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The Osa Peninsula is teeming with exotic monkeys, birds, and wildlife.

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Exterior - The Osa Peninsula is teeming with exotic monkeys, birds, and wildlife. (Puerto Jiménez)
6 bedrooms, desk, iron/ironing board, free WiFi - The Osa Peninsula is teeming with exotic monkeys, birds, and wildlife. (Puerto Jiménez)
Terrace/patio - The Osa Peninsula is teeming with exotic monkeys, birds, and wildlife. (Puerto Jiménez)
Indoor pool, outdoor pool - The Osa Peninsula is teeming with exotic monkeys, birds, and wildlife. (Puerto Jiménez)
Property grounds - The Osa Peninsula is teeming with exotic monkeys, birds, and wildlife. (Puerto Jiménez)
Immerse yourself in the heart of a 100-acre rainforest reserve near Corcovado National Park at our home. With a swimming pool, BBQ grille, and open-air living spaces, unwind amidst nature's splendor. Take part in exciting kayak tours to spot dolphins and whales or explore the surrounding biodiversity on guided night tours.

Reviews

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

6 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 14297 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Pool
  • Hot tub
  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Free WiFi
  • Outdoor Space

Add dates for prices

About this property

The Osa Peninsula is teeming with exotic monkeys, birds, and wildlife.


  • Nestled just a few kilometers from the renowned Corcovado National Park, our home is set amidst a stunning 100-acre rainforest reserve. This haven is teeming with exotic wildlife, including vibrant monkeys and a kaleidoscope of bird species. The Osa Peninsula, known for its incredible biodiversity, offers a unique blend of adventure and tranquility.

    Enjoy the serene beauty of remote beaches, savor delicious meals at waterfront restaurants, and embark on thrilling eco-adventures right at your doorstep. Explore the wonders of Corcovado National Park, one of the most biologically diverse places on Earth, with its lush primary rainforests and diverse wildlife. Nearby activities include sport fishing, waterfall rappelling, sloth and chocolate farm tours, visits to butterfly farms, and hiking through the breathtaking landscapes of the national park. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or an adventure-seeker, this is the perfect place to connect with the natural world and experience the magic of Costa Rica.

    Our home is 3 levels with 5 bedrooms and 4 baths. There is hot water in two of the showers. All rooms are 100% screened in with ceiling fans, reading lights and comfy linens. Great swimming pool, also a BBQ grille to keep you cooking.

    Escape to the enchanting Osa Peninsula, where our vacation rental home offers a serene retreat amidst the lush rainforest. Monkeys and tropical birds pass by daily. The open-air living space is perfect for embracing the cooler climate of the rainforest, far above the beach. Explore nearby waterfalls and enjoy thrilling kayak and boat tours. Witness the majesty of dolphins and whales in Golfo Dulce, or embark on night tours to marvel at the bioluminescent colors. With its remote and pristine setting, the Osa Peninsula is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. Our home boasts stunning ocean views and is surrounded by the vibrant forest, providing an unforgettable experience in one of Costa Rica's most breathtaking destinations.

Property amenities

Beach

  • Beach nearby

Pool/Spa

  • Heated pool
  • Hot tub
  • Indoor pool
  • Massage
  • Outdoor pool
  • Private pool
  • Sauna

Internet

  • Available in the house: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Car recommended
  • Onsite parking options include a garage

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Electric kettle
  • Kitchen island
  • Oven
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Breakfast available for a fee
  • Chef service
  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 6 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 2 bathrooms
  • Bathtub
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Outdoor shower
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Living room
  • Separate dining area

Entertainment

  • Books
  • Music library

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony
  • Barbecue grill
  • Garden

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Work spaces

  • Desk
  • Desk chair
  • Office

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Wheelchair accessibility
  • Designated smoking areas

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board
  • Meal delivery service

Location highlights

  • In a rural location
  • In the mountains
  • Near a health/beauty spa
  • Near the sea
  • On a river

