Grounding at Cielo Lodge

Photo by @passiflora_studios

Imagine yourself immersed in the heart of the Costa Rican rainforest, a symphony of birdsong filling your ears and the emerald canopy dappling sunlight on your skin. Now, picture yourself connecting even deeper with this vibrant ecosystem – not just visually, but physically. This is the essence of our transformative Guided Grounding Tour, an experience unlike any other.

Grounding, also known as earthing, is the practice of connecting your bare feet directly with the Earth's surface. This simple act has been shown to offer a multitude of scientifically-proven health benefits, making it a perfect complement to your restorative retreat at Cielo Lodge.

The Science of Earthing:

Numerous studies have explored the grounding phenomenon, revealing its potential to:

• Reduce inflammation: Research suggests that earthing can act as a natural antioxidant, neutralizing free radicals that contribute to inflammation throughout the body.

• Improve sleep quality: Studies have shown that grounding can lead to deeper, more restful sleep, leaving you feeling energized and revitalized.

• Promote stress reduction: Grounding may help mitigate the effects of chronic stress, lowering cortisol levels and promoting a sense of calm.

• Lessens pain: Earthing has been linked to a reduction in chronic pain, potentially due to its anti-inflammatory properties.

Your Grounding Journey at Cielo Lodge:

Our expert guide will lead you on a gentle, meditative, barefoot walk through our lush rainforest reserve. As you explore hidden trails and encounter abundant wildlife, you'll be invited to pause at designated grounding points. Take in a deep breath and sink your bare feet into the cool, damp earth.

Your guide will provide insightful commentary on the science of earthing and facilitate mindfulness practices to enhance your connection with nature. As you reconnect with the Earth's natural energy, feel tension melt away and a sense of deep peace settle within.

Beyond the Tour:

The grounding experience doesn't end with the tour. Our 380-acre private reserve boasts numerous opportunities for barefoot exploration. Take a self-guided hike along our nature trails, feeling the soft earth beneath your feet. Relax on your private terrace, allowing the cool rainforest floor to soothe your soul. With Cielo Lodge as your sanctuary, you can seamlessly integrate grounding into your daily routine, maximizing its long-term health benefits.

Unwind, Reconnect, and Rejuvenate:

Embrace a deeper connection with nature and unlock the power of grounding at Cielo Lodge. Let us guide you on a journey towards holistic wellbeing in the heart of the Costa Rican rainforest.

Grounding is one of the activities that we include in our rates. Contact reservations@cielolodge.com today to book your unforgettable escape!

1.  Everything is Less Expensive 

• Bask in the magic of Costa Rica at a fraction of peak-season prices, from your Sansa flights to Golfito, to nightly Lodge rates, to tours and excursions. 

• This is the perfect reason to gather your whole crew - because everything is less expensive!

2. You Won't Lose a Day to Rain 

• The rain will come in the afternoon, and so our local experts and guides will get you out in the early morning, to ensure you enjoy a variety of outdoor ecotourism and adventure activities, immersed in nature.

• Return before the rain arrives, settling into authentic luxury, with downtime and relaxation. Enjoy a massage, a yoga session, or a nice nap - lulled to rest by the sounds of the rain.

3. Tons of Wildlife During the “Green Season”

• A diverse variety of wildlife shares our protected rainforest reserve, and depends on an abundance of fruits, insects, and seeds. When the jungle is vibrant, so is our surrounding wildlife. 

• Here are a few of the species you will likely see: The Squirrel Monkeys, Coatis, the Red-Eyed Tree Frog, Sloths, and hundreds of birds, like the Red-capped Manakin, Scarlet Macaw, Tanagers, Hummingbirds, Parrots, and Toucans. 

4. Whales!!

July - September is whale-watching season in Golfito and the Golfo Dulce!! Catch exceptional sights of the humpback whales that migrate to our “front yard”.

Experience the Best Whale Watching in Costa Rica:

• The Golfo Dulce gained Whale Heritage Site status last year, making it Latin America’s first site, and only one of only eight worldwide. 

• This hidden gem is a finite body of water allowing for calm waters and prime visibility. It is highly likely that you will be one of the only boats out on the water.

Your stay supports responsible whale-watching in Golfito and the Golfo Dulce for future humpback whale migrations and generations!! 

5. It’s Summer in the US, the Perfect Time for a Family Vacation!

• Our off-the-beaten-path location keeps adults and kids of all ages enthralled, allowing you to create life-time memories. 

