Located in the Limon province, Selva Bananito Lodge is a nearly four-hour drive from San Jose, serving as an eco-friendly haven dedicated to rainforest preservation. My Selva Bananito Reserve journey started with a drop-off at Salon Delia, where I was warmly picked up by Jurgen, the owner of the reserve. A 40-minute journey on a gravel road, though bumpy, provided a relaxing experience immersed in lush greens.
Upon reaching the Lodge, I was introduced to Carlos, my guide for the stay, who provided insightful briefings on the lodge's commitment to championing rainforest preservation. Embracing eco-conscious practices, the lodge sustains itself with Solar and Hydroelectric power and plants trees for each guest, contributing to carbon footprint offsetting. The primary aim of the reserve is to foster reconnection with nature, reflected in limited Wi-fi accessibility in specific areas, encouraging meaningful guest interactions. The farm-to-table dining experience adds to the lodge's sustainability initiatives.
During my full day at Selva Bananito Lodge, an early morning birding tour at 5 AM proved fruitful, with sightings of various wild birds like Toucans and Parakeets. Guided by the impressive 16-year-old expert Dario, the tour emphasized the significance of early birding for optimal sightings. Post-tour, a hearty breakfast awaited at the lodge.
.Toucan during our birding tour (Petchie Colina) Green Parakette (Petchie Colina)
The day's highlight involved a thrilling gyro-plane ride piloted by Jurgen, offering a panoramic view of the Bananito Reserve. The 20-minute aerial adventure was both unique and exhilarating, marking a memorable experience. After that, a horseback riding expedition around the expansive reserve, accompanied by a horse named Chile, who by the way, was the calmest horse I've met so far, provided an up-close encounter with nature. A hike led to an uphill platform for ziplining and rappelling, adding an adventurous twist to the day. Overcoming my fear, rappelling down a towering tree unveiled breathtaking views of the rainforest.
Gyroplane named Pegasus in Selva Bananito Reserve (Petchie Colina) Chile the horse (Petchie Colina) The tree that we rappelled in Selva Bananito Reserve (Petchie Colina) A proud pose after the tree rappelling (Petchie Colina)
My Selva Bananito experience was truly remarkable and transformative, unveiling the intricacies of nature preservation. An enriching adventure like no other, it is an essential experience for anyone visiting Costa Rica.
Adventure Life took care of everything! All we had to do was show up when we were supposed to, which made our first trip to Costa Rica largely stress-free and incredibly fun. Our trip reps, Hannah and Mariethony, were helpful and responsive, getting back to us by email usually within a few hours. Our accommodations were all great, and we got incredibly blessed with some absolutely stellar guides and drivers.
Our Jungle & Beach trip was an excellent balance of adventure and rest. We got to try out a lot of different activities, including snorkeling, hiking, white water rafting and kayaking, while also partaking of some rest around the pool or by the ocean. We enjoyed seeing and exploring the beautiful Caribbean side of the country.
Joy Knowles
2 weeks ago
The company made our adventure trip hassle-free, and a lot of fun! I will definitely be using them again
Carolena F
1 month ago
For our first trip to Costa Rica, Adventure Life designed a tour that meets the interests, ecological and adventure, of our party; but also takes into account our physical limitations sine we are all septuagenarian. We are looking forward to the trip.
John Zent
1 month ago
COSTA RICA a trip of a life time travelling round this beautiful country. All went like clockwork even when the weather was against us and all transfers seemed to be part of the holiday not a chore. Would definitely use Adventure Life again having previously used them 20 years ago!!
Cynthia Calton
1 month ago
Our Costa Rica trip was amazing! Kassandra planned everything and the excursions, hotels, overall organization were outstanding. Everything worked out smoothly, the excursions guides were knowledgeable allowing us to see so much of the fauna and flora of the country. The hotels were great as well, all in fantastic locations and with beautiful views.
