The Lodge
Ave Sol Lodge, located on the picturesque Pacuare River in Costa Rica, offers a unique and sustainable tourism experience. Accessible by river or a challenging 4WD road, this remote lodge escapes modern life's hustle and bustle. Stay in comfortable cabins built from sustainably harvested wood, featuring panoramic windows, private or shared bathrooms, and hot showers. Wake up to the sounds of native birds and flowing water, with stunning views of the Turrialba volcano and lush forest. Explore the private nature reserve, hike scenic trails, and enjoy the natural pool formed by the river's bend. Ave Sol Lodge is the perfect place to experience nature and support conservation efforts.
Lodge Accommodations
This Rainforest Lodge offers simple, comfortable cabin accommodations in the stunning Pacuare River basin. Disconnect from modern life and experience nature at this remote river lodge. Each rustic cabin features solid roofs, panoramic windows, and comfortable beds. Built with sustainably harvested timber, Ave Sol reflects eco-friendly practices. Choose between private or shared bathrooms, and enjoy modern amenities. Facilities include a fully equipped kitchen, dining area, hammock ranch, and bar. Explore pathways, trails, and gardens around the lodge.
Community Areas
The spaces provide guests with a way to gather, connect, and unwind amidst the beauty of nature. These spaces include a welcoming dining area where delicious meals are prepared and shared, fostering a sense of camaraderie among guests. The hammock ranch offers a serene relaxing spot, allowing visitors to sway gently while enjoying the sounds of the surrounding wildlife. The bar serves as a social hub, where guests can enjoy refreshing drinks and exchange stories of their adventures. Additionally, well-maintained pathways, trails, and gardens wind throughout the sanctuary, inviting exploration and providing opportunities for quiet reflection in Costa Rica's lush landscapes.
Whitewater Rafting on the Pacuare River
The Pacuare River is renowned for its stunning scenery, including a unique canyon, extraordinary biodiversity, pristine waters, and thrilling rapids. The exhilaration is felt as one of the most beautiful waterfalls, cascading dramatically into the river, is passed. Recognized as one of the ten most beautiful rivers in the world and a top destination for whitewater rafting, the Pacuare offers an unforgettable adventure.
Private tours are operated by specialized rafting experts, with experienced and bilingual guides who know the river inside out. With high-quality equipment and a strong commitment to safety, a spectacular and secure trip is ensured.
Starting at Finca La Cruz, the rafting journey includes an additional four miles of river adventure compared to other operators. The excitement of Class III rapids is enjoyed, interspersed with tranquil sections perfect for taking in the lush forest surroundings. Along the way, pristine creeks and waterfalls are stopped at for swimming and wildlife spotting. Needs are attended to by guides, who prepare delicious meals and ensure safety and enjoyment throughout the trip.
Rich and Natural and Cultural Experiences
Step into the world of the Cabecar families, renowned as the largest ethnic group in Costa Rica, celebrated for their colorful traditions and deep-rooted culture. As you hike through the protected Indigenous reserve, you'll gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the region's rich biodiversity. During your visit, you'll experience the preserved Cabecar culture and learn about its contemporary challenges. Guided walks to the local village include opportunities to see traditional huts, visit the local school where the children are as curious as the visitors, learn about forest lore and techniques, and try shooting arrows with a traditionally crafted bow.
Discover the Hidden Wonders of Talamanca on Scenic Walks and Trails
Embark on a journey where you'll step into the shoes of a biologist, delving into the fascinating world of the jaguar, one of nature's most captivating and iconic creatures. Heat and motion-sensitive cameras are strategically placed to monitor wildlife, with a special focus on the jaguar and its prey. A highlight of the reserve is the ancient and rare Cola de pavo tree (Hymenolobium mesoamericanum), which you can encounter along a picturesque trail through pristine primary rainforest. Whether you prefer leisurely walks or challenging mountain hikes, the trails offer opportunities to observe wildlife, discover endemic plant species, and enjoy natural features like rock pools, creeks, and waterfalls.
Facilities
Ave Sol is a secluded river lodge, providing a serene escape from the noise of modern life to rekindle a deep connection with nature. If you desire a minimalist experience in nature, Ave Sol is the ideal retreat for you. The rustic cabin lodgings offer comfortable beds, solid roofs, and walls embellished with panoramic windows. Ave Sol ensures the use of sustainably harvested timber from their reserve, comprising fallen trees or those removed for safety purposes.
