Playa Cativo, the Pearl of the Golfo Dulce
When we think of the word 'paradise', scenes from movies often come to mind: beaches with palm trees, crystal-clear waters, lush vegetation... well, all this and much more is what we find at Playa Cativo Eco Lodge, a paradise in every sense of the word. The adventure begins from the moment of pick-up; navigating in a speedboat across the Golfo Dulce to the hotel is just the start of a dream come true. And we say dream because that’s how we remember it, as a few magnificent days in a place that remains forever in the memory of those who visit. The surroundings are everything, but they are complemented by magnificent facilities and a dedicated staff that makes you feel completely at home. Not to mention the merit of their chefs, who, as if that weren't enough, put the cherry on top with each of their delicious creations, a true delight for anyone's palate. At Cativo Lodge, they make sure to leave nothing out, taking care of every detail so that the guest doesn’t wake up from this dream, also known as paradise.
In short, this little piece of heaven is the ultimate definition of Costa Rica, an unexplored corner in the heart of Piedras Blancas National Park. This area is one of the least visited in the country, making it ideal for those who love adventure, the unknown, and those who want to experience what 'Pura Vida' truly means, mixing adventure with the moments of relaxation that Cativo provides its visitors. It's a place to live and savor to the fullest, and one of the best ways to do so is by taking the introductory tour of the tropical rainforest with a specialized naturalist guide. On this tour, you learn many more details about the local flora and fauna, and you can spot a variety of animals.
Let's not forget that Cativo's neighbor is the Osa Peninsula, home to 5% of the planet's biodiversity, which can also be appreciated in this area. Additionally, during the tour of the Cayetano estate, where the hotel is located, you can also see the orchard and farm from which most of the food used in the restaurant comes. Knowing that every bite comes directly from the farm to the table is like touching heaven with your fingers once again.
Jungle treks, nocturnal or bird-watching tours, boat tours for whale and dolphin watching, fishing, snorkeling, bioluminescence tours, kayaking explorations, and yoga classes are other activities guests can choose from. And the best part is knowing that, in addition to being able to do all this, getting a bit closer to the Golfo Dulce, where there are over 1,000 marine species, and experiencing one of the four tropical fjords in the world, there is still room for more disconnection. A stroll along the beach, enjoying the pool with an incredible cocktail from Borucas Bar, getting a massage at their spa, or simply reading a book in the room, makes Cativo the perfect place not only to fully immerse ourselves in the flora and fauna of Costa Rica but also in our minds, relaxing and renewing all our energies to keep dreaming of places like this.