Rancho Naturalista is among the finest in Central America. Over 450 species of birds have been recorded in the area. These birds may be sampled from this comfortable lodge famous for its excellent food, welcoming hospitality and stunning volcano views. Provisions are also made for non-birding companions who will find Rancho Naturalista a relaxing holiday retreat.
Expert bird guides help maximize the experience for each guest. We are able to cater for all levels from the beginner to the professional birder. Knowledgeable birders and most bird tours of Costa Rica spend time enjoying Rancho Naturalista. For many, it is the highlight stop of their trip..
Our Services
Guests staying at Rancho Naturalista immediately feel at home. When you arrive one of our staff members will meet you and show you to your room where they will ensure you settle in well. Your room will contain a welcome pack with all the information you should need for your stay at the lodge, this includes your bird checklist. Night guards are always on duty in case assistance is needed during these hours.
Maid service is included within the cost of your stay and laundry service is also available at a modest additional cost. A stay at Rancho Naturalista, unlike many other locations, includes the services of a resident professional birding guide, available from first light to after dark every day.
Kathleen Erb, with her extensive background in fine cuisine catering, has personally trained the kitchen staff and supervised every step of the food preparation to assure high quality, delicious meals. You will be delighted with the range of Costa Rican and International cuisine.
The delicious food is served family style, with a great variety at the table, so that each guest can select the dishes and amounts of his or her choice. Eating heartily or lightly is each guest’s option. Rancho Naturalista has its own delicious mountain spring water that is tested regularly and certified to be pure and safe. All meals are included in your stay and we are happy to cater for any special dietary requirements.
The Lodge
The lodge is owned by John and Kathleen Erb and is a home from home with 15 comfortable well appointed rooms. You can choose from a room with balcony views to a private casita with its own veranda. The main building of the lodge is in a traditional Spanish colonial style, it has a comfortable sitting room with a large internal and external dining area along with our world famous recently extended birding balcony, where over 250 species have been recorded.
We also have a new reference area which is stocked with various bird related literature and internet access.
Please specify as soon as possible which type of room you would prefer and depending on availability we will do our best to accommodate you.
There is a selection of rooms within the main building, most are located on the upper floor and are set next to our world famous balcony along with the other lodge amenities. Room number 1 has its own private balcony with stunning volcano views. All rooms are comfortable and most have private bathrooms.
