Over the years, Costa Rica has become known as one of the leading Central American countries for its sustainable approach to the environment. The country has done much to protect the natural world and the wildlife it harbors. As a result, there are many lodges that embrace the conservation ethos. Few do this in the context of luxury.
However, Trogon Lodge is definitely one that has deftly combined environmental conservation with jungle sumptuousness. A stay here is to luxuriate in cloud forest paradise while enjoying hotel gardens that will have you feel as if you are in a Lord of the Rings location. As such, this jungle lodge is at the top of the pack.
The Trogon Lodge Location
Situated in the Savegre Cloud Forest, this lodge is a 2 – 2.5 hour drive from San Jose, capital city of Costa Rica and where the majority of international flights land. It you happen to go during traffic congestion, the drive will be much longer.
This paradise is located at 7,000 ft. and has an abundance of centennial oak trees. It is also a place where the Resplendent Quetzal can be seen in the wild. Many consider it to be one of the world’s most beautiful birds. (Hint: Many photographer groups come here to photograph the Quetzal in its natural surroundings.)
The Hotel
This mountain lodge has boutique charm, with just 25 units, but with a luxury-in-the-forest overlay. Because it is located in a scenic valley between the mountains, expect to find nature-based activities available to fill your day.
The lodge offers day tours such as Quetzal Quest, Birdwatching Tour, Paramo Tour, and Cerro de la Muerte Hike.
The onsite restaurant embraces a Farm-to-table approach in food items, including freshly grown trout and fresh vegetables from their hydroponic garden. Also, the breads are home baked and presented with various marmalade made from local fruit in season.
Pizzas are exceptionally tasty, so be sure to try one during your stay. I had my pizza with shrimp as my protein, and highly recommend it for taste and flavor.
If you have any dietary preferences or restrictions, the restaurant does an excellent job in menus for vegetarians, gluten intolerant, vegans or other dietary restrictions.
Don’t forget to try some of the local drink specialties at the restaurant bar.
Our Room
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With over 12 standard modules (two different rooms per cabin) and one superior room, Trogon Lodge has an availability of 25 cabins. Be sure to book in advance, as this is very popular with locals as well.
Since this is an ecolodge, it makes sense that there is no WiFi in the rooms, only public facilities. Also, be advised that no pets are allowed.
Rates at Trogon Lodge, Costa Rica
For the best rates online as well as special packages, book directly with the hotel. Depending on day of the week, season and room type, rates run from around $142 to $242 per night. However, rates do include an ample breakfast that is served in their restaurant.
You can also check Booking.com or Hotels.com and compare prices.
The Bottom Line
This is a phenomenal place to stay for nature. And to rest, replenish, and re-nourish. However, some of the units are set higher on the hill and can leave you breathless in getting there. Remember, this is at altitude, about 7,000 feet. If this proves to be too strenuous, it is possible to ask management for units closer to the restaurant.
The rooms are quaint and cuddly, yet with country class.
Food is delicious and nutritious.
The entire lodge is located amongst some of the most beautiful, natural scenery, so take a camera in hand while roaming the picturesque property for the many photo ops.
Remember, that the cabins have no telephone, TV, or WiFi. If you need to connect, there is complementary WiFi in the restaurant. Also, no smoking in the rooms.
For reviews of other hotels in Costa Rica, check out these:
Santarena at Las Catalinas, Guanacaste
Karin Leperi Pezo is a writer and photographer living parttime in Peru and parttime in Nevada. She paid full fare for 2 nights with Aaron’s Photo Tours. All photos are by Karin Pezo, unless otherwise noted. As always, all opinions are those of the author and are based on an actual stay at the property.
