Fodor's Expert Review Bosque del Cabo

Road to Carate, Cabo Matapalo, Puntarenas, Costa Rica Fodor's Choice

Atop a cliff at the tip of Cabo Matapalo, this lodge has unparalleled views of the Golfo Dulce merging with the endless blue of the Pacific, as well as 750 acres of primary forest, home to plenty of monkeys and peccaries, as well as the occasional puma and ocelot. A network of nine trails meander past creeks and pools. Deluxe thatch-roof cabins have king-size beds, and some have a loft with a single and double bed for families, along with private garden showers with hot water. Two cabins with two bedrooms are ideal for families. Decks are perfect for sunning by day and stargazing at night. A suspension bridge through the forest links the main lodge with two more thatch-roof, rustic cabins set in a tropical garden that is great for bird-watching. Per-person rates also cover the excellent meals, including wood-fired pizzas, served in a restaurant overlooking a garden alive with hummingbirds by day and serenaded by a chorus of frogs at night. Solar- and hydro-powered generators provide light to read by, and with the ocean breezes you won't miss air-conditioning. Expert resident guides are on hand to lead you along forest trails on foot, or you can climb a towering tree, fly in the canopy along a zipline, rappel down a waterfall, and soak in natural warm tidal whirlpools down on the beach. There's a yoga deck with a serene ocean view, and you can opt for a relaxing massage in your bungalow or in a forest glade. A new adults-only pool separates grown-ups from the family-friendly pool. Eco-conscious owners manage to keep the property in ship-shape order while maintaining the highest standard of sustainability.

PROS

  • luxurious bungalows
  • fabulous trails and guides
  • congenial atmosphere among guests at cocktail hour and dinner

CONS

  • steep trail to beach and back
  • limited electricity supply
  • rates do not include $40 round-trip transfer fee per person

QUICK FACTS

Resort
$$$$

HOTEL INFO

Phones: 2735–5206 | 4070–2025-at lodge

HOTEL DETAILS

18 units
Rate Includes: All-Inclusive

What’s Nearby