Playa Cativo Rainforest Hotel Review

This weekend, a fellow Costa Rica Expert, Grethel, and I checked-in to the newest property in the Osa Peninsula region – Playa Cativo Lodge. We were dazzled by everything, the perfect mix of adventure and luxury (especially the remote pristine location in Golfo Dulce). The water is crystal clear and the property is surrounded by Piedras Blancas National Park with prime wildlife and birding everywhere.

The Gulfo Dulce from our Nature Air flight into Puerto Jimenez

Hotel Highlights

Playa Cativo is a class act with a very well trained staff executing extremely personal and friendly service that rivals any luxury hotel. When traveling to a remote rain forest lodge many of our clients think they need air conditioning, but this is a perfect example of a location where you don’t need or want it! It was amazing to sleep with the sounds of nature that surrounded you. Another thing to mention is Playa Cativo runs on 100% clean energy with hydro-electric power and solar panels, they take sustainability very seriously.

Welcome to the jungle! – Playa Cativo beach

Playa Cativo Hotel Activities

Our experienced guide, Gerardo, took us early morning bird watching and was a pro at taking photos through his telescope (on one short hike we saw over 40 species). He also guided us to Playa Cativo’s organic farm with tons of wildlife spotted including very active howler monkeys, took us kayaking, hiking to a beautiful waterfall and artisanal line fishing. We could have used a few more days to do some yoga, visit the wildlife sanctuary and botanical garden and try the stand-up paddle boards.

Toucan through the telescope with our guide, Gerardo

Cuisine

Chef Victor was incredible. The exquisite culinary creations (inspired from all regions of Costa Rica) were presented in a heartfelt way with daily recommendations and special treats. His ceviche is out of this world. The diversity of culinary options are quickly expanding in Costa Rica with many top chefs being imported from all over the world. Stay tuned to our travel blog for more information and profiles of some of our favorite chefs including Victor from Playa Cativo!