Let’s travel to Costa Rica and journey into the lush, rain-soaked countryside near Arenal Volcano and Lake Arenal, where one of the most inspiring and unique eco-projects in the country quietly thrives. Tucked away in rolling hills and dense rainforest is Rancho Margot, a self-sustaining organic farm that offers travelers far more than a place to sleep. Visiting Rancho Margot is an experience—one that combines nature, sustainability, education, comfort, and a deep respect for the environment.
Rancho Margot is not a luxury resort in the traditional sense. Instead, it is a living, breathing example of what sustainable living can look like when vision, commitment, and respect for nature come together. For travelers seeking an authentic and meaningful connection to Costa Rica’s natural world, Rancho Margot stands out as a rare gem.
A Vision Rooted in Sustainability
Rancho Margot is a 400-acre self-sustaining organic ranch located near Arenal Volcano, with sweeping views of Lake Arenal and bordering the renowned Children’s Eternal Rainforest of Monteverde—one of the largest private reserves in Central America. The property was purchased by Juan Sostheim and his family, who envisioned creating a working ranch that would exist in harmony with the surrounding rainforest.
From the beginning, the mission was clear: protect and preserve the rainforest while demonstrating that humans can live responsibly within it. Every decision made at Rancho Margot reflects this philosophy. The ranch operates independently of public utilities and relies almost entirely on renewable resources generated on-site.
Living Off the Grid
What truly sets Rancho Margot apart is its complete commitment to sustainability.
- Electricity is generated by a hydroelectric turbine, powered by a strong river that runs directly through the property.
- Internet and cell phone service are provided via satellite, keeping the ranch connected without disturbing the surrounding ecosystem.
- All food served at the ranch is grown organically on-site or sourced locally.
- Waste is recycled, composted, or reused whenever possible.
- Animals are raised humanely, contributing to the farm’s closed-loop agricultural system.
The ranch grows its own vegetables, fruits, herbs, and grains. Cows provide milk, pigs help recycle food waste, and compost nourishes the soil. This integrated system ensures that nearly everything at Rancho Margot has a purpose and contributes to the overall balance of the property.
Accommodations in the Jungle
Rancho Margot welcomes guests from around the world and offers comfortable yet simple accommodations designed to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings.
The property features:
- 10 beautifully designed private bungalows
- A communal bunkhouse for budget travelers or groups
The bungalows are spacious, clean, and thoughtfully decorated, surrounded by tropical gardens bursting with color. Staying here feels like living inside a botanical garden. Exotic flowers, towering trees, and lush foliage surround each structure, giving guests the feeling of being completely immersed in the jungle.
At night, the sounds of the rainforest take over—frogs, insects, and distant howler monkeys create a natural symphony that lulls you to sleep. Early mornings often begin with mist rising from the forest and the unmistakable roar of howler monkeys announcing the new day.
A Day at Rancho Margot
There is no shortage of activities at Rancho Margot, and guests are encouraged to participate as much—or as little—as they like.
Guided Ranch Tours
One of the highlights is the guided tour of the ranch, where guests learn firsthand how the entire operation works. You’ll visit:
- The organic gardens
- Animal enclosures
- Composting systems
- Renewable energy installations
This tour offers a fascinating look at sustainable agriculture in action and is both educational and inspiring.
Horseback Riding
Guests can take a horseback ride to the highest point on the property, where panoramic views of Lake Arenal and Arenal Volcano unfold before you. On a clear day, the scenery is breathtaking and well worth the journey.
Wildlife Encounters
Rancho Margot is alive with wildlife. During our stay, we saw:
- Toucans flying freely through the trees
- Howler monkeys calling from the forest canopy
- Colorful birds, butterflies, and insects everywhere
There is even a pet toucan near the restaurant, living in a large, enclosed area. Seeing a toucan up close—its brilliant colors and oversized beak—is a memorable experience for most visitors.
Animal Rescue and Education
Rancho Margot also operates an animal rescue station on the property. During our visit, Juan showed us a small monkey that had been rescued just the day before after being injured by schoolchildren. The ranch staff was nursing it back to health, along with several other monkeys and two baby deer.
This rescue effort reflects the ranch’s broader commitment to conservation and education. Local schoolchildren are regularly brought to Rancho Margot to learn about:
- Rainforest preservation
- Wildlife protection
- Sustainable farming practices
By teaching the next generation the value of Costa Rica’s natural resources, Rancho Margot plays an important role in protecting the environment long into the future.
Yoga, Wellness, and the River
One of the most peaceful areas of Rancho Margot is the yoga center, located on the banks of the river. Practicing yoga while listening to flowing water and jungle sounds is a deeply grounding experience. Even guests who don’t normally practice yoga often find themselves drawn to this serene space.
The river itself is a central feature of the ranch. It provides power, irrigation, and a refreshing place to relax. Walking paths crisscross the property, allowing guests to explore at their own pace and discover quiet corners perfect for reflection.
Our Personal Experience
We stayed at Rancho Margot for two nights and three days and enjoyed every moment. Our visit took place in July, during Costa Rica’s green season. Afternoons brought dramatic thunderstorms with thunder and lightning—an unforgettable tropical experience—while mornings were sunny and pleasant.
Being surrounded by rainforest, organic gardens, and wildlife created a sense of peace that is hard to find elsewhere. It felt less like a hotel stay and more like being welcomed into a living community.
One of the most unexpected and delightful moments was seeing the bright green school buses Juan had purchased on eBay and shipped to Costa Rica. Painted jungle green and decorated with colorful birds, these buses transport guests from La Fortuna to Rancho Margot, a scenic ride of about 30 minutes. Seeing them rumble through the countryside is unforgettable.
Mission and Philosophy
Juan explained that Rancho Margot’s overarching mission is simple yet powerful: to protect and preserve the rainforest while educating others about sustainable living. Tourism was incorporated not as a profit-driven venture, but as a way to fund conservation, education, and animal rescue efforts.
Guests who visit Rancho Margot are not just tourists—they become participants in a vision that demonstrates how tourism and conservation can coexist.
Practical Information
Location
Rancho Margot is located near Arenal Volcano and Lake Arenal, Costa Rica.
Getting There
When you make reservations, Juan and his team provide detailed directions or arrange transportation from La Fortuna using their custom buses.
Best Time to Visit
- Mid-December through mid-April offers drier weather.
- This region is part of a rainforest, so rain is common year-round.
- Expect sunny mornings and rain in the afternoons during much of the year.
Website
You can learn more about Rancho Margot, accommodations, and tours by visiting:
www.ranchomargot.org
A Truly Unique Experience
Rancho Margot is not just a destination—it is a philosophy in action. It offers travelers a rare opportunity to see how sustainable living, conservation, education, and tourism can work together in harmony. Whether you are a nature lover, an eco-traveler, or simply someone seeking a deeper connection to Costa Rica, Rancho Margot is an experience you will never forget.
If you want to understand Costa Rica beyond the beaches and resorts, experience Rancho Margot firsthand. It is, without question, one of the most unique and meaningful places to visit in the country.