The hype
A beautiful, nature-immersed property with great pools and wildlife, but the rooms are extremely basic and the food is just okay.
Laguna Lodge Tortuguero
$135-180/ night
Book this if You want an immersive, off-the-grid jungle experience with direct access to both the Caribbean Sea and the Tortuguero lagoon, and you don't mind sacrificing modern luxuries for wildlife.
Why People Love It
- Incredible wildlife viewing right on the property (monkeys, sloths, birds)
- Unique location on a narrow strip between the lagoon and the Caribbean Sea
- Beautifully maintained grounds with two pools, a butterfly garden, and a frog pond
Quick Take: It's essentially rustic glamping with basic buffets and no AC—expect to be woken up at 5 AM by howler monkeys and loud birds.
Reviewed by @TravelwithSmi: My stay at Laguna Lodge was the perfect jungle escape. Arriving by boat set the mood, and my simple, rustic room opened right up to the most incredible lush gardens. Having my morning coffee surrounded by nature was pure magic.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The lack of glass windows means zero soundproofing—you will hear your neighbors, the staff, and the jungle wildlife very early in the morning.
- You are a nature photographer or wildlife enthusiast
- You want to disconnect completely
- You enjoy rustic, eco-lodge style accommodations
Cleanliness & Maintenance
7
- Housekeeping: Daily housekeeping is provided, but the open-air nature of the rooms means bugs and jungle debris can easily get in.
- Bathroom hygiene: Bathrooms are functional but showing their age, with some guests noting they could use updating and deep cleaning.
- Maintenance: The grounds and pools are immaculately kept, but the rustic cabins suffer from wear and tear due to the harsh jungle climate.
- Linens & towels: Generally clean, though a few guests have reported occasional stained sheets and worn towels.
- Odors & scents: Smells like the damp, humid rainforest. No AC means rooms can sometimes feel a bit musty.
Sleepability™
4MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Howler monkeys and loud tropical birds at 5 AM
- Neighbors talking through the thin, unglassed windows
Before you book
Good to know
- The hotel is only accessible by boat; you must arrange transfer at least 48 hours in advance.
- All meals are served buffet-style and are fairly basic.
- Bring cash, as many local spots in Tortuguero village are cash-only.
What to pack
- Earplugs (essential for sleeping through the jungle and neighbor noise)
- Strong insect repellent (you are in the deep jungle with screen windows)
- Lightweight, breathable clothing (no AC in the rooms)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Ground-floor standard rooms near the adult-only pool for slightly more peace and quick access to the water.
Rooms to avoid
- Rooms close to the main restaurant or family pool, as noise travels easily through the screen windows.
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“Hi team, I'd love to request a room as far from the main dining area and family pool as possible to minimize noise, ideally near the adult-only pool. Thank you!”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there air conditioning in the rooms?
No, the rooms only have ceiling fans and screen windows. It can get very hot and humid.
How do I get to the hotel?
You can only arrive by boat or small plane. The hotel provides boat transfers from the mainland dock (La Pavona), which you need to coordinate in advance.
Are the turtle tours included in the room rate?
No, the actual turtle nesting tours on the beach cost an extra fee (around $50), even if you book a 'full board' package.
Is the food good?
It's basic, mass-produced buffet food. It will keep you full, but don't expect a gourmet culinary experience.
Can I swim in the ocean at the hotel?
No, the Caribbean Sea here has dangerous riptides and powerful surf. Stick to the hotel's two swimming pools.
Is there WiFi?
Yes, but it's basic and mostly limited to the public areas. Don't expect to stream movies or take Zoom calls.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Take the cheap water taxi into Tortuguero village for lunch or dinner to escape the repetitive hotel buffet.
- ✨
Wake up before sunrise and grab a coffee by the lagoon; it's the best time to spot toucans and monkeys before the crowds wake up.
- ✨
Skip the hotel's basic included walking tour and hire a local guide in town for a private canoe tour through the national park.
5 things to know before you go
💡The rooms don't have glass windows, just wooden shutters and mosquito nets.
💡The 'included' tours in the full-board package are often just basic walks around the property or into town.
💡The humidity in the rooms means your wet clothes and swimsuits will likely never fully dry.
💡There is an adults-only pool hidden away from the main family area, which is a lifesaver for couples.
💡You will be woken up at 5:00 AM by howler monkeys and tropical birds—it's loud.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Laguna Lodge Tortuguero is located and what's nearby.