The Reserve
Located in the Caribbean foothills of Costa Rica near Bajo Tigre in Siquirres, Limon, Ave Sol River Sanctuary is a 120-acre expanse that adjoins the Nairi-Awari Cabecar Indigenous Reserve and neighboring protected areas across the Talamanca Mountain Range. This sanctuary serves as a vital refuge for a diverse range of native flora and fauna, thriving within the rich ecosystems of the region.
Efforts are underway to restore connectivity between the Central Volcanic & Talamanca mountain ranges, facilitating gene flow among various wildlife populations. Known for hosting abundant bird and mammal populations, Costa Rica's highest numbers of endemic and endangered species are found in this region. Despite being safeguarded by the Costa Rican government and UNESCO, there is a lack of technical and scientific information about the area. Generating ecological data is a key objective in conserving these unique and vital ecosystems.
TAJA Initiative
The name TAJA (pronounced TA-HA) is a portmanteau of 'Talamanca Jaguar', the enigmatic guardian of the forest. Awareness about the importance of jaguar conservation is aimed to be promoted by the project, along with various other social, scientific, and environmental projects that are being worked on. Jaguars, as apex predators, are indicators of healthy ecosystems. They are very difficult to study due to their aloof nature, having been hunted for many years all over the tropics. They are a vulnerable species that will disappear if action is not taken to understand them and the reasons they have been put at risk.
Habitat Protection
Ave Sol is situated where the Central Volcanic and Talamanca mountain ranges meet, forming a vital geological connection. This corridor plays a crucial role in facilitating gene flow among numerous populations and species. The potential impact of clearing this area for development would be extremely detrimental to biodiversity.
Habitat fragmentation poses the most significant threat to wildlife species globally. The primary approach to preventing species loss involves protecting the remaining natural ecosystems and enhancing connectivity between them. This strategy serves as the foundation of modern conservation initiatives.
Over 120 acres are currently safeguarded, part of the largest continuous forest expanse in the country. Visitors can take a stroll southeast to the ridge's summit, trekking in that direction for weeks and eventually emerging from the forest in Panama. This Biosphere Reserve, protected through a collaboration between the two countries, showcases an awe-inspiring landscape. While the words "wild" and "wilderness" are often used, in this case, they truly apply.
The region stands out for its high level of endemism (unique to one geographic area), with unique species exclusive to this geographic area. Additionally, it boasts the highest diversity of bird and mammal species in the country. Many of these species are endangered or protected, but what intrigues biologists the most is the presence of undocumented species. Gathering data is crucial to comprehending these intricate ecosystems and their invaluable inhabitants.
Scientific Research
Tropical rainforests represent some of the most diverse ecosystems worldwide, with Costa Rica's region playing a crucial ecological role. Understanding and managing this area effectively is essential for creating innovative solutions that balance competing interests.
The current focus is on supporting the research of Scientific Director Gustavo Castro, who is studying the restoration of jaguar connectivity and gene flow in the region. Using camera traps and other techniques, Gustavo is uncovering key factors like species distribution, vegetation, canopy cover, tree density, human population, and road networks.
Capture cameras, triggered by movement to capture images, are vital tools for studying elusive species like jaguars. These cameras provide precise data without disturbing the animals, replacing intrusive methods like live trapping. They offer valuable insights into wildlife biology and behavior, aiding in decision-making and cost-effective monitoring.
Building on this success, scientific research and collaboration are aimed to be facilitated by TAJA, promoting a deeper understanding of tropical ecosystems and corridor ecology. By providing essential facilities and support, scientists are empowered to conduct effective research in our region.
Additionally, a commitment is made to promoting socially impactful studies alongside conservation science, fostering cooperation among communities, businesses, government, and NGOs. A long-term goal is held to encourage collaboration to achieve mutual goals, supported by like-minded individuals in the community.
Cultural Heritage
The area is inhabited by the Cabécar, a community that has preserved its culture and traditions for centuries, coexisting with the rainforest. Their lifestyle spans two realms: the 'near space' comprising their residences, gardens, and fields, and the 'far space' of the surrounding lush rainforest. With profound knowledge of the environment, the Cabécar excels in hunting, fishing, and gathering various plants for sustenance, medicine, crafts, and construction materials.
