There are no walls, no doors, and no windows in the bungalows at La Loma Jungle Lodge. And that is the whole idea. All seven are dotted among trees, and the sounds of the jungle carry through each one, day and night. Reachable only by boat, this eco-luxury lodge occupies a rainforest hillside on Isla Bastimentos in Bocas del Toro, Panama.
Panama packs more variety into a small footprint than almost anywhere we’ve traveled. Need help crafting the perfect Panama itinerary? This 14-day route pairs the famous highlights with the quieter, under-the-radar stops. In a single trip, you get colonial history, off-grid Caribbean islands, wildlife-rich rainforest, and cool mountain hikes.
Somewhere along Panama’s Caribbean coast, roughly 365 islands and cays are scattered across a stretch of turquoise water, most of which are uninhabited. This is Guna Yala, known internationally as the San Blas Islands. A sailboat or catamaran is the most comfortable way to explore, and the only option to reach its most remote parts.
Pierella Ecological Garden wasn’t on our original itinerary, but sometimes the best discoveries happen when you’re open to detours. For anyone passionate about birds, wildlife photography, or who wants to experience Costa Rica’s incredible biodiversity up close, this private rainforest reserve in Sarapiquí has become our go-to recommendation.
Finca Rosa Blanca Organic Coffee Farm & Inn is a boutique eco-hotel in Costa Rica’s lush coffee highlands, just 20 minutes from Juan Santamaría International Airport. Featuring 14 individually designed suites, and blending art, architecture, and sustainability, it offers a unique experience recognized by Fodor’s Best 100 Hotels in the World.
This La Fortuna guide provides you with everything you need to know about one of Costa Rica’s most popular destinations. We’ve covered the practical essentials – where to stay, where to eat, and how to get there – along with information about the best activities, day trips, and some hidden gems that most tourists miss.
If you’re dreaming of a stay that’s off the beaten path – something a little more adventurous than your typical resort – La Caravana might just be the escape you’re looking for. Set on Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula, this laid-back beachfront retreat offers vintage charm, barefoot living, and a deep connection to nature, just steps from the ocean.
Costa Rica packs an incredible amount of biodiversity and natural beauty into a relatively small country, making it perfect for a two-week adventure. This Costa Rica itinerary combines thrilling wildlife encounters, refreshing waterfalls, and pristine beaches while mixing bustling tourist hubs with quieter, more authentic destinations.