Things to do

  • Arcade/game room
  • Boat
  • Heated pool
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Ecotours nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Horseback riding nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Mountain climbing nearby
  • Sailing nearby
  • Scuba diving nearby
  • Snorkeling nearby
  • Surfing/bodyboarding nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Whale watching nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
  • Smoke detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher

General

  • Garden
  • Unit size: 3,200 square feet

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Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Pets

Pets not allowed

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking allowed: in designated areas

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation

We should mention

A car is recommended for transportation to and from this property

About the neighborhood

Located in Puerto Jiménez, this vacation home is in a rural area and on a river. Corcovado National Park and Corcovado National Park Office reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include Precious Turtles of Osa and Casa Orquideas Botanical Garden. Kayaking and scuba diving offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with horse riding and hiking nearby. Visit our Puerto Jiménez travel guide
View more Vacation Homes in Puerto Jiménez
Map
Puntarenas Province, Puerto Jiménez

What's nearby

  • Corcovado National Park Office
    20 min drive - 15.2 km
  • Puerto Jimenez Pier
    20 min drive - 14.8 km
  • Puerto Jiménez Beach
    21 min drive - 15.2 km
  • Blanca Beach
    23 min drive - 19.4 km
  • Parque Nacional Corcovado
    43 min drive - 28.6 km

Getting around

  • Puerto Jiménez (PJM)
    17 min drive

Restaurants

  • Hellen’s
    15 min drive
  • Panadería Monar
    15 min drive
  • Hotel y Restaurante Carolina
    15 min drive
  • Pizzamail.it
    15 min drive
  • Restaurante Agua Luna
    15 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does The Osa Peninsula is teeming with exotic monkeys, birds, and wildlife. have a pool?

Yes, this property has an indoor pool and an outdoor pool. Pool types include heated pools.

Is The Osa Peninsula is teeming with exotic monkeys, birds, and wildlife. pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking?

Onsite parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at The Osa Peninsula is teeming with exotic monkeys, birds, and wildlife. ?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at The Osa Peninsula is teeming with exotic monkeys, birds, and wildlife. ?

Check-out is at 11:00 AM.

Where is The Osa Peninsula is teeming with exotic monkeys, birds, and wildlife. located?

Located by the sea, this family-friendly vacation home is within 9 mi (15 km) of Playa Tigre, Puerto Jiménez Beach, and Golfo Dulce. Corcovado National Park Office and Herrera Gardens & Conservation Project are also within 9 mi (15 km).

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The Osa Peninsula is teeming with exotic monkeys, birds, and wildlife. Reviews

Reviews

Exceptional

All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travelers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
More informationOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 19 out of 23 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 23 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 23 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 23 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 23 reviews

8.4

Cleanliness

8.8

Location

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing wildlife treehouse in Osa

This house had such amazing wildlife viewing we hardly ever left. that combined with the lovely pool, scenic walks and open air showers. We saw squirrel monkeys, toucans, macaws, capuchins all from our balcony and walks around the house we found kinkajou and tyra along with a host of other species. Thanks for having us- 100 percent recommend!
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Emily H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

True Jungle Experience

My husband and I and our 4 boys stayed at this property for a week. It was a great spot for taking in the surroundings of puerto Jimenez. We did a whale and dolphin tour and a guided tour into Corcovado national park. You truly feel like you are sleeping in the jungle while at this home. It was a once in a lifetime adventure!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Todd R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Tree tops and monkeys

Micheal and his wife are awesome people! We loved the tree house! We saw lots of nature, scarlet macaws, squirrel monkeys, heard the howler monkeys. We also had a messages given by Shirley, we all were completely relaxed. Highly impressed with Micheal as host. Hopefully we will be able to get back there soon again!
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ryan S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Osa nature at it’s best!

