Tortuga Lodge

At the main lodge, visit the Green Turtle restaurant, an airy spot with fantastic views of the river and a flavoursome a la carte Caribbean menu. Try the rondon stew prepared with green bananas, cassava and Panamanian chilli! Then, visit the crescent-shaped pool or doze in one of the many hammocks, followed by a drink on the riverside terrace - sitting here at sunset is unbeatable. If you get peckish before dinner, enjoy a cuppa and a choice of sweet treats in the afternoon.

Set in a collection of double-storey buildings, Tortuga Lodge has a variety of rooms and villas. The interiors are bright and white with a distinct Caribbean style. Large, netted windows reveal the stunning view, while each room opens onto a shared veranda, where hammocks say invitingly. The most coveted options are the ground-floor villas with their private terraces, hanging sofas, indoor-outdoor showers, and space for up to four guests.

Every day means a different adventure at Tortuga. Follow a naturalist guide along the miles of private trails where troops of monkeys scamper through the canopy and giant blue morpho butterflies startle - and head off again at sunset for a whole new cast of creatures. Travel by boat or kayak along dappled backwaters and spot river otters and crabs, or watch manatees gliding past and toucans calling overhead. And don't forget a visit to Tortuguero Village to learn all about its history and try your hand at chocolate making.