After a late night arrival in San Jose I was ready the following day for the first part of my trip. I was fortunate enough to be staying at the Pacuare Jungle Lodge right on the banks of the Pacuare River – one of the world’s premier white water rafting rivers. It is an absolutely stunning area. I have never seen anywhere like it! It is so quiet and peaceful and the only light provided after sunset is by candles and starlight which creates a magical environment along with the sounds of the jungle!
Pacuare Jungle Lodge, San Jose
The excitement starts even before you arrive as access to the lodge is by white water rafting down the river. Alternatively you can opt for a bumpy 4×4 ride by a scenic road trip. The raft in is quite calm 3 miles of rafting with the occasional grade II-III rapid and stopping off to swim in idyllic waterfalls. The raft out is when it gets really exhilarating ; 17 miles of grade III-IV rapids, so be prepared to get very wet or even go overboard (as I did)!
Vista Suite, Pacuare Jungle Lodge
The Pacuare Lodgeoffers comfortable accommodation and gourmet food; it would be a perfect place for a honeymoon or celebrate a special occasion. If you really fancy treating yourself some of the suites have private plunge pools and the honeymoon suite has its own suspension platform overlooking the river. It is an ideal place to spend a few days simply relaxing in the gorgeous grounds or taking part in other activities such as zip-lining, hiking to nearby waterfalls or an indigenous village as well as horse riding.
Sarah Loseby
Sunvil Traveller
