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Tabacon Springs

Our rating

7/10

Price guide

Highlights

- Extensive natural hot springs on site
- Inviting, high-end spa
- Day visitors welcome
- Large resort, great food

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Overview

Tabacon Springs is a large resort found nestled in the rainforest at the base of the Arenal Volcano in northern Costa Rica. The property has been developed over the years around a series of thermal streams running through the surrounding marshlands which are heated naturally by the volcano. There are a number of different sized pools to bathe in, along with a lovely spa. While many visitors come in on day trips meaning that the hotel can have a rather busy, touristy feel, the hot springs are widely considered the best on offer in Arenal.

The accommodation comprises 103 very smart and comfortable guest rooms and suites. While the décor is modern and pristine, it must be said that rooms are somewhat lacking in individual character. Some rooms have good views but note that most rooms don’t have any outdoor space at all. The majority are standard guest rooms, but six are larger suites aimed at families and larger groups. Children of all ages are welcome, and it’s advisable for families with younger children to request a ground floor room.

The hotel sits on a private reserve that stretches out across some 900 acres. There are five main thermal springs and the highly mineralised water has a refreshingly low sulphur content, which means that it’s free from unpleasant smells. The pools vary in size – some of the larger ones have wonderful views, and there are also some smaller, more secluded spots to bathe in as well. The resort is open daily from 8am to 10pm and it is worth bringing some non-slip water shoes along since it can be a bit slippery at times when walking between the pools.

There are two full service restaurants, both of which offer Costa Rican cuisine and some international options as well. There are also four different bars serving colourful cocktails, refreshing non-alcoholic drinks and light snacks. There’s an extensive on-site spa which offers a wide range of treatments which are carried out in private, open-air bungalows nestled amidst the pretty jungle vegetation. Last but not least, Shangri-La Gardens is a relaxed, open-air lounge area open only to those who are staying at the hotel and who are over the age of 18. There is a butler service here, and plenty of cabanas and peaceful places to retreat to for some valuable down time.

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Average Rating

based on 534 reviews

(5.00/5)

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    Mount Kenya was spectacular and wild - I think I prefer it to Kili in many ways. The entire support team was professional, friendly and all round fantastic in making sure that we were safe, well fed and well looked after. In particular, we would commend Peter the guide as well as Paul one of the porters who doubled-up as his deputy on summit day. Our route was often shrouded in mist and rain that rapidly gathered in the valleys and moorlands, and we were very impressed at how Peter managed to navigate us safely through all of that notwithstanding. In addition, we loved learning about the history of Mount Kenya from him in the evenings. And ofcourse, I was blown away by the lovely birthday surprise at the end complete with balloons and a delicious cake that had journeyed with us from day 1. One thing we might recommend because of the sudden change in weather (it would sometimes get extremely cold and wet) is for the equipment list to be a little bit more detailed in terms of its recommendations e.g. layers to be moisture-wicking, walking boots be waterproof, doubling up on socks to avoid blisters etc.

    El Karama is a beautiful conservancy and the lodge a true labour of love. Great hospitality in a relaxed environment. Delicious, fresh food. We enjoyed the drives, even if we didn't see much wildlife as the heavens opened on us for the last two outings. However, since it was very much geared towards families, I am not sure if I would stay again without kids. That said, I think it was perfect for a 3d/2n stay post mountain, and a much better choice than flying to the masai mara given the limited time we had.

    Our transits were smooth. Samuel the driver was always on time, drove safely and kept the vehicle clean.

    So it was a brilliant experience and one which I certainly will cherish for some time to come. It was great to work with you for a third time, and I certainly hope it won't be the last

    MissingJuhae C reviewing Mount Kenya Sirimon Naro Moru Trek on 01 March 2024

  • Thank you, we had an absolute wonderful time, and everything was well-planned and as described. Carla was crying on the day of our departure from Ants Nest, she didn’t want to go home and for it all to end, and when I asked how much longer she would want to stay, she responded “four weeks”

    MissingLars B reviewing Best of South Africa for Families on 01 March 2024

  • We had the most amazing time. It exceeded all my hopes of what the trip would be. The guides, the hotels - everything was of such a wonderful quality. Thank you for organizing everything. I will absolutely recommend Tourdust and use you again.

    MissingClaudia L reviewing Luxury Desert Holiday on 11 January 2024

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