• Conde Nast Traveler recently mentioned Cielo Lodge among their top picks for the best Costa Rica Airbnbs.

• We welcome all ages with our Rainforest Sanctuary Buyout package! Bring your group of 12 - 24, and enjoy your own private jungle playground by the sea. 

“Seeking adventure in solitude, two families book an entire rainforest lodge for themselves and spend a week zip-lining, jumping into rapids and boating through eerie mangroves. ‘Even the teens were impressed.’”

— Heidi Mitchell wrote for The Wall Street Journal about her group’s eco resort takeover with our Rainforest Sanctuary Buyout package

6.  Everything is Less Crowded, Including National Parks 

• Witness wildlife uncompromised by big crowds at our nearby gems adjacent to the Osa Peninsula, like Corcovado National Park, Piedras Blancas National Park, Pavones Beach, and the Río Coto — a birder’s paradise with mangroves, secluded shorelines, and river-side jungles.

7. Settle into the Dramatic Afternoon Rain & Nature’s Rhythm…

• Craving solitude? Relax in the canopy of the rainforest from your suite's private terrace and hammock, and sink into the hum of the jungle. Enjoy a hot outdoor shower, get lost in a good book - the afternoon rain creates a rhythm that encourages downtime.

• More group fun? Pass the afternoon and sunset up at the lodge’s open-air terraces with a cooking class. Or, take in the views over an afternoon treat with warm herbal tea and board games.

Reset your body to the rhythm of nature, and feel transformed by a sense of rejuvenation.

Visit Costa Rica’s Southern Zone between May and October, and capture the essence of true Costa Rica ecolodge luxury, with upscale comforts in the heart of the unspoiled jungle of Golfito, overlooking the Golfo Dulce. 

In the early stages of regenerating our rainforest, Cielo Lodge was considered to be too high in the mountains for sea almond trees to grow, to be able to attract Costa Rica’s emblematic Scarlet Macaw. In just a few years – the majestic bird has arrived at Cielo Lodge, enjoying an abundance of sea almonds from the trees that we planted 5 years ago.

Our boutique luxury ecolodge shares a similar story. Opening during a global pandemic, we are thrilled to head into our fourth year of operations, and we welcome ecotourists from around the world to enjoy our unique, luxurious rainforest experience.

It's been an incredible journey, and we extend sincere thanks to our guests. Each new day of operations continues the regeneration of our rainforest and, with that, our spirit.

Scarlet Macaw,

Lapa Roja, Ara Macao

After planting sea almond trees five years ago, it’s thrilling to see Scarlet Macaws attracted to the seeds!

Our Bird List

A Moment for Milestones

Cielo’s 100th 5-Star TripAdvisor Review

We are thrilled to announce that we have surpassed 100 "5-star" reviews on TripAdvisor!

This is built on the collection of #CieloSpirit moments. We are very grateful to our staff and to our engaging guests for making magic happen. One of our most joyful achievements is to know that our guests return home with a positive, lasting impression, and are motivated to share their experience at Cielo Lodge with the world!

Here are some quotes from recent TripAdvisor Reviews that capture the essence of our guests' experiences:

"A Slice of Paradise: Cielo Lodge is more than just a retreat; it's a haven of serenity.

From the stunning views to the impeccable service, our stay was nothing short of magical."

- Sarah M., August 2023

"Exceptional Service: The staff at Cielo Lodge redefine hospitality.

Every member went above and beyond to make us feel like VIPs.

It's the little details that make this place extraordinary."

- James P., September 2023

"Nature's Embrace: Surrounded by lush greenery and breathtaking landscapes,

Cielo Lodge is a sanctuary for those seeking a true escape.

The harmony between luxury and nature is unparalleled."

- Emily R., October 2023

Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best 2024 Nominee

We are honored to be nominated in Travel + Leisure’s 2024 World's Best Awards Survey. This is a special readers’ choice award, and your “ratings help define excellence in travel and guide fellow travelers to the best of the best.” If you are so inclined to vote, we deeply appreciate your time and support!

Cielo’s Commitment to Excellence

As we reflect on the past three years, we extend our deepest thanks to each guest who has chosen Golfito, and the Golfo Dulce among their Costa Rica destinations. We appreciate your spirit to seek out our hidden gem. Your support and feedback drive our commitment to excellence.

All of us at Cielo Lodge strive to create an authentic, immersive, guest experience, and not just a stay. Whether it's the tranquil ambiance, the rich and diverse wildlife, our attentive staff, or the breathtaking views, we strive to exceed your expectations. Your kind words motivate us to continuously improve, and to provide an even more exceptional experience for future guests.

