Hotel Bougainvillea | San Jose
Hotel Bougainvillea is located in an award-winning botanical garden not far from downtown San Jose. Accommodation is available in comfortable guest rooms which feature modern amenities including Wi-Fi, work desk, and an LCD TV. The hotel features the Vitrales Restaurant which serves traditional Costa Rican and international cuisine in a relaxed environment. Many facilities are available at the hotel and include a fully equipped gym, tennis court, swimming pool, conference room, and spa.
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Property Facilities
Bar, Business Centre, Internet Access (Complimentary), Pool, Restaurant, TV Room
Room Facilities
Complimentary Wi-Fi, Fridge, Laundry Service (Available), Tea / Coffee, Television
Available Services
Airport Shuttle (Available), Laundry Service (Available), Room Service, Travel Desk
Activities Nearby
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Your Stay
1 Night
Full Board - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch
Fast Facts
Hotel
Laguna Lodge Tortuguero | Tortuguero National Park
Laguna is an eco-touristic lodge, located in Tortuguero in the northern Caribbean of Costa Rica. The area has amazing rivers, lakes and wetlands that shelter a lush jungle of primary forests and exotic plants.
The lodge is built on a narrow strip of land, 650 feet wide, between Tortuguero´s main lagoon and the Caribbean Sea. Its rooms, reception, restaurant, bar and swimming pools are distributed amidst six acres of wonderful gardens with amazing views of the lagoon and direct access to the beach.
Since 1990 Laguna Lodge has been growing to become the leading hotel in the area for its infrastructure, friendly staff and its concern for nature and the community.
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Standard
Rooms are designed to ensure a pleasant stay: private bath, ceiling fan, reading lamps, safety deposit box and an ample walkway with rocking chairs out front that will allow you to admire the sounds and colors of nature.
Property Facilities
Bar, Conference Centre, Internet Access (Complimentary), Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Restaurant, Vegetarian
Room Facilities
Balcony / Deck, Electrical Outlets, Fan, Laundry Facilities, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Wheelchair Friendly
Available Services
24-hour Security, Disability, Laundry Service (Available)
Activities on Site
Bird Watching, Garden Tours, Natural History Tours, Walks (Guided), Walks (Self Guided), Wildlife Tours
Activities Nearby
Beach, Bird Watching, Boating, Child Friendly Activities, Cultural Tours, General Sightseeing, Hiking, Kayaking / Paddling, Natural History Tours, Walks (Guided), Wildlife Tours
The tour inside the canals of the National Park is the most important activity of your trip to Tortuguero.
You'll enjoy the lush biodiversity of flora and fauna in this ecosystem which is the most complex and dynamic of Tropical America.
Accompanied by your naturalist guide and an experienced boatman in the area, you will appreciate the amazing variety of animal species the National Park shelter. Three species of monkeys, 400 species of birds, hundreds of reptiles and amphibians, such as iguanas, crocodiles, alligators, turtles... And a large number of mammals.
The boat tour is in the mornings, the duration of the tour is two hours approximately.
By visiting the colorful Tortuguero town, it is possible to appreciate the lifestyle of its people, and learn a little of their customs and daily life.
It was an ancient place of hunting, fishing and agriculture of different ethnic groups such as the Miskito, the Miskito-Zambo and Afro-Caribbean population.
You will be able to learn about the history, the development of sawing wood during the mid-twentieth century up to the present where tourism has helped raise awareness about the preservation of nature.
During the tour, you will visit the town school, the National Park facilities, churches, stores, the recycling plant which is one of the most efficient plants in the country and the community center that houses the Symphonic Band project.
The tour starts at the Lodge, where you take the boat to the village of Tortuguero. You will walk along the town accompanied by a guide with a wide knowledge of the region.
Visit the botanical garden of Laguna Lodge, a quiet place to learn and experience the complexity and beauty of the flora of the Caribbean. Plant families have been placed in strategic places for you to easily identify the species by their unique characteristics of each group of plants. You will also learn some of the medicinal uses and commercial pharmaceutical products made from plants. The garden consists of a network of trails within the exuberance of an intact forest, which will take you to a marvelous and overwhelming experience.
The awakening tour is the perfect time to enjoy a wildlife that wakes up with the first rays of sun. The singing of animals to start the day, the wind sound and the absolute magic that brings the awakening in the middle of the jungle.
The tour is a 2 hour boat ride in the National Park departing between 5:30 and 6:00am, lasts two hours.
Night walk to witness sea turtle nesting.
Tortuguero National Park is the most important nesting site of the green turtle (Chelonia mydas) of the Caribbean coast in Tropical America.
