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We claim on our website to be a bit “unusual” – in  a good way according to our several thousand satisfied guests! RP is a place of contrasts - providing an authentic Tropical Guest Ranch experience with the refinements of a Small Luxury Hotel. The approach here is, in the words of one guest, “of casual elegance, refined but not pretentious - like a spacious estate with lots of privacy and personal attention.”  In the words of another, "Where nature meets style".  We .pride ourselves on our​

personalized service made possible by our "micro" size (24 people max)​

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Costa Rica is one of the top 5 "Adventure Travel" destinations in the world - and #1 for "Adventure Honeymoons". Chances are if you are reading this, the word adventure is meaningful - but it needs to be understood.  Simply, adventure implies risk. You simply cannot have an adventure in an absolutely controlled environment.  People seek adventure travel to experience something other than their everyday, controlled environment.

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In this spirit, Rancho Pacifico was created - but with a twist.  While the founders were committed to preserving an authentic "adventure" element, sustainable architecture and an "eco-spirit" - they also wanted to add some unexpected creature comforts - along the lines of a classy African Safari camp or High-end Nature Lodge. 

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Now after 10 years of operation, we know that 95+% of our guests are "above and beyond" satisfied with the RP experience.  Because our goal of customer satisfaction is so high, we discussed this fact with a group of "happy guests" recently who suggested we create a type of profile to help future guests insure they too will be in the 95%.  We thought this would be a bit unusual – but again as a guest pointed out, “unusual is good!” and "RP is not for everybody".....

 

So as you consider spending your vacation time with us, please read through what follows for a clearer idea of what it means when we say, "Where Nature meets Style"....offered respectfully to help you make the right choice

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Q:  Why are you coming to Costa Rica - and what experience do you seek?

A: Are you coming to experience nature and the rainforest, hang out on the beach, or for adventure?  According tho the Costa Rica Tourist Bureau, these are the top reasons people visit (75% say to experience nature and the rain forest). Whatever your reasons, you can experience the best of these from Rancho Pacifico.  We look out from within the rainforest over an amazing expanse of blue Pacific.  We have incredible, uncrowded nearby beaches to explore  and our proprietary nature is as good as it gets.

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For us, the key word is experience.  Rancho Pacifico was designed to truly present an opportunity to live within a thriving tropical wilderness - not just to "see it".  You are immersed in the one-of-a-kind natural sensations that surround our remote setting - not from within an "urbanized" environment designed to make you an observer.  Here, you are truly an experiencer - with the real and rare opportunity to create a memory that cannot be duplicated. RP is one of a very few hotels in Costa Rica awarded and recognized for its style and quality that is located in a truly remote location.  Many "Luxury"  hotels in Costa Rica, lovely as they are, could be easily found in Miami or L.A. With the harmonizing of rainforest, mountains and ocean and our all- "Tico" staff,  Rancho Pacifico could only be found in Costa Rica.

 

Q: What do you mean by "Eco Luxury"

 

A: We mean contemporary luxury versus purely urban-style or traditional.  Much of our furniture, linens, bath amenities, etc. have been carefully chosen to fit with our natural environment.  Things are more "sleek" than "puffy" and modern materials are in play against stone backdrops. The "luxury" side of us is reflected more in the unexpected services you will discover in our remote location than in our classic amenities.  We are different than an  urban 5 star - as well, we believe, we should be.

 

​Q: Is the area right for you?

A: All of Costa Rica is not created equally. Many areas along the northern and central Pacific coast have become highly developed and for some,  "touristy". As they have developed, they have lost extensive natural rainforest - depleting wildlife and eroding natural vistas. For example, in Manuel Antonio, Jaco and much of Guanacaste it is almost impossible to escape road noise, beach crowds and t-shirt shops.  And from Dec to April, most of this area (covered by Tropical Dry Forest)  becomes brown and loses its "lushness".

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If you are looking to experience the Costa Rica of your dreams - laid-back, private and always green - there is really only the South Pacific Coast and Costa Ballena ("Whale Coast") - where the beaches are wide and empty, primary rainforest awaits exploration and the local people are friendly.

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Overlooking the Osa Peninsula, Rancho Pacifico occupies a mountainside in this beautiful and still wild area.  Our rainforest is in bloom all year, there are no distant road noises and your desire "to get away from it all" is immediately fulfilled.  But please keep in mind, "away from it all" is just that - RP is best described as "remote but reasonably near conveniences""

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Q: Them or us? - making the right choice among Costa Rica's finer accommodations

A: We get a lot of inquiries from folks who have researched the internet and narrowed their choice to a few of the obvious, finer hotels around Costa Rica.  Frankly, because our reputation allows us to care more about their well-being than our occupancy rates, we have come up with a few very honest comparisons designed to help people make their best choice.  We are always happy when they are happy.

