Posada Río Celeste La Amistad

Northwestern Costa Rica

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This homey property offers eight clean, rustic rooms (but with cable TV!) and hearty home-cooked meals, all on a family farm in a rural community 1km northeast of the park entrance. Blooming gardens lead to a 'Surprises Trail' which offers a Tarzan swing and river swimming among other delights (US$6 for nonguests). Staff can also organize hiking and horseback riding.

Even if you’re not staying here, this is a perfect pit stop for lunch after hiking in the park. There’s no menu: Wilbur and Vilma will serve up whatever they have cooking on their stove. Portions are huge and prices are reasonable.

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