Maquenque Lodge
A remote lodge near the Nicaraguan border offering excellent wildlife and birdwatching opportunities.
This welcoming eco-lodge lies in the far north of Costa Rica, near the Nicaraguan border. The nearest town is Boca Tapada, but the lodge’s remote location means it is only accessible by boat across the San Carlos River. Set within the Maquenque National Wildlife Refuge, it offers an abundance of wildlife and is an excellent destination for birdwatching, with over 590 species recorded.
Guests can choose between bungalows and treehouses. The bungalows, located closer to reception and the restaurant, feature air conditioning and large windows, offering comfort while maintaining a connection to nature. Overlooking a tranquil lagoon, their terraces provide an excellent vantage point for morning birdwatching.
For a more immersive experience, the treehouses rise high into the rainforest canopy, surrounded by the sounds of the jungle. Please note: due to their height and the number of steps involved, they are not suitable for children or guests with mobility challenges. Treehouses vary in size, with some featuring a terrace or even a jacuzzi. While they do not have air conditioning, ceiling fans and screened windows ensure good ventilation. And there’s no need for an alarm clock – the howler monkeys will let you know when it’s time to wake up!
The restaurant serves a varied menu of local and international dishes, with many ingredients sourced from the lodge’s organic garden. A swimming pool offers a refreshing escape from the tropical heat
A range of wildlife-focused excursions can be arranged in advance or upon arrival, led by knowledgeable and passionate naturalist guides. Rubber boots, walking sticks, and flashlights are provided when needed. Options include night walks, rainforest hikes, birdwatching tours, boat trips along the San Carlos River, horseback riding, and coffee and chocolate tours at a local farm. Complimentary canoes are also available for exploring the lagoon at your leisure.
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Juliet Ellwood - Travel Expert
After graduating with a degree in Anthropology and History and having been fascinated by Latin America since childhood by the book featuring photos of Nazca, Juliet first visited the region in 2003. Since then, Juliet has visited the majority of countries in Latin America but has particularly extensive experience with Peru, a country she loves for many reasons but not least, its incredible archaeological richness and delicious food!
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