On the Horizon

As we move into our fourth year of providing unparalleled hospitality, we are thrilled about the possibilities that lie ahead. Cielo Lodge’s all-included rates strike the ideal balance between responsible ecotourism and ethical eco-luxury. 

From new experiences and activities, to innovative sustainable amenities, we are committed to making each visit to Cielo Lodge among the most cherished memories with your loved ones.

All year we will be sharing updates and upgrades so, be sure to follow @CieloLodge and subscribe to our newsletter. Your continued support means the world to us, and we can't wait to welcome both familiar and new faces in 2024 and beyond.

Your trust and adventurous spirit inspire us to raise the bar in hospitality. Cheers to many more unforgettable moments that turn into life-long memories!!

Our Sweetest Savings of the Year

Enjoy a 25% Discount on Group Travel in 2024

As we close out 2023, the immersive and meaningful experiences from our past year begin to stand out. It’s a special time to look toward more adventures with friends and family in the new year.

Over the past year, Condé Nast Traveler named Cielo Lodge one of the Best Hotels in Costa Rica, and The Golfo Dulce was awarded Whale Heritage Site status, becoming the first in Latin America, and one of only eight worldwide. Then, Travel + Leisure named Costa Rica the Destination of the Year, pointing travelers to “off the Osa Peninsula, in southern Costa Rica, is the Golfo Dulce, a sanctuary for Pacific humpback whales”.

To celebrate these milestones the #CieloSpirit way, we’re offering a 25% discount on group travel in 2024. Bring your group of 12 - 24 to take over our eco-resort, and 4 people in your group — and all their meals & activities — will be completely complimentary!!

Cielo Lodge's pristine location will become your own private Costa Rica playground. We are a sanctuary for those “seeking adventure in solitude” and set up to host a wide variety of intimate celebrations, multi-generational vacations, and events like weddings and reunions. Our unspoiled tranquility is an unbeatable setting for a yoga or wellness retreat.

Between enchanting views and sleek & stylish accommodations are all-included “Michelin quality” meals. Elevated local ingredients will fuel your days of activities and relaxation immersed in the primary & secondary rainforest, or diverse water ecosystems.

The entire resort becomes yours and our full-time staff (Chefs, housekeeping, driver, security, guest services, waitstaff & bartender) will take the hassle out of planning the logistics of your special occasion. This package creates a completely personalized and curated private vacation.

What else is included in our Rainforest Sanctuary Buyout Package?

• [Six] 660 square foot individual Canopy Suites.

• Lodge with ocean-view pool, lounge, dining area & sunset bar.

• Exceptional wildlife experiences guided by our on-site naturalist(s).

• A 380-acre private rainforest reserve encircled by waterfalls & trails.

• Quick and private boat-access to mangroves, coral reefs, & secluded beaches.

• Restorative wellness activities.

• Cielo surprises.

This package exists for unparalleled service and customization: write to us, and tell us your needs!

Use PROMO CODE: BUYOUT2024, when you book our Rainforest Sanctuary Buyout Package (link) by January 15, 2024, for travel between April 15 and September 30, 2024, and receive a 25% discount for all room nights.

BUYOUT2024 is a SPECIAL DEAL! Six private suites, for the price of four.

*Cannot be combined with any other offers

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We are thrilled to announce that Cielo Lodge guests can now visit Corcovado National Park on the Osa Peninsula, with a one-day excursion that will allow you to experience a place that is home to an astonishing 2.5% of the world's biodiversity within just 0.001% of the Earth's land area. 

Of course, our nearby rainforest on the green mountain behind Golfito is also host to astounding bio-diversity (and zero crowds). After all, we share the same greenbelt as the Osa.

But Corcovado is a crown jewel of Costa Rica, and we are thrilled to be able to bring our guests there.

Here is what your day-trip to Corcovado will look like:

Accompanied by one of our Certified Naturalists, you will depart the Lodge at 4:30 am, with a gourmet picnic breakfast and coffee. You’ll head down the mountain road to meet our boat captain in Golfito, where he will take you on the 35 minute boat ride across the Golfo Dulce to Puerto Jiménez. You’ll then transfer to a slightly larger boat, for the 1.5 hour boat ride to the Sirena Station in Corcovado.

You’ll eat your breakfast on the larger boat (you can’t bring food into the park, but snacks are available for purchase later on), and after a wet-landing on the beach, you’ll find yourself at one of the ranger stations for check-in and a bathroom break. You’ll then set out on a 4.5 hour, naturalist-led tour from the Ranger Station.

