February 2011
If you really want to escape the tourist crowd and live the ultimate
experience then spending a few days at
Rara Avis rainforest reserve is a must.
Just getting to the eco reserve is an adventure in itself. You first must take a
long and bumpy tractor ride on a dirt road to get there. It takes 3 -4 hours
from the main office in Las Horquetas to the Ecolodge.
Rara Avis is a true remote jungle lodge where you get to experience true
wilderness. It borders Braulio Carillo National Park and is situated at 700
meters(2300 feet) above sea level. The climate is moderate ranging from 18
Celcius to 32C. The reserve which covers an area of 1000 square kilometers of
forest is home to over 367 species of birds and also includes jaguars, ocelets,
tapirs, snakes, monkeys, coatimundis and many more.
Guided hikes occur every day. There is even an opportunity to go in night
hikes to spot nocturnal animals. Right on the property is a magnificent double
waterfall with large crystalline pools at the base, just perfect for that dip on
those humid hot days. There is no electricity only a generator that runs from 6
to 10 pm. Then then lights go off. This is when you really get to experience the
eco reserve as you fall asleep and awaken to the sounds of the jungle. The only
way to get around is by flashlight or lantern and you must where rubber
boots(they provide them) as the trails are very wet and muddy. The sleeping
arrangements are quite unique, basic cabins with bunk beds that have nets to
keep creepy crawly things out, a bathroom with shower, and an oil lantern for
lighting. Rara Avis is a pristine wilderness which provides visitors with the
opportunity to experience a true Costa Rican rain forest.
Rara Avis was just one of the places I visited on my tour of Costa Rica.
Read my full
16
day Costa Rica Trip Report.
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| The main lodge at Rara Avis |
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| The eating area where we were served 3 Costa Rican dishes per day |
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| Trekking through the jungle |
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| Butterfly enclosure on the property |
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| Butterfly markings looks like a snake head |
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| Rara Avis double waterfall is the perfect place to go for a swim |
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| The tractor/trailer that goes to Rara Avis. The road is often very bumpy and muddy. |
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