Tucked into the lush rainforest at the base of Arenal Volcano, Nayara Tented Camp is every bit as magical as it sounds. This luxurious, eco-conscious retreat was the perfect setting for our family’s Costa Rican rainforest adventure – a seamless blend of wild beauty and world-class hospitality. From our spacious family tent with a private hot spring-fed plunge pool, to the incredible spa, unforgettable mixology class, and warm, attentive service at every turn, Nayara impressed us on every level. If you’re dreaming of a rainforest escape that doesn’t sacrifice comfort for adventure, this is the place. Let me show you why Nayara Tented Camp continues to be one of my top recommendations for clients looking for something truly special.
Pura Vida in Costa Rica
Nayara Tented Camp Resort Review – Spoiler Alert: It’s Spectacular!
Day 1: La Fortuna Arrival
Day 2: Zip Line, Unwind, Night Walk
Day 3: Resort Day at Nayara Tented Camp
Day 4: Chocolate, Waterfalls & Cocktails
Day 5: Rainforest Farewell, Rafting & Beach Arrival
Day 6: Las Catalinas Beach Day & Cooking Class
Day 7: Las Catalinas Boat Day
Day 8: Las Catalinas Beach Day
Day 9: Traveling Home
Book Costa Rica with Me
While Disney destinations will always have my heart, many of my clients have travel dreams that reach far beyond the parks – from bucket-list escapes to milestone celebrations, multi-generational adventures, and even business travel done beautifully. I’m proud to be not only a Premier Advisor with Glass Slipper Concierge, but also part of GSC World Travel, where I design unforgettable experiences around the globe.
Our own Costa Rican adventure begins with four nights in the Arenal area of La Fortuna. We’re calling the spectacular Nayara Tented Camp home – named the Number One Resort in Central America for four years running. It’s the perfect blend of luxury and adventure that brings the whole family back to nature, in the most indulgent way. After a day of rainforest hikes or ziplining adventures, retreat to your private tent and sink into your own mineral hot springs pool. Stretch out with a good book in the hammock, or simply relax on the balcony overlooking the majestic Arenal Volcano. And, yes, there’s air conditioning! It’s five-star comfort in the heart of the rainforest.
Nayara’s sister properties, Nayara Gardens and Nayara Springs, offer even more ways to experience the Arenal Volcano National Park in style. Nayara Gardens features intimate single-bedroom villas with private gardens, outdoor showers, and stunning volcano views. At the adults-only Nayara Springs, each villa boasts its own hot spring plunge pool for the ultimate indulgence. The properties, connected by a charming footbridge, share four unique restaurants and two dreamy open-air spas.
For booking with me:
- Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
- Daily breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, served in the restaurant and via in-room dining
- $100 USD equivalent in local currency Food & Beverage credit to be utilized during stay
- Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
Let’s find your perfect Costa Rica… where adventure, nature, and luxury come together in ways you’ll remember forever.
Arriving at Nayara Tented Camp
The journey from Liberia to La Fortuna is long, but absolutely worth every mile. We wound our way around the sparkling Arenal Lake on a three-hour drive deep into the rainforest, watching the landscape shift from open countryside to lush, misty jungle. Don’t worry – the private drivers I arrange are true professionals, with comfortable, spacious vehicles and plenty of stops for snacks, meals, and bathroom breaks along the way.
As you pull up to Nayara Tented Camp, the magic begins right away. You’re greeted by name at the Reception Tent, where espresso, infused waters, and the resort’s signature chocolate chip cookies welcome you after your travels.
Next, a golf cart whisks you through the rainforest paths to the Check-In Tent. Cool infused towels and refreshing watermelon sours await while you get a warm orientation to the property. Then it’s off again! Your concierge drives you straight to your private tent, gives you a personal tour of your new home away from home, and makes sure every detail is just right. It’s truly white glove service from start to finish – the perfect beginning to your Costa Rican escape.
Family Tent
Nayara’s Family Tents are designed for families who want to truly reconnect and immerse themselves in nature without giving up an ounce of comfort. These spacious two-bedroom, two-bathroom retreats are connected by a central terrace featuring an oversized plunge pool fed by the mineral-rich hot springs.
Wake up to the sounds of birdsong and enjoy breakfast overlooking the vibrant rainforest canopy. Spend slow mornings over coffee and breakfast in the sitting area, take a dip in your private pool surrounded by jungle mist, and soak in views that will take your breath away.
It’s magnificent and likely unlike anywhere you’ve ever stayed. Five-star luxury meets rainforest adventure. I don’t say this lightly…. it’s an experience your family will remember forever.
Family Tent Private Courtyard and Hot Spring Pool
The family tent is the most spacious accommodation, with two separate sleeping tents connected by a private deck and hot springs fed pool
Family Tent King Suite
Our absolutely divine bedroom came with the sweetest welcome amenity … a signature touch I always arrange for my clients, and of course, my own family is no exception! The main tent features a plush king bed and an additional twin, perfect for families. The minibar is thoughtfully stocked with an espresso machine, all the fixings for a proper cocktail, snacks, and fresh fruit. Individual-size drinks – including soft drinks, sparkling water, and beer – were included with our stay and easily replenished with a quick call to the front desk. The baskets of snacks and fruit were refreshed daily by the incredible housekeeping team, who also provided twice-daily service. A final luxury not to be overlooked: laundry service is included. A true vacation treat I always recommend guests take advantage of!
My jaw hit the ground when I saw our bathroom, complete with deep soaking tub and outdoor shower (there is one indoors, too.)
The bed overlooks the hot springs plunge pool. Spectacular!