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    If you want to be ON the beach - we're afraid you will have to go "there".  If you want an authentic Costa Rica    experience , with spectacular views of the ocean, easy access to 13 distinct beaches and surrounded by  nature and wildlife - come to RP. 

 

    If you want just a nice  hotel "room" - "there" is probably your choice.  If you prefer a unique, free-standing, award-winning,  & architecturally designed dwelling to call your own - please come here.
 

    If you want to feel like you are in a classy city-like "hotel" with traditional urban amenities - go there.  If you like the  idea of feeling like you landed in an exclusive private estate, or secluded guest ranch in an exotic part of the world - without TV or in-room phones -  by all means, come here.

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    If you prefer cozying up in front of a big screen while enjoying room service in bed - there is the better choice.  If you figure you can do that at home and want to get away from your routine and lose yourself in paradise,  you will love RP.  (We have Room Service, a movie room and free Wifi available throughout the property) 
 

 

    If awakening in the confines of an enclosed, climate controlled room meets your needs, there may be a good choice.  If waking up to the sounds and rhythms of "the most biologically intense place on earth" (as our area has  been called by National Geographic) meets your fancy then please come here.  We refer to sleeping at RP as a  "sensual event" - where the cool breezes of the rainforest - and our altitude,  insure perfect temperatures year- round.  Our guests constantly praise our naturally  ozonated air, premium beds, organic linens, sights, sounds and connection with the surrounding nature as some of our most endearing qualities....and conducive to the best sleep ever.  But to some, being this close to nature can be noisy and maybe a little daunting.daunting

We hope this helps clarify your thinking - we sincerely want you to be ecstatic with your choice, wherever you decide to go.

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Q: How tolerant are you of  travel related inconveniences?

A: In the very efficient world in which we live, many of us have lost touch with “the rest of the world”.  Although Costa Rica is better than most Latin countries in regards to efficiency – it is not North America or Europe.  There are sometimes unanticipated delays (as there are of course on U.S. freeways) that can extend travel times and cause plans to have to be adjusted.  By average standards, some roads are "rough".  Road signs are in Spanish. Adventurous guests are prepared to tolerate such inconveniences and see them as part of the travel experience.  They expect this to be "the Central American Tropics" - and enjoy the cultural change - but tolerance may be called for..

Q: Do you really want to go "High-End"?

A: Costa Rica has long had a reputation of being an inexpensive travel destination, and some (especially) first-time visitors arrive with expectations of  $10 dinners, 50 cent beers, and $50 a nite accommodations.  Over the last few years, the country has seen a birth of a "luxury sector" – kicked off with the opening of the 4 Seasons Hotel in 2003. 

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For 10 years in a row, Rancho Pacifico has been one of only six properties nominated for a World Travel Award (The "Oscars of the Travel Industry" according to the Wall Street Journal) as “Leading Boutique Hotel" and  "Leading Green Hotel" in  Latin and Central America, as well as in the Same categories in Costa Rica.  We are also proud to be a member of SLH - Small Luxury Hotels of the World, which, according to Nielsen, is the most respected name in Luxury Hospitality worldwide
(ahead of Ritz-Carlton, Four Seasons and other notable hotel groups)

 

Discerning travelers understand that the cost structure one expects throughout a luxury establishment does not fit the “budget travel” model.  Rancho Pacifico is among a few boutique properties (we think of ourseves as a Tropical Guest Ranch} throughout the country that have raised the bar in quality and service – and is priced consistently with these and other fine, smallish properties throughout the world.

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Adventurous guests choose RP based on quality and uniqueness and have purposely chosen a "high-end" experience.  They appreciate our uncompromising standards represented by our affilliation as a "Small Luxury Hotel of the World".   They further appreciate our personalized service, one-of-a-kind open-air spa, the innovation of organic,  "world-tropical" cuisine and the simple beauty of award-winning, well designed architecture, interiors and gardens.

Q: Do you want to experience a remote location – and the nature one finds there?

