Pacuare Jungle Lodge

Pacuare constitutes one of the most important protected areas in the entire region. Its close proximity to the lowlands mixes with a high annual rainfall to create an ecosystem that is as complex as it is beautiful. Throughout much of this land flows the Pacuare River, rumored as being one of the finest rivers for white-water rafting in all of Latin America. The river’s path cuts through primordial rainforest, courses through dense vegetation and borders steep cliffs—unrivaled scenery for rafting excursions. In addition to rafting, visitors to this area can enjoy wonderful hiking and animal spotting, which can include jaguars, ocelots, monkeys, sloths and many other bird and animal species.

The aim of the Pacuare Jungle Lodge is to provide a place where their guests can enjoy the perks of nature without sacrificing comfort or sustainability. This eco-lodge is dedicated to protecting the natural environment, committed to using sustainable practices such as recycling, reforestation and solar-heating. In fact, the World Tourism Organization has recognized the Pacuare Jungle Lodge as being a worldwide example of sustainability and ecotourism.

These eco-friendly bungalows are nestled between the river and the Lodge’s own 740-acre (300-hectare) nature reserve. Nearly every accommodation features king size beds, private showers (both indoor and outdoor), spacious living quarters, and expansive decks that offer stunning views of the surrounding rainforest. All have palm-thatched roofs and hardwood teak floors, and come with beds that are decked out in orthopedic mattresses and Egyptian cotton sheets. There are several different rooming options, catering to honeymooners, families and couples.

There is a main lodge overlooking the Pacuare River—a two-story, thatched-roof structure with plenty of open-air spaces and places to relax. The ground floor holds the restaurant, which prepares three delicious, gourmet meals everyday using all natural ingredients. The lodge’s upper level is a spacious lounge/bar area set with wicker sofa chairs, board games, and plenty of colorful flowers. It’s an area that invites evening relaxation, as guests kick back and swap stories of the day’s adventures.

The lodge has its own massage therapist, and can coordinate a number of activities, including hiking, fishing, rafting and more. It can be arrived at by both river and ground transportation.