Bosque del Cabo Rainforest Lodge
Cabo Matapalo 60702 Costa Rica
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#1 of 7 hotels in Cabo Matapalo
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2022 Travellers' Choice Best of the Best
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Bosque del Cabo is a romantic getaway and a naturalist’s dream, come true. Crowning a point 500 feet above where the Golfo Dulce meets the Pacific Ocean, nestled in the unspoiled jungles of Costa Rica’s Osa Peninsula is a paradise found. Located in a unique and fortunate position at the very tip of the Osa Peninsula in the southern Pacific region of Costa Rica, this 750+ acre forest reserve features private, spacious bungalows and gorgeous houses perched atop the cliffs of Cabo Matapalo, each with beautiful ocean views, tropical breezes and the rainforest at your doorstep; or choose beautiful and rustic garden view accommodations surrounded by thriving rainforests. Hiking trails lead you through the forest to deserted beaches on both the Golfo Dulce and Pacific Ocean. Bosque del Cabo, which opened its doors as a hotel in 1990, is owner operated and dedicated to forest preservation.
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Property amenities
Free parking
Free internet
Pool
Yoga classes
Bar / lounge
Boating
Hiking
Highchairs available
Internet
Pool / beach towels
Pool with view
Outdoor pool
Restaurant
Breakfast available
Complimentary Instant Coffee
Complimentary welcome drink
Happy hour
Kid-friendly buffet
Kids' meals
Outdoor dining area
Snack bar
Special diet menus
Poolside bar
Horseback riding
Snorkelling
Water sport equipment rentals
Fishing
Walking tours
Airport transportation
Car hire
Conference facilities
Photo copier / fax In business centre
Couples massage
Facial treatments
Foot massage
Full body massage
Hand massage
Head massage
Massage
Neck massage
Baggage storage
Concierge
Gift shop
Mosquito net
Non-smoking hotel
Outdoor furniture
Picnic area
Sun deck
Sun loungers / beach chairs
Sun terrace
Sun umbrellas
First aid kit
Umbrella
Private check-in / check-out
Laundry service
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Room features
Private beach
Housekeeping
Private balcony
Safe
Seating area
Clothes rack
Room types
Ocean view
Non-smoking rooms
Family rooms
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
HOTEL STYLE
Green
Charming
Languages Spoken
English, Spanish
Location
Contact
Cabo Matapalo 60702 Costa Rica
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1277Reviews22Q+A100Room tips
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We stayed in an Ocean-facing cabina called Sol for 5 days. We were delighted by the outdoor shower and the daily visits of the coatis, agoutis and peccaries who came for the fig tree. We had monkeys and toucans in the trees around us and it was paradise. As many others have said, food is a highlight and we ate a rainbow of fruit and salads every day. We enjoyed the sociable long table dining. The menus changed frequently so there was always variety, even for breakfast and lunch. Cocktails were also superb and the best we had in our 17 days in Costa Rica. We did a nature walk with Carlos or an outside activity every day and were glad we had budgeted for this as the bill can add up. Prices ranged from $50 for early morning birdwatching to $450 for the dolphin watch boat trip but we shared the cost of the latter with another couple. We also did as many of the trails as we could but they all have their challenges of steps, tree roots and stepping stones to navigate. The steep hike to Golfo Dulce beach took us 2.5 hours and we paid for the transfer back to the lodge. The waves were strong at the beach and there were warnings of riptides so we did our swimming at the lodge pool or from the dolphin boat trip. People with mobility issues may not manage the trails at the lodge and I think that the beaches down the trails are for strong, confident swimmers. We learnt a lot from Carlos and my favourite were the tent-making bats. It helps if you are comfortable with bats and insects. Our cabina was some sort of pathway for a nightly march of army ants. Over the bed, around the skirting board and door frame. This happened at 530pm but by 6pm they had all gone away. We survived the lack of air conditioning by using a row of mini electric fans on the shelf behind the bed. We did not get any sea breezes at night and my husband vetoed keeping the doors open, mostly on the grounds of coatis. We were not troubled by mosquitos. The staff were all lovely and special thank you to Roxanna the intern who found a fallen baby sloth. Hope the mamma came for it. Best wishes from Una and David, Watford, UK.…
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Date of stay: March 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
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Room Tip: Best suited to travellers who are fit and enjoy socialising. Budget for the activities.
