Nestled high on a lush hillside overlooking the tropical rainforest, Samasati Nature Retreat is one of the most peaceful and nature-immersed eco-lodges on Costa Rica’s Southern Caribbean coast. Located about six miles from the small village of Puerto Viejo de Talamanca and close to the Panama border, Samasati is perfectly positioned for travelers who want to experience authentic Costa Rica far from mass tourism, high-rise resorts, and crowded beach towns.
This region of Costa Rica is wildly different from the Pacific coast. The Southern Caribbean has a slower rhythm of life, rich Afro-Caribbean culture, dense rainforest, and some of the most biologically diverse ecosystems in the country. From Samasati Nature Retreat, guests can enjoy a wide range of day tours, outdoor adventures, wildlife experiences, and cultural excursions, all while returning each evening to the tranquility of the rainforest.
Below are some of the best things to do in and around the Southern Caribbean of Costa Rica when staying at Samasati Nature Retreat.
Samasati Nature Retreat: A Perfect Base for Exploration
Before diving into the activities, it’s important to understand why Samasati is such a special place to stay. The retreat is set on hundreds of acres of protected rainforest, with walking trails, panoramic views, and frequent wildlife sightings right from your balcony. Guests often wake up to the calls of howler monkeys, spot toucans flying overhead, and see iguanas or butterflies near their rooms.
Samasati offers comfortable eco-bungalows, excellent food, and easy access to some of the most exciting and unspoiled natural attractions on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast.
1. Pacuare River White Water Rafting (Class III–IV)
One of the most thrilling day tours available from Samasati is white water rafting on the Pacuare River, widely considered one of the top rafting rivers in the world.
This pristine, unspoiled river winds through deep rainforest canyons and offers Class III to Class IV rapids, depending on recent rainfall. The tour is typically an all-day adventure, lasting around 8 hours, covering approximately 18 miles of river with up to 38 rapids.
What Makes the Pacuare River Special?
- Towering canyon walls and dense jungle scenery
- No roads or development along much of the river
- Frequent wildlife sightings including:
- Sloths
- Monkeys
- Toucans
- Parrots
- Colorful butterflies
The cost is usually around $99 per person, which includes transportation, professional guides, safety equipment, and meals. It’s an adrenaline-filled experience balanced by moments of calm floating through untouched rainforest.
2. Snorkeling the Caribbean Coast
The Southern Caribbean coast offers some of the best snorkeling in Costa Rica, especially during calm sea conditions. From Samasati, it’s easy to arrange snorkeling trips to nearby reefs and protected coastal areas.
Important Tip:
You must hire a local guide with a small boat. Caribbean waters can be unpredictable, and local guides know:
- The safest entry points
- Where coral reefs are healthiest
- When water visibility is best
The best time to snorkel is early in the morning, when the sea is calm and visibility is clear. Underwater, you may see:
- Colorful coral reefs
- Sea fans and sponges
- Schools of tropical fish
- Occasionally rays or sea turtles
This is a relaxed yet fascinating way to experience the Caribbean Sea.
3. Hiking in Gandoca–Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge
One of the most important protected areas near Samasati is the Gandoca–Manzanillo National Wildlife Refuge, a pristine stretch of rainforest, mangroves, and untouched beaches.
Do Not Hike Alone
This is not a place to explore without a guide. Hire a local naturalist guide who knows the terrain and wildlife. Trails run both:
- Along the coastline
- Deep into the rainforest
What to Wear and Bring:
- Tennis shoes or hiking boots (not sandals)
- Insect repellent
- Plenty of water
Wildlife You May See:
- Howler monkeys
- Sloths
- Toucans (especially early morning)
- Poison dart frogs
- Lizards
- Snakes, including the eyelash viper, which is beautiful but highly venomous
The refuge remains undeveloped—no high-rise hotels, no chain resorts, no strip malls—just raw, untouched nature.
4. Jaguar Rescue Center
A visit to the Jaguar Rescue Center near Puerto Viejo is both educational and deeply moving. This center rescues, rehabilitates, and releases injured and orphaned wildlife.
Animals you may see include:
- Sloths
- Monkeys
- Wildcats
- Toucans
- Parrots
- Reptiles and amphibians
Guided tours explain how animals are rescued and why conservation is so important in Costa Rica. This is an excellent activity for families and wildlife lovers.
5. Cahuita National Park
Cahuita National Park is one of the jewels of the Southern Caribbean. It protects both rainforest and coral reef ecosystems and is one of the few national parks where the main trail runs directly along the beach.
Things to Do in Cahuita:
- Easy coastal hiking
- Wildlife spotting
- Snorkeling in coral reefs
- Relaxing on white sand beaches
Wildlife sightings may include monkeys, raccoons, sloths, and countless bird species. After visiting the park, many travelers enjoy spending time in the village of Cahuita, known for its Afro-Caribbean culture and laid-back atmosphere.
6. Chocolate and Cacao Tours
The Caribbean region of Costa Rica is rich in cacao history. Guided cacao tours allow visitors to learn:
- How cacao is grown
- Traditional chocolate-making methods
- The cultural importance of cacao to indigenous communities
Many tours also include visits to iguana farms, where you can learn about sustainable farming practices and local cuisine.
7. Yoga, Nature Walks, and Relaxation at Samasati
Not every day needs to be an adrenaline adventure. One of the greatest pleasures of staying at Samasati Nature Retreat is simply slowing down.
On-site activities include:
- Yoga sessions
- Guided nature walks
- Birdwatching
- Meditation and relaxation
- Enjoying panoramic rainforest views
The retreat itself is an experience—quiet, restorative, and deeply connected to nature.
8. Wildlife Photography and Birdwatching
The Southern Caribbean is a dream destination for photographers and birdwatchers. The mix of rainforest, wetlands, and coastline creates incredible biodiversity.
Birds you may see include:
- Toucans
- Motmots
- Oropendolas
- Parrots
- Hummingbirds
Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times for photography.
Why the Southern Caribbean Is So Special
What truly sets this region apart is its authenticity. Unlike more developed tourist areas, the Southern Caribbean remains:
- Culturally rich
- Environmentally protected
- Peaceful and uncrowded
Life moves slower here, and nature is always the main attraction.
Final Thoughts: Planning Your Stay at Samasati Nature Retreat
Samasati Nature Retreat is more than a place to sleep—it is a gateway to the best adventures, wildlife, and natural beauty of Costa Rica’s Southern Caribbean coast. Whether you are rafting world-class rivers, snorkeling coral reefs, hiking pristine rainforests, or simply relaxing to the sound of birds and wind in the trees, this region offers a rare and unforgettable travel experience.
If you are looking for an eco-friendly, off-the-beaten-path destination where nature comes first, Samasati Nature Retreat and the surrounding Southern Caribbean of Costa Rica should be at the top of your list.