It really is hard to put into words how amazing this place is. You truly are right in the middle of the best that the Osa’s nature has to offer. Michael is a great host and welcomed us when we got there. He gave us the run through of how everything worked and helped with any issues that came up. From resetting the WiFi, to helping us get to an early morning fishing tour by moving a downed power line in the middle of the road so we could get by with our vehicle. He told us about the New Years fireworks at a beach south of Puerto Jimenez which we were amazing to see. He is very knowledgeable of the area and the nature around him after being there for 26 years. The house itself is beyond interesting with its architectural and artistic flair. Once you realize that sitting around in the open jungle with lights on at night may not be the greatest idea due to the few but large insects that come by, you become accustomed pretty quick. We were usually tired after busy days out and generally went to bed early, but if we did stay up we hung out in the very large fully screened in bedroom on the main floor to visit and play cards. Waking up at the crack of dawn and pulling up a front row seat with a coffee overlooking the amazing forest/jungle scenery is hard to beat. It’s National Geographic TV right in front of you from groups of Titi monkeys, to macaws, toucans, and countless other birds, butterflies, etc. I would highly recommend spending at least a couple days right around the prop
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2024
Verified

8/10 Good

Eric C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Jungle

This property was very pretty but definitely all jungle. The animals were amazing from monkeys to McCaws. If bugs are not your thing though, the openness of this property might not be for you. Overall the experience we booked.
Stayed 5 nights in Feb 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Steve B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Total Jungle Eye Candy

We spent a week at the Jungle Experienica in late July. What an awesome experience. The house, or mansion or words cannot express what this place is! We had an unimpeded view of the jungle to delight our senses every single moment of the day. Each day we would sit in the living room and just stare. It was mesmerizing. Our staff Michael and crew were great. They attended to our needs with no intrusions. The service was great. Back to the home. It was like having your own hotel all to yourself. We watched as monkeys were swinging by and delighted with the sounds of howler monkeys and macaws. The home even has a view of the ocean in the distance. There are hikes you can take right on the property. It's super, super private. We would head down to Puerto Jimenez to stock up for food as well as going on tours. This house was Disney inspired by our host and boasts a capacity of 14 if need be. Hot showers, full size refrigerator and plenty of bathrooms with ceiling fans. We want to come back ASAP!!
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2023
Verified

2/10 Terrible

Stephen C.

Disliked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Not as nice as appears

The house is falling apart, and filthy. Hot water never worked, kept blamming it on us when a house should support its water pump and heater at the same time. In the end the power would go off even when taking a cold shower at night just from the water pump running. Half the time we were in the house we didnt have power because of these same issues. For a " luxury home " it sure was far from it. Ended up spending new years with no power. He left some of his dirty underwear under one of the beds. The house was also showing one less double bed than listed, even after verifying with him the beds prior to my trip. The pool is a bit small but you can see that in the pictures.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2020
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Alison G.

Truly an amazing place

Thank you Mike and Blondie we had the most amazing stay at Sombra de la lapa From the very start we received such a warm welcome The house is in the most beautiful location. It is so peaceful and such a wonderful base from which to enjoy the Osa peninsula We had the most relaxing week with multiple sightings of Monkeys This is one of those unique places that you will remember for a lifetime
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2017
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Helen C.

Amazing Tree House Experience

We are a group of 5 adults, well travelled in Central and South America, and have just returned from Michael and Blondie's amazing tree house. We surfed VRBO (HomeAway) looking for a unique experience for this year's trip, came across the Tree House, and knew that was where we wanted to stay, so it was off to Osa for us. You don't have to be a bird and wildlife enthusiast to enjoy this location - just go, relax and enjoy cocktails in the most amazing house you've ever stayed in! We loved every minute - and the pictures do not do it justice. Our only regret is that it did not rain (really) as we wanted to enjoy it from our tree. We were close enough to beach life and other attractions (need a car) yet tucked away in the rain forest in a remote but safe location. We were surprised to know that there had been other visitors in a house nearby - we had no idea anyone else was there - it was totally private - especially reassuring when using the outdoor shower! A truly fantastic vacation. Tree House bucket list, check! Now, how can we possibly top this next year?
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Noel & Ellie P.

