ワイラ・エコロッジ(Waira Ecolodge)

This is a beautiful lodge with stunning views located in the lush cloud rainforest above the town of Villavicencio. The lobby/bar/restaurant area was elegant and served good quality Italian cuisine. A deck extended from the open restaurant area with seating and views overlooking the forest and city below. From this deck, a few staircases lead to another level of additional small decks with chairs. A small waterfall cascaded down the rock facade and into a shallow pool in front of the parking area. A lighted pond with the soothing sound of trickling water was next to the restaurant. A lighted gravel path lead up to the cabins amid lush plants and vibrant flowers. The cabin was peaceful and tastefully decorated, and the lighting was beautiful and romantic. A large, comfortable bed faced the glass wall with sliding doors that opened to the large private balcony. The outdoor bathroom was lovely and featured a rainfall shower head. Bathrobes and towels were provided. The large outdoor deck had a large wooden lounge chair and a spa bathtub. The tub fills with hot water, but I did not use it. A small, shallow natural soaking tub is found to the side of the deck. The Wi-Fi worked well, and A/C was not necessary here because the rain cools the air. The staff was wonderful, especially the two owners who explained all of the facilities upon check-in. Credit cards are accepted here. **Do be aware that it is a 30min drive from town and the driveway was too steep and wet for the taxi to navigate, so I had to hoof it up the entire driveway with my luggage in tow. When checking out, keep in mind Uber drivers won't come all the way out to the Eco Lodge. Be sure to have the hotel arrange a taxi for you ahead of time. My suitcase was carried up to my room at check-in, but I left early in the morning and had to lug it down the steep steps and long gravel path. Pack light! There is nothing within walking distance, so eat in town if arriving late at night, or bring some food to store in the mini-fridge. The shower does not have hot water. The toilet is outside, so you get wet when it's raining. I had to keep the toilet paper inside so it wouldn't get wet, and then remember to bring it outside with me before using the toilet. The floor outside is wet and slightly muddy, so I wore my shoes outside whenever I used the toilet. The private natural pool was filled about 2 feet deep with cold water from the hose, and the bottom was covered with an inch of dirt, so I skipped it. I only spent one night here, but it was worth it! Simply gorgeous!