A: Again, we are all impacted by the conveniences of the modern world.  Some visitors to Costa Rica are seeking a more "citified" experience than they will find at RP.  For example, our local wildlife does not appear when called.  When a tropical downpour hits it can get damp.  Occasionally you’re going to see a horned beetle or oversized grasshopper or walking stick.  There could be a snake (although we have never had a dangerous encounter). You’re going to travel 1.2 miles up our well maintained, gravel access road which is going to transport you to “another world” - "the real thing", but it's bumpy and steep.  Its mountainous here - so if you hike it’s going to be fairly strenuous.

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One guest recently said that RP's location was like visiting a national park.  Our entrance is the gateway to a 250 acre private nature preserve and adjacent wilderness - containing one of Costa Rica's wildest expanses of primary (never cut) rainforest. You can even hike to spectacular waterfalls.  Unlike the central and northern Pacific - it is green here all year round.  For guests unaccustomed to wilderness it probably seems isolated and remote.....but to the more adventurous, this is why they came to Costa Rica....and to RP.

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Adventurous guests respond to our promise of an “authentic tropical experience” and  come to
experience nature as it is – with early rising howler monkeys,  the roar of a waterfall, and frequent wildlife sightings based on the rhythms of nature.  All of this is balanced with close proximity (2 miles) to a handy supply of convenient stores, banks, groceries, restaurants, beaches and activities.  But it takes an adventurous spirit to enjoy it.....it's a Tropical Guest Ranch!

Q:  Are you clear on what you want to do for fun?

A: Costa Rica has become very diverse.  In more developed areas than ours there are large hotels, marinas, night life and typical American food.  You can find cable TV at most hotels. 

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Rancho Pacifico is a relaxed place – modern in appearance but a bit old-fashioned in its ways.  We purposely do not have TV’s in the rooms (we do have a very comfortable movie room). There are no phones in the rooms (we do have  phones which guests are welcome to use - free to the U.S. and other countries worldwide) and execellent cellular coverage.  We don’t have a business center (although we do have WIFI internet through our own satellite system if you bring your chosen device - at no charge). 

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There is a lot to do close-by during the day….playing in the sea (boats, kayaks, surfboards, bodysurfing) and surrounding rainforested mountains (hikes, ATV’s, nature watching, river tubing, waterfall explorations).   Many guests go out everyday, Some never leave the property.

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Adventurous guests appreciate RP as an opportunity to unplug from their usual routine.  They generally enjoy a full day of rigorous activity or highly focused quiet time.  Dinner is a treat and afterward guests either turn in early or enjoy a quiet nightcap at the bar or in the outdoor, stone whirlpool.  Tuning in to a natural beat and “finding the moment” amidst comfort and personal attention is what they enjoy most.

 

​Q:  Are you sure you want the “small hotel” experience?

A:  Boutique hotels are “in”, and many travelers seek them out.  Someone described RP as “boutique in every way” – and travel journalist Anthony Bourdain, himself a boutique hotel afficianado  said, “in the end what defines a boutique hotel are the people”.  We have only 10 accommodations housing a maximum of 24 guests – with a full time staff of 24.  We are proud of our "smallness" and intend to keep it that way.

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The downside is that small, out of the way places such as ours offer a different set of standards than large convenience properties.  At RP the chef for example is not a figure-head, you will get to know Alex – maybe even meet his son Sebastian. Adriana, our concierge will ask you how you enjoyed the canopy tour. – and may personally go to the pharmacy for you should you need something.   Vianey will remember your favorite drink – and how you like it.  Our drivers will point out local wildlife that you can't see - and wave to their families and friends as they take you here and there.  Rather than
sharing a passing hello with other guests, at RP guests tend to get to know each other – often resulting in sharing meals and activities and becoming friends.

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Adventurous guests consistently echo Mr Bourdain’s comments  – they appreciate the sincere personal attention they get from the staff and the camaraderie of sharing time with like-minded guests. 

 

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Q:  How are you going to get around?

A: Rancho Pacifico’s remoteness is countered with its close proximity to many activities, diverse beaches and quaint villages.  It is not however by any means in the center of a bustling beach / surf town such as one finds on the northern Pacific coast or Manuel Antonio.

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The serenity and pristine nature of our immediate environment  (far above consistent road noise below) requires a 1.2 mile trip “down the mountain” (through gorgeous jungle and amazing ocean vistas) to a newly paved main highway.  A string of 13 quiet beaches begin right off the highway – and a host of other activities are conveniently accessed.