Four species of sea turtles nest on Tortuguero.
The tour is available only during the spawing season, from the 1st of July to October 31st.
Walk on the beach to witness the birth of sea turtles. The guide will take you to an early or late walk along the beach to witness this spectacular event between September and November each year.
Laguna Lodge has direct access to the beach in case you want to make the trek on your own.
Enjoy a kayak adventure through the wonderful Tortuguero National Park.
A unique opportunity to be in contact with nature among the imposing biodiversity that this spectacular destination offers.
Accompanied by a local guide, you will be able to appreciate the tropical rainforest on a tour that will last approximately 2 hours through exclusive water trails for canoes and kayaks.
Maximum elevation in the Caribbean area with 119 meters above sea level. It stands out for its landscape, as it is the only prominence visible for tens of kilometers around.
Tortuguero Hill is covered by lush vegetation, inhabited by various species of mammals, reptiles and birds.
The walk can be scheduled for the 3 days and 2 nights package and it lasts 1 hour and 30 minutes approximately, where you can enjoy its trails and climb to the highest point of this great natural attraction.
Laguna Lodge
It is an open building with a wonderful view, decorated with rustic logs brought from the beach.
Our chefs will make you enjoy three delicious buffet meal times, highly recommended in our guests comments.
Laguna Lodge food is simply delicious.
Your Stay
5 Nights
Full Board - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch
Fast Facts
Lodge
Spoken Languages: English, Spanish
No. Rooms: 110
Special Interests: Adventure, Birding, Flora, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Wildlife
Hotel Arenal Paraíso | La Fortuna
Located in La Fortuna in Costa Rica’s Alajuela region, close to Arenal Volcano, Hotel Arenal Paraíso places guests near rainforest experiences, canopy tours and walking trails, along with opportunities for horse riding and wildlife observation. The rooms feature private bathrooms, air-conditioning, and cable televisions. Dining is provided through on-site restaurants serving regional and international cuisine using local ingredients. Leisure facilities include thermal mineral pools, a spa offering body treatments, landscaped paths and areas designed for relaxation.
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Your Stay
1 Night
Dinner, Bed and Breakfast
Fast Facts
Other
Alternative Accommodation
Chayote Lodge | Bajos del Toro
Set amidst lush coffee plantations and surrounded by cloud forest in the mountains of Costa Rica’s Central Valley, Chayote Lodge is a boutique mountain retreat offering an authentic connection with the country’s landscapes, culture and way of life. Located less than an hour from San José International Airport, it is an ideal first, last or midway stop on a journey through Costa Rica.
Inspired by the traditional coffee receiving stations known as Recibidores, the lodge blends contemporary comfort with the warmth of local hospitality and sweeping views of the surrounding mountains, the Central Valley and four volcanoes.
Its twelve individual bungalows provide a peaceful setting to unwind and reconnect with nature. Guests can explore the region’s rich coffee heritage, enjoy authentic home cooking, discover nearby cloud forests and waterfalls, or take part in birdwatching, yoga and other nature-based experiences.
More than just a place to stay, Chayote Lodge invites travellers to experience the essence of Costa Rica through its people, traditions, flavours and natural beauty, offering a genuine sense of Pura Vida away from the beaten path.
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Chayote Lodge Virtual Tour
Very spacious room with capacity for 2 people in king size bed, incredible views of the central valley with amenities that make it comfortable and perfect for resting.
Very spacious room with capacity for 2 people, in 2 queen beds, incredible views of the central valley with amenities that make it comfortable and perfect for resting.
Very spacious room with capacity for 2 people in king size bed, incredible views of the central valley with amenities that make it cozy and perfect for resting.
Living room with artifical fireplace, bathtub with spectacular view of the forest and ample shower space.
Property Facilities
Accept Credit Cards, Activity Desk, Baby Sitting, Bar, Internet Access (Complimentary), Internet Access, Malaria Free, Restaurant, Secure Parking
Room Facilities
Balcony , Balcony / Deck, Bath Towels, Bed Linen, Clothes Press, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Electrical Outlets, Fireplace, Fridge, Heater, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Lounge, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Shower, Smoke Alarm, Tea / Coffee
Available Services
Airport Shuttle (Available), Credit Card Facilities, Laundry Service (Available), Meal on Request, Room Service
Activities on Site
Bird Watching, Cooking Courses, Fine Dining, Massages, Natural History Tours, Walks (Guided), Walks (Self Guided)
Activities Nearby
Adrenaline Activities, Bird Watching, Cooking Courses, Cultural Tours, General Sightseeing, Hiking, Historical Tours, Horse Riding, Natural History Tours, Tree-top Canopy Tours
Embark on an exclusive coffee immersion at our private estate nestled amidst lush coffee plantations. Join Don Carlos, Doña Maria, and their family for an intimate encounter with Costa Rica's rich coffee culture. Just 10 minutes from our Lodge, this tranquil haven offers a respite from bustling tourist spots. Experience authenticity as you stroll through our scenic farm, delving into the art of coffee production. Gain insights into the beverage's journey from plant to cup, culminating in hands-on preparation of a delightful brew, the traditional Costa Rican way. Our hallmark is a heartfelt welcome, set against the backdrop of a serene locale, where the air is infused with freshness. Discover an unforgettable odyssey that encapsulates the essence of coffee, replete with warmth, education, and unparalleled memories.
