Rio Perlas Hot Springs
Nestled in the mountains, Rio Perlas offers a serene escape with natural thermal rivers and a peaceful atmosphere for ultimate relaxation.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more tranquility
Rio Perlas Hot Springs
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more tranquility
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Nestled in the mountains, Rio Perlas offers a serene escape with natural thermal rivers and a peaceful atmosphere for ultimate relaxation.
"Immersive in the mountain and thermal rivers, the hotel offers such a peaceful and refreshing atmosphere."
Pack for Nature 🌿
Bring comfortable walking shoes and swimwear for exploring the trails and enjoying the thermal rivers.
Wi-Fi Can Be Spotty 📶
Don't rely on consistent internet in rooms; enjoy the digital detox or head to reception for better signal.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Thermal River Springs
Throughout the resort
Immerse yourself in rejuvenating natural hot springs flowing through the lush mountain landscape.
Nature Walks
Resort grounds
Explore the beautiful mountain setting with well-maintained trails offering peaceful strolls.
Outdoor Pool
Main hotel area
Relax and cool off in the outdoor pool, surrounded by the tranquil mountain scenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Natural Setting
Manage Expectations for Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack for Nature 🌿
Bring comfortable walking shoes and swimwear for exploring the trails and enjoying the thermal rivers.
Wi-Fi Can Be Spotty 📶
Don't rely on consistent internet in rooms; enjoy the digital detox or head to reception for better signal.
Basic Rooms Available 🛏️
Some rooms are very basic; focus on the natural setting and thermal springs for the best experience.
Pet-Friendly Option 🐶
The resort welcomes dogs, but be aware of the daily fee per pet.
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack for Nature 🌿
Bring comfortable walking shoes and swimwear for exploring the trails and enjoying the thermal rivers.
Wi-Fi Can Be Spotty 📶
Don't rely on consistent internet in rooms; enjoy the digital detox or head to reception for better signal.
Basic Rooms Available 🛏️
Some rooms are very basic; focus on the natural setting and thermal springs for the best experience.
Pet-Friendly Option 🐶
The resort welcomes dogs, but be aware of the daily fee per pet.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Rio Perlas Hot Springs offers a unique natural escape with its rejuvenating thermal rivers and peaceful mountain setting. While some guests appreciate the tranquility and connection to nature, others find the accommodations and dining to be basic and overpriced. Wi-Fi can also be unreliable. +1
"Rio Perlas Spa and Resort in Cartago, Costa Rica, was an unfortunate experience from start to finish. Our room had an unpleasant odor, and the amenities promised on the website were nowhere to be found. To top it off, we were given the wrong room altogether.
The dining experience was equally disappointing, with overpriced food and a very poor selection. Despite claiming to offer internet access, we found it unavailable during our stay.
The most unsettling part of our visit was overhearing employees discussing the ownership's connections to Israel's military. As someone who strongly opposes war, this was deeply disturbing, especially in Costa Rica, a country known for its commitment to peace.
My wife booked this without much thought, but it turned out to be a nightmare. I couldn’t wait to leave. Avoid this place if you value your peace of mind."
Enrique Sánchez
"So sad I couldn’t give this hotel a better review.
First they need to fire the gardeners. One would expect a lush tropics and It looks like a military base around the residence, all plants are trimmed to the point they barely have leaves and soil is bare.
The regular rooms where we stayed are literally empty. No nightstands, no place to sit outside, no paintings no decorations in contrast to a large well built room.
The restaurant is below basic. Triple fried French fries were like a rock , dry rice and basic food. Service was bad.
Moreover we didn’t have a steady WiFi signal in the room. Not working most times or slow at best. Gotta walk down to the reception area or pool for good internet.
Otherwise the hotel sits on a beautiful setting. Wish they appreciated nature more and just plant cheap invasive palm trees everywhere."
Yigal Zazon
"Immersive in the Moutain and thermal rivers. The hotel offers such peacefull and resfreshing and rejuvenenting atmosfere.
