Immerse yourself in a place of rest and peace at the La Ensenada Lodge in Costa Rica. Settled in nature, beautiful birds and flowers will make a guest feel the magic of the rainforest. With a view of the gulf, mangroves, and salinas, guests can experience the beauty of land and sea.

La Ensenada is located on a 350-hectare property facing the Nicoya Gulf. The cabins are designed in harmony with the environment. The property is nestled into a dry forest where you can see many kinds of birds and animals.

The lodge sits on the Pacific Coast in the province of Puntarenas, only 2.5 hours away from San Jose. This location offers an ideal place to watch nature. The lodge is part of a working ranch, and guests are encouraged to learn more about the ranch operations and ride horses.

Their story

The Tretti family bought the ranch and farm to raise cattle and horses, as well as produce salt. 1990 the Tretti family bought the land but learned about the destroyed natural habitats. They decided to start a reforestation project in addition to the lodge. Cattle farming had originally degraded the land, but through restoration, the land is now at its former glory.

30% of the farm is covered in forest, protecting crucial natural habitats. The land has been a National Wildlife Refuge since 1977. It has some of the last primary and secondary forests in the Puntarenas province. With all types of environments, from mangroves to the gulf, it was crucial that La Ensenada respected nature.

The mission of La Ensenada is to give visitors an environment of quality and tranquility. Guests are offered an intimate look into a ranching family in Costa Rica, while also enjoying the amenities of the lodge. With horseback riding, mangrove boat tours, hiking, and tractor riding, guests can delve into the ranch and the surrounding rainforest. Read more about them here.

Sustainability actions

  • Cabins are made from wood and zinc, with high levels of natural lighting to reduce electricity needs.
  • La Ensenada uses solar panels for energy and a solar heater for water.
  • La Ensenada uses wastewater for irrigation after a process of cleaning.
  • Glass is favored over plastic, and efforts are made to reduce the need for plastic.
  • Recyclable products are separated onsite.
  • La Ensenada procures locally-grown organic produce for guests.
  • All cleaning products are chemical-free.
  • There is no chemical use in the gardens.
  • All employees are locals. The lodge participated in all the activities that help the elementary school and the church of Abangaritos little village near the lodge.

Most Popular Activities near La Ensenada Lodge

  • Hiking
  • Horseback riding
  • Mangrove boat tour
  • Tour to Palo Verde
  • Swimming
  • Massage and meditation

READ ON36 Eco-friendly Things to Do in Costa Rica (From A to Z)

Best time to visit La Ensenada Lodge

  • The humidity in Costa Rica is high all year around. 
  • To avoid the rainy season, plan your visit outside May-June and September-October. 
  • If you want to enjoy this place the sunniest it can be, visit in March or December.
  • Smaller showers or thunderstorms can be expected all year around, so please be prepared.

READ ON Best Time To Visit Costa Rica (Factual Data, Pros & Cons, What to Expect)

Features

Location

La Ensenada Lodge is 110 km from Guanacaste airport (Daniel Oduber) and 131 km from Juan Santamaria Airport. The lodge does not offer pick up from airport.
1 person bookmarked this place