Playa Balsal

Another wonderful stay! The property was as lovely as ever and staff is superb! I love returning here each time. We had 90-minute massages that were incredible, I was so relaxed that I actually fell asleep. Can’t wait to be back there again!

This is a barely discovered gem, a rare destination that will leave you with lifelong memories. We stayed here 9 years ago, and returned this summer. The rainforest location is unique. We stayed in a treehouse, with frequent visits from spider monkeys and seemingly endless species of birds. We partook for a second time the riverboat tour through the local rainforest, up through the Nicaragua border. We saw spectacular macaws, toucans, and numerous other bird species. We encountered crocodiles, circling vultures over cow pastures, a green river snake swimming at the town boat dock. We saw other monkey species hanging out in the trees, iguanas… But perhaps most memorable to us was the genuineness of the Eco Lodge staff. Many are local, and share with us their pride in their community. Their true warmth allows us to experience the rainforest, not as a visiting tourist, but as a proud local. The guides are wonderful! They are smart, engaging and passionate. Even on our return boat ride across the river to the parking area, the staff member took a slight detour to point out colorful macaws eating fruit in a tree on the riverbank. We came with our family, there were tourists of all ages, from young children to older retirees. Our binoculars and telephoto lenses got quite the workout! While we are not professional birdwatchers, the diversity was remarkable. And, we found fellow tourists to be grounded, appreciative of life and the opportunity. Thank you staff!!!