Tamandua Biological Station
Book your stay
Stay at Tamandua
Sleep surrounded by rainforest.
Stay in a simple forest bungalow inside a working biological station, surrounded by private trails, rivers and the sounds of Osa.
A close-to-nature stay
Lodging options
Tamandua offers five wooden bungalows set among gardens and tropical forest near Drake Bay and Corcovado National Park.
The stay offers simplicity and connection with the environment: mornings begin with forest light and birdsong, gardens link the bungalows, and evenings conclude with the sounds of frogs, insects, and maybe the rain.
Guests can unwind in harmony with the surroundings: relaxing in the forest, observing wildlife, listening to the sounds of nature, swimming in the river’s natural pool, or enjoying a hammock on our riverside platform. Each moment invites connection, whether through the gentle rustle of leaves, the vibrant calls of birds, or the soothing rhythm of flowing water. The experience offers a sanctuary of peace and renewal.
This closeness is what makes Tamandua distinctive, and it also requires visitors to arrive with realistic expectations: comfort is simple, conditions change and nature is never completely outside the room.
Three bungalows
Shared bathroom forest bungalow
Our rustic wooden bungalows offer a cozy retreat surrounded by nature. Each unit features three single beds and wide windows that open to views of the garden and the river, filling the space with light and tranquility.
Bathrooms and showers are conveniently located in the nearby main hall, while guests are provided with essentials such as toilet paper, shower soap, fresh bed sheets, and towels.
Simple yet charming, these bungalows invite you to rest in harmony with the environment, whether after a day of exploration or while enjoying the peaceful sounds of the river.
- Three single beds per bungalow
- Shared bathrooms and showers in the main hall
- Large windows
- Garden and river views
Two bungalows
Private bathroom forest bungalow
Our two rustic wooden bungalows provide a warm and authentic retreat in nature. Each bungalow features four single beds, making them ideal for families or small groups. Wide windows fill the rooms with fresh air and natural light, while a private balcony offers peaceful views of the garden and river.
Inside, guests will find fresh sheets, towels, bath soap, and toilet paper for a comfortable stay. Each bungalow has a private bathroom. Access is provided by stairs, enhancing their elevated character and rustic charm.
With their simple design and natural setting, these bungalows are perfect for those seeking tranquility and connection with the environment.
- Four single beds per bungalow
- Private bathroom
- Private balcony
- Access by stairs
Life around the station
Shared facilities and meals
The main hall is a spacious, open communal area designed for comfort and connection. Here you will find the kitchen and dining room, with inviting chairs and cozy sofas, perfect for resting or enjoying a good read. It is also the place where guests can access electricity to charge phones and electronic devices.
As our guest, you have two dining options: you can prepare your own meals in the fully equipped communal kitchen, or you can reserve traditional Costa Rican dishes prepared for you.
Our kitchen is fully equipped with everything you need to cook, including a gas stove, freezer and utensils.
We can prepare all three meals for you: breakfast, lunch and dinner. It is very important to book in advance and inform us of any special dietary requirements. Mealtimes are flexible and can be adjusted to suit the needs of our guests.
Our water comes directly from a natural mountain spring. It first passes through a natural filter made of stone, sand, and charcoal, and then through a second filter in the kitchen to ensure it is safe, potable drinking water.
One of the experiences our visitors enjoy most is sitting down to eat together, sharing conversations and feeling like part of a family.
Before you arrive
What to bring
The area is hot and very humid, so we recommend bringing lightweight, quick-dry clothing. Essential items include comfortable walking shoes, closed water shoes (especially if you plan to take the Corcovado tour or walk along the river), a swimsuit for swimming in the natural pools, a reusable water bottle, insect repellent, and a hat or cap for sun protection.
A flashlight is especially important, not only for the night tour but also for safety, as snakes are more active at night.
Please note that we do not currently offer laundry service onsite, but there are several laundries available in the nearby town. Trails can be irregular and slippery when it rains, so walking sticks are very useful.
- Lightweight quick-dry clothing
- Walking shoes
- Closed water shoes
- Swimsuit
- Reusable water bottle
- Insect repellent
- Hat or cap
- Flashlight
- Walking sticks recommended
Please confirm current schedules and access conditions with Tamandua before travelling.
What kind of accommodation does Tamandua offer?
Tamandua Biological Station offers five rustic wooden bungalows among gardens and tropical forest. This is simple accommodation within a working biological station, with the sights and sounds of the rainforest close by.
What is the difference between the shared- and private-bathroom bungalows?
Three bungalows each have three single beds and use bathrooms and showers in the nearby main hall. Two bungalows each have four single beds, a private bathroom and a private balcony; access is by stairs. Both types have large windows and garden and river views.
Are towels and bed linen provided for guests?
Yes. Bungalow guests receive sheets, towels, soap and toilet paper. Volunteers have different arrangements and bring their own sheets and towels.
Are children and pets welcome?
Children are welcome. Pets are not permitted at the station.
Is electricity available for charging devices?
Solar-powered electricity is available at the station, with charging in the main communal area. Discuss any specific equipment or power requirements with Tamandua before arrival.
Is Starlink Wi-Fi available?
Yes. The station has Starlink satellite Wi-Fi. Researchers should describe any specific data or internet needs when discussing their project.
Where is Tamandua Biological Station, and how far is it from Drake Bay?
The station is approximately 5 km from Agujitas Beach in Drake Bay, on Costa Rica’s Osa Peninsula, close to the northwestern boundary of Corcovado National Park.
Can I drive directly to the station, and do I need a 4x4?
Direct vehicle access requires a high-clearance 4x4. The final road has steep sections and six river crossings. Access depends on current weather and river levels.
Can Tamandua help arrange the final transfer?
Yes. Contact Tamandua for assistance with local transfers and the Sierpe–Drake Bay boat reservation. Confirm the meeting point and current arrival instructions before travelling.
Can I cook my own food?
Yes. Guests can use the communal kitchen, which has a gas stove, freezer and utensils. The main hall also includes the dining room, chairs and sofas.
Can Tamandua prepare meals, and are they included in a stay?
Costa Rican breakfast, lunch and dinner are available separately by advance reservation. Mealtimes are flexible, and shared meals are an important part of station life.
Can you accommodate dietary requirements?
Tell Tamandua about dietary requirements when reserving meals, so the station can confirm what is possible before your visit.
Is drinking water available?
Water comes from a mountain spring and passes through filtration. Bring a reusable water bottle.
What should I bring for a stay in the rainforest?
Bring lightweight quick-dry clothing, walking shoes, closed water shoes, a swimsuit, a reusable water bottle, insect repellent, a hat or cap and a flashlight. Walking sticks are recommended.
Is there a laundry service?
There is currently no laundry service at the station. Laundries are available in town.
Is a stay suitable for someone uncomfortable with insects or wildlife?
The bungalows are closely connected to the rainforest, and insects or wildlife may occasionally be encountered. Comfort is simple, conditions change and nature is never completely outside the room. Discuss your concerns with Tamandua before booking.
Ready to connect?
Plan your rainforest stay
Tell us your dates, interests and practical needs. Tamandua will confirm the current options directly.
Contact Tamandua