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Seeking an adventure? Look no further. We’re smitten with Cartago, Costa Rica (a city about 15 miles east of the country’s capital, San Jose). It’s home to stunning waterfalls, lush hiking trails, the country’s largest volcano, and unforgettable cloud forest. We’d gladly set up camp at any of these places to stay in Cartago, from eco-lodging through to simple cabañas. Here are the coolest places to stay in Cartago:
Pacuare Lodge
If you’re looking for luxury adventure, look no further than this unique lodge and hotel. Indulge yourself with deep-tissue massages, fusion cuisine, and beautiful views. It’s a secluded property set amid exotic rainforest — and the best bit is the property is only accessible only by 4×4 and raft. It’s as much as of an adventure as it gets. The lodge offers all-inclusive plans that can provide transportation, activities, meals, and accommodation. You can opt to stay in a cabin with stunning views of the surrounding valley. Turrialba town center is about 30 km from the property, while Juan Santamaria International Airport in Alajuela is 90 km away. When you’re ready to explore, we recommend checking out the nearby Monumento Nacional Guayabo. The country’s spa services and landmarks are just some of the reasons Why You Should Travel Solo in Costa Rica.
Paraíso Quetzal Lodge
For the traveler seeking a remote getaway, check out Paraíso Quetzal Lodge. Located on 80 hectares, you’ll find yourself immersed in a land with more than 140 species, many of which are unique to the region. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot a quetzal, an infamously hard-to-spot but strikingly beautiful bird.
The lodge features wooden bungalows and a terrace with incredible views of the area’s cloud forest. The rustic bungalows come with basic necesities such as a coffee maker, wardrobe and a private bathroom with shower, and superior bungalows have cable TV and a hot tub. There’s also WiFi at the property — great for Instagramming your photos of the cloud forest. The lodge has an excellent restaurant with panormic views of the valley. You won’t want to leave!
El Salto Ecolodge
Get to know local hosts at this tranquil eco-adventure lodge that has breathtaking views, complete with an outdoor jacuzzi. These Airbnb hosts include a homemade breakfast in their pricing, and offer recommendations for excellent hiking spots within the area. The ecolodge offers stunning views of the nearby 300-meter El Salto de la Novia waterfall, and it’s in close proximity to lakes and historic ruins. There are hiking trails around the property and you can do activities such as river rafting, horse rides and swimming in hidden springs. And if you want to explore more of Costa Rica, why not check out one of the Best Beaches in Costa Rica?
Casa Mora Bed and Breakfast
Casa Mora offers bed and breakfast lodging in Cartago. It’s a simple B&B with clean rooms that have a TV, free WiFi and a private bathroom. Guests love the traditional Costa Rican breakfast that’s served up every morning. It’s just 14 km from the impressive Irazú Volcano, which is one of the country’s active volcanos. Its name derives from an Indigenous word which means “thunder and earthquake mountain” and it is the highest active volcano in Costa Rica, standing at 11,260 feet tall and 500 square kilometers base. The volcano is a popular destination for hikers. Base yourself at Casa Mora if you’re going to tackle the mighty Irazú.
Hotel Rio Perlas Spa & Resort
Hotel Rio Perlas Spa & Resort offers luxury accommodation in Cartago. It features an incredible swimming pool that’s fed by hot spring water, and there’s an onsite spa where you can kick back and relax with a variety of treatments. The hotel has clean, simple rooms, some of which have a television and a balcony. The property is surrounded by hiking trails and you can also sign up for a bird watching tour through the hotel.
Cabaña Vista Verde
Situated just 11 km from Jardin Botanico Lankester, Cabaña Vista Verde is a great choice if you like lush garden and simple cabaña accommodation. The cabaña offers free WiFi and a beautiful garden view. There are plenty of hiking trails surrounding the property, or you can head to the stunning Prusia Forest, which is part of the Irazú Volcano National Park.
Cabañas Villas del Roble
Cabañas Villas del Roble is situated in Cartago and it’s only a short drive from the stunning Jardin Botanico Lankester. The property has a lush garden and restaurant and terrace area. All rooms have their own balcony, private bathroom and television.