Sleep in the wild: immersive nature stays in Costa Rica

Mother Nature was feeling generous when it came to Costa Rica, bestowing unfiltered magic and wonder upon this tiny country. From high-adrenaline adventure-seekers to those who enjoy a more relaxed pace, travelers of all kinds and ages appreciate its otherworldly biodiversity and unspoiled landscapes. If you’re looking for the most unique things to do in Costa Rica, we chat to our local travel agents Laura and Esteban: they share their guidance on how to completely immerse yourself on vacation, by sleeping in nature in Costa Rica and enjoying the many enriching experiences this offers.

Why should travelers consider sleeping in nature in Costa Rica?

Costa Rica is not just a destination. It’s a living, breathing ecosystem that invites you to step off the beaten path and experience nature in its rawest, most beautiful form. With over 25% of its territory protected, and more than 6% of the world’s biodiversity packed into one small country, Costa Rica is a playground for adventurers and nature lovers alike. But to truly feel its magic, you don’t just explore nature—you sleep in it.

From cloud forests and active volcanoes to lush rainforests and deserted beaches, Costa Rica’s landscapes are as diverse as they are breathtaking. Wildlife is everywhere: monkeys leap through the trees, toucans flash across the sky, and frogs sing through the night.

To connect with this wild energy, immersive lodges offer more than just a place to rest—they invite you to live in harmony with nature. Here, waking up means sunlight filtering through jungle leaves, and going to sleep means listening to the calls of nocturnal creatures. Sleeping wild is truly one of the most unique things to do in Costa Rica.

Read more: The wonders of Costa Rica’s wildlife

What are some truly unique, wild and unexpected stays in Costa Rica?

Forget standard hotels. Costa Rica’s most unforgettable stays are often hidden deep in the rainforest or perched high in the trees.

You might sleep in a treehouse, a jungle glamping tent, or a cabin only reachable by river. These off-the-grid lodges are built sustainably, often powered by solar energy, and designed to blend into their surroundings. They’re open to the air, sounds, and rhythms of the forest—so instead of walls and Wi-Fi, you get hummingbirds, howler monkeys, and rain on a tin roof.

These experiences aren’t about luxury in the usual sense—they’re about authentic connection to the natural world.

How can travelers enjoy the most unique things to do in Costa Rica by sleeping wild?

Staying wild means the adventure doesn’t stop at sunset. In fact, many of the most unique things to do in Costa Rica, including its most thrilling experiences, are tied directly to these remote lodges.

• Rafting to your room: Some jungle lodges are accessible only by whitewater rafting. Imagine paddling down a river, dodging rocks and soaking in scenery, then arriving at a lodge tucked in the heart of the rainforest. No roads. No cars. Just river, jungle, and sky.
• Waterfalls and wildlife: Many stays are near hidden waterfalls, perfect for a private swim or a quiet moment. Wildlife is part of the experience—sloths hang in nearby trees, toucans fly past your window, and frogs gather near your porch at night.
• Trekking and cultural encounters: Guided treks into the forest reveal more than just landscapes—you might spot a rare quetzal or visit an Indigenous community, learning about ancestral traditions and natural medicine. These moments are rich in meaning and deeply respectful of the people and ecosystems you encounter.

Read more: The seven best things to do in Costa Rica

Why does traveling with a local agency matter?

Costa Rica is full of natural wonders—but the best ones are often far from tourist maps. That’s why working with a local travel agency can completely transform your experience.

• They know the hidden hems: A local team will connect you to unique lodges, family-run ecolodges, and secret trails that you won’t find online. They open doors to real Costa Rica, not the version everyone sees, for you to truly experience the most unique things to do in Costa Rica at their best.
• Safety and assistance on the ground: Remote travel comes with surprises—weather, terrain, transport. A local agency offers real-time support if things go wrong. You’ll have someone who speaks the language, knows the land, and can act fast.
• Tailored adventures: Rather than following a standard tour, you get a customized trip: rafting one day, glamping the next, meeting a community elder the day after. Local experts balance logistics and storytelling to create journeys that flow.
• Responsible travel: Most local agencies are deeply committed to sustainability. They partner with eco-certified lodges and support local communities, making sure your trip has a positive impact on the people and places you visit.

What do you believe sleeping in the wild teaches travelers?

Sleeping in the wild isn’t just exciting—it’s transformative. You begin to slow down. You wake with the sun, notice the flight of a butterfly, and learn to listen again. You realize how little you actually need to feel full: clean air, a simple meal, the thrill of discovery.

Costa Rica doesn’t just give you a break from daily life—it gives you a chance to feel alive in a way you may have forgotten.

Read more: Experience the ‘pura vida’ culture in Costa Rica

Make it happen

Ready to sleep wild in Costa Rica? If you’re craving a trip where every moment feels meaningful—where adventure meets purpose, and nature is your guide—Costa Rica is waiting. And with the right local team by your side, you’ll not only sleep in the wild, you’ll thrive in it. Our local experts are on hand, ready to help you explore the most memorable places to stay and unique things to do in Costa Rica, so get in touch with them today.