Difficulty level: Easy
Duration: 2.5 hours
This immersive two-hour sensory experience goes far beyond a simple coffee tasting. It is a hands-on introduction to the art and science behind an exceptional cup of coffee.
Guided by an expert coffee cupper and barista, participants will discover the professional Coffee Cupping process used to evaluate high-quality coffees around the world. The experience begins with observing the beans and exploring their dry fragrance before moving into the brewing stage, where guests learn how aromas evolve once hot water is added.
Participants will then perform the traditional “breaking the crust” technique, releasing the concentrated aromas trapped at the surface of the cup before tasting begins. Using professional cupping spoons, they will sample different coffee profiles through the classic slurping technique, allowing the coffee to fully coat the palate and reveal its complexity.
Throughout the experience, guests will learn how to identify and evaluate key attributes such as acidity, sweetness, body, balance, cleanliness, and aromatic notes in each sample, while discovering how cultivation methods, roasting, and brewing techniques directly influence the final cup.
More than just a tasting, the Coffee Cupping experience offers an authentic and memorable connection to the world behind every cup of coffee.
Difficulty level: Easy
Duration: 2 hours
Embark on an awe-inspiring journey to Toro Amarillo Waterfall, a spectacular natural wonder surrounded by the lush cloud forest of Costa Rica. The adventure begins with a leisurely hike through a rich ecosystem of towering trees, vibrant plants, exotic flowers, hummingbirds and diverse flora and fauna.
As the trail unfolds, prepare for an exhilarating descent towards the magnificent waterfall. Approximately 300 steps lead you deep into an ancient volcanic crater, revealing spectacular rock formations adorned with striking colours and offering ever-changing views of the falls.
Several strategically placed observation points provide opportunities to admire Toro Amarillo from different perspectives. Initially impressive from above, the waterfall reveals its true scale and beauty as you descend, with the surrounding volcanic landscape creating a dramatic natural setting.
Along the way, discover the distinctive mineral composition of the water and the geological features that make this place so remarkable. The combination of cloud forest, volcanic rock, cascading water and abundant wildlife creates an intimate encounter with Costa Rica’s natural beauty.
A memorable experience for travellers seeking adventure, nature and spectacular scenery, Toro Amarillo offers a chance to explore one of the country’s most impressive waterfalls away from the beaten path.
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 6.5 hours
Located at an altitude of approximately 5,400ft (1,650m) and surrounded by lush cloud forest and coffee plantations, Chayote Lodge gardens are a haven for birdwatching. Here colorful flowering plants attract several species of hummingbirds, whilst toucans can often be seen flying by. Walking in and around the lodge's property it is possible to spot several species including the scintillant hummingbird, blue-crowned motmot, keel-billed toucan as well as parrots, tanagers, warblers, flycatchers and more. Enjoy our one hour morning birdwatching tour as our specialist birding guide helps to point out some of the local species in this area.
Difficulty level: Easy
Duration: 1 hour
This full day tour is a must for birdwatchers with chances to see various spectacular highlight species in the space of just a few hours. At around 06.30 in the morning travel 1hr to the quiet local cloudforest village of La Paz de San Ramon, located at an altitude of approx 1,200masl, where a local farm owner protects the habitat of both the beautiful iconic bird of the cloudforest, the resplendent quetzal (seen here between mid-Feb and mid-May) and the striking three wattled bellbird (between Feb and June).
You will spend time searching for both birds on foot and by vehicle in this peaceful verdant landscape, with opportunities to also spot species such as the white-eared ground sparrow, ornate hawk eagle, white hawk, Costa Rican pygmy owl and the sunbittern (which is likely to be nesting along the riverbanks at this time). Time allowing, there will also be chances to visit a tract of forest where the long-tailed manakin lek can be found, as well as the local farm owner’s gardens at his home which attract a variety of local species of tanagers, chachalacas, thrushes, hummingbirds etc.
