Hidden deep within Costa Rica’s lush northern rainforest, Finca Luna Nueva Lodge is far more than a place to stay—it is a living classroom, a sanctuary for nature, and a model for sustainable living. Known as “Farm of the New Moon,” this remarkable eco-lodge blends organic farming, seed preservation, education, and rainforest immersion into an unforgettable experience.
My friends Jessica, Grevin, and I headed out from Alajuela with excitement and curiosity, our destination set for Finca Luna Nueva Lodge. After staying for several nights, we all agreed on one thing: it was not long enough.
Getting There: Into the Heart of the Rainforest
Finca Luna Nueva Lodge is located about one hour from San Ramón, along the road to La Fortuna and Arenal Volcano. This region receives abundant rainfall year-round, creating ideal conditions for organic agriculture and dense rainforest growth.
As we drove deeper into the countryside, the landscape transformed into a vibrant world of towering trees, fertile fields, and winding dirt roads. The air felt cooler and fresher, rich with the scent of earth and vegetation. By the time we arrived at the lodge, it already felt like we had stepped into another world—one governed by nature’s rhythms rather than the clock.
A Lodge Built Around Organic Farming and Sustainability
The heart and soul of Finca Luna Nueva is its commitment to organic farming and seed preservation, particularly of medicinal plants. The lodge is not only a place to observe sustainability—it is a place to learn the science behind it.
Here, guests are introduced to the importance of preserving medicinal plant seeds for future generations. This mission is especially critical today, as many traditional seeds around the world are being genetically modified so that they can no longer reproduce naturally (GMOs). At Finca Luna Nueva, the preservation of reproducible, organic seeds is seen as both an environmental and ethical responsibility.
The philosophy goes beyond agriculture—it is about protecting biodiversity, honoring ancient knowledge, and creating a sustainable future.
Sacred Seeds and Medicinal Plants
One of the most fascinating experiences at the lodge was the Sacred Seed Tour, led by Steven Farrell, the project manager. Steven is a specialist in organically grown medicinal plants, with particular expertise in ginger and turmeric.
During the tour, we learned how seeds are carefully collected, stored, and replanted annually. These seeds are considered “sacred” because they carry generations of natural resilience, medicinal properties, and cultural knowledge.
The long-term goal of the project is to promote Sacred Seed Gardens around the world—ensuring that future generations have access to these powerful plants and the wisdom associated with them.
Medicinal Plants Up Close
Throughout the farm, our guides pointed out numerous medicinal plants, encouraging us to smell, touch, and taste them. This hands-on learning made the experience deeply memorable.
For the first time in my life, I saw an organic tea plant up close—about three feet tall. As someone who loves tea and enjoys exploring different varieties, this moment felt special. Seeing where tea truly comes from created a new appreciation for something I enjoy daily.
Learning How Chocolate Is Made
Another highlight of our stay was learning how chocolate is made, entirely from scratch. The cocoa plants grown on the farm are 100% organic, and the process is presented by Ismael, a young Costa Rican with deep knowledge and passion for his craft.
Ismael guided us through the entire journey—from cocoa bean to finished chocolate. The end result? Small chocolate teddy bears, rich in flavor and absolutely delicious. Watching the transformation and tasting the final product made us appreciate how much care and patience go into real chocolate.
Simply put: yummy.
The Farm Store: Nature’s Medicine
The small on-site store offers a selection of organic products grown and prepared right on the farm. One standout item is a 4-ounce bottle of organic ginger root juice mixed with honey, sold for $14.
- Made from organically grown ginger
- Mixed with honey straight from the beehive
- Recommended dosage: 1 teaspoon daily to help improve the immune system
The store also sells organic turmeric, known for its powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. We learned that consuming turmeric daily with black pepper significantly improves the body’s ability to absorb it—valuable knowledge rooted in both science and tradition.
Rainforest Living and Wildlife Encounters
Finca Luna Nueva Lodge is incredibly peaceful. The sounds of the rainforest surround you day and night—rustling leaves, distant calls, and birdsong creating a constant natural symphony.
Early each morning, tropical birds gathered in the trees near our room. From the lodge’s lookout tower, we spotted a flock of five toucans, their colorful beaks glowing against the green canopy. Soon after, dozens of green parrots arrived, squeaking loudly as they filled the sky.
Nature here feels alive, interactive, and deeply present.
Relaxation: Pool, Hot Tub, and Downtime
After long days exploring the farm and participating in tours, the large swimming pool and nearby hot tub became our favorite late-afternoon retreat. Surrounded by jungle, the pool area is the perfect place to relax, cool off, and reflect on the day’s experiences.
The atmosphere encourages slowing down—there is no rush here, only rhythm.
Farm-to-Table Dining
The lodge’s restaurant serves mostly organic food, much of it grown right on the property. Every meal felt fresh, nourishing, and thoughtfully prepared.
My personal favorites included:
- Green salads made from organic lettuce and tomatoes
- A unique and refreshing watermelon ceviche, prepared with finely chopped cilantro and sweet blue onions
The flavors were vibrant, creative, and delicious—proof that healthy food can also be deeply satisfying.
Daily Farm Tours
The Farm Tour, offered daily at 9:00 am and 3:00 pm, provides guests with an in-depth look at how organic farming works at Finca Luna Nueva.
During the tour, we saw:
- Pigs and water buffalo
- Water buffalo milk being used in the lodge kitchen
- Composting systems
- Medicinal plant gardens
The guides are knowledgeable and enthusiastic, making the tour both educational and enjoyable.
Night Tour: Rainforest After Dark
One evening, we joined the Night Tour, an experience especially popular with families and children. The rainforest transforms after sunset, revealing nocturnal creatures and an entirely different soundscape.
With flashlights in hand, we listened to insects, frogs, and unseen animals, gaining a deeper appreciation for the rainforest’s complexity.
A Model of Biodynamic Farming
Finca Luna Nueva is a shining example of biodynamic farming, a holistic approach that goes beyond organic agriculture.
Biodynamic farming emphasizes:
- The use of natural manure and compost
- Exclusion of artificial chemicals
- A holistic understanding of soil, plants, animals, and humans
It integrates spiritual, ethical, and ecological principles, viewing the farm as a living organism rather than a production system.
Final Reflections
Our stay at Finca Luna Nueva Lodge was deeply enriching. It combined education, relaxation, sustainability, and connection to nature in a way few places do.
This is not just a lodge—it is a vision for the future, showing how humans can live in harmony with the land while preserving knowledge, seeds, and ecosystems for generations to come.
If you are traveling to Costa Rica and want more than beaches and zip lines—if you want meaning, learning, and inspiration—Finca Luna Nueva Lodge is a destination that will stay with you long after you leave.