The Shovel - Parque Nacional Marino Las Baulas

The Shovel is a safari lodge near Parque Nacional Marino Las Baulas.

Location
Parque Nacional Marino Las Baulas, Guanacaste & North Pacific Coast, Costa Rica, Central & South America
Coordinates
10.228250, -85.831276
Activities
lodge

Best Time to Visit The Shovel

The best months to visit The Shovel are January, February, March, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 27.5°C, rainfall 8.5mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 72.7%
  • February: Great, temperature 27.46°C, rainfall 1.7mm, sunshine 11.7 hrs, humidity 71.1%
  • March: Great, temperature 27.84°C, rainfall 13.5mm, sunshine 11.7 hrs, humidity 71.8%
  • April: Great, temperature 27.92°C, rainfall 49.6mm, sunshine 11.5 hrs, humidity 75.8%
  • May: Good, temperature 27.79°C, rainfall 193.9mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 80.6%
  • June: Good, temperature 26.96°C, rainfall 337.1mm, sunshine 8.7 hrs, humidity 83%
  • July: Good, temperature 27.38°C, rainfall 228.9mm, sunshine 9.3 hrs, humidity 81.7%
  • August: Good, temperature 27.09°C, rainfall 306.7mm, sunshine 8.9 hrs, humidity 82.9%
  • September: Good, temperature 26.88°C, rainfall 327.3mm, sunshine 8.9 hrs, humidity 83.5%
  • October: Good, temperature 26.64°C, rainfall 354mm, sunshine 8.9 hrs, humidity 84.1%
  • November: Good, temperature 26.53°C, rainfall 286.3mm, sunshine 8.9 hrs, humidity 82.9%
  • December: Great, temperature 27.28°C, rainfall 22.7mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 76.3%

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the optimal time to visit The Shovel for experiencing the unique marine wildlife of Parque Nacional Marino Las Baulas?

We recommend visiting between October and March, which aligns with the nesting season for the magnificent leatherback sea turtles at Las Baulas. Witnessing these ancient creatures lay their eggs is an unparalleled experience, and the lodge can arrange guided nocturnal tours to the nesting beaches. Beyond the turtles, the dry season from December to April offers excellent conditions for exploring the park's coastal beauty.

What kind of 'safari' experience should we expect at The Shovel, considering its Costa Rican location rather than a traditional African savanna?

At The Shovel, your 'safari' is a vibrant immersion into Costa Rica's rich biodiversity, focusing on coastal and rainforest ecosystems rather than big game drives. We love that the lodge blends luxurious comfort with opportunities for birdwatching, exploring mangrove estuaries, and, of course, the incredible marine life of Las Baulas. It's a unique blend of relaxation and soft adventure, a true Pura Vida safari.

Beyond relaxing at the lodge, what specific activities do you recommend for guests staying at The Shovel?

We strongly recommend taking advantage of the guided tours to Parque Nacional Marino Las Baulas, particularly for turtle nesting or hatching viewings, which are truly unforgettable. Additionally, exploring the nearby estuary by kayak or paddleboard offers fantastic birdwatching opportunities, and the lodge can arrange surfing lessons or horseback riding along the pristine beaches. The sunsets from the lodge are sensational, perfect after a day of exploration.

What is the overall atmosphere and service like at The Shovel? Does it truly feel luxurious?

The Shovel feels luxurious and timeless, offering an intimate escape where personalized service is paramount. We appreciate the attentive staff who anticipate your needs without being intrusive, creating a truly relaxing environment. The architecture blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings, and we find the open-air design and elegant furnishings contribute to a sophisticated yet comfortable ambiance.

How accessible is The Shovel, and what should we budget for transportation and typical lodge costs?

The Shovel is conveniently located about an hour's drive from Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) in Liberia, which we find makes arrivals relatively straightforward. We recommend arranging a private transfer through the lodge for ease, which typically costs around $80-100 each way. While specific rates vary by season, expect lodge stays to be in the premium range, reflecting the exceptional service and unique location.

Other Safari Lodges in Parque Nacional Marino Las Baulas

Parks in Guanacaste & North Pacific Coast

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Costa Rica

Travel advisory for Costa Rica