Maquenque Eco Lodge is located in the peaceful and remote village of Boca Tapada, in northern Costa Rica. Nestled within the Maquenque National Wildlife Refuge, this eco-lodge is surrounded by rivers, rainforest, and rich biodiversity, making it an ideal destination for bird watchers, wildlife lovers, and nature photographers.
• Ground-level bungalows with private bathrooms, hot water, and forest or lagoon views
Amenities
• Restaurant and bar offering locally sourced meals
• Swimming pool
• Fruit orchard (used to supply the kitchen)
• Kayaks and canoes available for guests
• Private parking
• Guided tours and on-site activities
• Wellness services and peaceful gardens
About Boca Tapada and Maquenque National Wildlife Refuge
Boca Tapada
• Remote and tranquil village near the Nicaraguan border
• Surrounded by tropical rainforest, wetlands, and rivers
• Accessible via boat and by road with limited development, preserving its natural charm
Maquenque National Wildlife Refuge
• Over 50,000 hectares of protected forest and wetlands
• A key biological corridor connecting ecosystems between Costa Rica and Nicaragua
• Home to endangered species including the Great Green Macaw, king vulture, and tapirs
• Rich in biodiversity: tropical trees, wetlands, lagoons, and old-growth rainforest
Wildlife and Photography Tours
Bird and Wildlife Photography
• Over 590 species of birds in the area
• Frequent sightings of:
• King Vulture
• Great Green Macaw
• Jabiru Stork
• Toucans, parrots, motmots, and raptors
Macro Photography
• Rainforest night walks to photograph frogs, insects, and tropical flora
• Headlamp and diffused flash recommended
Bat Photography
• Guided night tours to observe and photograph rare bat species
• Species include tent-making bats, nectar-feeding bats, and other tropical bats
River Tours
• Tres Amigos River:
• Peaceful kayak or canoe trip through lush jungle
• Ideal for photographing monkeys, birds, and reptiles
• San Carlos River:
• Boat safaris in larger vessels
• Excellent views of riverbanks, birds in flight, and hidden wildlife
Birdwatching Opportunities
• Early morning and late afternoon walks yield high bird activity
• Observation towers and forest trails available
• Professional birding guides help identify and locate species
• Highlights:
• King Vulture
• Great Green Macaw
• Sunbittern
• Jabiru Stork
• Woodpeckers, tanagers, manakins, and more
Photography Tips
• Use telephoto lenses (300–600mm) for birds and wildlife
• Macro lens and diffused flash for frogs and insects
• Bring headlamps for night photography
• Be patient—wildlife sightings can be unpredictable but rewarding
• Use the lagoon’s reflections creatively during golden hour
Maquenque Eco Lodge is one of Costa Rica’s top destinations for immersive wildlife experiences and photography. From luxurious tree houses to professional naturalist guides, it offers everything a photographer or nature enthusiast could need. Located within the biologically rich Maquenque National Wildlife Refuge, this remote lodge is a gateway to some of the most iconic and rare species in Central America, making it a must-visit for those seeking intimate encounters with nature.
