Trip Recap by Marie Chawke, Director of Global Sales at Calliope Collective

The following is a recap of the wonderful experience I had at SCP Corcovado Wilderness Lodge, located on the Osa Peninsula of Costa Rica in January 2025.

The adventure began with a small plane ride from San José, soaring over Costa Rica’s lush rainforest before landing in Drake Bay. The excitement kicked off immediately with a bumpy yet thrilling mini-bus ride across rivers and rugged roads, followed by a magical boat journey where we saw dolphins and humpback whales along the way, and then just like in a movie we had a stunning sunset as we made our way to the lodge coastline. What a welcome to paradise!

SCP Corcovado Wilderness Lodge is absolutely breathtaking. It’s a place where nature and tranquility come together in the most incredible way. Stepping foot there feels like entering another world. The Osa Peninsula is teeming with wildlife—from the vibrant scarlet macaws and howler monkeys to sloths, tapirs, pumas, and even jaguars. Being surrounded by such raw, untamed beauty was truly special.

Our arrival at the lodge felt like pure magic. We navigated the rocky shore as the sun was setting, stepping out of the boat and wading through the warm waves to the beach. From there, we were whisked up the hill in a 4x4 Segway through the rainforest, arriving at the main reception area where we were warmly welcomed with refreshing drinks and cold towels by the amazing Diana and her team at the charming Bosque Bar. The service was exceptional and their warmth made us feel right at home from the moment we arrived.

Now, let’s talk about accommodations—because they were truly out of this world. Imagine waking up to the sound of exotic birds singing, the rustling of the rainforest, and the playful sound of spider monkeys swinging outside your window. The lodge offers the perfect blend of rustic charm and modern comfort with luxurious amenities. The beds were incredibly comfy (seriously, the best sleep I’ve had!), and the suites come fully airconditioned with power showers, both indoors and outdoors.

Thoughtful touches like daily housekeeping, turn-down service, and delicious Costa Rican coffee each morning made the experience even more special. And let’s not forget the hammocks for unwinding and the rubber boots for exploring.

One of the standout experiences during my stay was the food—wow. Everything was fresh, clean, and incredibly tasty, with an emphasis on “real” farm-to-fork and sea-to-plate dishes. The seafood was some of the freshest and nicest I’ve ever had, and the ceviche was absolutely divine. I also had the best pineapple of my life (seriously, the sweetness it was a game-changer!). Every meal was creatively prepared and full of flavor, making each dining experience a real treat. The service was equally amazing—attentive, caring, and warm, with staff that went above and beyond to make us feel at home.

Included in the 3-night stay rate are a range of fantastic inclusions to make each stay even more memorable: stunning accommodation, three delicious meals a day, and a guided hike through the wilderness with one of the incredible guides, like Tibby, who accompanied us. Guests also enjoy a night walk to witness the wildlife in their nocturnal habitats, and a half-day snorkeling adventure at Cano Island with a private guide. The activities were absolutely unforgettable, and I can’t recommend them enough.

During our stay, we enjoyed some incredible activities. From hiking through Corcovado National Park up to the stunning waterfall, to snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters off Cano Island, there was never a dull moment. One of the highlights was the Arboreal Tree Climbing Experience—climbing 28 meters up into the rainforest canopy for an unforgettable view of the bay and surrounding wilderness. This is actually the only hotel tree-climbing park in Costa Rica, and it was such an amazing adventure!

As if that wasn’t enough, we also got to witness the ocean’s hidden wonders. Snorkeling at Cano Island felt like stepping into a dream. Vibrant coral reefs, schools of colorful fish, and even the chance to learn from Minor, one of their passionate marine biologists, made the experience truly unforgettable. I was deeply inspired by the work of Innoceana, an incredible organization dedicated to marine conservation. If you have the chance to visit, I highly recommend supporting organizations like Innoceana that are doing such important work to protect this breathtaking region.

Every moment at SCP Corcovado Wilderness Lodge felt like pure magic. Whether it was walking through the rainforest, witnessing howler monkeys up close, or simply soaking in the serenity of the lodge, this experience will forever hold a special place in my heart.

Who is this perfect vacation for? If your clients are adventurers, those who are a little more active, or someone who appreciates nature, wildlife, birdwatching, and photography, then this is absolutely for them. It’s perfect for those who want to learn while traveling, who care about sustainable travel, and who prefer a slower, more immersive experience. It’s also ideal for those who crave getting off the grid and truly connecting with themselves and nature once again.

For those looking to pair this with another destination in Costa Rica, I would highly recommend adding a beach area like Uvita , known for its stunning coastline and pristine beaches. Alternatively, the Arenal Volcano area or the Monteverde Cloud Forest would also be a perfect addition to your adventure. There are so many wonderful choices to extend your Costa Rican experience!