What They´re Saying About Us
Look at some of our guest comments, as well as excerpts from travel guide book reviews and magazine & newspaper articles written about the lodge.
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Travel Guide Books |
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Frommer’s Costa Rica
2008 Edition. Selected: "Best Ecolodges & Wilderness Resorts"
This lodge is by far the best option on the Golfo Dulce. Set in deep forest, the individual bungalows here are a perfect blend of rusticity and luxury.
Set on its own private bay, with a large stretch of black-sand beach, this new lodge is currently the most luxurious and impressive option on the Golfo Dulce. While the four Mango Manor rooms are certainly very comfortable, you'll definitely want to snag one of the four individual cabins. These are all set amidst dense forest and are made almost entirely of wood, with large open-air showers, private verandas, and a true sense of being in touch with nature.
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"Alastair Sawday's Green Places to Stay"
2007 Edition
"The front garden is a powder blue ocean, the back yard is a tropical green rainforest. Access is by boat only. But who wants to go anywhere? This combination of adventure camp and chill-out retreat rubbing along happily with nature is totally seductive. Local woods, recycled plastic roof tiles, thatch roofs and solar energy are just the environmental starters. Wraparound louvre doors provide air conditioning and there are no TVs, radios or generator buzz. Just beautiful, relaxed surroundings of polished woods, colorful Guatemalan fabrics, jungle noises and spectacular ocean and forest views from private verandas. Retreat to a shady hammock or share jungle-adventure stories in the treetop bar. Local staff are a smiling presence while exuberant host Michael and Donna join guests for Latino-style meals. Fun, festive and under the stars " |
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"Fodor’s Costa Rica Travel Guide" 
2nd Edition, 2007. Fodor's Black Star: "Highly Recommended"
"Hands down, this is the best lodge on the gulf, with friendly but professional service and an emphasis on adventure. Out the front door of the lodge are beach, bay, and mangroves, with kayaks, snorkeling, fishing, sailing, and swimming; out the back door is a forested mountain with hiking trails, a waterfall, and plenty of wildlife and a resident naturalist to interpret the trails. The two-story main lodge is a palatial treehouse, crafted from 15 kinds of wood. Luxurious, hexagonal wooden cabins with open-air showers are scattered around a lush garden that ensures privacy. A stucco guesthouse with four large, comfortable rooms is shaded by mango trees. Solar power ensures a steady supply of electricity and there's always lots of hot water. Imaginative meals are served in the second-story dining room-cum-lounge with an unbeatable tropical-garden view."
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Lonely Planet Costa Rica
2006 Edition
"A spectacular addition to the Golfo Dulce. Nestled into a 65 hectare private rainforest reserve. The accommodations are all superbly decorated and maintained and feature four rooms in a guesthouse and four private cabins. All rooms are open air and beautifully appointed with indigenous textile spreads, hey have private hot water bathrooms with garden shower. Electricity is proved through solar power." |
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The New Key to Costa Rica
2004 Edition
A unique ecotourism opportunity on the Golfo Dulce... The water on this part of the gulf is protected and lake-like, good for the kids. Their dock is the perfect place to see bioluminescence at night. The fish glow as they swim by. Trails into the rainforest behind the lodge are flat and comfortable for walking. Snorkeling is good at nearby shallow reefs, and the use of kayaks is free for guests... Readers that have stayed a week say there is plenty to do. |
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Magazines & Newspapers |
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"Edible Landscaping: Foraging in the Tropical Wilds "
January, 2008
A new epicuream adventure has guests embarking with Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge's head chef and eco guides, foraging for exotic edibles from the tropical jungle and lodge gardens.
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"The New Costa Rica"
November, 2007
An eight-room inn that sits on the tranquil waters of the Golfo Dulce. Reachable only by boat, it is an excellent base for kayakers.
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"Eight Degrees of Separation "
Winter, 2007
As it turns out Churchill and Costa Rica are not that different, at least according to this Canadian-style tongue-in-cheek travel article about Nicuesa Lodge... "The jungle is impressive, its canopy lies 100-140' above the ground, a different world from the tundra".
