A pioneering eco resort since it opened in 1993, Pacuare is set in the middle of nowhere, and that is its best attribute; the rustic hideaway is ideal for adventurists looking to unplug and enjoy Costa Rica’s stunning topography.
Review
There are three ways to access Pacuare: hanging gondola, white-water raft or helicopter. The remote eco-lodge was one of the first of its kind when it opened in 1993, and since that time, has grown to include 340 acres of protected land, which reside within a much larger 25,000-acre swath of protected rainforest. While the resort has expanded, its heart and soul has remained the same; one of National Geographic’s Unique Lodge’s of the World, the minimalist Pacuare is a tree house–like playground focused on eco-friendly initiatives, the joyful simplicity of unbridled nature and adrenaline-pumping adventure.
Harmoniously set among the lush landscape are the 19 villas, spa, office (where there is WiFi) and main pavilion complete with the restaurant and bar. The resort is located along the banks of the Pacuare River, and the best rooms front the surging waters, making for spectacular views and a calming soundtrack in the evenings. However, those looking for peace and quiet should opt for one of the honeymoon suites, tucked higher on the hillside. Regardless, all the rooms—which are basic but comfortable—blend in with the environment thanks to touches like thatched roofs made by local carpenters, an open plan for natural ventilation and candle-lit rooms (although a few have electric lamps). All boast indoor and outdoor showers, and some even include an outdoor bathtub. As there is no communal pool, splurging on one of the villas with a spring-fed plunge pool is highly recommended.
The activities on offer at Pacuare encourage guests to engage with nature and explore the acres of land surrounding the property. Even the pampering spa does so, with open-air pavilions overlooking the river and local, natural products. There is a tireless roster of activities that includes white-water rafting, zip-lining, horseback riding, waterfall hikes and bird-watching tours, as well as socially conscious excursions like visiting the indigenous village nearby and learning about the resort’s sustainability efforts.
The restaurant serves simple but uber-fresh cuisine on the main patio overlooking the rushing Pacuare river (with much of the produce grown in the property’s garden). During lunchtime, guests can choose from one of four entrées (think grilled chicken and avocado salad with still-warm pita bread) before selecting their preferences for that evening’s dinner (in an effort to minimize waste). The most memorable culinary experience to book is a meal at The Nest, a dining platform set 60 feet in the air and reached via a nearly 400-foot long zip line. The pavilion, which holds four people, is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner (by candlelight).
Indagare Tip: The best way to reach the resort is via helicopter (a 30-minute ride from San José), and the most thrilling way to depart is by white-water raft. The raft ride to arrive is not nearly as impressive as the one to exit, and the car drive is bumpy and uncomfortable.
Who Should Stay
Pacuare immerses its guests in the jungle—so those who are reliant on unfailing WiFi, TVs and air conditioning should steer clear. If you can’t see yourself white-water rafting out of the resort (the most popular mode of departure), Pacuare is not the right place for you. The resort is best for those who want to spend a few adventure-filled days in a breathtaking setting. Because its location is so remote, the resort does not take children under 7.
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