Selva
Bananito Lodge, which opened its doors in December of 1995, is
a secluded rain forest lodge situated 20 km south and 15 km inland
of Puerto Limón on the Atlantic side of Costa Rica. It
is owned and operated by the Stein family, who moved to Costa
Rica from South America 26 years ago.
We generate income
from tourism for the protection of 850 hectares (2,000 acres)
of privately owned rain forest, and for the funding of special
conservation projects there and in neighboring areas.
The
private reserve which Selva Bananito Lodge supports, called Reserva
Selva Bananito, is only a 10-minute walk from the lodge and graces
the view from the cabins (see photo below). To minimize the impact
of tourists on this pristine rain forest environment, we host
only a small number of visitors at any one time.
Selva
Bananito Lodge and Reserve are located on our family farm. The
reserve covers two thirds of the farm and consists of primary
rain forest. It shares borders with Area de Conservacion La Amistad
(La Amistad Biosphere Reserve), Central America's largest protected
wilderness expanse, which consists of national and international
parks and preserves. This area remains one of the least explored
territory in the region, its biological wealth only partially
known. One third of our family land (about 416 hectares or 1,000
acres) is devoted to low-impact, sustainable agriculture and cattle
management.
Paula’s renowned
meals are served home-style in our large dining/living room (or
al-fresco on the balcony or covered deck). Paula has the knowledge
and flexibility to accommodate most dietary/allergy regimes.
Our
recently constructed covered wooden deck is proving popular with
backpackers and campers. It has space for 4-2 person tents or
8 persons total. A nearby ecologically-sensitive outhouse is provided
for convenience. Many services are available to campers to make
their stay more comfortable and enjoyable.
