Nayara Gardens

Nayara Gardens: laid-back luxury in the heart of Arenal's rainforest

Nayara Gardens is a resort located in Arenal Volcano National Park, Costa Rica. Its offering combines luxury accommodation with a rainforest setting, and it presents itself as a place to discover the magic of the rainforest. The property is part of Nayara Resorts and the Leaders Club hotel collection.

The experience revolves around nature: guests can spot birds—more than 500 species—capuchin monkeys, and frogs, and stroll through the tropical gardens. Accommodation is spread across casitas immersed in the rainforest setting, with modern amenities such as an outdoor jacuzzi on the terrace and an outdoor shower. The resort describes itself as family friendly and also suited to romantic getaways, with options such as luxury tents, secluded oasis, cultural adventure, and private island.

Gastronomy with a zero-kilometer philosophy

The culinary offering is guided by a philosophy of sustainability and healthy eating, with local and seasonal ingredients, and the goal of reducing the distance between the ingredient and the kitchen to zero. Restaurants include dishes such as lemon red snapper, tuna tataki bowl, and lobster cazuela. The offering aims to provide a culinary journey that reinvents local flavors.

Spa and wellness

The resort's spa has received recognition and presents itself as a haven of tranquility in the rainforest. Therapists are described as the heart of the spa, responsible for guests' well-being and relaxation, with a Pura Vida attitude. The experience aims for guests to feel the restorative power of the rainforest.

Commitment to sustainability and the community

Nayara Gardens states that sustainable tourism is its main motivation. Its initiatives include building in harmony with nature, leaving space for wildlife; rainforest conservation; and support for the local community. Most of the team comes from La Fortuna de San Carlos, and the company offers free transportation, sustainable tourism education, and health services to its employees. It also mentions free early education for employees' children, volunteer work, and financial support to Hogarcito de Niños, a local orphanage, as well as support for local artists.

On environmental matters, the resort built two pedestrian bridges over the forest canopy to protect trees and wildlife. It received the Four Leaves Award for Sustainability from the Costa Rican government. The buildings are sustainable and renewable, oriented to maximize sunlight and ventilation to reduce the use of air conditioning and heating, and low-energy light bulbs and lighting systems are used, as well as water-conserving faucets and towels.

Wildlife conservation

The resort maintains a mission to preserve and expand the rainforest, providing a safe habitat for a healthy sloth population. By planting thousands of trees, it shows its commitment to preserving the natural habitat of these animals, which spend much of their lives in the canopies of the Guarumo trees.

Awards

Nayara Gardens has received various awards and mentions. These include: 2020 World's Best, Best Resort in Central America; 2015 World's Best, Best Resort in Central and South America; 2013 Readers' Choice Awards, Best Resort in Central America; 2016 Readers' Choice Awards, Top 20 Resorts in Central and South America; 2019 Platinum Award, Best Hotel Innovator; 2013 World's Best, Best Resort in Central and South America; 2019 Readers' Choice Awards, Top 12 in Central America. It is also part of the Travel + Leisure Hall of Fame.

Team and management

The resort highlights the importance of its staff, described as the soul of Nayara. Among the people mentioned are Don Francisco, Head of Bell-Men, who points out rare birds in the gardens; Jessie, captain at La Terraza; and Rosita, one of the housekeepers. Jairo Quesada, the resort manager, is Costa Rican, with more than 18 years of hospitality experience, and began as a receptionist on opening day. Alfonso Pastran Calderón, head of gardening, is originally from Nicaragua and has worked at the resort since 2009.

Location and contact

Phone: +506 2479 1600 · Email: reservations@nayararesorts.com · Hours: Monday to Sunday from 09:00 to 17:00