"My wife and I were at the Lodge for eight (8) full days. We have extensive travel experiences throughout the world. We cannot say enough about our stay, without a doubt one of the best we have had across almost 30 years. Among so many world class amenities (food, service, knowledge of the area, our guides, etc.) , what stands out the most were the people. Every single staff member from our guides to the front desk,....it was just not the service you remember, but how they made us feel. We...
"My wife and I were at the Lodge for eight (8) full days. We have extensive travel experiences throughout the world. We cannot say enough about our stay, without a doubt one of the best we have had across almost 30 years. Among so many world class amenities (food, service, knowledge of the area, our guides, etc.) , what stands out the most were the people. Every single staff member from our guides to the front desk,....it was just not the service you remember, but how they made us feel. We...
"Beautiful boutique lodge at remote rainforest location. Delicious food and very friendly staff. Location at a hill allowed for beautiful views and birdwatching, with a pair of Scarlet Macaws breeding in a tree right on the property. Access for the last 2 miles after the airstrip requires SUV, but lodge also offers convenient airport pickup from Puerto Jimenez."
"Beautiful boutique lodge at remote rainforest location. Delicious food and very friendly staff. Location at a hill allowed for beautiful views and birdwatching, with a pair of Scarlet Macaws breeding in a tree right on the property. Access for the last 2 miles after the airstrip requires SUV, but lodge also offers convenient airport pickup from Puerto Jimenez."
"This isn’t just a beautiful eco lodge, it’s a life a life experience. You couldn’t chose a more picturesque location surrounded by nature. The building and facilities are clean, the staff are friendly and knowledgeable, and the food is excellent. Their tours and services are great and very reasonably priced. Amazing place to visit !!!! "
"This isn’t just a beautiful eco lodge, it’s a life a life experience. You couldn’t chose a more picturesque location surrounded by nature. The building and facilities are clean, the staff are friendly and knowledgeable, and the food is excellent. Their tours and services are great and very reasonably priced. Amazing place to visit !!!! "
"Excellent time at Cativo Lodge! The hotel is so beautiful the room is big, comfortable and with great amenities. But the best of the hotel is the staff and how they make us to feel like home! Thanks to GM Kenneth; Mike, Ivan, Alonso, Kevin and many others! Great customer service!"
"Excellent time at Cativo Lodge! The hotel is so beautiful the room is big, comfortable and with great amenities. But the best of the hotel is the staff and how they make us to feel like home! Thanks to GM Kenneth; Mike, Ivan, Alonso, Kevin and many others! Great customer service!"
"Fantasztikus családi vállalkozás! A hely egyszerűen hihetetlen. Távol a világ zajától az esőerdő mélyén. A háziasszony finom ételeket készít! Ő a lelke az egésznek. Mindenki felkészült a természet kincseiből, amiből van itt bőven! A túránk során , amit a férje vezetett, láttunk és fényképeztünk Tukánt, Spider monkeyt, és még egy másik fajtát is, és sok sok madarat. Éjszaka pedig békát és kígyót is! A fiaik nagyon nagyon lelkes természetbarátok. Életreszóló élmény volt az itt eltöltött pár nap!...
"Fantasztikus családi vállalkozás! A hely egyszerűen hihetetlen. Távol a világ zajától az esőerdő mélyén. A háziasszony finom ételeket készít! Ő a lelke az egésznek. Mindenki felkészült a természet kincseiből, amiből van itt bőven! A túránk során , amit a férje vezetett, láttunk és fényképeztünk Tukánt, Spider monkeyt, és még egy másik fajtát is, és sok sok madarat. Éjszaka pedig békát és kígyót is! A fiaik nagyon nagyon lelkes természetbarátok. Életreszóló élmény volt az itt eltöltött pár nap!...
"Super emplacement, piscine bien placée face à la cuisine extérieure,
Centre activité, plage accessible à pieds…
Explication pour rentrer dans le logement en horaire décalé nickel,
Climatisation et accessoires bien pratique !
On recommande"
"Super emplacement, piscine bien placée face à la cuisine extérieure,
Centre activité, plage accessible à pieds…
Explication pour rentrer dans le logement en horaire décalé nickel,
Climatisation et accessoires bien pratique !
On recommande"
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
<p>Cabo Matapalo, located in Puerto Jiménez, Puntarenas Province, offers a perfect getaway for outdoor enthusiasts and beach lovers. Popular attractions include its stunning beaches, serene lagoons, and breathtaking waterfalls, providing a romantic and adventurous experience for travellers. Explore the picturesque Cabo Matapalo Beach and immerse yourself in the incredible natural beauty this location has to offer, making it an ideal destination for unforgettable vacations.</p>
King Louis Waterfall
8.4/10 (14 reviews)
Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at King Louis Waterfall during your travels in Cabo Matapalo. Wander the beaches in this relaxing area.
