Winner of a host of awards, including National Geographic Traveler Best Worlds Lodges (July 2013), National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World (January 2015) and Exemplary Tourism Practice from the World Tourism Association (2001), Pacuare Lodge in Costa Rica can be found about two hours by car from San Jose.

The 860-acre, privately owned rainforest makes this lodge feel perfectly isolated from the rest of the world, though there’s plenty to do: Guests can hike along ancient trails besides cascading waterfalls, revel in the multitude of birds who live within the rainforest, embark on the Pacuare Canopy Adventure or take a cooking class to learn traditional local dishes and preparation techniques.

White-water Rafting © Pacuare Lodge /Aventuras Naturales

Active travelers enjoy exhilarating white-water rafting on the Pacuare River and even choose to experience their arrival and departure to the lodge via white water raft (air transport and 4X4 vehicles are also options).

For lodging, 20 separate accommodations include the private 3,767-square-foot Jaguar Villa and 1,076-square-foot Canopy Suite, each with its own spring-fed pool, along with River Suites, River View Deluxe Suites and Linda Vista Suites.

In the main lodge, there’s a wine cellar, bar and lounge overlooking the river. The property’s own organic farm produces the majority of fruits, veggies, cheeses and poultry, served in the restaurant. Relax with a treatment in Jawa Juu Spa or sign up for an Indigenous Community Visit to the nearby village.

© Pacuare Lodge / Aventuras Naturales