The trail is flat and winds along the park's waterside and nearby beaches. You will have a great chance of seeing Costa Rica’s 4 types of monkeys, caiman, tapirs, scarlet macaws, and even anteaters. The tropical rainforest of Corcovado is home to 140 species of mammals, 367 birds, and 117 amphibians and reptiles, so really, the possibilities for wildlife sightings are endless.

You’ll enjoy a nice snack at Sirena Station and then leave the Park at around 12:30 pm, venturing back the same way you came. You’ll be back at Cielo Lodge by around 3:30 pm, where we’ll greet you with refreshments and more snacks, and you can then enjoy a luscious nap, a hot shower, and restful down-time.

We are thrilled to be able to offer our amazing guests this hassle-free, remarkable adventure - a day-trip to Corcovado National Park, a Crown Jewel of Costa Rica.

For more information about all of the activities that we offer, including many that are included in our rates, please visit our Activities Page on our website. Or write to us at info@cielolodge.com and we’ll get back to you quickly.

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Donny Nunez, one of our extraordinary Certified Naturalists, grew up in Golfito, in a small barrio just below Cielo Lodge. His home life was simple, no cell phones or computers and very little television. Like most kids, he spent his time outdoors, exploring nature - on the water and on the mountain of Golfito.

His childhood appreciation for the surrounding abundance of nature and wildlife motivated Donny to pursue studies in wildlife, English, and hospitality. It was a perfect combination for the path that he's chosen.

Since he grew up here with a very keen awareness of the full spectrum of wildlife, Donny offers each of our guests a highly personalized, curated and immersive experience, allowing our guests to really learn about our nearby ecosystems, as well as the authentic history of Golfito. He’s an inspiration to many of our younger guests, a few of whom have said “I want to be just like Donny when I grow up”.

He's worked in Nature Tourism for over 10 years, in many Costa Rican locations that are farther away. Working at Cielo Lodge allows him to live at home, of which he is very appreciative.

An avid birdwatcher, Donny is constantly updating our bird list, based on what our guests have seen in the rainforest and on the water. He also is helping us to reforest our land, by recommending native species that will attract more wildlife at different times of the year,

With his roots still deep in Golfito, Donny also actively engages with local school children, to share his story and to lead them on hikes and conservation activities. He has brought classes of children to Cielo Lodge to plant young trees, and to bird watch, teaching them how to use binoculars. He is passionate about inspiring the next generation, and encouraging them to think that, like him, they can build careers around a shared passion for nature.

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Aren’t the Summer months the rainy season? Will we really see the Whales?

Yes and Yes!! It is the rainy season. But you will not lose a day to rain. The rain generally comes in the afternoon. So, we’ll get you out early for your excursions, including your whale-watching tour. And then, you’ll enjoy afternoon down-time - get lost in a book, nap in a hammock on your covered, protected terrace, maybe take a cooking class with our amazing kitchen crew, or enjoy a session of yoga or massage. The afternoon will be yours, set against a backdrop of mother nature’s dramatic rain showers.

YES!! We have Whales!!

The Southern Antarctic Humpback Whales are starting their yearly migration north, and they will arrive in the Golfo Dulce at the beginning of August, where they will give birth and nurse their young. They generally stay in the area through the end of September.  

The quiet, protected waters of this natural tropical fjord are the BEST spot in Costa Rica from which to catch sight of them.

Why? What Makes the Golfo Dulce so Special for Whale-Watching?

• The Golfo Dulce is a finite body of water, so if there are whales, our Boat Captain and Naturalist will definitely find them. 

• There are no waves, so you won't get seasick.

• The Golfo Dulce is an untouristed hidden treasure. It’s highly likely that you’ll be one of the only boats on the water.

Ready for a “Whale of a Welcome”? Write to us at reservations@cielolodge.com and we’ll help you book your reservation and help you with all of your logistics.

The Golfito area and specifically Cielo Lodge is a top destination for birdwatchers looking for a Costa Rica eco lodge. 

One of our guests spotted 80 different bird species during their short stay at our costa rica rainforest resort. They remarked on our outstanding visibility and variety during their jungle and water (gulf, mangrove and river) excursions. 

The lush rainforests surrounding Cielo Lodge are home to a diverse range of bird species, making it a haven for birdwatching in Costa Rica. Whether you and your group are Hardcore birders, Enthusiastic birders, or Casual birders our Lodge's unique location and expert guides will provide you with many unforgettable birding experiences.

With over 60 species spotted on our grounds, and even more spotted in the mangroves and during other included guest excursions, we offer exceptional birding opportunities for visitors.

Our journey to become a top destination for birdwatchers started with a commitment to restore and reforest the land. 

We planted thousands of trees to re-establish habitats and created an eco lodge that supports the idea of Costa Rica becoming the "world's great eco-tourism hub", as Harper’s Bazaar eloquently wrote when they included Cielo Lodge on their list of  20 Best Places to Travel.

We take great pride in promoting sustainable tourism and conservation, and we continue to strive towards providing a top-tier birding experience for our guests.

Unlike many luxury resorts in Costa Rica, you can take over Cielo Lodge in its entirety to host your birdwatching group. Beside the included personalized birding and wildlife walks with a certified naturalist, your group will enjoy exclusive access to our extensive system of trails and waterfalls, nestled within 380 acres of primary and secondary rainforest. Plus in between, you'll enjoy the private, infinity-edge saltwater pool and eat “Michelin-quality” meals. 

So, if you're looking for an exceptional location for birding, that happens to be at one of the best all inclusive resorts in Costa Rica, Cielo Lodge is the place to be. With our stunning location, exceptional amenities, and diverse bird species, it's truly one of the best places to stay in Costa Rica for bird enthusiasts.

*These are the birds that we have seen AT THE LODGE - ON OUR GROUNDS, AND IN OUR ECO GARDENS. The list does NOT include the birds that our guests see when they are out on the water. That’s a whole separate list.

For our most up-to-date list of birds we’ve seen on the Lodge grounds and in our gardens, please visit our Bird List.

What if your next vacation directly impacted more women in the travel industry? You hold the power to choose such a destination, where exceptional service meets the genuine pillars of an eco-conscious luxury eco lodge, focused on community and authenticity.

Today, and all month long, we celebrate International Women’s Day, and, in honor of this special occasion, we are turning the spotlight of admiration onto our General Manager - Catalina Torres Portela  –  a true pioneer in eco-tourism in Costa Rica’s Southern Zone. 

 After graduating with a degree in tourism and a minor in botany, Catalina collaborated with an NGO to develop the Esquinas Rainforest Lodge and managed it for 16 years. She is also an entrepreneur. Before joining Cielo Lodge, she ran her own bed and breakfast in Golfito, and helped establish Golfito as an eco-tourism destination among her guests, who came from over 30 countries. 

Catalina’s professional presence and leadership has a ripple effect, positively impacting employee morale and ensuring an impeccable guest experience.

With the support of Cielo Lodge’s owners, Nicole and Keith Goldstein, Catalina continues to encourage the development of local micro-businesses, including many women-owned businesses, thereby benefiting many families in the Golfito area.  We have partnered with a local uniform supplier, local fruit and vegetable purveyers, local fisherman, and local boat and tour operators to bring the best of the area to our guests.

Her connection to community also allows us to provide truly authentic experiences for our guests.  A visit to a family-owned chocolate-farm, a day-trip to the indigenous community of Boruca, an afternoon spent with an artisanal fisherman, or a beach lunch served by a local family are all activities that we are able to program and arrange because of Catalina’s personal connections.   

And it is because of Catalina – her connection to the community, her passion for the environment, her focus on all things local -  that Cielo Lodge was named to National Geographic’s Six of the Best Luxury Eco-Lodges in Costa Rica

 We cherish Catalina's life-long passion of true hospitality and ecotourism, unlocking doors for other women’s’ futures. Her signature style of exceeding expectations attracts a dedicated team of local talent, and there is a constant buzz felt around the Lodge from proudly serving natural and memorable experiences and cuisine that guests carry home for the rest of their lives.

Ready for your bespoke Eco-friendly luxury trip to one of the best Eco Lodges in Costa Rica? Inquire about your dream family vacation or eco resort rental buyout for group travel by emailing Catalina at info@cielolodge.com .

We’ve gotten through 3 years of construction, with all of the ups and downs. And we’ve made it through the operational startup, opening years. During the middle of Covid no less! The behind-the-scenes craziness has subsided, and we now have a bit more time to reflect on all that we have accomplished, and all that we plan to accomplish.

What better way to do that than with a blog?

We’ll have updates on our guest experience, our activities, our community engagement, our staff, our wildlife sightings... Tasty-tidbits to keep you up to date.

Subscribe, follow, comment. We love to hear from you!

Sending you all our best, and much “pura vida”.

Nicole, Keith and Catalina