Tortuguero Pachira Lodge

Hotel Inspection October 29th -30th, 2011

A Prehistoric Wonderland to be discovered!

I started my trip from the Morazan Park in Downtown San Jose. The tour bus had large windows and plush seat with a lavatory in the back. We wound our way out of San Jose and into the national park Braulio Carrillo. Words can't describe the beauty of this park. It is comprised of ancient volcanoes and rugged mountains that are still rising from the collision of tectonic plates far below. It is one of the last places on the planet where no humans have fully explored. New species of wild life and plants are still being discovered in this park and the bio diversity is among greatest on Earth. I almost expected to see a T-Rex pop its head out of the jungle at any moment!

A River Runs Through It

I really loved the boat ride which started on the Parismino Rio. The boat seated about 50 people and had a canopy top which came in handy as it started to rain. We were whisked down the river as we passed by small fishing villages and farms. Civilization was starting to give way to the jungle as we approached the California Canal. The unbelievable jungle with its lush vegetation provided the perfect habitat for the multitude of animals, reptiles and birds which lined the banks of the California Canal which lead into the Halova Lagoon. We exited the lagoon and started down the Black Canal which is the boundary of Tortuguero National Park.

Garden of Eden

We wound our way through the canals of Tortuguero National Park and it looked like something out of Apocalypse Now. I saw cayman, macaws, egrets, wild turkeys,lizards, river otters, and so many different species of plants and birds that I lost count. It really looked like the Garden of Eden. We entered the Tortuguero Lagoon and on its banks lie the town of Tortugero and the various resorts and lodges of the area. We went directly to Pachirai Lodge and were greeted by a warm reception of Caribbean music and tropical drinks. The beautiful turtle shaped pool had a waterfall that beckoned me to enter.

I Will Return!

The Pachira Lodge property is huge with lighted paths which meander through the lush vegetation to the pools, dining area, spa, and cabins set deep into the tropical jungle. My room was well appointed with two queen sized comfortable beds and a large bathroom with a shower. But who wants to stay in the room when there is kayaking, fishing, zip lines, and nature tours on boats that explore this pristine area. The staff and tour guides were exceptional and the food was authentic and bountiful. I loved my trip and now see why everyone who goes to Tortuguero says its the best part of Costa Rica!