Scarlet macaws soar above pristine beaches where surfers catch waves and wildlife enthusiasts spot monkeys in the coastal rainforest. Hire a local guide for early morning hikes through Corcovado National Park, where you'll encounter sloths, toucans, and tapirs in their natural habitat.
Excellent stay. Beautiful room with a view of the Guelph and Pacific Ocean into the rainforest, room 9. There are 17 rooms in total, the last being 225 stairs away. Lots of wildlife walking to and from your room. The hikes are well guided. The beach is a short walk downhill 10 minutes away. A shuttle is available at certain times to return or a short workout up the hill to the lodge. The staff are exceptional, kind and willing to do whatever it takes to make your stay complete. The meals are...
Excellent stay. Beautiful room with a view of the Guelph and Pacific Ocean into the rainforest, room 9. There are 17 rooms in total, the last being 225 stairs away. Lots of wildlife walking to and from your room. The hikes are well guided. The beach is a short walk downhill 10 minutes away. A shuttle is available at certain times to return or a short workout up the hill to the lodge. The staff are exceptional, kind and willing to do whatever it takes to make your stay complete. The meals are...
Anonymous traveller
Reviewed February 17, 2017Reviewed February 17, 2017
Rooms and facilities were gorgeous, of course! Good very expensive. Pool was divine - sunny and shady areas, infinity edge, two hot tubs!!
Sloth Garden Tour was the best ever! Lots of wild sloths, fabulous guides who help yo take iPhone photos with their scopes!!
Great private truck tour - guide Katherine knew where everything lives, and took us right to them. Not much walking, exciting spotting, excellent photos!!
Fishing tour through Botanika was much better than one we booked in...
Rooms and facilities were gorgeous, of course! Good very expensive. Pool was divine - sunny and shady areas, infinity edge, two hot tubs!!
Sloth Garden Tour was the best ever! Lots of wild sloths, fabulous guides who help yo take iPhone photos with their scopes!!
Great private truck tour - guide Katherine knew where everything lives, and took us right to them. Not much walking, exciting spotting, excellent photos!!
Fishing tour through Botanika was much better than one we booked in...
Kathleen
Reviewed January 17, 2026Reviewed January 17, 2026
Beautiful tranquil setting with the most attentive staff possible.
No was not in anyone's vocabulary. Due to nature of terrain must be physcially fit and if staying in the tents would suggest tent A or tent B as the climb can be quite a challenge for the over 50 crowd. I stayed in tent B and absolutely loved the outdoor setting and feeling of being in nature.
Would love to get a chance to visit again
Beautiful tranquil setting with the most attentive staff possible.
No was not in anyone's vocabulary. Due to nature of terrain must be physcially fit and if staying in the tents would suggest tent A or tent B as the climb can be quite a challenge for the over 50 crowd. I stayed in tent B and absolutely loved the outdoor setting and feeling of being in nature.
Would love to get a chance to visit again
Everything was wonderful. The room was beautiful and extremely comfortable. The staff was great. Extremely attentive and friendly. It was our 56th wedding anniversary and they sent a nice chachuterie board to our room. Every evening the maid came by with a sweet treat for each room. The property is very nice and right on the bay. Very relaxing atmosphere . I would definitely consider returning to the Amaka Lodge
Everything was wonderful. The room was beautiful and extremely comfortable. The staff was great. Extremely attentive and friendly. It was our 56th wedding anniversary and they sent a nice chachuterie board to our room. Every evening the maid came by with a sweet treat for each room. The property is very nice and right on the bay. Very relaxing atmosphere . I would definitely consider returning to the Amaka Lodge
Margo
Reviewed January 21, 2026Reviewed January 21, 2026
We had and amazing stay @ Iguana Lodge. Excellent and very well maintained facilities, delicious food, wonderful location for those who are looking for a tranquil and serene holiday. We have also received an upgrade from Club Room to Casita which was a very pleasant surprise. Thank you Lauren and all your wonderful staff!
We had and amazing stay @ Iguana Lodge. Excellent and very well maintained facilities, delicious food, wonderful location for those who are looking for a tranquil and serene holiday. We have also received an upgrade from Club Room to Casita which was a very pleasant surprise. Thank you Lauren and all your wonderful staff!
We enjoyed our stay. The staff was friendly and helpful. The grounds were spacious and lovely.
The room was spacious and clean.
Our main concern was the morning noise from the parking lot. We were awakened about 5:00 every day.
The beach, birds and kayaking were great.
We enjoyed our stay. The staff was friendly and helpful. The grounds were spacious and lovely.
The room was spacious and clean.
Our main concern was the morning noise from the parking lot. We were awakened about 5:00 every day.
The beach, birds and kayaking were great.
