Gerardo and Ana Rita were class act hosts. The lodge is basic, but clean and cozy. We loved San Francisco , which is the little island that is a 5 minute ferry ride to Tortuguero. If a authentic community off the beaten path is what you want to experience, this is the place for you. We walked the path to the end of the island and happened upon the locals bar, which was 3 folks having a beer and listening to music on the point where the ocean meets the canal.
Gerardo took us on a private boat tour of the canals and we saw birds, a river otter, a sloth , a cayman and a turtle. He is knowledgeable, kind and eager to socialize and share the history of the region. He also took us over to the beach across the way to walk and fish a bit. He hooked us up with the local fishing guide, Primo who took us out and we caught a Tarpon and saw countless turtles in the ocean.
Victor, the chef, prepared very delicious meals for us daily with fresh fruit juices. We had fresh plantain and snook one evening caught by a local fisherman.
The hammocks allowed us just what we needed to unwind and feel present. We look forward to the day we get to return.
The water ferry was a bit unorganized and chaotic and it seems theres random boats coming and going and if you pay at the Pavalon Parking area for both directions, you may end up having to pay your return trip twice.
