs. Blue morpho butterflies flutter past, their radiant blue wings catching the sun. In addition to the natural beauty, you’ll experience sheer exhilaration as you face the challenge of each huge wave, battling surging waters down miles of raging rapids.

When you finally reach the shores of our piece of paradise, you’ll have rowed, splashed, and floated along unspoiled rainforest and unmatched tropical beauty. The trip in is short - only an hour or two, depending on river conditions - but it is the perfect introduction to the enchanting environment that awaits you.

ARRIVAL BY AIR


Take the tedious out of traveling in Costa Rica with Böëna’s Xplore Air state-of-the-art air charter service to Pacuare Lodge. Böëna clients can now fly directly to Guapiles Airport in a private, executive-configured Cessna Caravan aircraft.

The flight is a mere 25 minutes from the San Jose International Airport (SJO) & Pavas International Airport (Tobias Bolaños) followed by a two-hour drive through the scenic Talamanca Mountains. Read more about our Xplore Air Service!

ARRIVAL BY LAND


If you’re not comfortable rafting into the lodge, don’t worry. You can get there by land, too. The adventure begins as we travel through Cartago, Costa Rica’s old capital, through a quiltwork of croplands that cling to volcanic slopes, and towards the town of Turrialba. Sweeping vistas, quaint country houses, and dense vegetation provide the visuals.

If you’re not comfortable rafting into the lodge, don’t worry. You can get there by land, too.

The adventure begins as we travel through Cartago, Costa Rica’s old capital, through a quiltwork of croplands that cling to volcanic slopes, and towards the town of Turrialba. Sweeping vistas, quaint country houses, and dense vegetation provide the visuals.

The two-and-a-half-hour trip then skirts the slopes of the Irazú and Turrialba Volcanoes toward the north, and the Reventazón River Basin and Orosi Valley toward the south. Majestic scenery includes rolling fields of ornamental plants, sugarcane, coffee, and macadamia, and the jungle-covered mountains of the Talamanca Mountain Range.

The bus trip ends in Santa Marta, where you board a four-wheel-drive vehicle for the remaining six-kilometer gravel road journey to the banks of the Pacuare River. Views of the mountains covered by dense jungle couldn’t be more dramatic! Advancing down the road, you plunge ever deeper into the beauty of the zone until you arrive at the Pacuare River, the Cábecar culture’s symbol of life. The adventure continues as you leave the four-wheel-drive vehicle and cross the river on a hanging gondola that carries you above the river via a 100-meter cable running from riverbank to riverbank. At the other side an electric car will be waiting for you to take you to the hotel´s lobby where a refreshing cocktail awaits your arrival.

ARRIVAL BY HELICOPTER

Guests may arrange arrival by helicopter, too. It’s always eye-opening to experience Costa Rica by air.

Guests may arrange arrival by helicopter, too. It’s always eye-opening to experience Costa Rica by air: you see how varied the landscape is in such a small landmass, travel over rushing rivers and craggy volcanoes, verdant forests and colorful farmland. It’s a beautiful ride.

Helicopters land in a sandy beach adjacent to our lodge.

The following list of recommended travel items will help you make the most out of your experience at Pacuare lodge - indoors and out!

We look forward to your visit.

Recommended Packing List

Rafting Attire:

• 1 pair of shorts or leggings (quick dry is recommended)
• 1 short or long sleeve shirt (quick dry is recommended)
• Water shoes or sandals with straps
• Sunscreen

General Attire

• 1 pair of tennis shoes or sturdy shoes for hiking and walking the lodge grounds
• 1 swimsuit
• 1 lightweight hat with a wide brim or visor for sun protection
• 3 shirts: long or short-sleeved (quick dry recommended)
• 2 pairs of lightweight pants or shorts for hiking (quick dry recommended). Jeans can be worn at the lodge but are not recommended for hiking.
• 1 light sweater or sweatshirt
• 1 windbreaker or rain jacket (unlined Anorak or shell recommended)
• 3 sets of underwear
• 3 pairs of socks
• 1 extra pair of prescription glasses (if applicable)
• Sunscreen or sunblock
• Swimming goggles for the lap pool
• Insect repellent
• Toiletry kit
• Medications

 

•Refillable water bottle

 

Recommended River Clothing and Equipment List for a 3 day/2 night Adventure

• Rafting Clothing Recommendations:
• 1 pair of shorts or leggings (quick dry recommended)
• 1 short or long sleeve shirt (quick dry recommended)
• Water shoes or sandals with straps
• 1 pair of tennis shoes or outdoor type shoes for hiking and for use on the lodge grounds
• 1 swimsuit
• 1 light cap with wide brim or visor for sun
• 3 shirts; long or short sleeved (quick dry recommended)
• 2 pairs of hiking pants or shorts (quick dry recommended)
• Jeans can be worn at lodge but not recommended for hikes
• 1 light sweater or sweatshirt
• 1 windbreaker or rain jacket; unlined Anorak, shell type
• 3 sets of underwear
• 3 pairs of socks
• 1 spare pair of glasses, if you wear prescription lenses
• Sunscreen or sunblock
• Swimming goggles for lap pool
• Insect repellent
• Toiletry kit
• Medications
• Refillable water bottle

*This list pertains to a 3 Day/2 Night stay. Please add 1 or 2 changes of clothing for each additional day at the lodge.

**All suites and villas are equipped with naturally sourced shampoo, conditioner, and body cream.

***At Pacuare Lodge, our electricity comes from renewable sources such as solar panels and turbines. Because the energy is limited, we ask that guests do not bring hairdryers or flat irons.

Please note that weather conditions frequently change in Costa Rica´s tropical rainforest. Daytime weather is usually hot and humid, with the possibility of rain. Average daytime temperatures are in the mid to upper 80’s F (28-30C). We ask that guests are prepared for sudden variations in weather conditions.

Optional Accesories

• Camera (with a waterproof case)

 

• 1 small compressible day pack

 

• 1-2 bandanas
• Waterproof bag(s) for wet clothing
• Sunglasses
• Binoculars
• Headlamp

Long pants, a shirt, and a light jacket/sweatshirt are recommended for the drive back to San José.

*Important Notice for Guests stowing luggage at our Operation Center

To date, we have never had any incidence of theft at the Operation Center in Siquirres. However, please be advised that Pacuare Lodge/Aventuras Naturales is not responsible for lost or stolen objects. We recommend that guests use luggage locks on all bags.

We also recommend that guests refrain from storing valuables or important documents at our Operation Center. Guests should take said items with them to Pacuare Lodge (each room is equipped with a safety box).

Guests who leave luggage at our Operation Center facilities will be asked to sign a form consenting to the above conditions.