Baula Lodge

Out of the 6 places, some of them 5* that I stayed in across Costa Rica, La Baula Lodge, now Valverde Glamping & Eco Lodge was my favourite and 5* in my opinion. It felt authentic and was so beautiful, the room was great and had air conditioning and has had a recent refurb. I felt very wary about going here after seeing the negative reviews but I am so glad I gave it a chance. The food was fantastic with great service from the excellent waiters, Andres on reception was amazing and an absolute credit to the Lodge. This place is a hidden gem, very laid back, clean and genuine. Pura Vida 🇨🇷

Would not stay here again Well…. We would not recommend staying here. 1: when you have booked your hotel, the hotel immediately sends out an email heavily encouraging you to booked transport with them (read: kind of makes you feel there is not another option to get there). We luckily didn’t due this as they charge you sobbelt of what you would pay if you buy your transport in La Pavona. 2. Their tours are also overpriced - charge about 10-15 dollars more per person pr tour for a less intimate experience than what you can find in Tortuguero. 3. They don’t make it clear anywhere that if you choose to stay here you will have to take a water taxi whenever you need to leave the hotel meaning you rack up extra expenses. They do offer a free shuttle 3 times a day but only away. Not back again. And only on certain times (11, 15 and 17hr hrs.). We would not have stayed here if we knew that was the case. 4. There was a gap under our door to our room, so each night we had big black bugs coming in under the door. We had to try and block it with towels. 5. facilities was old and worn, so was the pool. Pool was usable but really need a touch up.

We loved our stay at Baula Lodge. Stayed in an upgraded cabin with airconditioning and it was comfortable, charming and spotless. The location of the lodge is fantastic and the boat trip to reach it itself a highlight. We also enjoyed the gardens full of exotic flowers and birds. The swimming pool's temperature was colder than elsewhere in Costa Rica but fine in light of the tropic temperatures, and the views of the river from the pool area are fantastic. The food also was much to our liking. A spot and great base to explore Tortuguero national park. Staff was friendly and accessible. Wish we could have stayed longer.