Baula Lodge

We loved our stay at Baula Lodge. Stayed in an upgraded cabin with airconditioning and it was comfortable, charming and spotless. The location of the lodge is fantastic and the boat trip to reach it itself a highlight. We also enjoyed the gardens full of exotic flowers and birds. The swimming pool's temperature was colder than elsewhere in Costa Rica but fine in light of the tropic temperatures, and the views of the river from the pool area are fantastic. The food also was much to our liking. A spot and great base to explore Tortuguero national park. Staff was friendly and accessible. Wish we could have stayed longer.

We have travelled all over Costa Rica, and this has to be the worst of all places. It is run on a culture of greed and any opportunity to extract money from quests. All decisions are sent upwards to the owner who is not on-site, incomplete and poor quality meals, slow and forgetful service, lack of smiles from most of the staff. We were staying all - inclusive with breakfast, lunch and dinner. We wanted to upgrade our room to one with AC and were told we have to pay for two rooms (the original one and $80 per night got a new one the AC). Vegetarian meal portions are small compared to meat portions. When we complained we were asked to pay $10 more for any additional helpings.. There is no free tea or coffee after lunch or dinner (only at breakfast). To use s pool towel we had to leave a passport, driving licensee or credit card as a deposit which made us feel uncomfortable at having to leave high-value items out of sight. Poor vibes here. Avoid this place and stay at one of the many other friendlier hotels with a more reasonable attitude and delightful service.

We enjoyed our stay in the unique riverfront lodge of La Baula. The boat ride to get there was delightful and we were warmly welcomed by staff. The grounds were beautiful. The swimming pool is lovely. The staff helped us plan a few activities and we enjoyed each one, especially an early morning boat ride, bird and animal watching.

We stayed here for two nights in March 2022 and it was great! The staff is super friendly and helpful. Kaylor, who is almost always at the check in desk, is so kind and goes out of his way to answer questions and help with any issues. We had a problem with our shower and he had someone there to fix it within minutes. The man who seems to be in charge of the restaurant (I think his name is Charlie) is such a hard worker as well, and he was also very attentive and helpful. The grounds are beautiful, including the pool. The rooms are a little dated, but they’re incredibly clean. We could hear our neighbors chatting through the walls, but honestly, it’s not that big of a deal. Everyone went to bed pretty early because most people have plans for early morning hikes and canoe trips to look for animals in the forest. The included breakfast is really well done. I also loved their recycling efforts! The lodge is across the river from the town of Tortuguero, but it’s easy to grab a water taxi and I know the reception would help you get in touch with one. It really is a lovely place and incredibly relaxing. One of my favorite spots was t just sitting in the rocking chairs overlooking the river. I highly recommend this place. Unless you’re super uptight and need a fancy place, this lodge is really well managed and nice.