The architecture of the CNS Ecolodge is inspired by the indigenous pre-Columbian construction techniques of the region, used by natives far more than 1000 years. The round palenques (or ranchos) are covered with a traditional thatched roof of palm leaves.

This palenque structure is central to the SarapiquíS concept: the story of nature and its relationship to mankind. The circular design symbolizes the circle of life - an intricate link between the cycles of the biodiversity within the rainforest.

The CNS Ecolodge consists of four palenque structures; three guest units of eight rooms each, and one central building with lobby, restaurant, bar, coffee gourmet bar, photo gallery, administration, gift shop and conference centre.

Like an inverted flower, the three guest units are divided into eight spacious deluxe rooms (24 in total) jointed within the turret reaching an impressive height of 18 metres. All of the units are located amidst the lush gardens and orchards of the property. Many of the rooms have an outstanding view of the rainforest canopy, while others are nestled in the bright and fragrant gardens.

Twelve Standard rooms in the Ulima building complete the Ecolodge capacity of 36 rooms.

With a harmonious decor of earth tones, natural limestone, and antique or artisan-made furniture, guests will enjoy comfortable beds, private bathroom, ceiling fans and cross-ventilation system, phone and internet connection.

Outside every room , a covered terrace invites each guest to enjoy the natural surroundings

The idea of creating a place for further conservation of nature and eco-development, in combination with sustainable tourism, education and scientific research, has become reality with the integrated, holistically inspired Centro Neotrópico SarapiquíS (CNS).

It is a unique departure from the common touristic experience in Costa Rica. It offers visitors and guests an imaginative program that expands a visit from passive to personal. All will come away with a vivid impression of the dynamic life of the tropical rainforest.

Guests do more than visit, they are "in" for a total experience. Ecolodge, rainforest reserve, museum, botanical garden, archaeological park, library, education center,... it all comes together at CNS.

The CNS complex is located in the lush Sarapiqui rainforest near the little town of La Virgen de Sarapiqui. Along paved roads, CNS is easy accessible and only 85 kilometres from San José

Botanical Garden

The Gardens are comprised of four distinct elements:

Plants of historical or economic value, including medicinal and edible.
Tropical plants both ornamental and vital to wildlife.
Natural botanical succession.
Reforestation of agricultural land, as a transition to the Tirimbina rainforest.
The gardens of Centro Neotrópico SarapiquíS are designed to reflect the richness of the rainforest. Not only beautiful, they are a link between the various aspects of Centro Neotrópico SarapiquíS. They introduce the Tirimbina rainforest, illustrate topics presented in the SarapiquíS Museum and educate in botany and horticulture...

Each element in the gardens is expressed by a different architecture. The first garden is the Chester’s Field Botanical Garden, which holds 400 labelled plants and was designed in cooperation with the National Botanic Garden of Belgium.
Around the main building gardens are less formal, with emphasis on plants attracting hummingbirds and butterflies.

In the old orange orchard the natural succession of epiphyte, orchids, ferns and other genera demonstrates a lesson in tropical ecology.