Lost Iguana Resort — Hotel in La Fortuna

If you’re dreaming of an eco-friendly escape nestled in Costa Rica’s lush landscapes, Lost Iguana is not the paradise it claims to be. Our family booked here for 3 nights in March, and it was 3 nights too many. This eco-lodge is more eco-disaster.

Our adventure began with a room that had no functioning air conditioning. In the sweltering Costa Rican heat, this was less a quirk and more a cruel prank. After wasting hours waiting for maintenance, we learned the entire A/C unit needed replacing. The staff’s initial solution? Move us to another room for one night, then back to the original sweatbox the next day. Who doesn’t love unpacking and repacking on vacation? After much back-and-forth, they relented and moved us permanently—but the new room was no upgrade.

Why go on a jungle tour when the jungle comes to you? The ceiling and doors were riddled with holes that welcomed lizards, bugs, and a particularly vocal family of geckos. Their nightly mating serenades were the soundtrack to our sleepless nights. Both rooms we stayed in had this feature, proving the lodge’s commitment to immersive nature was less about eco-tourism and more about shoddy construction.

The bathroom was a highlight, but for all the wrong reasons. The sink overflowed with the enthusiasm of a rainforest waterfall, soaking our clothes multiple times. We didn’t realize we'd signed up for a complimentary laundry service with every hand wash. Then there was the warm water—or lack thereof. For reasons unknown, it was turned off at the pipe, forcing us to play amateur plumber to restore it. This lodge’s version of “eco” apparently means conserving hot water by making guests go without.

The shower was a study in neglect. Stained tiles looked like they hadn’t been cleaned since the lodge’s glory days (if it ever had any), and the clogged drain turned every shower into a wading pool. We kept expecting to spot a fish or two in the murky water pooling at our feet. While there were no fish, we did encounter numerous bugs crawling across the ceiling in the bathroom too.

The lodge’s website must employ a time machine. The photos depict a pristine retreat, but the reality is a facility that hasn’t seen a renovation in decades. The “hummingbird garden” was actually a "mosquito haven", overgrown with weeds and littered with trash. The pool, meanwhile, sported a film so thick it could star in a sci-fi flick. If you enjoy swimming in mystery sludge, this is your spot.

If isolation is your thing, this lodge delivers. The town of La Fortuna is a half-hour drive away, so unless you’re packing a gourmet chef or a stockpile of snacks, you’re stuck with the lodge’s uninspiring dining options. The remote location, while common for some eco-lodges, felt like a punishment given the lack of on-site amenities to compensate.

When we finally voiced our frustrations, the staff offered a one-night refund—a small gesture we accepted to move on. But like everything else here, it was too good to be true. After multiple follow-ups over the month since we returned, they’ve gone silent, leaving us with nothing but empty promises. This isn’t an isolated incident; other guests have reported the same bait-and-switch tactic. Check other reviews, and you’ll see a pattern of broken promises. I wish we had listened. Should you need a refund because your stay is less than stellar (and it likely will be), be aware that you may...

The Garden of Eden Found: My Soulful Escape to Lost Iguana||At 68, I believed I had experienced the full spectrum of travel. Yet, my recent stay at the Lost Iguana Resort & Spa in Costa Rica revealed a sanctuary so serene, it felt as though I had stepped into Eden itself.||From the moment I arrived, the harmonious chorus of the rainforest enveloped me, each birdcall and rustling leaf weaving a melody that awakened my spirit. Now, back home, I find myself yearning for those morning serenades that greeted each new day.||The majestic Arenal Volcano stood ever-present, its grandeur visible from every vantage point on the property. Its silent strength and beauty instilled a profound sense of peace, anchoring me in a state of perpetual tranquility.||Our accommodations were a haven of comfort and elegance, their Bali-inspired decor blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings. The spacious rooms offered not just luxury, but a deep sense of belonging.||BEE LOVE! Jan S||The staff at Lost Iguana were more than hospitable—they became family. Their genuine warmth and attentive care, especially from Edwardo and Roseo, transformed our stay into a heartfelt connection.||Immersed in nature, we embarked on the Puma Trek, crossing suspension bridges and seeking the elusive howler monkeys and rare mushrooms. The experience was so primal and pure, it felt as though donning a fig leaf would be the appropriate attire.||The spa offered two days of unparalleled rejuvenation. As we received our treatments, the soothing sounds of songbirds and a babbling brook provided a natural symphony. A toucan's graceful flight past the open windows added a touch of magic to the already enchanting atmosphere.||Adventures abounded nearby. An exhilarating three-hour ATV ride through the jungle, a serene safari float down a nearby river, and the thrill of ziplining offered diverse experiences. The newly introduced frog sanctuary became a nocturnal wonderland, showcasing the vibrant life that thrives in the darkness.||Perhaps the most profound aspect of this journey was the opportunity to disconnect from the digital world. Without the constant buzz of televisions and mobile phones, I rediscovered the joy of presence and mindfulness—a gift I carry into my daily life.||Reflecting on my time at Lost Iguana, I am overcome with emotion. Goosebumps rise as a deep longing stirs within me: a desire to return to that paradise where nature and serenity embrace you wholly. That, truly, is the essence of a...

I can't say enough about this fabulous resort located in the middle of the rain forest secluded away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Each door to the rooms had a unique wood design with an iguana plaque with the room number. Several other villas were scattered throughout the property for more privacy and seclusion. The room was equipped with A/C, dehumidifier, queen size beds, unique wood furniture, balcony view of the Arenal Volcano, refrigerator, safe and two umbrellas so you can venture out in the rain. The showers were fed by spring water making your skin and hair feel super soft.| |Transportation by golf carts/shuttles were provided upon request to take you to the restaurant, spa, wedding chapel, reception, Puma Trek, gift shop or your room.||The restaurant food was delicious with large portions and great prices. The wait staff that was attentive, courteous and ready to check on any of our needs. We enjoyed the free breakfast that had a variety of choices including eggs, pancakes, waffles, cereal, fruit and local side dishes. The heated swim up bar had spectacular views of the Arenal volcano and a happy hour daily along with a regular pool by its side. The various trails throughout the 120 acre property were paved with bricks and steel bridges for safe walking.||Our tour of the Puma Trek by our guide enabled us to see monkeys, various plant life and the newly built suspension bridge that went over the stream of water in the valley below. It felt like you were in the jungle with the howls of the monkeys, chirping birds and the buzz of cicadas.||The interior design in the buildings were fabulous with artwork, wood furniture imported from Bali, chandeliers, wood details, and unique decor. ||Unfortunately, we ran out of time due to rain and other activities at the nearest town of La Fortuna and did not make it to the Frog Sanctuary at night to see the various species of frogs. However, we heard them croaking throughout the trails, while dining and at night at outside our rooms.||While sitting on the balcony, not only could you see the volcano but, also enjoyed the sight of beautiful flowers, hummingbirds, butterflies, parrots and vast variety of birds. I even spotted a toucan. What a peaceful and...