In northern Costa Rica, in the rural community of Boca Tapada, a project was launched that transformed the region’s future. Maquenque Lodge is the result of the vision and commitment of the Artavia family, who turned their family legacy into a model of sustainable tourism in Costa Rica.
The story begins generations ago. In the late 1940s, the Artavia Carvajal family arrived in Boca Tapada, at a time when the area had no roads and life depended on working the land and respecting nature. The forest, the river and the wildlife were always an integral part of the family home. That deep connection with the environment was passed down from generation to generation.
In 2009, together with the Baumann family, Maquenque Lodge was established with a clear conviction: to demonstrate that conservation and development can go hand in hand. Located next to the Maquenque Mixed National Wildlife Refuge, we understood that the true wealth of the area lies in its biodiversity, its wetlands and its people.
Since then, the project has been guided by firm principles:
• Active forest conservation and protection of biodiversity.
• Job creation and support for the local communities of Boca Tapada.
• Promotion of environmental education and responsible tourism.
• Responsible management of water, energy and waste.
• Contribution to species preservation and the promotion of birdwatching.
Today, Maquenque is more than just a lodge: it is a living conservation project and one of the community’s main economic drivers.
Located within the Maquenque Mixed-Species National Wildlife Refuge, the lodge was established with the mission of conserving the biodiversity of northern San Carlos and positioning Boca Tapada as a leader in responsible tourism.
The lodge features solar systems and infrastructure designed to blend into the natural landscape, minimising its environmental impact.
Organic market gardening makes it possible to offer a dining experience based on fresh, locally sourced produce.
Tree-planting schemes and secondary forest restoration projects underpin the project’s environmental commitment.
The creation of local jobs, training and the purchase of agricultural produce have boosted rural development in Boca Tapada.
Visitors can enjoy tree houses, nature trails, canoe trips and the chance to experience biodiversity first-hand.
Maquenque Lodge embodies the fusion of tradition, conservation and a vision for the future, led by the Artavia family.