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Bosque del Cabo is unique. The location, high above the southern tip of the Osa Peninsula, provides amazing views of the Pacific Ocean and the Golfo Dulce. But there are equally spectacular sights on the property itself – monkeys, coati, peccary, bats, birds, flowers, plants – it is overflowing with nature to enjoy. The facilities are excellent! The “cabinas” are beautiful and blend so well into the surroundings. There is a trail system that accommodates families but also provides challenges if you are looking for a good workout in an amazing place. The dining area and “happy hour” bar are beautiful, open-air spaces. Meals can be at large tables, where you can mingle with other guests, or off at smaller tables. It’s fun to trade stories with other guests over meals. The food is really excellent. I am anxious to try some of the recipes at home. Without leaving the grounds (750+ acres) there are opportunities to explore the rain forest on your own, or with a guide, zip line, surf, swim, bird watch, or learn about the delicate balance of the ecosystem. If you are looking for air conditioning and a big screen TV, this is not for you. Bosque del Cabo is about getting close to your surroundings, but without giving up all the creature comforts. The most impressive “fauna”, however, is the staff at Bosque del Cabo. Everyone is smiling, helpful, and anxious to help in any way they can. The wonderful spirit is everywhere, from the top down. Phil and Kim, the owners, are present and engaging. They clearly have set the tone for everyone at this wonderful resort. As an example, when I checked with Phil about our transportation to the airport, about ½ hour away, for a very early flight home, he assured me that the driver would be ready for us in the morning, and then immediately asked if we’d like breakfast sandwiches and coffee to take with us in the morning. The next morning, Phil had opened the kitchen, brewed the coffee, and made our sandwiches, as well as some great cookies to take with us for the trip home. It's that kind of place. Don’t miss Bosque del Cabo. It is beautiful and unique place, staffed by warm and welcoming people who will quickly seem like old friends you will not soon forget. …
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Date of stay: February 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Paradise. Beautiful one day, perfect the next. Wildlife roaming around the grounds including a puma. Howler and Spider monkeys in the trees. Wonderful peaceful hikes where you seldom meet anyone and can enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the area. Capuchins in the forest along with a variety of other mammals, reptiles and birds. Cabins are simply furnished with an outside shower looking out to sea and mosquito nets on four poster bed. Woken in the morning by two stunning macaws. I could sit on that balcony for hours just watching the wildlife whilst enjoying spectacular panoramic views. The staff are all exceptional. I am well travelled but this is one place I just simply have to return.
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Date of stay: March 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip: Enjoy the hikes from the hotel so take quick drying, loose fitting clothing.
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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We absolutely loved staying here. The staff is excellent, all facilities clean and they offer many activities. We hiked each morning and afternoon on the many trails they have and enjoyed seeing wildlife on every path. Waking to the Howler monkeys is something special, we also saw Spider monkeys on our hikes. We highly recommend taking the night tour, we saw an Ocelot and a couple of Tarantulas along with various frogs and insects, really interesting with an excellent guide. The hosts are fantastic, everyone strives to make your stay the best ever. Evening meals are fun as you get to sit with other guests and exchange stories of past and present adventures. There is a beautiful beach you have to yourself if you like the beach, we were more interested in the nature hikes. We highly recommend Basque del Cabo, we will be coming back. It was our first time in Costa Rica, loved it. …
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Date of stay: February 2023
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Room Tip: You may want to bring some snacks like protein bars for your hikes.
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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This Lodge was absolutely perfect. We felt completely at home from the minute we arrived until the time we left. The facilities and the staff were excellent, and nothing was too much trouble. The varieties of wild life that we saw, were extraordinary, and the quality of the guided tours that we did with Carlos were superb. It was not surprising that many of the other visitors that we encountered were repeat customers. If we come back to Costa, we shall certainly stay again. I personally came away with some amazing memories, and a taste for Tico Sours!!
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Date of stay: February 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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What an incredible place! Truly remote, animals so frequently sighted that it almost becomes a non-event (okay, not really….spider monkeys and macaws are always cool!). Hiking trails offer a variety of landscape and difficulty but all a total escape from other humans. Multiple beaches within a quick drive. We stayed in Casa Miramar, which is a little more removed from the rest of the property but still walkable if you don’t mind a bit of a hike. It offered plenty of room to spread out, a gorgeous view, plunge pool and a kitchen+family room that was begging for a big family/friends meal to be cooked and enjoyed. We were there just a short time so we took full advantage of the on-site restaurant and food was delicious and varied. The daily happy hour was delightful! The best part of Bosque del Cabo, however, is the incredible team of staff. Relaxed, friendly and flexible yet super organized, attentive and helpful. We left feeling grateful for their willingness to share their home with us and can’t wait to come back (and stay longer!).…
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Date of stay: March 2023Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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If you love nature then Bosque Del Cabo is the ultimate experience. The dedication to preserving the natural beauty and wildlife of the Osa Peninsula is essential to the Bosque Del Cabo experience. But on top of that the food, service and friendliness of the staff is second to none. We are hooked and will return.
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Date of stay: February 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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We have been several times to BDC, and the entire family loves it every time a bit more. Enjoying the super comfortable accommodation , great food and drinks, the outstanding natural environment, the fantastic trails and most of all: the very positive, caring and professional attention from Kim&Phil and the entire team… we can‘t wait to drive up Bosques driveway again!
