Paraíso Quetzal Lodge

We did not stay at Paraiso Quetzal Lodge, but visited on two consecutive days to enjoy their Hummingbird Platform and Gardens ($10 USD/person). Very enjoyable time on both days. On second day we had lunch in the restaurant, LOS COLIBRÍE, excellent food and service.

After having no luck finding a Quetzal on my own, my wife and I signed up for a Quetzal tour at the Paraiso Quetzal Lodge, and they delivered. We went out with a guide, and were entreated to at least four quetzals, male, female, and probably immatures. It was a real thrill to see this iconic species, and the sighting capped a two-week adventure where we saw over 350 species of birds in Costa Rica. I highly recommend this tour, and the price is reasonable compared to other places I checked.

We scouted for a halfway spot to overnight between Costa Rica’s south Pacific beaches and San Jose, during a recent CR road trip, and it soon became clear that Paraíso Quetzal Lodge was the ideal stop. We didn’t pick this birders paradise because we’re actually bird-nerds, but because of the wonderful accommodations, lodge and grounds. Each looked invitingly comfy, cozy and delightful and its mid-way location was ideal. We were provided one of the ‘new’ cabins close to the lodge, due to our excessive luggage. It was so nice of them to accommodate us! The rooms themselves were comfortable and inviting, with plenty of blankets and a small table-top heater to keep you warm, during the cold mountain nights. The views were standout – jaw-dropping even from the room, but the vista from our balcony of the valley below and mountains beyond, were unparalleled. With the verdant surrounds absolutely everywhere, the tropical bird spotting was at a frenetic pace. Our only beef was the shower temps could have been warmer. The space was lovely, clean and modern, it’s just that this am ritual was akin to bathing in lukewarm water, in a walk-in fridge (@max heat). The lodge itself was the star of the show. There was a very reasonably priced restaurant with delicious food (from breakfast, through dinner) and similar awesome views. The cute little shop supplied some unique souvenir finds and the precious wee bar served up great drinks to ensure we thoroughly enjoyed our stay. The centerpiece was a roaring fireplace with comfy armchairs around it to relax in, as if to solidify the experience as perfect. We popped out with the more avid bird watchers on the hummingbird deck and were incredibly impressed with the volume and variety that we saw. Unfortunately, we didn’t manage to catch sight of the Quetzal itself, but we would have had more opportunity if we had a longer stay and took a morning tour. That in no way stops us from whole-heartedly endorsing this San Gerardo de Dota lodge for your next Costa Rican stay. If a rustic, cozy accommodations vibe is your thing, this is the place for you! The amazing tropical bird watching can simply serve as a novel bonus.

Our birding tour was fantastic! We had such a great time and learned a lot. Our tour guide found quetzals quickly, but what impressed me the most was his knowledge of all the other birds and plants in the area as well. My kids would ask what a bird was, and not only did our guide know the bird, but also a bunch of information about their behaviors and habitats. He found a number of other bird species that are, according to my kids, on their life list. They clearly love what they do and bring that joy to the tour!

Modern bungalows with large panoramic windows, through which you can enjoy the beautiful view as soon as you wake up. Hotel lobby: cozy interior with fireplace. Spacious garden, ideal for bird watching. Hummingbirds in particular feel at home here.

We were only able to book one night since it was a last minute trip. When we arrived the man at the desk upgraded us to what we believe to be the most luxuriously gorgeous view ive ever had from a hotel cabin. Thank you so much to the wonderful hosts and good service here. The food and juices were delicious and the hummingbird feeders are awesome! The trails are really good too and tons of species can be found there.