We immediately dumped our bags and headed to the pool. It was warm and pure magic!
Just across the deck was a second tent reserved for the boys, complete with two queen beds, a spacious bathroom, and their own sitting area on the balcony. It was the perfect setup: close enough to feel connected, yet with plenty of space to spread out and unwind.
I curated an itinerary for our family that struck just the right balance – unforgettable excursions paired with plenty of time to soak in the serenity of the resort. Mornings began with room service breakfasts and copious cups of espresso enjoyed poolside. Afternoons brought naps in the hammock, outdoor showers, and long soaks in our spring-fed plunge pool. These moments felt intentionally unrushed, allowing us to truly experience the magic of the rainforest.
Buenos Noches
Each evening after dinner, we returned to our tent to find turndown service had prepared our beds, tidied up from the day’s adventures, and left a little treat for us to enjoy. We slipped into our sumptuous beds and fell asleep to nature’s own sound machine. Rain on the canvas, the rustle of the rainforest, and the distant calls of wildlife reminding us we were deep in the heart of Costa Rica.
Room Service
With early morning call times, we eased into the days with a hearty in-room breakfast. Because really… is it even vacation if you don’t order room service? And the best part? When you book with me, it’s included!
We placed our orders the night before and woke up to the most luxurious spread waiting for us right on the deck of our jungle tent. There’s just something that hits different about French press coffee and avo toast while you’re perched in the rainforest canopy.
Of course, you can order in any time of the day!
Breakfast at Ayla
On our day without any planned excursions, we headed to Ayla for a delicious sit-down breakfast by the pool. Fresh fruit, warm pastries, and strong Costa Rican coffee under the morning sun was the perfect, slow start. Our only plan for today was to enjoy the resort.
Ayla Lunch
Ayla also serves a delicious poolside lunch.
Ayla Dinner
For our first dinner, we made our way to Ayla, Nayara’s stunning Mediterranean restaurant tucked under an elegant tent with views of the infinity pool, the rainforest, and the majestic Arenal Volcano in the distance.
The food was absolutely delicious. We shared baba ganoush, grape leaves, perfectly spiced beef shawarma, and the fresh catch of the day, a divine red snapper. John and Honey sampled local beers while I enjoyed one of their craft cocktails.
La Terazza
On another evening, we enjoyed family dinner at La Terraza, Nayara’s open-air restaurant serving delicious à la carte Latin American dishes. Everything hit the spot – tacos, tableside guacamole, and more.
Mis Amores Dinner
We ended the stay with a cozy dinner at Mis Amores. Generous bowls of pasta and pool views for days.
Asia Luna Dinner
Asia Luna was a huge hit for us. We all noshed on fresh sushi, and loved trying some things we don’t often find on US menus. The boys battled it out in an epic ping pong duel, while we lingered over dinner. It was the perfect way to close out the day.
Nayara Spa Costa Rica
We left a free day for Honey and I to hit the spa for a morning of pure indulgence and pampering. While he opted for a classic Swedish massage, I treated myself to the 120-minute Signature Experience – a heavenly blend of traditional massage with volcanic mud and aromatherapy, plus a facial, scalp massage, refreshing shower, and deep hydration to finish.
The open-air spa at Nayara is tucked into hidden pockets of the rainforest, so every massage, facial, and scrub comes with its own natural soundtrack of birdsong, rain and rustling leaves. The experience is as unforgettable as the setting.
Ayla Pool
Afternoons were spent unwinding at the Ayla Pool, which, like so much here, is fed by the natural hot springs. A gentle rain is common, but the canvas keeps you covered. It is just so incredibly peaceful to be surrounded by mist and clouds. We bellied up to the (covered) swim-up bar, sipping local libations and chatting about everything under the sun (errrr… clouds). At one point, the bar staff surprised everyone with glasses of iced coffee! It was the perfect afternoon pick-me-up. And let’s not forget the fresh guac delivered right to the pool!
Mixology Class at Henry’s Bar
John, Honey, and I headed over to Henry’s Bar for a mixology class with the amazing José, and it turned out to be one of the true highlights of our stay. José was incredibly kind and welcoming, and he taught us so much about sustainability in cocktail making, from using local ingredients thoughtfully to crafting house-made bitters, garnishes, syrups, and cordials.
He even got both of my guys behind the bar shaking up their own cocktails for me, Madre :-) It was hands on, fun, and surprisingly fascinating. We laughed, learned new techniques, and left with a whole new appreciation for what goes into a great drink.
José’s warmth, patience, and genuine passion reminded us once again why everyone says Costa Ricans are some of the friendliest people on the planet. And we couldn’t agree more.
Our stay at Nayara Tented Camp was nothing short of extraordinary – a seamless blend of adventure, relaxation, and the kind of thoughtful luxury that lingers long after you leave. From the impeccable service to the lush rainforest setting, this is a place that wraps you in comfort while connecting you to nature. If you’re dreaming of a once-in-a-lifetime escape, whether it’s a family adventure, romantic retreat, or a special celebration, I’d love to help you plan it. Reach out anytime, and let’s make your Costa Rican getaway just as magical.
Let’s Travel and My Services
As a Premier Level Advisor with Glass Slipper Concierge, I’m proud to be recognized for delivering the highest level of service, expertise, and personalized care in the industry. I leverage my personal connections and firsthand knowledge to design bespoke vacations for the most discerning travelers. Travel is an investment, and I’m here to ensure you receive the very best value for your time and money. Whether you’re celebrating a major milestone or simply seeking a well-deserved escape, it’s an honor to be part of the memories you’re making.
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