 

The majority of our guests rent cars in San Jose and enjoy the countryside on the way to RP.  In lieu of that,  we can arrange private van transportation to and from RP, and have arrangements with local taxis for convenient trips to closeby activities.  You can even rent a vehicle once you arrive to RP to use during your stay. Many guests choose the convenient 20 minute regional flight from San Jose -- we then pick you up at the Quepos Regional Airport for the short hop to RP (private transportation charge applies).  

 

Utilizing taxis results in costs for a week about equal to that of a 4wd rental vehicle. (details can be found on our website). The upside is you don't have to worry about  a rental car and it is more convenient.  The downside is you will have to schedule your "comings and goings" each day with some added flexibility

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If you like to explore back roads or feel that full - freedom mobility is better for you, rental cars can be picked up in San Jose  – or at RP (for as few as one day).  The upside is you can go where you want and when - the downside  is relatively high daily rates, some rough roads, uncertain travel conditions, high cost of gasoline.

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Adventurous guests plan ahead to minimize hassles regardless of whether or not that includes a rental vehicle.   Our area is exciting - and depending on your personal needs,  you can see the best of it in a variety of ways.

 

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Q: Can you handle changing weather conditions?

A: Based on the time of year you visit, there are many different weather conditions to expect.
Costa Rica is tropical - just 9 degrees above the equator and 1000 miles south of the Yucatan.
It is a country of rainforest - and yes, at least part of the year, it rains in the rainforest - all over the country.  While Costa Rica does not experience wind driven hurricanes, it does get a dose of hard rains.  Those seeking bright, sunny days with hardly any rain will best enjoy December through April. May, June, July, August and November are thought of as Indian summer here - clear mornings and late afternoon showers.  Late August, September and October usually have clear mornings - with longer rain showers in the afternoon and evening.

 

Many guests during the rainier season tell us they love the rain and look forward to it!  They plan their mornings out - and settle down for a restful afternoon.  But some don't care for this routine - they would rather be at the beach all day or out fishing.  While this is possible because it is warm even when it rains - it's not for everyone.  It can also be "damp".

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Adventurous guests understand what the conditions are likely to be during the time of their visit and set their expectations accordingly.  They come with an attitude (and gear) that allows them to experience the authentic diversity of tropical nature.

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Q: Do you have special dietary needs?

Rancho Pacifico contains an award winning private dining room (open only to guests) - The Whale's Tail Grill, where the specialty is local, organic ingredients and fresh seafood artfully  brought together as "World-Tropical" cuisine.  Our offerings are slanted toward "light but hearty" with a comfort element within the overall category of "Casual Fine Dining".  Our small menu changes daily - and each night offers at least 2 main entrees including Vegetarian and gluten-free.. We have been delighting those with dietary needs since our opening, with few modifications from our normal options.  We have also been successfully accommodating gluten-free requests for years.

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We all do best when those that fit within these two categories discuss their personal preferences directly with Chef Alex upon arrival.  He is knowledgeable, creative and dedicated to please.  We have found that those with
severe and extensive food allergies combined with Vegan may not be able to be accommodated properly. 

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Q: Are you into "Spa-ing" and Relaxing?

A: Our 2016 Trip Advisor Travellers Choice Award cites us as the #1 "Spa/Relaxation Hotel" in Central America and Costa Rica" - and #12 in the World.  While we are very proud of this (and remember - the voting is from Guests) we do not bill ourselves as a Destination Spa or Yoga Retreat or Diet Spa.  We suggest you refer to our Spa Tranquila pages at
RanchoPacifico.com for more details of what we do and do not offer. 

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In a nutshell we have a great array of natural treatments and a fantastic staff of male and female therapists.  The treatment center is indoor-outdoor and provides a setting and backdrop that is simply unmatchable for relaxation and sheer beauty....it is NOT your neighborhood Day-Spa! 

 

We do not have an extensive array of spa amenities (we have a small ocean-view yoga/fitness studio, self
guided exercise and yoga programs, a couple of intimate outdoor jacuzzis and amazing hiking trails).  And
we do have a retreat-like setting with outdoor sitting and quiet areas throughout our large property.  Our
food is healthy and hearty - largely organic - and casual fine dining.  If relaxation is at least part of your
agenda, the opportunity is here....but we are not a "Destination Spa" - we are an awarded Small Eco-Luxury Hotel in a quiet setting with an excellent, but simple spa program and healthy outdoor lifestyle.

 

Q: Can Rancho Pacifico accommodate special handicap needs?

A. Because of our remote and spread out location, RP is NOT reccommended for persons with mobility conditions - including wheelchairs or walkers.