Family Vacations: Rafiki Safari Lodge

Not far from the monkeys and sloths of Manuel Antonio National Park, yet far away from the touristy feel of Quepos is one of the most unique lodgings in Costa Rica. Drive inland on the country's typical rutted roads, through fields of African palm trees, and your reward is the wonderful Rafiki Safari Lodge. Nestled deep in the verdant mountainside, the South African-born owners have created an upscale safari-style lodge like the ones found around South Africa's Kruger National Park. The lodge is perched on a hilltop, surrounded by 842 acres of jungle and little else.

The owners fell in love with the grounds and its potential to create a wildlife sanctuary. Toucans and monkeys can already be spotted on the property, and the large mammal, the tapir, is being reintroduced. In essence, they hope to create their own private game reserve in Central America. As soon as you arrive on the grounds, you're lost in the sounds of the jungle and far removed from the woes of modernity. This is a place to lose yourself in the environs and truly savor the pura vida, "the good life."

The 10 luxury tents were imported from South Africa and work well in the jungle. The large windows keep fresh air flowing through while the canvas walls keep the insects and other undesirables out. All of the tents are spacious, sleeping four comfortably, with a big outdoor patio to rock away the hours gazing at the mountains. Bathrooms are modern, with heated water for the showers. Just don't expect a sterile hotel room with some commercial print on the walls. This is an eco-lodge, immersed deep in the forest, a place where the sounds of the jungle surround you.

Presented By:
Rawhide Travel and Tours Inc
6008 West Bell Rd # F105
Glendale, Arizona  85308-3793
(602) 843-5100
 rawhidetravel.com