Aninga Lodge

Looking for an intense Nature encounter? These rustic bungalows built on stilts with connecting above ground pathways at Aninga Lodge are sure to deliver. Set in the wilds of Tortuguero, a remote region only accessible by boat or plane, the Lodge and its included tours will ensure you encounter an abundance of jungle wildlife. As you settle in, you’re likely to appreciate the minimum 2-night stay giving you time away from the sound of traffic and televisions to enjoy the sound of Howler monkeys and tree frogs instead. Hotel amenities include a full day restaurant, well equipped bar, inviting swimming pool, refreshing Spa (price not included in tour), as well as Wifi around the premises.

Tortuguero, home of Tortuguero National Park, has a rich biodiversity of wildlife like nowhere else on earth. Located on the northeast coast of Costa Rica, it features meandering rainforest river channels paralleling the beach front where Green turtles come to lay their eggs. The Lodge sits on a peninsula right in the middle so has access to both types of ecosystems. Your hotel package, with included meals and tours, will give you an unprecedented opportunity to explore the jungle whether from the front porch rocking chair of your spacious cabin or while cruising down the canals on a guided tour.

You’ll arrive at Tortuguero after taking an approximate one hour boat ride from the closet point accessible by road. It is important to note that there is a 25-pound maximum weight limit for luggage per person whether arriving by boat or by plane. The friendly staff at Aninga Lodge will welcome you with a refreshing cocktail and buffet lunch. Afterward, you’ll be taken on a tour of the small, colorful fishing village located at the beach. Later, dinner will be served in the Lodge restaurant. Your open air elevated casita will allow you to hear the native nightlife roaming around in the trees surrounding you, as well as on the ground foraging for food. Don’t be surprised if a Howler monkey wakes you up bright and early with its huge booming roar belying its comparatively small size. A complimentary coffee, tea or hot chocolate cart will come to your door allowing you to take your time waking up before going out to breakfast.

On your second day you can opt for a sunrise cruise down the canals to watch the wildlife come alive during the early hours at dawn. You can also explore the private jungle trails on your own or just relax in your cabin, around the pool or check out the many services at the Spa, available for an additional fee. There will be another opportunity to cruise the canals in the afternoon; plus in the evening, after a buffet dinner, you can go on a guided Night Hike Tour. From the last week in July to around the first week in October, Green sea turtles make their famous pilgrimage to the beach at Tortuguero to dig a nest and lay their eggs. During this time there is typically an optional guided Night Walk down to the beach to observe this timeless ritual.

Note: The Tortuguero National Park entrance fee is not included in your tour package. At the time of this writing, the cost for one adult is $17, the cost for a child between 5 and 11 years old is $5, and children under age 4 get in for free.

There are more animals, insects, reptiles and birds than would be possible to list but a few of the creatures most often seen in this area include: monkeys, sloths, iguanas, crocodiles, giant anteaters, and toucans.

A network of easy access above ground walkways connects each private bungalow to the restaurant, bar, and pool. As you approach your cabin, you will find two welcoming rocking chairs on the veranda, an excellent place to spend time relaxing and enjoying the amazing experience of just being where you are. Upon entering your rustic cabina, you’ll find a large floor plan with basic necessities, lovely bedding with breezy curtains, and you may notice there is no glass in the windows, only a fine wire mesh. You’ll have a panorama view of the lush vegetation around you and plenty of natural light during the daytime. All the essentials have been provided including many power outlets for charging up your rechargeables. Overhead is a ceiling fan and at the end of the room, there is a small bathroom with hot water showers. Note: No other room amenities should be expected. There is no television and no air-conditioning. And it does get hot in Tortuguero! Think eco-friendly minimalism or luxury camping! You’ll find these accommodations perfect for the purpose of connecting with Nature.

The next day you’ll have breakfast at the Lodge before setting out once more back to the modern world. Once on the road, you’ll stop for a provided lunch en route to your next destination.

Note: The timing of tour activities are subject to change so it is a good idea to ask when you are checking in what the plans are for the time of your visit. Sometimes tour availabilities depend on National Park regulations and weather conditions.