Every trip has that one place you wish you’d booked more time at, and for us, that was El Silencio Lodge & Spa in Bajos del Toro.

Tucked away in the cloud forest, surrounded by waterfalls and lush greenery, this place felt like stepping into another world—a world where the air is crisp, the food is incredible, and the only sounds are birds chirping and waterfalls rushing in the distance. Oh, and the best part? It wasn’t even all that buggy. I had worried that the cloud forest would mean mosquito central, but at this elevation, it wasn’t an issue at all.

This was the perfect mix of adventure and luxury, and I’d go back in a heartbeat.

Book Through a Relais & Châteaux for VIP Perks

El Silencio is part of Relais & Châteaux, which means you can unlock amazing perks when booking through Virtuoso or Relais & Châteaux advisor (like me!). These typically include:

• $100 resort credit (perfect for the spa or an excursion)
• Room upgrade upon availability
• Early check-in and late check-out when available

It’s one of those bookings where you get more for the same price. If you’re thinking about it, let me know, and I can help you book with these extras!

Why El Silencio Is Perfect for Families

The Most Beautiful Waterfalls Right on the Property

Bajos del Toro is famous for its waterfalls, and El Silencio has several of its own—which means you don’t even have to leave the property for some of Costa Rica’s most breathtaking nature.

We spent our days hiking to waterfalls, crossing wooden bridges over rushing streams, and watching our toddler be completely mesmerized by the sights and sounds of the jungle. If you’re traveling with a little one, bring a hiking backpack carrier! The trails are well-maintained but too much for a toddler to traverse.

There are also beautiful waterfalls all throughout Bajos del Toro:

Adventure Without the Crowds

Unlike some of Costa Rica’s more touristy areas, El Silencio feels secluded—in the best way. But that doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do.

Right on the property, you can:

• Go on a guided waterfall hike
• Try horseback riding through the cloud forest
• Zip-line through the trees (for older kids & adults)
• Take a chocolate-making class

Getting There

Bajos del Toro is located partway down the 708 ‘highway’ in Costa Rica. It’s full of potholes and you need to go slowly if you’re driving it. We accessed it from the north leaving Tabacon in La Fortuna to get to the area. This drive was alright – you just need to take it slow.

I was worried about the drive down the mountain to San Jose so that we could catch our onward flight to Hacienda AltaGracia, but during daylight, and going that direction where most of the drive is downhill, we honestly thought it was fine – and beautiful.

The hotel can also help organize transport for you!

A Private Hot Tub in Your Room? Yes, Please!

Most of the casitas and villas at El Silencio come with their own private outdoor hot tub—which was absolutely perfect after a long day of hiking. There’s nothing like relaxing in a warm tub, surrounded by misty cloud forest, while your kiddo is down for the night.

Rooms are spacious, beautifully designed, and feel super cozy with their floor-to-ceiling windows and fireplaces. If you’re traveling with a family, the two-bedroom villas are a great option.

The Food Was Some of the Best We Had in Costa Rica

The restaurant at El Silencio is next level. Everything is made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and they even have their own organic farm.

Breakfast was a highlight—fresh tropical fruit, homemade bread, and the best grilled fish right from their trout pond. They also had great options for kids, and we loved that the menu was full of fresh, healthy choices instead of the usual “kid food” lineup.

When to Visit and Room Rates

• Dry Season (Best Weather, Peak Prices): December – April
• Shoulder Season (Fewer Crowds, Still Great Weather): May – August
• Rainy Season (Cheaper, But Wetter!): September – November

Rooms start at $650 per night, which includes daily breakfast and many of the onsite activities.

It’s one of those bookings where you get more for the same price. If you’re thinking about it, let me know, and I can help you book with these extras!

Final Thoughts: Is El Silencio Worth It for Families?

1000% yes. This place was magical. If you’re looking for somewhere peaceful, beautiful, and unique, El Silencio is absolutely worth the trip.

The mix of waterfalls, adventure, and luxury made it one of our favorite stops in Costa Rica—and our biggest regret was not staying longer.

If you’re thinking about booking, let me know! I can help you get VIP perks and make the most of your stay.

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