Our Story:

Embracing Sustainable Luxury & Ecotourism in Costa Rica's Southern Zone

Cielo Lodge Transcends the Typical Eco-Luxury Escape…

Founded by passionate nature enthusiasts, Nicole and Keith Goldstein, Cielo Lodge is nestled within the lush canopy of Costa Rica's Golfo Dulce adjacent to the Osa Peninsula. Cielo Lodge’s location is a sanctuary for wildlife, on both land and sea. We invite you to experience unparalleled privacy and a transformative experience for the soul. 

Cielo Lodge’s General Manager, Catalina Torres, and her team of local professionals seamlessly blend personalized service, gourmet cuisine, ecotourism, wildlife excursions, and wellness activities with authentic Costa Rican environmental sustainability practices.

Our Journey to Opening a Sustainable Travel Destination

After establishing their lives in California’s Silicon Valley and nurturing three children, Nicole and Keith Goldstein found themselves at a crossroads during the 2008 stock market crash. This pivotal moment ignited their long-held dream to create an eco-lodge in the heart of the rainforest, thus beginning their journey towards creating a sustainable eco-tourist destination, on a property that required biological care and nurturing.

“Keith and Nicole Goldstein had confidence that their remarkable six-suite property in the middle of 380 acres of forest would prove a winning formula. While the lodge is set back from the coast, many of the activities included in the booking price focus on the wildlife-rich waters of the gulf.”

- National Geographic UK, Six of the Best Luxury Eco Lodges in Costa Rica

Their rainforest regeneration project is a success, and their wildlife sanctuary is thriving, attracting travelers from around the world.

Eco-Luxury, With an Ethos of Sustainability

Nestled 1,100 feet above sea level where the climate is cooler, our rainforest lodge harnesses the power of nature through solar and micro-hydro energy. Drinking water is sourced from the property, minimizing Cielo’s environmental impact.

“The whole eco-lodge ethos is fascinating. It's this idea of honoring nature in such a way where you can still have a livelihood, but work to have minimal impact on the environment. Being able to share that with guests is wonderful.”

- Owner, Nicole Goldstein

Your stay directly supports our Costa Rica environmental sustainability project, preserving our rainforest reserve’s regeneration, and helping to support the vulnerable ecosystems of Golfito.

As keepers of a fragile ecosystem, our story began by regenerating a previously logged property. Where primary trees once stood, an invasive bracken fern took hold. We cleared 12 acres of this invasive bracken fern with machetes, leaving them to compost and to fertilize the thousands of native trees that we planted in their place. 

Although this is a 50 year project, we are already seeing success. The sea almond trees that we planted 5 years ago are now attracting the Scarlet Macaw, one of Costa Rica’s emblematic wildlife icons.

Green Architecture: Modern, Minimalist Suites with All-Inclusive Rates 

Cielo Lodge's design "brings the outdoors in." Our architects prioritized minimalist and open-air aesthetics, ensuring the buildings blend seamlessly with the surrounding lush landscape.

Sustainable materials and cutting-edge green technology were meticulously chosen to create a truly luxurious and eco-conscious sanctuary.

Inquire about your Canopy Suite and immerse in the rainforest's beauty, all while enjoying the comforts of modern luxury.

Cielo Lodge’s Personalized Guest Experience

At Cielo Lodge, all of our guests are treated like family. Our staff is led by the excellence of Catalina and her 25+ years of experience pioneering ecotourism in Costa Rica.

We cherish Catalina's lifelong passion for true hospitality and ecotourism, as well as her mission to unlock doors for other women. Her signature style for exceeding expectations attracts a dedicated team of local talent, and there is a constant buzz felt around the Lodge, as our team proudly serves up the best of Costa Rica, from home-made, natural cuisine, to memorable experiences that guests carry home for the rest of their lives.

Our staff’s personalized attention and exceptional service include a local and professional concierge, plus private nature excursions accompanied by a naturalist with a deep understanding of the local area, ensuring that guests spot our nearby wildlife.

Indulge in curated Costa Rica ecotourism packages that delve into the wonders of the Southern Zone, from rainforest explorations to wildlife encounters. Discover Costa Rica’s hidden gem — Golfito and the Golfo Dulce, and create lasting memories tailored to your interests.

"Michelin-Quality" Cuisine

Our all-included rates cover three daily menus of exquisite, seasonal cuisine prepared by our talented chefs. Savor gourmet dishes that celebrate the bounty of Costa Rica's land and sea. All of our chef’s culinary creations are made from scratch, in-house, and are as delicious as they are sustainable. Each dish supports local farmers showcasing Costa Rican cuisine and its unique flavors.

“All meals are included, which is crucial for fueling your way through a variety of guided rainforest walks and adventures.” -Islands.com 

Award-Winning Recognition:

Since opening in 2021, Cielo Lodge has garnered prestigious accolades.

• Conde Nast Traveler Hot List 2021

• Travel+Leisure It List: Best New Hotels in the World

• Conde Nast Traveler Best Costa Rica Hotels

With over 100 5-star ratings on TripAdvisor, Cielo Lodge is committed to each guest’s exceptional sustainable tourism experience in eco luxury.

Retreat to our Luxury Ecolodge in Costa Rica

Embark on a transformative journey, where luxury meets nature in a symphony of sustainability, in a breathtaking rainforest setting, by one of only four tropical fjords in the world.

We can’t wait to begin planning your unforgettable sustainable tourism vacation in Costa Rica. Join us, and experience authentic Pura Vida in Golfito and the Golfo Dulce, adjacent to the Osa Peninsula!