The SPA and nature walks are a must.
Staff super friendly. And the tours are a must. Had the best time.
Highlly recomend to a family or couples to have a stay"
Caribe InShape
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Rio Perlas is located in Cartago, Costa Rica. The most common way to get there is by car, which takes about 1-1.5 hours from San Jose. Taxis or private shuttles are also options.
The resort is nestled in the mountains, so using GPS or a reliable navigation app is recommended. Signs may be present, but it's best to have a backup plan.
While possible, it's less convenient. You would likely need to take a bus to Cartago and then a local taxi or bus towards the resort area, which might require further arrangements.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It's advisable to book your stay or day pass in advance, especially during peak seasons or weekends, to ensure availability.
The resort is typically open year-round. Specific hours for accessing the thermal springs or amenities might vary, so it's best to check their official website or contact them directly.
Yes, you can often book an overnight stay in their rooms or suites, or inquire about day passes if available, which usually grant access to the thermal springs and pool.
Pricing can vary based on room type, day passes, and any included packages. It's recommended to check their official booking channels for the most current rates.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main attractions are the natural thermal rivers and the outdoor pool. The resort also offers nature walks and a spa. +1
Yes, families can enjoy the natural setting, thermal rivers, and pool. It offers a peaceful environment for relaxation.
Wi-Fi can be inconsistent and slow in the rooms. You might need to go to the reception or pool area for a more stable connection. +1
Some reviews mention tours being available and highly recommended for a great experience. Inquire at the resort for details.
It's described as peaceful, refreshing, and rejuvenating, with a strong connection to nature.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The restaurant offers basic food, with some reviews noting it as below standard and overpriced. Expect simple dishes.
Due to its mountain location, dining options immediately outside the resort are limited. It's best to plan to eat at the resort or bring snacks.
Some descriptions mention breakfast being included, but it's always best to confirm this when booking your stay.
📸 📸 Photography
The natural thermal rivers winding through the greenery offer beautiful, serene photo opportunities. The mountain views are also picturesque.
Yes, capturing the unique thermal river landscape is a highlight for many visitors. Be mindful of other guests' privacy.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that some rooms are quite basic, so if traveling with younger children, consider booking a suite for a bit more space and comfort. Also, be prepared for limited dining options and potentially spotty Wi-Fi, which might require extra planning for entertainment or staying connected.
🧘♀️ Couples Seeking Relaxation
While the accommodations might be simple, the focus on nature and relaxation is paramount. Enjoy leisurely walks, soak in the warm waters, and savor the quietude. It's an ideal spot for a low-key, nature-focused retreat.
🐶 Pet-Friendly Travelers
Be aware that there is a daily fee per dog, so factor this into your budget. Ensure your pet is well-behaved and kept under control, especially around other guests and in dining areas.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Thermal River Experience
While the natural rivers are a major draw, it's worth noting that the resort also features an outdoor pool for those who prefer a more traditional swimming experience. The combination of natural springs and a pool caters to different preferences, all set against a backdrop of lush mountain scenery.
Remember to bring your swimwear and a towel, and be prepared for a rustic, natural encounter with the hot springs. The experience is less about luxury amenities and more about connecting with the natural environment.
Understanding the Accommodations
Despite the simplicity of some rooms, the overall setting is described as beautiful and immersive in the mountains. If you're seeking a high-end hotel experience with all the modern conveniences, Rio Perlas might not be the ideal choice. However, for travelers who prioritize nature, tranquility, and the unique thermal river experience, the accommodations serve their purpose.
Consider booking a suite or the cabin if you desire slightly more comfort, or be prepared for a more minimalist stay in the standard rooms, focusing instead on the resort's natural attractions.
Dining and Connectivity
Connectivity is another area where guests have noted issues. Wi-Fi can be unreliable and slow, particularly in the rooms, often requiring guests to move to the reception or pool area for a better signal.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit