Rainforest retreat in Costa Rica
How this holiday makes a difference
Environment
We prohibited hunting on the property when we purchased it, back in 1994. Also, we made it a point to never employ big machinery and use cars only when and where strictly necessary, in order not to disturb wildlife. These measures have allowed the property to be now inhabited by an astonishing variety of animals and birds that are not found in other locations.
All fruits served at Samasati are from the property. A large quantity of the vegetables and other products are locally grown. We recycles and has its own compost where the whole organic waste is placed.
Rain water is collected from the roofs into a huge tank under the restaurant. Rain water is used for the resort during period of little rain. Otherwise several sweet water springs in the property supply the totality of the water needed.
Our septic system is environmental-friendly and only biodegradable products are used in the property.
We educate clients verbally and in booklets about how to live in balance and harmony with the rainforest for the period they are visiting.
Community
All 25 retreat employees are from Hone Creek or Puerto Viejo, the Jamaican settlement on the beach. which is a better known vacation spot. Staff working here is trained in the different job positions and supported to go to courses to learn more about their job and expand their education. In this way we empower local people and create job opportunities. You have to meet our staff !! Samasati is a big extended family, that includes ourselves the owners, our loved ones, the stuff, their loved ones, our neighbors and their loved ones. Everybody that stays at Samasati falls in love with our staff.
The excursions we offer are only with local operators and we can suggest to you the best locally owned shops and restaurants in town.
Landscape
The landscape is quite remarkable.
It is a "jungle hill" overlooking the Caribbean sea; we did not cut any tree to build the retreat; we used the land that the previous owner, about 50 years ago, had devoted to his own family living. You will see that the buildings seem to be "sitting" on the earth as there was no damage during the building stage.
The gardens are full of orchids, heliconias, flowers that attracts hundreds of birds and butterfly ...