Costa Rica as a whole offers an amazing diversity of landscapes, flora and fauna. However, the southern Caribbean coast is simply unique! Its wilderness plays with ecological options and adventure activities, and is a perfect place to explore on a Costa Rica trip.
All this, without the overwhelming crowds found in other tourist destinations... After a four hour drive from San José, you will discover the "Pura Vida" of these Caribbean gorgeous beaches bordered by rich jungle. Depending on your mood, you will surf the "Salsa Brava" wave, dream endlessly in your hammock, delight yourself with a grilled lobster or enjoy Puerto Viejo nights with rhythm of Reggae.
Bungalows
Shawandha Lodge, located on the South Caribbean coast of Costa Rica, communicates with an incredible surrounding nature that helps to forget modern stressful life. For example, the hotel prefers to avoid using T.V and air conditioning but offers spacious bungalows nestled in a splendid tropical park. These show off a "neo-primitive" concept with an artistic combination of noble woods, bamboo and palm, as well as unique ceramic designs in each bathroom. Every bungalow has its own individual character and style. The traveler is invited to rest in the terrace hammock while contemplating the impressive vegetation: incredible variety of trees, plants and flowers with so many vibrant colors and aromas, while listening to unique sounds from toucans or sudden howlers from the little "Congo" monkeys.
Shawandha's hosts, Maho Díaz (fashion and interior design at Ibiza) and Nicolas Buffile (ethnological documentary maker and restaurant owner in Cataluña), both French, will make your vacation memorable.
Restaurant
Start with a cocktail under the huge palmed roof of the Rancho that shelters the hotel restaurant. Follow this with a creative dinner that combines tropical flavors with French recipes.
Activities
Guests will enjoy the swimming pool on the property, set in the lush tropical gardens. In addition, the lodge boasts excellent beach access. Relaxing under the coconut trees at the beach, let your eyes flow upon the different blues of the Caribbean Sea.
You can choose to relax on the beach, go for a bicycle ride to Manzanillo or take a boat for dolphin watching.
Take a guided tour through indigenous reserves or explore the Cahuita National Park. Be fascinated by its bio-diversity, such as the fantastic coral reef barrier that protects an amazing variety of fish. Fulfill your dream of horseback riding along deserted beaches, surfing Caribbean waves, or delight in scuba diving or snorkeling in the tranquil and majestic bay of Punta Uva.
There are many more activities: you can kayak on the river and ocean, explore the canopy at the top of the trees, take a quad across the forests of Talamanca or visit butterfly or iguana farms, botanical gardens, the museum of Caribbean culture and the ecological cacao workshop And why not? After an exciting day enjoy an aromatic massage in the privacy of your bungalow's terrace.
This was my first experience with Adventure Life - and I couldn't have been more pleased with the trip. The guides and local staff in both Buenos Aires and Uruguay were terrific - extremely helpful and accommodating. I really enjoyed meeting the friendly staff in Buenos Aires in person (I left my bags with them for the afternoon).
THEY GET BACK TO YOU PROMPTLY WITH ANSWERS TO YOUR CONCERNS OR QUESTIONS.
L Boerma
6 days ago
The Adventure Life staff, for me it's Franny, always listens to what I say about what kind of travel my wife and I want and expect. It never goes wrong. The motto at AL seems to be I will get back to you right away if not sooner. Requested changes and special requests are encouraged and acted on ASAP.
Dick Philpot
1 week ago
The trip planners at Adventure Life were very helpful and always replied to my inquiries right away. The excursions, accomodations, and local guides were excellent
Avi Argaman
1 week ago
Be sure to sign up for all the tours, otherwise you will be sitting on the boat since not all stops are moored at a dock. Some are anchored.