Costa Rica is a country with breathtaking flora and fauna. On the Pacific side of the Nicoya Peninsula, where Palmetto Lodge is located, the so-called dry jungle prevails. In contrast to the high-altitude rainforests - where it can also get quite cold - we have two seasons here. From November to May, the peak tourist season, there is practically no rain. Temperatures are generally higher at this time, although there is a constant breeze blowing around Palmetto Lodge. On our restaurant terrace near the pool, the thermometer shows 28° Celsius all year round.
During this dry season, the jungle changes its appearance. Some trees shed their leaves after a few weeks without water, which often opens up a whole new, interesting perspective of the sea. At the same time, this is the season of flowers. The whole mountain around Palmetto Lodge and other places in Playa San Miguel is a sea of flowers.
When the first rain sets in again in May, the whole picture changes abruptly. Within a few days, the dense green vegetation is predominant. For many locals and tourists, this is the best time of the year. Although it can rain during the day, it usually rains for an hour or two in the late afternoon just before or after sunset. Time for a cocktail on the covered terrace or at the lobby bar.
Throughout the year the animal population in and around Palmetto Lodge changes. During the wetter months, howler monkeys, capuchin monkeys, coatis, parrots, toucans and parakeets are regular visitors. The mountainous terrain below and above the lodge is home to white-tailed deer, the local small wild boar and numerous species of owl. During the dry season, armadillos, opposums and lizards roam the grounds.
October and November offer a very special spectacle. At Playa San Miguel and in the neighboring bays, tens of thousands of turtles, including the large leatherback turtles with a length of almost two meters, come ashore to lay their eggs.