The Esquinas National Park, also known as the rainforest of the Austrians, is situated in the northeastern part of the region Golfo Dulce. With the help of donations – mainly coming from Austrians – the endangered rainforest is purchased. Part of the money raised is also used to fund and maintain the Esquinas Lodge and the La Gamba biological research station (further information can be found in the section ”projects”).

The Esquinas Rainforest Lodge is tucked away in the remote jungles of the Piedras Blancas National Park and is surrounded by thousands of acres of pristine wilderness. It provides a welcome refuge for nature lovers who want to experience a tropical rain forest in a quiet and undisturbed atmosphere.

Included Services:

• Waterfall Package: 3 night accommodation with Full Board at the Esquinas Lodge
• Guided Hikes
• Horseback or Mountain Bike Tour

Services not included:

• Alcoholic drinks
• Transfers to and from San Jose.

Note:

• Maximum baggage allowance of 12 kg per person

• The guided Mountain Bike tour is offered for up to four people

 
Day 1

Arrival from San José at the Esquinas Rainforest Lodge.

Upon arrival you can relax at the lodge and from a rocking chair on your porch observe the numerous bird species. The airy main house with its roof made ​​of palm leaves; large open plan living room, a library, a bar and a restaurant are also to places that you may choose to relax. Meals are prepared, preferably using the fresh produce from their own fruit and vegetable gardens.
A crystal clear jungle stream flows through the lodges natural swimming pool and beautiful tropical garden where many Monkeys, Sloth’s and Caimans can be seen.

Day 2

Today you take a guided hike through the Piedras Blancas National Park.

We walk through secondary forest and pristine primary forest, which has a tree density of 140 species per hectare, and more than 2500 different plant species.
You pass waterfalls, wandering palms, orchids, and bromeliads covering the trees, and passionflowers and vines.
There is also a good chance in spotting and observing colourful birds such as Toucans, Trogons, and Glowing Butterflies or even Monkeys, Agoutis and Coatis.
 

Day 3

Today you can take either a Horseback or Mountain Bike Tour

Horse riding experience is not required for this tour.

The most popular horseback tour is through the village of La Gamba and on to the Chorro waterfall, where you can climb up to a natural swimming hole deep in the rainforest. Or you ride to Valle Bonito, where you can swim and snorkel in the crystal waters of the river.

The Mountain Bike tour is also to the village of La Gamba and the Chorro waterfall or the tour to Valle Bonito. Both tours are flat and easy and are particularly recommended for families with children. They provide a good insight into the typical Costa Rican country life, also an excellent opportunity for bird watchers.
Snorkelling in the clear waters of the Rio Bonito is also possible.

Day 4

Following breakfast you start your return journey to San José.