Costa Rica Travel Guide Puntarenas
1. Rancho Pacifico, Osa Peninsula
Poolside at Rancho Pacifico
Why go: For dramatic rainforest scenery, an adventurous edge, and a strong sense of seclusion.
Getting there: Fly into San José, then connect to Palmar Sur or Drake Bay. From there, it's a bumpy (and scenic) ride into the mountains. A 4x4 is essential. You can also hire a car and drive yourself (3.5 hours from San José) or arrange for a taxi to pick you up as many of the international flights don’t arrive in time for an internal connecting flight.
Stay in: The Puma Suite, if you don’t mind the steep climb. It's worth it for the views alone.
What you'll love:
Open-air villas immersed in the jungle
Daily gourmet meals with local flair
Infinity pool that looks out over the canopy
Rainforest hikes, wildlife sightings, and morning yoga in the rainforest
Outdoor bath and double shower
Top tip: Pack good walking shoes and embrace the daily rainforest showers. They're short, but they make the forest shimmer.
2. Kura, Uvita
Why go: For sleek design, serious romance, and panoramic views of the Pacific.
Getting there: Fly into San José, then drive (approx. 3.5 hours) or take a local flight to Quepos.
Stay in: Any of the eight suites—they all come with epic views, glass walls, and spa-style bathrooms.
What you'll love:
Infinity Pool at Kura
Infinity pool that disappears into the horizon
Personalised service and attention to detail
Double mini-bars (wine lovers, rejoice)
Open-air dining and standout seafood
Spa treatments inspired by local ingredients
Complimentary shuttles to the National Park
Stunning sunsets
Great cocktails made by William
Top tip: Bring binoculars—you’ll want to watch toucans, monkeys, and sunsets from your private terrace. If you forget a set is provided in your room.
3. Vayu Retreat Villas, Puntarenas Hills
Pool at Vayu Retreat Villas
Why go: For peace, presence, and the kind of stillness that’s hard to find these days.
Getting there: Fly into San José and drive approx. 4 hours (or hire a driver). The final stretch is steep and best done before dark.
Stay in: Any of the four villas, all private, open to the elements, and perfect for slowing down.
What you'll love:
Rooftop hammocks for misty mornings
Hilltop infinity pool
Simple, beautiful meals by Chef Steven
Intuitive bodywork sessions with Anastasia
No schedule, no noise, just nature
Top tip: Skip the beach trip (though Playa Hermosa is nearby) and sink into the rhythm of the jungle. Most guests don’t want to leave.
What to Pack
Lightweight, breathable clothing
A good rain jacket (it is the rainforest)
Comfortable hiking shoes
Swimwear and sandals
Binoculars and a journal
An open mind and a slower pace
Backpack
Water bottle (the National Parks don’t allow plastic bottles)
When to Go
Dry season: December to April is sunnier and easier for travel. Green season: May to November offers lush foliage, fewer crowds, and short afternoon rains that add to the magic.
Final Thought Costa Rica’s wild side isn’t about roughing it. At these three jungle hideaways, luxury means immersion—in nature, in stillness, in something that feels wonderfully, wildly alive.
Stayed: March 2025