Welcome to Chayote Country, a hidden gem set within some of Costa Rica’s most breathtaking landscapes—an authentic region we proudly call home. Here, tranquil villages are woven into vibrant farming communities, where coffee fields, sugar cane, and flourishing vegetable and flower gardens shape both the scenery and daily life.
Nature is always close at hand. Just a short hike from Chayote Lodge, guests can explore over 400 hectares of protected cloud and rainforest within the El Chayote Forest Reserve. This mosaic of primary and secondary forest offers peaceful trails, rich vegetation, and excellent opportunities for birdwatching, with more than 150 bird species recorded in the area. Our permanent nature and ornithology guides are on hand to help guests experience the forest with deeper insight and appreciation.
Beyond the lodge, Chayote Country is perfectly located for discovering some of Costa Rica’s most celebrated natural wonders. Day excursions lead to the misty landscapes of Poás Volcano National Park, as well as the dramatic scenery of Bajos del Toro, home to the impressive Toro Waterfall and the striking turquoise cascades of the Blue Falls. These experiences showcase the country’s volcanic origins, powerful waterways, and ever-changing ecosystems—key elements of Costa Rica’s natural identity.
At Chayote Lodge, our activities go beyond sightseeing. They are invitations to experience Costa Rica in a meaningful way—combining nature, culture, and genuine human connection. Guests are welcomed by local communities who share their traditions, stories, and way of life, creating encounters that feel personal and sincere.
All excursions in Chayote Country are designed as personalized, private experiences, allowing time to connect, explore, and truly absorb each place. Step through an open door to a journey that balances nature and culture, leaving you enriched—and leaving a positive impact on the people and landscapes that make this region so special.
Welcome to the Naranjo Coffee and Town Experience, an immersive journey through the heart of Costa Rica’s esteemed coffee culture. Naranjo, revered for over two centuries as a hub for exquisite coffee production, invites you to delve into its rich heritage.
Our excursion commences at the Else Kientzler Botanical Garden in Sarchi, a captivating showcase of native and tropical flora. Spend an enriching hour exploring the diverse array of plants before we venture to the Basilica de la Señora de las Piedades, a testament to Naranjo’s resilience following earthquakes in the 1940s.
Next, we ‘ll meander through the vibrant Municipal Market, where locals procure fresh produce. Our guide will unravel the tapestry of local fruits, sharing insights into their usage in household recipes. Lunch beckons at one of the market’s sodas, treating you to authentic flavors.
Post-lunch, prepare for an in-depth exploration of coffee’s journey from seed to cup. Visit a local family-owned coffee farm, where rolling hills form an idyllic backdrop. Engage in an immersive experience, learning about every phase and stage of coffee cultivation while savoring the beauty of this unique landscape.
Join us for a day filled with botanical wonders, cultural insights, and a deep dive into the world of exceptional coffee —a journey that promises both enlightenment and delight in the heart of Naranjo.
Difficulty level: Easy
Duration: 6.5 hours
Located at an altitude of approximately 5,400ft (1,650m) and surrounded by lush
cloud forest and coffee plantations, Chayote Lodge gardens are a haven for birdwatching. Here colorful flowering plants attract several species of
hummingbirds, whilst toucans can often be seen flying by. Walking in and around the lodge’s property it is possible to spot several species including the scintillant hummingbird, blue-crowned motmot, keel-billed toucan as well as parrots, tanagers, warblers, flycatchers and more. Enjoy our one hour morning birdwatching tour as our specialist birding guide helps to point out some of the local species in this area.
Difficulty level: Easy
Duration: 1 hour
This full day tour is a must for birdwatchers with chances to see various spectacular highlight species in the space of just a few hours. At around 06.30 in the morning travel 1hr to the quiet local cloudforest village of La Paz de San Ramon, located at an altitude of approx 1,200masl, where a local farm owner protects the habitat of both the beautiful iconic bird of the cloudforest, the resplendent quetzal (seen here between mid-Feb and mid-May) and the striking three wattled bellbird (between Feb and June).