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"Taking a Detour Off the Beaten Path"
April, 2007
In a country with many options for “going green”, travelers looking for a rather wild and beautiful place can stop over at Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge, occupying its own 165-acre preserve right next to the Piedras Blancas National Park on the Osa Peninsula. … Going green and staying green is the philosophy of Michael and Donna Butler, who own this lovely, environmentaly savvy lodge tucked away in the rainforest. … Easily suited to hosting small groups with special interests such as birding, multisport and fishing; and it’s an ideal place for a family vacation. |
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"Latino Dreams: Nature & Adventure"
March, 2007
In the proximity of Golfito, amidst a sumptuous, beautiful tropical vegetation like in the most beautiful dream, we arrive by boat at the Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge; surrounded by tropical rain forest and a black lava-stone beach. The bungalows are built from natural materials, mainly from dark wood, respectfully adapted and with beautiful design - a true bliss for the eye and for the soul! Overwhelmed by all this natural beauty, it's language struck me. Splendorous plants and flowers, some whose existence I did not know about; the perfect ambiance. To be noticed and enjoyed, it is the perfect place to recharge batteries and become aware of mother natures' beauty. |
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"Costa Rica: The Ultimate Guide"
June, 2004
The newest biosensitive resort on the peninsula is the Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge in 100,000-acre Corcovado National Park, across the Golfo Dulce from Golfito. Everything here is recycled: the four cabins and a four-bedroom house are made from farmed trees; covering the roofs are tiles made from bags that once used to protect banana stalks; and solar energy provides the electricity. Accessible only by boat, the hotel keeps guests busy with kayaking, fishing, snorkeling, windsurfing, and, of course, naturalist-guided hikes.
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"To Discover and Defend: From saving energy to saving sea turtles, hotels and lodges are joining the fight to protect the planet"
June, 2004
Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge in Costa Rica was built with wood from fallen trees; recycled banana bags were turned into roofing material. Access to the resort is by boat; there are no roads. Explore Central America’s largest pacific coast rainforest. |
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"Lodging with a Conscience"
May/June, 2004
Deep within a 165-acre private reserve, Playa Nicuesa fronts Costa Rica's undeveloped Pacific Coast. The property, which operates on renewable solar energy, was designed to blend in with the surrounding environment, while embracing sustainability. The roofing materials consist of recycled banana bags, and the wood and timbers used have been taken from tree farms and naturally fallen trees. Accommodations include private cabins and guestrooms in the main lodge. The lodge's restaurant procures seafood from local fishermen, and the property's fruit trees supply lemons, papayas, coconuts, star fruit, pineapples, bananas, mangoes, and water apples. Wellness features: Yoga Rainforest Adventure Retreat programs.
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"Costa Rican Eco-Lodge Offers Multi-Sport Packages"
May 13th, 2004
Vacationers are picked up and escorted via boat to Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge. Days are spent ocean and river kayaking, snorkeling, hiking through rainforests, fishing and touring botanical gardens. The Lodge, set amid 165 acres on the biologically diverse Osa Peninsula features a laid back but comfortable atmosphere. Guests sleep in Private cabins or rooms in the mango guest house. All of which feature canopied beds, ceiling fans, private terraces, and private open-air garden baths. |
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"Check In: Green Acres"
January 1st, 2004
Go green in Costa Rica at the new Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge. Solar powered and constructed of naturally fallen trees, the cozy four cabin compound occupies a 165 acre preserve within Piedras Blancas National Park that’s reachable only by boat from nearby villages on the Pacific Coast.
Read the Complete Article |
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"Life Gets a Little Sweeter on the Golfo Dulce"
November 21st , 2003
Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge is a stunning, two-story, 2,800-square-foot lodge, soaring into the treetops. Designed by San José architect Fernando Fournier to create a seamless transition between indoors and outdoors, the main lodge is like a palatial tree house, presiding over a lush garden backed by more than 60 hectares of forest abutting Piedras Blancas Park and fronted by 250 meters of pebbled beach.
A grand staircase, topped by a dramatic seashell-and-glass chandelier crafted by Donna and a friend, leads up to the main floor of the lodge, constructed with 15 kinds of wood. There's a cozy, candle-lit bar and a state-of-the-art kitchen, equipped with a wood-burning pizza oven.
Read the Complete Article |
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"Nashville Lifesyles "
There are very few places where you can go, be totally absorbed and sorrounded by nature, yet still have the comforts of any upscale resort.
