Set in 1000 acres of private nature reserve in Costa Rica's last remaining lowland tropical rainforest, Lapa Rios eco lodge is an ideal family adventure vacation destination, combining comfort, superb eco exploration, eco education and fun.
A luxurious escape to nature, Lapa Rios is nestled within the rainforest of the Osa Peninsula overlooking the pristine waters of the Pacific Ocean at Golfo Dulce.
Within the lush verdant canopy of the reserve, 16 thatch-roof bungalows made from palm thatch in the typical regional style emanate a sense of privacy and tranquility demonstrating an appreciation for regional tradition and local craftsmanship.
The airy bungalows, appointed with elegantly arranged bamboo furnishings, warm wood floors, indoor and outdoor showers, queen or king beds with soft netting and private decks cast a spell over this unmatched setting.
From the deck's swinging hammocks, guests relax while drinking in the forest sounds and calm ocean views.
A sense of freedom lingers in the airy bungalows as gentle rainforest breezes blow through the screened walls.
Outdoor showers, with their stone floors and cool rain-like waters, provide a private waterfall feel, while the solar-heated indoor showers, with their bay window seat, offer a luxurious and more conventional experience.
Staffed by local cooks, the onsite restaurant serves up typical regional cuisine made from fresh, locally grown ingredients.
The eco lodge only employs members from the local community and practices environmentally sound tourism practices that maintain and preserve the rich biodiversity of the Osa Peninsula.
Daily activities are led by local guides and include an expansive list of activities whose proceeds help conservation efforts.
On site trips include a local medicine tour, learning about the region's medicinal plants, picnics under the waterfalls, kayaking along the mangrove-rimmed coastline, horseback riding through the jungle and pristine Golfo Dulce beaches, water activities such as surfing, whale watching and fishing and a variety of rainforest hikes.
The lodge especially caters to families and children, educating youngsters in a hands-on, fun and exciting program about the unique biodiversity of the rainforests.
Specially designed trips for children include a kid's rainforest tour, a visit to the nearby Carbonara school, where kids have the opportunity to interact with local children, and conservation activities such as planting primary rainforest seedlings.
In addition, water activities, picnics, after-dark outings and culturally enriching activities such as Costa Rican dancing and tortilla-making classes are geared with special attention given to younger family members.
Children not only have fun in a breathtaking environment, but have the opportunity to contribute to local reforestation efforts and learn how they make a difference.
Practicing eco conservation and community sustainability, Lap Rios ecolodge provides a luxuriously rich and comfortable setting in which to experience, enjoy and learn about the tropical rainforest.
Here guests and locals together support sustainable land and cultural preservation
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