Difficulty level: Moderate
Duration: 8 hours
Embark on a journey through two of Costa Rica’s most cherished traditions: Coffee & Cuisine, woven into one authentic experience. Begin your morning just minutes from the lodge at the welcoming home of Don Carlos and Doña María, where lush coffee plantations set the stage for an intimate immersion into the world of coffee. Stroll through the scenic farm as you uncover the story behind each bean, from cultivation to roasting, and take part in the hands-on preparation of a rich, traditional brew.
As the morning unfolds, continue along the same countryside route to the home of Doña Luz, where the aromas of a home-cooked meal await. Here, the experience shifts into the heart of Costa Rican gastronomy, as you step into a warm kitchen to discover traditional flavors and techniques. Guided by her expertise, prepare a classic picadillos using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, learning time-honored recipes passed down through generations.
This combined experience is a celebration of connection between land, people, and culture. From the freshness of the coffee fields to the comforting flavors of a shared meal, it offers a genuine glimpse into rural life, filled with warmth, and unforgettable moments.
Difficulty level: Easy
Duration: 5 hours
Enjoy this immersive journey through the heart of Costa Rica's esteemed coffee culture. Naranjo, revered for over two centuries as a hub for exquisite coffee production, invites you to delve into its rich heritage.
Our excursion commences at the Else Kientzler Botanical Garden in Sarchi, a captivating showcase of native and tropical flora. Spend an enriching hour exploring the diverse array of plants before we venture to the Basilica de las Piedades, a testament to Naranjo's resilience following earthquakes in the 1940s.
Next, we'll meander through the vibrant Municipal Market, where locals procure fresh produce. Our guide will unravel the tapestry of local fruits, sharing insights into their usage in household recipes. Lunch beckons at one of the market's sodas, treating you to authentic flavors.
Post-lunch, prepare for an in-depth exploration of coffee's journey from seed to cup. Visit a local family-owned coffee farm, where rolling hills form an idyllic backdrop. Engage in an immersive experience, learning about every phase and stage of coffee cultivation while savoring the beauty of this unique landscape.
Join us for a day filled with botanical wonders, cultural insights, and a deep dive into the world of exceptional coffee.
Embark on an unforgettable day excursion to Poás Volcano, one of Costa Rica’s most remarkable natural attractions. Located in the Central Volcanic Mountain Range, approximately two hours from Chayote Lodge, this iconic volcano is renowned for its impressive crater and spectacular volcanic landscapes.
Enjoy a scenic drive through picturesque countryside before reaching the national park, situated at an elevation of 2,475 metres (8,124 feet) above sea level. Begin your visit at the informative museum, where engaging exhibits introduce the volcano’s geological history, volcanic activity and fascinating natural processes.
A short, accessible walk leads to the main crater viewpoint, where, weather permitting, you can admire the immense volcanic crater and its striking landscape. The experience continues with a walk towards Botos Lagoon, an ancient volcanic crater surrounded by lush cloud forest. Along the trail, discover the diverse flora and unique ecosystems that thrive in this high-altitude environment.
Throughout the excursion, enjoy panoramic views and gain a deeper appreciation of Costa Rica’s geological heritage and biodiversity. Combining nature, education and spectacular scenery, this experience offers a memorable opportunity to explore one of the country’s most fascinating national parks.
**Difficulty:** Easy
**Duration:** 8 hours
Painting a traditional oxcart wheel, famous in Costa Rica for its uniqueness. This is a traditional cartwheel painting workshop with an artisan artist from Sarchí, a town near Chayote Lodge where the oxcart is an icon as it also is a Costa Rica national symbol. Through this interactive experience guests will learn the history of the Costa Rican oxcart, the unique tradition in the world of painting them in such a colorful way and the reason that gave birth to that tradition. Each participant is given a wheel with the drawing lines marked, the artist teaches them how to paint it and the color combinations that can be used to achieve a better result. Participants preserve their own memory of a unique experience.
Includes: Accompaniment of the artist, painting materials, drawn wheel for painting, English-speaking guide to translate for the artist, coffee and snacks.
Difficulty level: Easy
Duration: 2 hours
xplore the biodiverse highlands of Costa Rica's central valley on an exhilarating hiking expedition. Nestled between the esteemed Poas Volcano National Park and Juan Castro Blanco National Park, the Zona Protectora El Chayote serves as a vibrant biological corridor.