You will spend time searching for both birds on foot and by vehicle in this peaceful verdant landscape, with opportunities to also spot species such as the white-eared ground sparrow, ornate hawk eagle, white hawk, Costa Rican pygmy owl and the sunbittern (which is likely to be nesting along the riverbanks at this time). Time allowing, there will also be chances to visit a tract of forest where the long-tailed manakin lek can be found, as well as the local farm owner’s gardens at his home which attract a variety of local species of tanagers, chachalacas, thrushes, hummingbirds etc. Lunch will be serviced at a local soda (café) in La Paz, full day private transport and guiding.
Difficulty level: Moderate
Duration: 8 hours
Best time to visit: Between Feb and May
Embark on an exclusive coffee immersion at our private estate nestled amidst lush coffee plantations. Join Don Carlos, Doña Maria, and their family for an intimate encounter with Costa Rica’s rich coffee culture. Just 10 minutes from our Lodge, this tranquil haven offers a respite from bustling tourist spots. Experience authenticity as you stroll through our scenic farm, delving into the art of coffee production. Gain insights into the beverage’s journey from plant to cup, culminating in hands-on preparation of a delightful brew, the traditional Costa Rican way. Our hallmark is a heartfelt welcome, set against the backdrop of a serene locale, where the air is infused with freshness. Discover an unforgettable odyssey that encapsulates the essence of coffee, replete with warmth, education, and unparalleled memories.
Difficulty level: Easy
Duration: 3 hours
Painting a traditional oxcart wheel, famous in Costa Rica for its uniqueness. This is a traditional cartwheel painting workshop with an artisan artist from Sarchí, a town near Chayote Lodge where the oxcart is an icon as it also is a Costa Rica national symbol. Through this interactive experience guests will learn the history of the Costa Rican oxcart, the unique tradition in the world of painting them in such a colorful way and the reason that gave birth to that tradition. Each participant is given a wheel with the drawing lines marked, the artist teaches them how to paint it and the color combinations that can be used to achieve a better result. Participants preserve their own memory of a unique experience.
Duration: 2 hours
Includes: Accompaniment of the artist, painting materials, drawn wheel for painting, English-speaking guide to translate for the artist, coffee and snacks.
Difficulty level: Easy
Duration: 2 hours
Embark on an awe-inspiring journey with our Toro Amarillo Waterfall adventure—a true testament to Costa Rica’s natural wonders. Begin with a leisurely hike through the lush cloud forest, a haven boasting an abundance of diverse trees, vibrant plants, exotic flowers, hummingbirds and many other species of flora and fauna.
As the trail unfolds, prepare for an exhilarating descent towards the magnificent Toro Amarillo waterfall. Descending approximately 300 steps, be prepared to witness nature’s masterpiece—the largest waterfall in Costa Rica, a breathtaking symphony of beauty and splendor.
This natural marvel, untouched by human design, unveils its true essence as you descend. Initially captivating from above, its true magic unfolds step by step as you venture below. Strategically placed observation stations offer mesmerizing vistas, allowing you to marvel at the waterfall’s pristine grandeur.
Experience the ancient volcanic crater’s rock formations, adorned with striking colors that complement the waterfall’s allure.
Feel the unique chemical composition of the water, adding to the enchantment of this extraordinary encounter with nature.
Prepare to be captivated as every step leads to a deeper connection with this diamond in the rough, an adventure that promises one of the most astounding and intimate encounters with the natural splendor of Costa Rica.
Join us and immerse yourself in the sheer beauty and magnificence of the Toro Amarillo Waterfall—an experience that lingers as an unforgettable ode to nature’s grandeur.
Difficulty level: Moderate
Duration: 6.5 hours
Embark on an unforgettable day excursion to the crown jewel of Costa Rica—the majestic Poas Volcano. Situated in the Cordillera Volcanica Central and just a scenic 2-hour drive from Chayote Lodge, this iconic volcano stands as a testament to the country’s natural wonders, boasting the world’s widest crater.