Living in remote settlements, the Cabécar occasionally ventures out to access goods and services not found in the forest. The challenges of distance hinder trade, employment, and communication with the external world. By sharing their culture, they tackle these obstacles while preserving their distinct way of life. Visitors can partake in guided walks to the local village, witness traditional huts, interact with inquisitive children at the school, learn forest wisdom, and techniques, and engage in archery using traditional bows.
Sustainable Tourism
Guests are drawn to this place to experience adventure and relaxation. The river and forest's overwhelming beauty sparks a natural curiosity in many individuals about how natural harmony can become more integrated into daily lives and how the remaining wild places can be protected.
An insight into the world of fascinating creatures is given to adventurers, including their behaviors and the beautifully complex relationships between them. All life here is interconnected with the wider world. Ave Sol River Sanctuary combines the exotic, the endangered, the primal, and the untouched, providing a spectacular and powerful space for understanding the place in the world and how to coexist in harmony.
At Ave Sol, environmental education is seen as one of the best tools to create a cultural shift towards environmental sustainability. The educational field trip program, available on the three-day trip, is pursued to make guests become field biologists for the day. Gustavo Castro, the Scientific Director, shares his expertise to take participants behind the scenes of a scientific study. The equipment used and the research taking place are explained, contributing to the rich tapestry of knowledge. Encountering Gustavo in his natural rainforest habitat, patrolling his territory, and contemplating deep mysteries of science, is a possibility if one is fortunate.
Acknowledging that the education program is a small step towards a challenging goal, efforts are made to expand the program as resources and networks grow. Balancing economic growth with long-term sustainability poses important challenges on a local level for the community. Targeted education projects will play a crucial role in moving forward. Deep gratitude is expressed to guests for empowering the pursuit of these programs with their patronage.
Beyond expectations! Then again we weren't sure what to expect. Lovely stay at the lodge, met other like-minded travelers (many had their trips planned by Adventure Life) and the owner was a gracious hostess. It felt like you were one happy family, visiting with a favorite aunt.
Nancy Sin
TrustScore 4.8 | 254 reviews
TrustScore 4.8 of 5
Based on 254 reviews on
1 day ago
The holiday of a lifetime. The company is Alaksa-owned and thhat makes a big difference to the experineces you get i.e. meet genuine First Nations tribes people. The amount of wildlife was beyond my expectation, and seeing everything on sucha small, intimate boat made it even more spoecial and unique.
Liz O
1 day ago
Adventure Life covered all the details in planning our trip to Ireland. Any questions we had were answered immediately. Any trip glitches, which always happen when traveling, were resolved immediately. There were no worries, just fun!
Kathleen Weller
1 day ago
It was an outstanding, up-close, educational vacation of nature, culture, history, animals and geology! It was everything they promised! Binoculars were plentiful on the boat, but I'm glad I brought my own. Food was excellent. Rooms had black-out shades. Pack/wear multiple layers of clothing (I carried a small backpack when off the ship). Crew were delightful and very accommodating! Remember to jump FEET FIRST first when taking the optional polar plunge! Spend as much time outdoors as you are able and ENJOY!!!
Janet Dutton
6 days ago
Excellent travel advice and service
This is my second experience working with Adventure Life. I’m sold. Jess Heuermann is an experienced traveler and provides a lot of useful information when planning a trip. These are the questions I like to ask at the outset - What’s it like to go here, there, what would you suggest, what do people report, can we add any additional side trips? Jess took the time to answer my questions and seek additional information to share with me. Petchie Colina is outstanding in helping with travel logistics and final preparations. Adventure Life has excellent guides and offers private guides and small group adventures. We enjoyed the opportunity to talk with the guides and drivers to learn more about their countries, cultures and histories. A highlight was having the guides pick local restaurants where we could share meals together. Highly recommend.
Claire Cordon
1 week ago
Our six-day tour in Iceland went smoothly with one exception. We had asked for two rooms each night. Somehow we were booked with one room with three beds. It could not be fixed at the first hotel in Reykjavik because the hotel was fully booked. Once informed of the problem, however, Adventure Life rebooked for two rooms for the remainder of the trip. As an 85-year-old traveler, I appreciated that one could participate at different physical levels at many of the stops. Iceland is a great place to visit but on the expensive side.
