Welcome to Finca Oro Lodge (finca-oro.com)


Finca Oro( Gold Ranch) Lodge offers guests a unique experience to live high in a private, secluded cloud forest away from the bustle of the city and large numbers of tourists. Yet, this peaceful getaway is only minutes away from some of Costa Rica's most important but not well traveled historical and cultural experiences.

At the Finca, you will experience spectacular views, amazing biodiversity in the wonder of a pristine, unspoiled, uncommercialized cloud forest, as well as a myriad of native tropical plants collected over 15 years by Finca's CEO, a North American biology teacher. His personal, guided tours will help you appreciate and share the excitement of the beauty and utility of these many rare finds.




 

 

 

 

 

 

 


One coveted feature is the opportunity for guests to collaboratively plan their rainforest vacation. The total flexibility allows a custom-built package that reflects individual and group interests. As one guest remarked when first seeing the lush private paradise, "This is what the Garden of Eden must have looked like!"

Activities at the Finca ...

Bird Watching
Costa Rica has recorded some 600 species of permanent residents. Families usually found at this elevation include the Ictherids, Warblers, Mimidaes, Flycatchers, Tanagers, the coveted Euphonias, the elusive Trogons, and the world's largest hummingbirds. The Bird List of Finca Oro has recorded over 100 species. Trained Guides assist guests with location and identification. Bird books and pictures are available in the library.

 

 

 

 

 

Hiking
The Primary Cloudforest Trail, known as the path of streams and ravines, is a half-day guided hike. The guide identifies indicator flora of a primary cloud forest. Rubber boots are provided for most shoe sizes. This trail includes an experience to swing on a real Tarzan vine! But you provide the costume. The canopy trees and understory plants, such as bromeliads and orchids, are identified. Incidental birding complements the hike. Occasionally one sees Howler Monkeys at the edge of the forest.

The Secondary Cloud Forest Trail, known as the river trail, is a nature walk down to the Palomo River. The guide identifies the indicator trees and understory of a secondary forest. At the river, there is time for a cool dip in the fresh, fast flowing - but safe clear cascading water. One of the highlights is a view of probably the world's largest Anthurium.

Nature Walk I: Beginning from the covered patio lookout, the guide identifies landmarks, discusses agriculture, and ecology. Then the group proceeds to explore the plant collections around the lodge. Returning to the lookout, guests have an opportunity to see some natural medicines from the medicinal garden.  The iridescent blue Morpho Butterfly, along with the other families, are usually seen on the walk.



Nature Walk II: Beginning at the lodge, the guided walk includes identification of additional medicinal plants, common plants found in Tico gardens, several species of bananas, a side trip to the waterfall, the eye of a natural spring, and ending at the old barn to view the Bromeliad, Tillandsia, and Orchid collections. Here is an opportunity to rest and observe the birds on the hummingbird porch.

 

 



Horseback Riding
Stables are located at the bottom of Sitio Street at the Hotel Rio. Trails follow the Reventazon River through coffee fields.

Vignettes/Factoids (Miniature Descriptions)
Severalvignettes of plants, animals, Earth Science, and culture will be presented to explain observations or prepare for planned tours. A list of 20+ is available at the lodge.

Insects
There are many beautiful insects that can be attracted with a black light at night. They are not harmful, and their design is spectacular. At your option.