Spanning 841 hectares, this protected zone encompasses a tapestry of spring-fed water sources, lush pasturelands, primary and secondary forests—a haven for diverse bird species. Our hiking adventure commences from Chayote Lodge, tracing local roads within this protected expanse, guided by an experienced guide.
As we trek through this rich landscape, keep your senses alert for the fluttering wings and melodious calls of the avian inhabitants. The expertise of our guide ensures a captivating birdwatching experience, with over 200 species recorded in this biodiverse haven.
Join us on this hiking excursion to witness the symphony of nature within the stunning Zona Protectora El Chayote—an adventure that promises a deeper connection with the rich biodiversity of Costa Rica's central valley and beautiful landscape.
Difficulty level: Moderate
Duration: 3 hours
If you want a real authentic Costa Rican experience, then a visit to Viejillos is a must do on your wish list. Situated in the charming, artisan village of Sarchi , just thirty minutes from Chayote Lodge, this Sunday afternoon get together draws Tico’s & Tica’s from all parts the country.
Housed in a big old disco, the best Latino bands play to a lively, mixed crowd of all generations and backgrounds...with one mission in mind…Bailar! (to dance)… as only the Latino’s know how. From old Latin Classics to Merengue, back round to Salsa and then some Bolero, the huge dance floor is packed and twirling. You will dance, you must do…even if you don’t have the Latin hips…you won’t be judged, everybody is far too busy having the time of their lives. Live music blares, disco balls spin, neon lights flash, bicycles with fairy lights hang from the ceiling & couples laugh, spin, twirl & move with expertise. It’s dark, it’s hot, it’s steamy and it’s a whole lot of energetic fun!
Duration 4 hours
Operates Fri - Sat - Mon evenings & Sunday afternoons
Enjoy a visit to a local home and learn how the best Costa Rican food is prepared in the traditional way. Our experience begins. when Doña Elida shares with you her secrets to make the best Costa Rican meals, you can choose to take this tour for breakfast, lunch or dinner. You can learn how to make a gallo pinto on a wood stove, then make your own tortilla or cook your own fried plantains for the ultimate Costa Rican dish. If you prefer to take this tour for lunch, Doña Elida will teach you how to make a casado, with chicken and potato, salad accompanied by natural fresh. This is an authentic and delicious Costa Rican experience that you must live.
Enjoy different options of massages in the hands of professionals that will make you feel a moment of deep relaxation.
Reconnect with yourself and nature through a peaceful yoga session on our yoga deck, nestled in the heart of the forest. Surrounded by lush greenery, the soothing sounds of birdsong and the gentle rhythm of the natural world, this experience offers a moment to slow down, breathe deeply and restore your sense of balance.
Guided by a professional instructor, the session is suitable for all levels, including beginners. Through gentle movements, mindful breathing and relaxation techniques, you will release tension, improve flexibility and cultivate a deeper connection between body and mind.
As the forest awakens around you, enjoy the tranquillity of this unique setting, where fresh mountain air, birdsong and the beauty of the surrounding nature create the perfect atmosphere for mindfulness and wellbeing.
Whether you are an experienced practitioner or simply looking for a moment of calm during your travels, this yoga session offers a refreshing way to embrace the peaceful spirit of Chayote Lodge and the natural beauty of Costa Rica.
Duration: 1 hour
Difficulty: Suitable for all levels
Availability: Daily at 7:30 am
Quelites Restaurant
Located within Chayote Lodge, Quelites Restaurant offers a culinary experience inspired by Costa Rica’s rich gastronomic heritage, local ingredients and traditional flavours. Overlooking the lush mountains of the Central Valley, the restaurant provides a warm and welcoming setting where contemporary comfort meets authentic Costa Rican hospitality.
Our cuisine celebrates the freshness of locally sourced produce, seasonal ingredients and traditional recipes, thoughtfully prepared to showcase the flavours of the region. Guests can discover the essence of Costa Rican home cooking alongside a selection of international influences, all complemented by the surrounding natural beauty.
With its inviting indoor dining area and open terrace overlooking the landscape, Quelites is an ideal place to enjoy a leisurely breakfast, a relaxed lunch or a memorable dinner. Whether sharing a meal with family and friends or savouring a quiet moment after a day of exploration, guests are invited to enjoy genuine flavours and the warmth of local hospitality. Enjoy your favorite drink by the restaurant fireplce and cozy bar.
At Quelites, every meal is an opportunity to connect with the culture, traditions and culinary identity of Costa Rica.
Your Stay
3 Nights
Full Board - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch
Fast Facts
Lodge
Spoken Languages: English, Spanish
No. Rooms: 12
Special Interests: Adventure, Birding, Flora, Hiking, History & Culture, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing
