La Anita Rain Forest

Welcome to Chocolate University—where the only exams are taste tests, and the coursework is delicious. We signed up expecting to learn a thing or two about cocoa. What we got was a full-on love affair with the fine art of chocolate making. No students have ever been more excited for “homework.” First, let’s talk about the hosts Pablo and Ana — charming doesn’t even begin to cover it. Knowledgeable, warm, and genuinely passionate about both the art of chocolate and the beauty of the surrounding rainforest, our hosts made every moment feel special. It was like having Willy Wonka as a personal guide. Pablo actually knows everything—and I mean everything—about the history of chocolate and the local ecosystem. The campus is a paradise of indulgence. The drive there and surrounding National Parks provide Indiana Jones style adventures, so be sure to hire an automatic 4x4. The cabins: cool, comfortable and clean were surrounded by the most impeccably maintained ranch land. Every morning, we wake up to the sound of birds and rustling leaves. The ranch has old growth rain forest trails, streams, waterfalls, spectacular hilltop views of the tropical tree canopy and the surrounding mountains. Everything is here to escape from stress, including a discreetly hidden yoga platform. Meals are served overlooking a private lake. Bring binoculars to view the many birds seen settling at dusk. Eating the best chocolate in the world, it’s hard to focus on anything else but the food was delicious and fine wine and beers were available. Graduating with a degree from Chocolate University means one thing: You’re officially a connoisseur of life’s finest edible creation. A+—would recommend to anyone!

We had a fabulous two days at Finca La Anita. Pablo and Ana were fabulous hosts and we truly enjoyed learning from their knowledge of all things Costa Rican, especially the history and quality of chocolate and coffee. We stayed in cabin 8 which was comfortably rustic with a refrigerator. We found the temperature in mid Feb to be approx 10 degrees C cooler than the coast. Travel by SUV is best as the road is quite rough at times. The home cooked meals were authentic, yummy and filling. We loved both the peacefullness, the nature and the birds at Finca La Anita. Many thanks Pablo and Ana, we are already looking forward to our next visit.

La Anita Ranch is the most wonderful place. The property is breathtaking, with beautiful paths to explore and a small watercourse running through it. The cabins are comfortable and we enjoyed time sitting on our deck listening to the birds or the rain. The cacao tour was fascinating and the quality and price of the cacao and chocolate I bought were amazing. The owners Pablo and Ana are beautiful, soulful people whose care and support of this land and their community are evident in all they do. All of the staff are respectful, warm, and dedicated to ensuring the guests have everything they need. The food was healthy and delicious. While at the ranch Pablo and Ana will connect guests with local experiences. We went on a horseback ride and took a local cooking class. Both were once in a lifetime type experiences. Anyone wanting to experience the rainforest and Costa Rican culture will be delighted to stay here. My week there was a profoundly beautiful experience that exceeded all my expectations.

Amazing place!!! Amazing people. Highlight of our trip to Costa Rica.

La Anitas is located at the most beautiful location in the rainforest with the best hosts and staff that made us feel at home right away. The houses are clean and comfortable with good facilities. The chocolate tour with Pablo was one of the highlights of our stay. He has so much knowledge about what he does, and is an excellent guide(we also got to taste a lot of different chocolate on the tour!). I highly recommend spending a few days at this place!

La Anita Rainforest Ranch is a truly eco-friendly place which allowed us to slow down and unwind during our 8-night stay. We used it as our base for exploring the area (e.g. Parque national rincon de la Vieja, Cathedral waterfall, a cooking class, Sensoria), which worked well as it gave us an opportunity to explore the area. The hosts, Pablo and Ana, are wonderful and incredibly hospitable, as other reviewers have noted. Pablo’s chocolate tour attracts visitors staying elsewhere, and was a highlight! Breakfasts and dinners were delicious and we enjoyed meeting other guests and chatting with Pablo. The cabins are a wonderful mix of rustic and comfortable touches. We loved hearing the sounds of birds in the morning, wildlife at night, and rain hitting the roof. Wifi in a common area helped us dis-connect and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. If you are looking for a rich experience that will allow you to relax, slow down and enjoy nature, look no further.