Nayara Tented Camp – Costa Rica
It’s safe to say that Nayara Tented Camp is one of the most exclusive eco retreats in Costa Rica. Taking inspiration from luxury tented camps in Africa, the pièce de resistance here is its location at the foot of the smoking Arenal volcano. And of course, the surrounding rainforest packed to the brim with exotic wildlife. It’s a winning combination of luxury and nature, where you really feel part of your surroundings.
The camp has planted thousands of native Guarumo trees – a particular favourite of sloths – and the entire canopy is full of brightly coloured birds and butterflies. On arrival, you’re greeted by your personal nature guide who’ll put your itinerary together over a welcome juice or cocktail. Just make sure you build in some time to sit on your private terrace to soak it all up. It’s a real slice of Costa Rican heaven.
At A Glance
Glamping
Why We Love It:
For the views of the volcano from your private plunge pool.Style:
Rainforest safari luxe.Location:
In the Arenal Volcano National Park – at the foot of the volcano itself – 2.5 hours from San José.Rooms:
35 luxury hillside tents with terraces, outdoor showers, plunge pools & exceptional views.Swimming:
Hot springs and private infinity plunge pools over the canopy.Children:
What child could resist staying in a sloth sanctuary?Accessibility:
There are facilities for guests with mobility issues.Open From:
All year round.rooms
Waking up each morning to the sight of a smoking volcano is quite something. Not to say mesmerizing. The stilted tents (built this way for the views and so as not to disturb the nature around them), all have large terraces with plunge pools fed by hot springs, outdoor rainforest showers (naturally) and hammocks for lazing and gazing at your surroundings. The very spacious Nayara Tents can sleep up to four, with a king size four poster bed and two twin day beds, but are also ideal for couples.
Family Tents combine two tents with living space in between and can sleep up to six. The Grand Tents are twice the size and also sleep up to six, but come with a fully equipped kitchen. Large families and multi-generational groups are catered for in the Private Residences – two Family Tents with an open plan villa in the middle, with vast living spaces inside and out, sleeping up to 12.
food
The choice at Nayara is exceptional – with guests able to dine at both of the neighouring sister properties. From a tapas bar to Asian and, Latin American fusion, an Italian bistro with a Middle Eastern twist, and an adult only fine dining restaurant, the food is excellent. Everything is sourced locally, and it’s all accompanied by a rather impressive wine list. And each morning you can have breakfast on your own terrace – it’s not a bad way to start the day.
activities
Nayara Tented Camp is a nature reserve in itself – the grounds are full of sloths, tree frogs, monkeys and an extraordinary array of birds and butterflies. And if you’re lucky you may even spot an armadillo. There are two hiking trails through the property, complimentary birdwatching and frog tours with the very knowledgeable and enthusiastic in-house nature guides, and private guided tours further afield in the Arenal Volcano National Park through the canopy on hanging bridges, or on lava field walk.
Explore on foot or on horseback, or take to the Sarapiqui River for some white water rafting, or head to Lake Arenal for a gentle kayak. Arenal is often called the adventure capital of Costa Rica, so some zip lining will definitely be on your to do list. Then finish up soaking in a hot spring or plunging into a pool at the bottom of a waterfall. Back at the tented camp there are also hot springs, if you can make if further than your private plunge pool.
family
This is a firm family favourite, where children never cease to be amazed at the wildlife that surrounds them. The tours are brilliantly geared to younger guests and your private guide will ensure you have a packed itinerary with tours, excursions and adventures to suit your family.
sustainability
The camp aims to be as environmentally and socially responsible as possible. The sustainably built tents maximise sunlight and ventilation to minimise the use of heating and air conditioning. Their stilts allow for the free movement of wildlife below and the plunge pools are fed by water from local hot springs. The majority of the team are local; food is seasonal and sourced locally and through the camp’s reforestation efforts, a perfect habitat has been created for sloths, monkeys, birds and butterflies.
Location
Costa Rica, Central America
In the Arenal Volcano National Park – at the foot of the volcano itself – 2.5 hours from San José.
