Yatama Ecolodge and Reserve

Yatama Ecolodge is my favorite jungle escape in Costa Rica. From the moment you arrive you are treated like family, and immersed in the beauty of the rainforest. It's the ideal location for those wanting to escape the party crowds, music, noise, and lights, and spend quiet nights surrounded by nothing but the sounds of nature. This was my second trip to Yatama, and even after 8 nights I wasn't ready to leave. I recommend at least 4 nights, but it's a great place to simply stay in one place. My first trip was 3 weeks and I felt completely at peace in the tranquility of the jungle. It's a great place for solo travelers, families, and people of all ages. Pedro and his hiking guides are fantastic at spotting wildlife, and the night hikes are fantastic. There are also early morning bird hikes and day hikes after breakfast. If you don't feel like hiking there is plenty to see around the lodge, just walking around the wooden walkways through the trees, or simply relaxing by the dining area, ponds, or on your deck. You will see plenty of wildlife. There's are nice covered lounging areas, as well as shelves of wildlife books to browse through. Pedro and his staff are fantastic, and the meals are delicious, with a beautiful view from your table. There is a nice variety of proteins, soups, fresh fruit, vegetables, fresh squeezed fruit juices, and desserts throughout the week. Tea, coffee, and water are available all day in the dining area. They are very accommodating with special dietary requests. I appreciate everything Pedro has done in his conservation of the rainforest, and making this place so special for others to enjoy. Thank you for all you do Pedro, and thank you for all the expertise you and your staff share about wildlife and nature. Most importantly, thank you for making everyone feel like family, and doing all you can to make our time there special.

Absolute top experience. Not easy to get there, but very much worth the effort. Pick up by jeep went efficient and communication is good. Pedro and staff are so lovely and run this hidden place with so much care. The cabins are simple but beatiful. As they are not completely closed you should not be afraid of a spider or some insects however. The food is also very nice (thank you kitchen staff!). Also Jeremy who does the guided tours deserves all credits. We did a night tour on which we so snakes, glass and tree frogs, tarantula, ... Also the day tour was great. Very much recommend Yatama.

This was one of the most exceptional hotels we’ve been so far. It’s located in the middle of the rain forest. The only way to get there is by being picked up at a secured parking area by someone from the lodge. The drive to the parking lot is quit bumpy but not really hard to drive on. Just watch out for road holes. From the parking lot it takes you approx 30 min to get there. Once you are up there it’s a little paradise. You get fullboard and the food is very good. If you get a chance book 2—3 nights up there. Pedrò, the owner is unbelievably dedicated to keep the rainforest balanced but still gives you the joy of experiencing the wild life with nightwalks and bird watching. We even got to see 7 green Aras (Great green Macaw) which was incredible. Pedro told us that he and is dad planted almond trees 20 years ago to make the Green Aras come back and it obviously worked. Pedro and his team are really great.