For those seeking an off-the-grid adventure steeped in natural beauty, exhilarating rapids, and warm hospitality, Rios Lodge on the Pacuare River in Costa Rica is a must-visit destination. Nestled deep in the rainforest and accessible only by raft, Rios Lodge seamlessly blends eco-conscious living with world-class adventure. My recent trip to this hidden gem delivered not just thrilling whitewater, but also an immersion into the heart of Costa Rica’s lush jungle and vibrant culture.
Arrival and Journey to Rios Lodge
My journey began with a flight from Phoenix to San Jose, followed by an overnight stay at the charming Parque de Lago boutique hotel. There, I met up with my travel partner, Angela Melzer, who will be hosting a family retreat at Rios Lodge in March of 2026. We met Vanessa Rusch, the friendly face of Rios Lodge (and Director of Business Development). Vanessa was our invaluable point of contact before and during our stay and specialized in keeping everyone informed and happy. Pura Vida. That evening, we enjoyed a welcoming dinner at a nearby restaurant, where we got our first taste of Costa Rican hospitality and began to hear the fascinating story behind Rios Lodge.
The following morning, after a delicious buffet breakfast of chorizo, eggs, rice, plantains, and fresh fruit, we set off on a two-hour drive to Turrialba. Along the way, our guide, Jorge, a naturalist and encyclopedia of local knowledge, shared insights about Costa Rica’s flora, fauna, and agricultural traditions. Upon arriving at the river’s edge, we were greeted with a colorful spread of fresh fruit and juice before gearing up for our rafting journey into the lodge.
The raft-in experience itself was nothing short of spectacular. Our guide, Oljer, provided a thorough safety briefing before leading us through an hour of Class I-III rapids. The post-rainy season conditions made for a swift and thrilling ride, punctuated by sightings of toucans, cascading waterfalls, and a pulley-operated cable car used by local tribes to cross the river.
Lodging and Amenities
Upon arrival at Rios Lodge, we were warmly welcomed by Arturo Oropeza, one of the four partners who have stewarded the lodge into its latest chapter. The accommodations, while simple, were comfortable and offered stunning views of the river. My room featured large screened windows, allowing the sound of the rushing Pacuare to lull me to sleep (light sleepers may want to bring earplugs if the river is running high).
The lodge boasts a variety of accommodations, from single and double rooms to family units and an innovative eco-hostel with shared spaces and a playful trampoline feature. Beyond the rooms, the property offers a stunning sun deck with hammocks, a spacious yoga/activity space, and an inviting natural waterfall pool perfect for relaxation or a post-adventure cool-down.
Adventures and Activities at Rio’s Lodge
The following day, we embarked on a morning nature hike, traversing a 100-foot suspension bridge that felt straight out of an Indiana Jones movie. We learned about the diverse flora and fauna, from howler monkeys to bullet ants, all while climbing nearly 800 steps built into the rainforest hillside.
Next came the unforgettable waterfall hike. With the recent rains, the cascading creek was in full flow, creating a series of natural pools and rock slides perfect for an afternoon of adventure. We climbed through the cool water, explored hidden corners of the jungle, and encountered exotic plants and wildlife pointed out by our knowledgeable guides.
The river zipline line tour was a definite highlight, providing exhilarating vistas of the rainforest along its eight-zipline course. Perfect for youth and adults alike, the zipline will definitely bring out your inner child. Don’t forget to holler!
Dining and Hospitality
The food at Rios Lodge was another highlight. Each meal was a feast, accommodating all dietary needs with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. From hearty breakfasts to gourmet dinners, the culinary team, led by Chef Luca, excelled at providing nourishing and delicious meals despite the logistical challenges of an off-grid location. The dining area also features a full bar, offering tropical cocktails and fresh fruit smoothies that perfectly complement the jungle ambiance.
The People Behind Rios Lodge
One of the most compelling aspects of Rios Lodge is its backstory. The lodge was originally purchased by Rafa Gallo, a pioneer in Costa Rican river conservation who played a pivotal role in protecting the Pacuare River from being dammed. Rafa’s son, Roberto, has continued his legacy, along with experienced adventure tourism partners Arturo Oropeza, Justin Rae, and Sam Drevo. Together, the fantastic four have reforested hundreds of acres of former farmland, ensuring that the Lodge remains a sanctuary for both adventurers and wildlife. You can read more about the Rios Lodge story and its many stewards here.
In addition to its revitalization of the land along the Pacuare, Rios Lodge operates entirely off-grid, filtering its own water, generating its own electricity, and sourcing all food locally. Every piece of equipment and construction material has been brought in by raft—a testament to the team’s dedication to sustainable hospitality.
Final Thoughts
Rios Lodge is more than just a place to stay—it’s an experience. From the thrilling rapids and breathtaking scenery to the deeply rooted conservation efforts and welcoming community, it offers a rare combination of adventure, relaxation, and environmental stewardship. While the accommodations are not luxury by traditional standards, they provide everything needed for a comfortable and immersive jungle retreat.
For paddlers, nature lovers, and adventure seekers, Rios Lodge is a destination that delivers on all fronts. Whether you’re looking to tackle the Pacuare’s rapids, connect with nature, or simply unwind in an unparalleled setting, this off-the-grid paradise is well worth the journey.
Want a Paddling Life discount? Go HERE and enter the coupon code “PL10%off” for 10% off your next Rio’s Lodge booking.
Read more on the Pacuare Here:
— Story by Jessica De Feyter
