What it's like
La Quinta has been welcoming guests in Sarapiquí since 1993, and we first wrote about it in 2015 as La Quinta Country Inn. It now goes by La Quinta Sarapiquí Lodge, at a new web address, and it was open and taking bookings in October 2026.
A Costa Rican family started the lodge on what had been the operations center of an orange farm. The main house became the reception, lobby and dining room, and the farm's other houses were remodeled into guest rooms. Around them, the family began a reforestation project. Today the 20 acres take in tropical gardens, regenerating farmland, a reforested area of native trees and old-growth forest along the river.
Sustainability
La Quinta holds Costa Rica's Certification for Sustainable Tourism at its highest level, 5 Leaves. In 2021 it also won a Bóscares award for its forest conservation work.
What you do here
The lodge organizes its activities into themes for families (Kinkajou Town), nature seekers, birders and those after a quiet stay. Expect garden and forest trails, frogs, birds and the river. Sarapiquí is also known for river rafting and for La Selva Biological Station, a short drive away.
Where it fits in a trip
Sarapiquí sits in the Caribbean lowlands north of San José, which makes it a handy 1- or 2-night stop on the way to Arenal, or between San José and Tortuguero. It's a gentler, less crowded alternative for rainforest walks than some of the bigger-name parks. See our 2-week itinerary, which includes Sarapiquí, and our birdwatching guide.
Who it suits (and who it doesn't)
It suits families, birders and eco-minded travelers who like a relaxed, family-run lodge. It isn't near a beach, and nights are quiet.
Getting there
The lodge is between Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí and La Virgen, about 12 km west of Puerto Viejo. It's about 96 km, or roughly 2 hours, from San José on Route 32 through Braulio Carrillo National Park, or via Vara Blanca to La Virgen. A taxi from the airport takes about 1.5 hours. You can also take a bus to Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí and a taxi from there.
Frequently asked questions
Is this the same place as La Quinta Country Inn?
Yes. It's now called La Quinta Sarapiquí Lodge.
How far is it from San José?
About 96 km, or roughly 2 hours by road.
Is it good for children?
Yes. One of its activity themes, Kinkajou Town, is aimed at families.
Is it certified as sustainable?
Yes. It holds the CST at the maximum level of 5 Leaves.