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Tour Operators |
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Mauricio Alfaro, President
We strongly recommend Nicuesa Lodge to all of our selected clientelle. This lodge, created by Donna and Michael, brings the perfect combination between nature and comfort. We have received wonderful compliments about their hospitality, food and service. |
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Leigh Ann Cloutier, CTC Rico Tours
Rarely do I find such as jewel as Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge. Nestled in the forest, one can enjoy the relaxing serenity in a remote setting or have full activities. The Golfo Dulce offers calm waters for kayaking, fishing, snorkeling and swiming. Plus, the forest and mangroves are nature lovers delight. Wonderfully owner run with unique cuisine. The lodge offers flexibility and can host small groups with special interests.
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| Conde Nast Top Travel Specialist Costa Rica, 2000 - 2004 |
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Guest Comments |
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There is no better place to have your first taste of the rainforest! Being here really makes you wake up and realize how much more there is to the world. Taylor and George, Lexington, KY |
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The surroundings and staff made us feel we were receiving personalized service - so much so that we extended our stay an additional 2 nights, 3 days! KMShames, San Diego, CA |
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We still can’t believe how many types of animals, insects and other organisms we saw in such a short time here. The accommodations were so unique and special – we can’t wait to tell everyone about Nicuesa Lodge. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! We love Nicuesa Lodge. Natalie and Jamie, San Francisco, CA |
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We learned so much in your “nature’s classroom”… really important “stuff” about ourselves and our impact on relationship to nature. Randi and Mitchell, Queens, NY |
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This place is heaven on earth! Mike B., Costa Rica (Osa Adventure) |
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Losing track of dates and days was just part of the magic here. From the thrill of cannonballs off the dock to the joy of a long swim in the rain. Laura and John, Fairfax, VA |
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It was more beautiful than we ever imagined. The scenery was beautiful and the people just as spectacular. Thank you! Thank you! Betsy and Michael, NY, NY |
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Playa Nicuesa is a dream found. Paul, Italy |
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Such a fiesta… of forests, food and friends! Saundra D. Atlanta, GA |
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We don’t want to return to our jungle….we love yours! Penny, NY, NY |
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Family Reviews
Go to Family Adventures |
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My family and I visited Playa Nicuesa over a month ago and I don't think there has been a day since that I haven't had a nice little daydream about my experience at Playa Nicuesa. Barbara, Luisville, KY |
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Our family recently spent 5 nights at beautiful Playa Nicuesa. I would recommend Playa Nicuesa to travellers looking for something a bit different. We hope more lodges like this can operate in the area to preserve forest and provide local employment.
KP, Vancouver, Canada |
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A most wonderful place with great food and hosts.My husband and I had the 2 bedroom unit to accomodate our 21 year old son who also loved this place--his favorite on our trip.
Glen Ellen, No CA |
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I think it would be stupid to leave Playa Nicuesa. Kyle (9 years old), Carlsbad, CA
I couldn’t say it any better than my son… both of us do not want to leave. Mark, Carlsbad, CA |
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I woke up after 7 days and said, “I don’t want to leave here.” The kids had a GREAT time hiking, kayaking, fishing, snorkeling, swimming and learning. John and Tamara, Montana |
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You've created an amazing environment here rich with nature, culture, warmth and beauty. The staff here is beyond any guests expectations. I will never forget how they interacted with the children. They will never forget this place!"
Ed, Renee, Sarah, Charlie, and Henry - San Francisco, CA |
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Honeymoon Reviews
Go to Honeymoon Package |
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Wow! Thank you for helping create the BEST honeymoon we could have hoped for! Adam & Stephanie, New York, New York |
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We loved our time here… wish it could be longer. Your lodge helped make our honeymoon a unique and wonderful experience. Frank and Nicole, Flint, MI |
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The Mango Guest House is a 2 storey accommodation that has 4 private rooms. Set in a beautiful jungle garden area with mango trees on all sides and open views of the surrounding rainforest. Each room has private entrance, beautiful hardwood floors, private bathroom with open air showers, private terrace, louver doors and windows that wrap around the room to afford panoramic views. Rooms have queen beds (or twin beds upon request) with mosquito netting and ceiling fans. The Mango Guest House is separate from the Main Lodge. 
These cabins are very private and set apart from all other accommodations. Tucked into the rainforest affording you a unique feeling of being in an amazing natural setting, yet with design and comfort details that has been described as simple yet ”jungle chic”. Each cabin has a private entrance, beautiful hardwood floors, private open air shower-bathroom, private terrace, louver doors and windows that wrap around the room to afford panoramic views. The garden open air shower is within the cabin’s bathroom, yet allows you to look at nature all around. Look out for the peeping monkeys!