Mary
Reviewed February 5, 2023Reviewed February 5, 2023
Stunning Beaches: Cabo Matapalo boasts picturesque beaches like Playa Matapalo, perfect for sunbathing and relaxation.
World-Class Surfing: Known for its excellent surf conditions, it attracts surfers of all levels seeking thrilling waves.
Eco Tours and Wildlife Watching: Immerse yourself in nature with guided eco tours, showcasing Costa Rica's rich biodiversity.
Breathtaking Waterfalls: Explore nearby waterfalls for a refreshing swim amidst stunning natural beauty.
Charming Local Culture: Engage with the vibrant local community and experience Costa Rican culture firsthand.
Find great hotels in Cabo Matapalo
Discover the charm of Cabo Matapalo, where a diverse selection of hotels caters to every traveler's needs, from budget-friendly options to upscale stays. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation by the beach, or immersion in nature, this destination offers 1.5 to 4-star accommodations including lodges and hotels. Explore the best Cabo Matapalo hotels, conveniently located near attractions to enhance your Costa Rican getaway.
Botanika Osa Peninsula, Curio Collection by Hilton: This 4-star resort offers a unique blend of adventure and business amenities in a stunning tropical setting, located 16.1km from Cabo Matapalo. Perfect for both leisure and corporate travellers, Botanika features multiple meeting rooms and conference spaces. Guests can indulge in various adventure sports such as surfing, ziplining, and horseback riding nearby. The lush surroundings provide an ideal backdrop for exploring the beauty of Costa Rica while enjoying modern comforts.
Agua Dulce On The Beach: A charming 3-star resort situated 14.5km from Cabo Matapalo, Agua Dulce is a haven for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts. With direct beach access, guests can immerse themselves in the sun and sand while enjoying activities like hiking, motorboating, and fishing. The property focuses on wellness and nature, offering a picnic area and balconies or patios for relaxation. This is the perfect spot for those seeking a tranquil retreat that harmoniously blends adventure with the serenity of the natural world.
Lapa Rios Lodge by Böëna: Nestled just 3.2km from Cabo Matapalo, this 4-star hotel presents a luxurious beach and adventure theme, complemented by a full-service spa. Lapa Rios Lodge invites guests to engage in activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, and onsite hiking. With direct beach access and a range of spa treatments, including deep tissue massages and body scrubs, this lodge promises an unforgettable experience focused on relaxation and rejuvenation amidst breathtaking surroundings.
Where to stay in Cabo Matapalo
Cabo Matapalo, a charming village in Costa Rica, offers an unforgettable adventure for outdoor enthusiasts and beach lovers alike. Explore the pristine Playa Matapalo, where breathtaking scenery meets rustic charm. Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture while indulging in activities such as surfing, hiking, and wildlife watching. With its stunning landscapes and family-friendly atmosphere, Cabo Matapalo promises a memorable getaway that showcases the natural beauty of the Puntarenas Province.
Puerto Jiménez: Nestled on the Osa Peninsula, Puerto Jiménez serves as the gateway to the breathtaking landscapes of Cabo Matapalo. This vibrant city is renowned for its outdoor adventures, attracting visitors year-round, with peaks in January, July, and September. Experience the thrill of ziplining through lush canopies, or explore the nearby national parks that boast stunning beaches and diverse wildlife. A visit to Puerto Jiménez offers not only adventure but also an authentic taste of Costa Rican culture, with local eateries serving fresh seafood and traditional dishes.
Pavones: A charming village located 16.1km from Cabo Matapalo, Pavones is a hidden gem for beach lovers and adventure seekers. Known for its world-class surf breaks, this laid-back destination peaks in visitor numbers from March to April and again in July. Explore the scenic hiking trails that wind through the lush landscape, or relax on the pristine beaches that are perfect for sunbathing or swimming. With its close-knit community and welcoming atmosphere, Pavones is a perfect spot for those looking to unwind and connect with nature.
Punta Banco: Just 17.7km from Cabo Matapalo, Punta Banco is a tranquil village that offers a peaceful retreat for those seeking outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. Visitors flock to this serene destination, particularly in January and during the March-April peak season. The nearby national parks and beautiful beaches provide ample opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and relaxation. Punta Banco’s natural beauty and unspoiled landscapes make it an ideal location for eco-tourism, allowing travellers to immerse themselves in Costa Rica’s breathtaking environment.
Things to do in Cabo Matapalo
Cabo Matapalo, located in Puerto Jiménez, offers an exciting blend of outdoor adventures and beach relaxation. Visitors can enjoy eco tours, thrilling boat trips, and explore stunning waterfalls. Known for having some of the best surfing in Costa Rica, it also provides unique wildlife experiences, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Adventure
Explore La Leona Park Ranger Station, located 24.1km from Cabo Matapalo, for an exhilarating hiking experience. Immerse yourself in the lush scenery and vibrant wildlife while enjoying the outdoor adventure vibes that this beautiful park offers.
Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Cabo Matapalo
To save money during your trip to Cabo Matapalo, consider visiting free beaches like Pan Dulce, Pavones, and Carate. For transportation, opt for walking or renting a bicycle to explore the area affordably. The best time to visit for lower prices is from August to October, while booking your hotel about a month in advance can yield the best deals. Saturdays tend to be the cheapest nights to stay, while Thursdays are pricier. Use Expedia to find budget-friendly accommodations and consider combining your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings.
The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Cabo Matapalo are August to October, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March to April and July, where prices are slightly higher.
The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel in Cabo Matapalo about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Cabo Matapalo is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Cabo Matapalo is Thursday.
Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and more. You can arrange your results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable accommodations first. Additionally, you can refine your search by hotel type—if you select the “Eco-certified” filter, you'll be shown sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
Consider bundling your trip: You can save some money by combining your hotel stay in Cabo Matapalo with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Best time to go to Cabo Matapalo
The best time to visit Cabo Matapalo can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Cabo Matapalo falls in April, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with frequent rain. The coolest average temperature in Cabo Matapalo falls in November and December. December has moderately high visitor numbers and mostly cloudy weather.
Calendar Month
Temperature
Precipitation
Cloudiness
Occupancy
Pricing
January
75.0°F (23.9°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Moderately High
Average
February
76.1°F (24.5°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Moderately High
Average
March
77.2°F (25.1°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Slightly High
April
77.4°F (25.2°C)
Frequent Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
Slightly High
May
76.6°F (24.8°C)
Frequent Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
Average
June
76.1°F (24.5°C)
Frequent Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Moderately Low
Average
July
75.9°F (24.4°C)
Frequent Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
Slightly High
August
75.7°F (24.3°C)
Frequent Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
Slightly Low
September
75.6°F (24.2°C)
Frequent Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Moderately Low
Slightly Low
October
75.0°F (23.9°C)
Frequent Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Moderately Low
Slightly Low
November
74.5°F (23.6°C)
Frequent Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
Average
December
74.5°F (23.6°C)
Frequent Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Moderately High
Average
The nearest major airports for your trip to Cabo Matapalo
To reach Cabo Matapalo, you can fly into three major airports. Puerto Jiménez (PJM) is 16.1km away, with nearby hotels like Botanika Osa Peninsula, Curio Collection by Hilton, just 161m from the airport, offering free airport shuttles. Lapa Rios Lodge, 12.9km from PJM, provides shuttle services for a fee. Golfito (GLF) is 30.6km away, featuring The Zancudo Lodge, 12.9km from the airport. Lastly, Drake Bay (DRK) is 54.7km from Cabo Matapalo, where The Tranquilo Lodge is situated 3.2km from the airport, offering inclusive shuttle services. Each airport provides convenient access to the region's accommodations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best area to stay in Cabo Matapalo?
The best area to stay in Cabo Matapalo is directly along the coast, near the Osa Peninsula's southern tip, where the rainforest meets the Pacific Ocean.
This area is characterised by its remote, pristine natural beauty, with accommodations often tucked away within the rainforest, offering direct access to secluded beaches. It's an area designed for those seeking an intimate connection with nature, away from bustling crowds. The main artery is a gravel road that winds through the jungle, connecting the various eco-lodges and private villas.
Couples looking for a romantic and secluded escape will find this area perfect. Many lodges offer private bungalows with ocean views and outdoor showers, providing a luxurious yet rustic experience. You're surrounded by wildlife, with monkeys, sloths, and exotic birds frequently spotted from your veranda. The emphasis here is on tranquil moments, jungle walks, and enjoying the natural surroundings together.
For travellers prioritising wildlife observation and adventure, staying in this coastal strip is ideal. The proximity to Corcovado National Park means world-class birdwatching and animal spotting are right on your doorstep.
When is the best time to go to Cabo Matapalo?
The best time to go to Cabo Matapalo is during the dry season, which typically runs from December to April.
This period offers consistent sunshine and lower humidity, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking through the rainforest and wildlife spotting. The Pacific Ocean waters are calmer, superb for surfing, swimming, and snorkelling. While it's the busiest time, the natural beauty and wildlife encounters are at their peak.
For those who prioritize lush landscapes and don't mind occasional rain showers, the shoulder months of May and November can be a good option. You'll often find fewer visitors and the rainforest is particularly vibrant. However, be prepared for more humid conditions and potential afternoon downpours.
Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?
You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, though it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if canceled within 24-48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to "My Trips", and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by "Fully refundable property" for hotels in Cabo Matapalo.
How much is the nightly rate at a Cabo Matapalo hotel?
Prices for hotels in Cabo Matapalo often vary, but you can find a great deal from CA $74 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by "Price: low to high" for the cheapest rate.