| "SSsshhh, you might scare them. Scare what? Scare | | | | sunset. The fresh water, chlorine free pool is perfect |
| the peccaries that are about to cross the trail just in | | | | for relaxing in after a forest hike and the food they |
| front of us." Peccaries are a type of wild pig and in | | | | serve is beyond description. The guest book in the |
| my 10 trips to Costa Rica, I had never seen them so | | | | restaurant is filled with people raving about the food |
| I was stoked. First came one, then two, then ten, | | | | and the natural beauty of this place. |
| then holy expletive, they're not only in front of us, | | | | Because of owner Esther Gretter's commitment to |
| they're behind us. Peccaries have a way of clacking | | | | conservation. The Golfo Dulce Lodge has served as a |
| their teeth together which was enough to make the | | | | rehabilitation and reintroduction center for a variety |
| hair on my arms stand up. However Jose, my guide, | | | | of species ranging from Ocelots to Scarlet Macaws. |
| ensured me that all would be fine and to just stand | | | | A great place to spend sunrise is atop the viewing |
| still and enjoy the moment. I calmed and we just | | | | platform on the edge of primary rainforest. The |
| stood and watched as a pack of peccaries passed. | | | | sights and sounds of an awakening forest sets the |
| That was my first of many close encounters as we | | | | tone for what is bound to be a memorable day. |
| explored the 300 hectare (750 acre) forest, much of | | | | Guest enjoy free use of sea kayaks and numerous |
| it primary, that surround the Golfo Dulce Lodge in | | | | tours ranging from dolphin watching to horseback |
| southern Costa Rica. The property borders Piedras | | | | rides. |
| Blancas National Park and their 3 language bird book | | | | The remote lodge at Playa San Josecito is only |
| stands at 340 and is testament to the health of the | | | | accessible by a boat ride of about 30 minutes either |
| surrounding forest. | | | | from Golfito or Puerto Jimenez. The serenity and |
| Five comfortably furnished bungalows come complete | | | | opportunity for endless adventure that is Golfo Dulce |
| with fans, private bathrooms and warm water until | | | | Lodge will surely leave you planning your return. |