South of Puerto Limón town predominate the beautiful beaches of Costa Rica’s Atlantic Coast. Beyond those, further inland, lies Selva Bananito Lodge amid extensive banana plantations and wild jungle. The lodge is truly a hidden jewel and amazing spot for eco-tourism. Surrounded by mountains and dense forests which connect with La Amistad National Park, fascinating views and close encounters with the extensive biodiversity in this region are are guaranteed.
At this charming place, visitors will find a successful balance of adventure and relaxation in harmony with nature. “Back to the roots” is the motto, since electricity is only available for emergencies. But what could be better than finishing off an adventurous day full of interesting activities while watching the sunset and enjoying a candlelight dinner? During the day, activities like climbing up the giant jungle trees, rappelling down a waterfall, horseback riding, hiking or bird spotting during an early morning stroll provide for astonishing and unforgettable experiences.
The Caribbean part of the country is composed entirely by the colorful province of Limon, known also as Puerto Limón; with its dense rainforest, monumental mountains, and ravishing beaches that meet both the Nicaraguan and Panamanian borders. Truly a natural paradise. Limón has the highest percentage of protected land in the country, for this reason is considered as one of the best places to spot flora and fauna. Its cultural variety is as impressive as its natural beauty. Actually, Limón is the cradle of the afro-descendant community in Costa Rica - the incontestable evidence of the Jamaican immigration flow during the 19th century caused by the banana production.
As a matter of fact, this growing and thriving community made Marcus Garvey (an inspirational figure for civil rights leaders) visit Limón in 1921 to promote equity and social justice among the black community. However, the Caribbean is also home to the Chinese who came more than a century ago, to work in the building of the railroad to the Atlantic. Likewise, this region happens to be the home to the aboriginal peoples Bribrí, Cabecar and Guaymies as well as to Europeans who fell in love with this flavorful mixture of opulent nature and mellow sights and sounds.Temperatures in the Caribbean Coast generally range between 25 - 30 C° and humidity levels are quite elevated. Rains are part of the daily life but it’s in the name: Rainforest! Nevertheless, there is plenty of sunshine almost every day. March, April, September and October are the driest months, so this period of time is known as the Caribbean Summer. It is always good to remember that it is a Tropical climate and thus unpredictable.
A to-do list for Limón should definitely include: Sun-bathing, fishing, bird watching, boat tours, horseback riding by the beach, camping in Talamanca, the Aerial Tram and lots of water activities such as white-water rafting, ocean and river kayaking, surfing, diving, crustacean spotting, snorkeling and canoeing.One of the highlights of this region is Tortuguero National Park at the northern part of the province, a protected extension of land and one of the most important nesting places on Earth for the Green Turtle, the Hawksbill, the Loggerhead, and the Leatherback turtle as well. Further south lies Cahuita, where an important expanse of coral reefs is protected, just great for snorkeling lovers. And then there is Puerto Viejo, the land of the stress and hassle-free living, where the music, beach, fine cuisine, lovely people and surf connects. At side of Puerto Viejo, there is Gandoca Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge, which protects almost 4500 hectares of beaches and sea.