Nayara Gardens

Donde the Selva Embraces You

Lush rainforest villas near volcanoes, waterfalls, and hot springs—this is Costa Rica's pura vida philosophy wrapped in absolute lujo.

Costa Rica captured my corazón like nowhere else, chica, and Nayara Gardens is where I truly understood why this small Central American country has mastered el arte of eco-lujo. Set in the shadow of the majestic Arenal Volcano—a perfecto cone that often hides coyly behind clouds before revealing itself in dramatic fashion—and surrounded by primary rainforest alive with toucans, sloths, and howler monkeys whose calls echo through the canopy, this resort proves that being close to naturaleza doesn't mean sacrificing an ounce of comfort. This is Costa Rica's famoso pura vida philosophy given luxurious form.

The bungalow-style casitas are scattered thoughtfully throughout lush tropical gardens, each one offering its own private terrace with direct views of the volcano. Waking up here, with the sounds of la selva as your morning alarm and the volcanic peak emerging mysteriously from la mañana mist, you'll understand what pura vida really means—the pure la vida, the good la vida, where every moment is a gift to be savored. The property seamlessly blends into its surroundings, creating the feeling that you're living within the rainforest rather than merely observing it from a distance. naturaleza here isn't a backdrop; it's an active participant in your experiencia.

Las Habitaciones

The casitas at Nayara Gardens are designed to maximize your connection to naturaleza while ensuring every comfort. Each standalone bungalow features high ceilings, natural materials that complement la selva setting, and private terraces oriented to capture those legendary Arenal views. The interiors blend Costa Rican craftsmanship with contemporary lujo—think locally made furnishings, luxurious bedding, and bathrooms with rainforest showers and deep soaking tubs. Many casitas feature outdoor Jacuzzis where you can soak under las estrellas. For the ultimate experiencia, consider upgrading to Nayara Springs, the adults-only sister property adjacent to Nayara Gardens. These villas feature private natural hot spring-fed plunge pools—water heated by the volcanic activity beneath your feet—where you can soak while watching the volcano and listening to the jungle symphony. The gardens between casitas are alive with wildlife; don't be surprised to spot colorful birds, butterflies, and the occasional coati wandering past your terrace.

El Spa y Aguas Termales

The natural hot springs at Nayara are fed by the volcanic activity that defines this region, and soaking in those mineral-rich waters while gazing at Arenal is pure, unadulterated bliss. The waters are genuinely therapeutic—minerals from deep within the earth that ease muscle tension and promote relaxation. The resort has developed multiple hot spring pools at varying temperatures, allowing you to find your perfecto comfort level as you float beneath la selva canopy. The spa extends this connection to the land with treatments using indigenous ingredients—Costa Rican coffee scrubs, volcanic mud masks, tropical fruit wraps, and massages incorporating local botanicals. The treatment rooms are open-air pavilions where the sounds of the rainforest become part of your experiencia. This isn't just spa relaxation; it's deep connection to the increíble natural forces that shape this land. The combination of hot springs, spa treatments, and the healing energy of the rainforest creates something genuinely transformative.

La Gastronomía

Dining at Nayara Gardens celebrates Costa Rica's remarkable biodiversity and farm-to-table tradiciones. Amor Loco, the signature restaurant, serves creative Costa Rican cuisine using ingredients sourced from local farms and the resort's own gardens. Expect fresh tropical fruits, locally caught fish, and preparations that honor traditional recipes while adding contemporary flair. Nostalgia offers a more romántico setting, perfecto for lingering dinners where hummingbirds dance among the flowers as el sol sets and the volcano (if you're lucky) turns golden. The wine selection is surprisingly excellent for a jungle resort. Breakfast is a highlight—fresh tropical fruits, Costa Rican coffee that is genuinely exceptional (this is coffee country, after all), and eggs prepared with local produce. For something special, arrange a private dinner in the gardens or at your casita, with personal chef service and la selva as your dining room. The resort also offers cooking classes where you can learn the secretos of Costa Rican cuisine.

Ubicación y Actividades

The La Fortuna area offers some of Costa Rica's most iconic adventures, and the resort can arrange everything. Zip-lining through the rainforest canopy is exhilarating—flying between platforms with la selva stretched out below. The hanging bridges walk offers a more contemplative canopy experiencia, walking suspended among the treetops where toucans, monkeys, and sloths make their homes. La Fortuna Waterfall is unmissable—a 70-meter cascade plunging into a perfecto swimming pool; yes, the 500 steps back up are intense, but floating in that water looking up at that thundering falls is worth every one. White-water rafting on the Pacuare River is world-class—a full day of rapids, wildlife, and some of the most hermoso river scenery imaginable. Take a chocolate tour to learn about Costa Rica's cacao tradiciones, from tree to truffle. Book the dawn bird walk and watch for toucans, tanagers, and if you're very lucky, the resplendent quetzal. Costa Rica packs more aventura per square mile than almost anywhere on Earth.

Tips de Sofía

Upgrade to Nayara Springs if your budget allows, chica—the private hot spring plunge pools in each villa are absolutely divine and worth every penny. Book the chocolate tour to learn about Costa Rican cacao tradiciones and taste the most increíble fresh chocolate. The La Fortuna Waterfall is a must-visit; yes, the 500 steps back up are genuinely intense, but swimming at the base of that magnificent cascade is worth every burning muscle. Book the dawn bird walk—the toucans and quetzals will steal your corazón, and the guides know exactly where to find them. And do NOT miss white-water rafting on the Pacuare River; it's genuinely one of lo mejor rafting experiences in el mundo. Bring waterproof bags for your electronics, pack layers because mornings can be surprisingly cool, and prepare to fall completely in love with this mágico little country. Pura vida, chica—Costa Rica will show you what that really means.

Costa Rica taught me to slow down and breathe.
Let pura vida transform your soul