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Date of stay: July 2022
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Alas, we are now home. I would certainly prefer to be back at Bosque. ❤️ We love it there. I would live there if I could, not kidding! The owners Phil and Kim have an amazing place with special, very special staff! Truly the best. I can honestly say we love them. We have never met more capable, outgoing ,caring staff anywhere, they have become our family. I know they are beloved by all who visit. Over the years (our first visit was 2005!) they have treated us like royalty. A private surprise lunch for our family on Congos deck. Surprises at dinner with decor, flowers, wine and more. There is always fantastic flower arrangements, one visit Felipe was building a large flower arch that was spectacular,I took pic’s thinking it was for a wedding. It was for us. They always make our visits special one way or another. This year, BdC is full of guests, but Felipe still made a large flower arrangement for us. I’m surprised and cry every time. Heylin is the crown jewel here, smart, and beautiful inside and out! GianCarlos , he’s the best, he ran to get me to see the anteater, one creature I had not seen on previous visits. And sweet Felipe taking time to teach me how to make one of his amazing strawberry flowers. Having a one on one birding experience with Carlos, he has the eyes and ears of the jungle, he misses nothing!! Being told about a trail not marked, that we should try, it was amazing. The grounds are spectacular, the trails, some easy, some tough , are in good shape and easy to follow on your own. We never met another guest on the trails, there are plenty to hike, you meet monkeys and birds instead of people. There is nothing like walking in the jungle and just listening. Priceless!! Chef Roger and the staff feed you three meals a day. I don’t think I ever completely finished my plate, the food is great and believe me plentiful! The daily drink specials at Boa Bar are the best, I loved the Bosque Mojito! Yum. You don’t gain weight in spite of all of the food because you are always out hiking. Although this year we used the pool to cool off more than usual. We met the most amazing people this year. We were all so different but we meshed beautifully. Kim, Phil, you know we will be back, Bosque keeps calling my name. It’s pure magic and if you are lucky enough to visit, you will never forget it.…
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Date of stay: February 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Bosque somehow manages to exceed my expectations with each visit. We've been drawn back to this jungle paradise at least once a year for the past 20 years, and it never disappoints! We've watched it become an award winning top notch destination through multiple upgrades, cabina renovations, signature cocktails, and WIFI connections. But we keep returning for what hasn't changed -- Bosque's commitment to the rainforest, the wildlife, and the community; and therefore providing a truly authentic jungle experience. While other "jungle and nature" lodges are forced use the dirt roads for their wildlife spotting, Bosque has it all at your fingertips with 500+ acres and 20 miles of hiking trails. I've been awed by countless troops of monkeys, awakened by the howlers as my alarm clock, followed a tapir throughout the property in my pajamas, witnessed a boa dining on a agouti, watched the staff save and care for a newborn sloth, spotted pumas at a distance, counted 13 toucans in a single tree, and been mesmerized by sounds of cicadas during their seasonal emergence from underground (they are big! but they are not cockroaches as some initially believe. They are herbivores and stay outside). We return to Bosque year after year as much for the owners and staff as for the animals. Some personal touch highlights include: a white linen birthday lunch on the vista overlooking Matapalo beach, providing childcare when our son was too young to hike the jungle with us, hugs from all the staff when we arrive, arranging local private planes to take us to remote Panama islands, making sure a birthday gift for my husband got to him by personally wrapping and bringing the oil painting to the states, having coffee ready for me at 5:20 am knowing that I rise with the sun, and pulling all strings to get us and the other guests back to San Jose before the airport closed when covid hit. This is just a sampling of what Bosque is all about. To truly experience all of it, you'll have visit yourself. I guarantee you, you'll be reserving your next visit before you leave. …
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Date of stay: January 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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PRICE RANGE
US$589 - US$789 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
ALSO KNOWN AS
bosque del cabo rainforest hotel puerto jimenez
LOCATION
Costa RicaProvince of PuntarenasOsa PeninsulaCabo Matapalo
NUMBER OF ROOMS
18
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Claim Your ListingBOSQUE DEL CABO RAINFOREST LODGE: UPDATED 2023 Hotel Reviews, Price Comparison and 2,125 Photos (Cabo Matapalo, Costa Rica) - Tripadvisor
Frequently Asked Questions about Bosque del Cabo Rainforest Lodge
What are some of the property amenities at Bosque del Cabo Rainforest Lodge?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include a pool, an on-site restaurant, and a lounge.
What food & drink options are available at Bosque del Cabo Rainforest Lodge?
Guests can enjoy an on-site restaurant, a lounge, and a poolside bar during their stay.
Is parking available at Bosque del Cabo Rainforest Lodge?
Yes, free parking is available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to Bosque del Cabo Rainforest Lodge?
Conveniently located restaurants include Buena Esperanza, Briza Azul Restaurant, and Fusión Food.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Bosque del Cabo Rainforest Lodge?
Yes, guests have access to a pool and yoga classes during their stay.
Does Bosque del Cabo Rainforest Lodge have airport transportation?
Yes, Bosque del Cabo Rainforest Lodge offers airport transportation for guests. We recommend calling ahead to confirm details.
Is Bosque del Cabo Rainforest Lodge located near the city centre?
Yes, it is 0.4 km away from the centre of Cabo Matapalo.
Which languages are spoken by the staff at Bosque del Cabo Rainforest Lodge?
The staff speaks multiple languages, including English and Spanish.
Does Bosque del Cabo Rainforest Lodge have any great views?
Yes, guests often enjoy the ocean view available here.