Our journey meanders through picturesque landscapes, paving the way to the national park nestled at an impressive elevation of 8,124 feet above sea level. At the park, immerse yourself in the rich geological history of Poas Volcano at the informative museum. Gain insight into the volcano’s fascinating geological cycle, unraveling its story through engaging exhibits and educational displays.
A short, scenic hike leads us to the crater, where weather permitting, you ‘ll stand in awe before its unparalleled beauty. Poas Volcano offers a vantage point unlike any other in Costa Rica, presenting a vista of the crater that’s truly unparalleled. Hike to the Botos Lagoon surrounded by cloud forest and witness an ancient crater while discovering the fascinating flora of this very complex ecosystem. Marvel at the unique majesty of this volcanic wonder, taking in panoramic views that reveal the heart of Costa Rica’s geological marvels. Join us for a day filled with exploration, education, and the awe-inspiring spectacle of Poas Volcano—a journey that promises to etch vivid memories of Costa Rica’s natural grandeur.
Difficulty level: Easy
Duration: 8 hour
Indulge in an authentic culinary escapade with our local home cooking class, a gateway to mastering the art of Costa Rican cuisine. Opt for a delightful lunch or an enchanting dinner experience as you step into the welcoming abode of Doña Elida.
Discover the heart and soul of Costa Rican gastronomy as Doña Elida graciously unveils time-honored secrets to crafting the perfect traditional meal. Prepare to delve into the creation of a classic casado, featuring a medley of flavorsome rice, beans, plantains, and vibrant salads brimming with fresh, locally sourced vegetables. Under Doña Elida’s guidance, immerse yourself in the culinary traditions of Costa Rica, gaining hands-on expertise in blending these authentic ingredients into a delectable feast. This intimate experience promises not just a cooking lesson but an immersion into the essence of Costa Rican culture and flavors.
Savor every moment as you learn, cook, and relish the fruits of your labor—a culinary journey that captures the essence of Costa Rica’s gastronomic heritage.
Join us for an unforgettable encounter with the flavors that define this beautiful country.
Difficulty level: Easy
Duration: 3 hours
Explore the biodiverse highlands of Costa Rica’s central valley on an exhilarating hiking expedition.
Nestled between the esteemed Poas Volcano National Park and Juan Castro Blanco National Park, the Zona Protectora El Chayote serves as a vibrant biological corridor.
Spanning 841 hectares, this protected zone encompasses a tapestry of spring-fed water sources, lush pasturelands, primary and secondary forests—a haven for diverse bird species. Our hiking adventure commences from Chayote Lodge, tracing local roads within this protected expanse, guided by an experienced guide.
As we trek through this rich landscape, keep your senses alert for the fluttering wings and melodious calls of the avian inhabitants. The expertise of our guide ensures a captivating birdwatching experience, with over 200 species recorded in this biodiverse haven.
Join us on this hiking excursion to witness the symphony of nature within the stunning Zona Protectora El Chayote—an adventure that promises a deeper connection with the rich biodiversity of Costa Rica’s central valley and beautiful landscape.
Difficulty level: Moderate
Duration: 3 hours
If you want a real authentic Costa Rican experience, then a visit to Viejillos is a must do on your wish list. Situated in the charming, artisan village of Sarchi , just thirty minutes from Chayote Lodge, this Sunday afternoon get together draws Tico’s & Tica’s from all parts the country. Housed in a big old disco, the best Latino bands play to a lively, mixed crowd of all generations and backgrounds…with one mission in mind…Bailar! (to dance)… as only the Latino’s know how.
From old Latin Classics to Merengue, back round to Salsa and then some Bolero, the huge dance floor is packed and twirling. You will dance, you must do…even if you don’t have the Latin hips…you won’t be judged, everybody is far too busy having the time of their lives. Live music blares, disco balls spin, neon lights flash, bicycles with fairy lights hang from the ceiling & couples laugh, spin, twirl & move with expertise. It’s dark, it’s hot, it’s steamy and it’s a whole lot of energetic fun!
Duration: 4 hours
Operates: Fri – Sat – Mon evenings & Sunday afternoons
