TESTIMONIALS

(While we have at least 50 guest books filled with testimonials only those that appear on Tripadvisor.com have been used to demonstrate our popularity. After you are finished with our website and if you want to see more of  the same glowing reports as were chosen below, kindly visit the website. For continuity, however, we ask that you finish with our website first.)

“Amazing Experience!”

La Selva Jungle Lodge was a magnificent experience and everything about it was perfect. We saw a ton of wildlife, including a couple large predators (jaguarundi), were within arm's length of monkeys, caught a piranha, etc. The staff were incredibly gracious and kind. But let's be real, it's in the middle of the rainforest. If you expect air conditioned comfort, you will be disappointed. While there, other guests complained about the quality of the food. I always found the food to be very good, especially considering that the lodge is in the middle of the rainforest and all the food has to be brought in by boat. My only complaint was that there were families there who had horribly behaved children who got jacked up on coca-cola and made noise all night. I have kids but at least I'm considerate enough to keep them well behaved and off caffeine. When the punks weren't around, the experience was sublime.

“great rain forest experience”

This was the first rain forest trip for my wife and two kids (ages 13 and 17) and we had a fantastic time. The location was amazing, with a large dark lake next to the lodge, and pristine forests surrounding. Our guide, Rodrigo was very knowledgeable about the birds, plants and natural history in general. He was an excellent teacher and as soon as he knew we were serious birders he went out of his way to show us as many species as he could, along with explaining ID points and ecology. Our cabin was fine, though a little rustic. Food was excellent and the main lodge was a very pleasant place to sit and look out over the lake. The observation tower is spectacular and we could have spent the entire day there just gazing out over the tree tops. The dugout and boat rides were a highlight, and I spent 2 hours by myself in a kayak meandering along the lakeshore under the trees looking for snakes and birds. We weren't sure what to expect when we arrived in Coca and got on the boat for the ride upriver to the lodge. But our expectations were exceeded. A spectacular place with friendly and experienced staff. I'd go back to La Selva anytime.

“excellent. period.”

I have spent lots of time in jungles - and I have to say I was extremely impressed by how the staff and owners at La Selva went out of their way to make forest-living comfortable for guests (even building elevated walkways throughout which - trust me - they have to rebuild every six months). The guide we had - Luis - was more than excellent. He spoke impressive English and was mindblowingly knowledgeable about every aspect of the forest.

And most importantly, when talking to the guides - both native and not - they all emphasized the fact that they loved their jobs there - much more so than the other lodges in the area. The eco-labels earned by this hotel are also well-deserved.... they pack out the trash, ask people to reuse water bottles, purify the laguna water (and cook with this), use the generator and electricity sparingly, and employ only biodegradable soaps and cleaning products. They live up to the philosophy that is preached online on their website, and that is something that I really appreciate (especially because i know that many of these places talk-eco-friendly, but they don't really comply).

The guides and tours were well-organized, and they made the stay interesting for both jungle-experts and novices. La Selva is highly recommended in my book. But, you have to go with an open mind - and be ready to really experience what is has to offer!

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