to provide clean, nutrient-rich water. Gray and black water (which means waste water) are also treated using permaculture technology. Treatment of grey - from the sink and shower is done using a permaculture system. Treatment of black - from the toilet is done by using layers of filters and an evapotranspiration basin.
Cristalino
Cristalino
‘Set within miles of undisturbed rainforest, nature lovers will be in paradise. Take a trip up to the observation tower to enjoy panoramic views.’
Scroll down to see top tips for Cristalino and to meet your host! Click on the leaf-rating tab to reveal sustainable & regenerative efforts across waste, energy, biodiversity, and more.
Overview
-
Highlights
From $510 USD per night (incl. meals, drinks & transfers)
A truly authentic jungle experience
Forest guided treks & boat rides
Experience the observation towers
Take part in photography workshops
National Geographics best eco-lodge
-
Top Tip
‘Try the exotic Jaguar cocktail & Brazilian pancakes, a real favourite here’
Eco Activities
The tranquil waters of the river are perfect for gentle canoeing, with the possibility of spotting birds & monkeys
Nature hikes are in abundance with 30 km of trails within the reserve, a perfect setting for small groups to learn more about this precious ecosystem
Cristalino Lodge has two 50-meter (165 feet) towers located at different strategic spots within the reserve, enjoy spectacular views above trees
-
Rooms
The rooms though in a remote, exotic location are comfortable and modern, catering to all your possible needs. With a cosy bed, refreshing baths and a relaxing hammock you will feel right at home.
The superior rooms outside shower
All decorated with local handicrafts
Private verandas & spacious bathrooms
Share travel stories around the fire
-
Meet your Host
Meet Alex, the owner of Cristalino Lodge. A man with many passions including photography, art, and outdoor activities.
His studies took him to Sao Paulo and Milan before he decided to return to Cristalino Lodge, started by his mother back in 1990.
‘Our goal is to protect this part of the Amazon Rainforest, and tourism is a great way to do this. If the lodge was not here, most of this forest would be lost.’
Discover more with the‘Behind the Green’ interview and video interview.
-
Need to Know
The half-day tours take place each morning and afternoon, activities are always curated to meet your interests
At certain times of the year it can be humid here and there is no air conditioning only fans
The food is a highlight amongst guests, cooks prepare lunches & dinners daily with fresh fish, chutneys, salads, rice, vegetables, meats etc.
-
Location
Cristalino Lodge is located within The Cristalino Private Natural Heritage Reserve in Mato Grosso in Brazil, covering 44 square miles of lush and unspoiled rainforest.
How To Get There
The principal access point to the lodge is the airport of Alta Floresta, in the Brazilian state of Mato Grosso.
The staff will meet you at the airport upon your arrival in Alta Floresta. The transfer to the Cristalino Lodge takes place the same day and involves only 1-hour drive, followed by a half-hour boat ride through the beautiful river.
Gallery
Leaf Rating
2-leaf status
-
EnergyThe lodge is partially powered by solar panels, generating 2.3 MW of energy per month and reducing Co2 emissions as they take energy from the sun to generate electricity. Solar water heating technology is also used in all the facilities.
-
WaterThe water supply from the rainforest is provided from artesian wells which are drilled into the ground, they use natural pressure to bring water to the surface. The water supply is protected...
-
WasteThe lodge has a recycling scheme in place that ensures the separation of inorganic waste, guests are encouraged to follow this to keep a clean and protected environment. All the lodges organic...Read More >>
waste is composted and used in the gardens and organic food production.
-
BiodiversityThe lodge is situated within an enormous 11,399 hectares of protected forest. Cristalino Lodge works with the Cristalino Ecological Foundation, which is geared towards environmental...Read More >>
education and research and sustainability in the Alta Floresta and Novo Mundo municipality. The lodge has assisted on scientific research for a variety of topics including flora, birds, small and large mammals, jaguars, reptiles, amphibians, the climate, general conservation and more. Through the foundation, the lodge focuses on educating local children with immersion courses about the tropical ecosystem. The goal is to create a positive relationship between the rainforest and the future generation.
-
FoodWhenever possible, Cristalino Lodge uses organic fruits and vegetables. They have their own organic garden and produce their own fresh eggs. Other ingredients, such as honey, nuts and Amazonian...Read More >>
products are sourced from a network of responsible local farmers to cut down on the miles that food has to travel to the lodge.
-
Engage GuestsAll of the activities in the Amazon are accompanied by experienced guides and are free of charge to all guests. The lodge offers nature tours along the 30km trail system and gives...Read More >>
guests an in-depth understanding of the tropical ecosystem. To avoid any damage to the forest, these tours are conducted in small groups. The lodge is also home to 50m high towers, which allows climbers to look out over panoramic views of the expansive reserve. As well as the trails and views from the forest canopy, canoeing on the Cristalino River is another activity offered to engage guests in partaking in activities that are non-harmful to the environment.
-
ArchitectureCristalino Lodge was built with natural materials, with a design aimed to blend in with its natural surroundings, to bring the outside in. The bungalows are naturally ventilated...Read More >>
with screens in the windows which allow guests to enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of the jungle.
-
HousekeepingThe lodge aims to use only biodegradable cleaning products and limits how often bedding and towels are changed, to avoid wasting water and energy.
-
CommunityCristalino Foundation supports an environmental education project that has been running since 2008, involving state school children aged 8 to 10 in activities such as hiking, observation of fauna and flora, artistic and dynamic practices, in the midst of the Amazon forest.
Reviews
Video
-
Canopy Lodge
Panama, Central AmericaSurrounded by enchanting misty mountains. Feel close to nature with sights and sounds of the forest.1-leaf status -
Jungle Bay Dominica
Dominica, CaribbeanOverlooking the Caribbean Sea and the biodiverse Soufriere & Scotts Head Marine Reserve.1-leaf status -
Fivelements Retreat
Bali, AsiaNestled on the banks of the Ayung River. Discover an award-winning eco-retreat with an outstanding plant-based menu.1-leaf rating