Rara Avis Rainforest Lodge and Reserve, Costa Rica

If you really want to escape the tourist crowd and live the ultimate experience then spending a few days at Rara Avis rainforest reserve is a must. Just getting to the eco reserve is an adventure in itself. You first must take a long and bumpy tractor ride on a dirt road to get there. It takes 3 -4 hours from the main office in Las Horquetas to the Ecolodge.

Rara Avis is a true remote jungle lodge where you get to experience true wilderness. It borders Braulio Carillo National Park and is situated at 700 meters(2300 feet) above sea level. The climate is moderate ranging from 18 Celcius to 32C. The reserve which covers an area of 1000 square kilometers of forest is home to over 367 species of birds and also includes jaguars, ocelets, tapirs, snakes, monkeys, coatimundis and many more.

Guided hikes occur every day. There is even an opportunity to go in night hikes to spot nocturnal animals. Right on the property is a magnificent double waterfall with large crystalline pools at the base, just perfect for that dip on those humid hot days. There is no electricity only a generator that runs from 6 to 10 pm. Then then lights go off. This is when you really get to experience the eco reserve as you fall asleep and awaken to the sounds of the jungle. The only way to get around is by flashlight or lantern and you must where rubber boots(they provide them) as the trails are very wet and muddy. The sleeping arrangements are quite unique, basic cabins with bunk beds that have nets to keep creepy crawly things out, a bathroom with shower, and an oil lantern for lighting. Rara Avis is a pristine wilderness which provides visitors with the opportunity to experience a true Costa Rican rain forest.

Rara Avis was just one of the places I visited on my tour of Costa Rica.

Read my full 16 day Costa Rica Trip Report.