Our feature property journals are designed to highlight and showcase our favourite properties from around the world, taking a closer look at some of the magnificent properties that we love to send our clients to.
In our latest feature, we showcase Guacimo Lodge in Nicaragua. This magical place, showcasing a unique celebration of Nicaraguan craftsmanship, was discovered by a Spanish couple who fell in love with the San Juan River and El Castillo during their time living there.
Guacimo trees, or bay cedars, thrive near water or on the shore of lakes. In 2006, Maria and Manuel, a Spanish couple living in Nicaragua, were captivated by the scenic surroundings of the San Juan River and El Castillo. This love for the area inspired the creation of Guacimo Lodge, along with a small team dedicated to clear values and a shared mission.
Situated on 50 hectares in the Indio Maiz Biosphere Reserve, one of the largest protected lowland forests in Central America, Guacimo Lodge is designed with a commitment to sustainability and conservation. It runs entirely on solar power and features only six bungalows to minimise its carbon footprint. The San Juan River, rich with colonial history and tales of pirates, helps define an imaginary boundary line from the Caribbean Sea to Lake Nicaragua near the Pacific coast.
Maria and Manuel decided to utilise the surrounding resources and start serving local, fresh and healthy food. From cold soups made from blended vegetables to fish caught directly from the river. They have a farm-to-table approach from local recipes for a taste explosion.
Welcome to Guacimo Lodge, a place at the heart of the Indio Maiz and the San Juan River.
Guacimo Lodge enjoys a strategic location in the south of Nicaragua, with the Indio Maiz Biosphere Reserve and the San Juan River taking centre stage.
Indio Maiz is home to 65 species of mammals, including spider and mantled howler monkeys, white-faced capuchins, three-toed sloths, and giant anteaters. You might also spot jaguars, cougars and ocelots. The reserve hosts 221 species of birds, such as toucans and summer tanagers, 55 species of reptiles, and 34 species of amphibians, including the plumed basilisk, green poison dart frog, caiman and green sea turtle. Insects like the elephant beetle, peanut bug, green cicada, and the Menelaus blue morpho are among the 149 reported species, reflecting the reserve’s rich biodiversity.
The San Juan River is steeped in history, marked by 19th-century steamships carrying European immigrants, 14th-century fortresses, and numerous interoceanic projects. Discover the history at the El Castillo fortress museum or visit a two-century-old sunken steamship, now part of a small jungle island. This area is a perfect blend of natural wonder and historical intrigue, offering a unique and enriching experience.
Guacimo Lodge is committed to celebrating Nicaraguan craftsmanship through various forms of artwork and locally made items displayed throughout the property. The Lodge features handmade items such as Masaya hammocks, vintage rocking chairs from Granada, crafts from Masatepe and San Marcos, cerámica negra from Lake Apanas, artisan rock from the city of León, and fine carpentry from El Castillo.
The lodge’s décor and furnishing are thoughtfully chosen to reflect the rich cultural heritage and skilled craftsmanship of Nicaragua. This includes using sourced materials and working with skilled artisan from nearby communities, ensuring that the lodge not only supports local economies but also provides guests with an authentic Nicaraguan experience.
INSPIRATION
SIGN UP