Absolutely amazing – beyond our wildest hopes !

We spent 2 glorious weeks with our extended family at the Lapa house. The house was fabulous, the Osa peninsula has more than enough to offer for active, enthusiastic, outdoor people & everyone went out of their way to make our stay memorable. Waking up at dawn in a bedroom perched in the jungle watching the squirrel monkeys moving through the trees was just an extra. The house is even better than the photos; more than enough space for 12 adults, very well appointed & comfortable – I don’t think we found anything lacking. The attention to detail in the layout/design just kept surprising – the bathrooms are the best ! Because it is so open, it feels like you are outside – you don’t have to leave the living room to watch birds. The added advantage was that it caught the breezes which kept it a bit cooler & when that was not enough, a dip in the plunge-pool was very pleasant. Even the internet was up a good part of the time. We also took advantage of the cook service offered; Gilberto & Ana cannot be faulted in any way for the genuine care they took of us – on top of that, the food was excellent – lots of fresh fruit & vegetables; local dishes & the best cakes & cookies for dessert. Thank-you Gilberto & Ana ! The Puerto Jimenez area has a lot to offer for the outdoor enthusiast; provided you are good with the heat & some bumpy roads. We hiked in Corcovado (saw lots of animals) & in an ecological reserve (more reptiles & creatures), went on boat tours in the gulf, zip-lined, visited a cocoa farm, kayaked in the mangrove swamps, sampled all the beaches within striking distance & concluded that Matopolo has the best. Nothing tops lazing in the warm Pacific watching the Macaws overhead & the Pelicans fishing around you.
Archival

8/10 Good

Meryl B.

Jungle holiday beginners

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay in the jungle we were pure novices so all the advice, help and planning was brilliant from Blondie and Mike before we arrived. Once we arrived we certainly were well looked after by Gilberto and Ana who cooked amazing meals and were always bright cheerful and helpful. The weather was amazingly hot and humid and the house we stayed in was enormous and fabulously windowless with a great view to the bay. The only downside is that the lower bedrooms and bathrooms need a complete revamp. A 4x4 is definitely a must as the roads warrant it. The beaches and sea is breathtaking. I was surprised there weren't more animals but enjoyed what we saw. However, on saying that I didn't go to the Corcovado jungle as I struggled with the humidity. The area is an unspoilt which adds to the Costa Rician charm. Everyone is friendly, it's better to pitch up at the activities such as chocolate farm, zip wire as it is cheaper than purchasing through an agent in the town. Blondie didn't previously book anything for us in hindsight we should have booked the world famous biologist and done the night walk. The best gift shop is Jagua by the airport and the first restaurant on the harbour front (a bit scruffy but excellent service and food). Loved it X
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Ernie P.

This is a bucket list item!

I researched tree houses because it has been my wife's childhood dream to live in a treehouse now completed in a grand style! I chose this because even though a 4 wheel drive is needed to access the property, once there it is an easy walk & the privacy is beyond private - only saw someone when I had a couple questions , otherwise one could live like Tarzan and Jane - which we did! It was awesome- just as the view of the jungle, monkeys, tropical birds & floria. Although living in the "open" canopy (no walls) may seem primitive, having electricity for a fridge, fans, wifi, hot running water makes this place seem like a paradise jungle canopy well work checking it off your bucket list even if it was never on ( but it should be) Also visit the coco farm which Blondie's help we had an awesome informative tour. We are in our 60's and enjoyed every second / wishing we could have spend more time and discovered this sooner when put children were still home as this is a must do experience.
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Sandra M.

Unique chance to commune with nature

My husband and I stayed at Lapa's Home in January with our two teenage sons, and I can say without doubt that I've never stayed in a house so interesting and creative, nor one that allows such close contact with nature. The living room, dining area, and kitchen are open air, and it was not uncommon for a giant butterfly to flutter through as we were hanging out on the couch. Each day, we watched monkeys swing through the canopy just feet away from us, and we spent a whole morning watching a mama sloth moving like molasses through a tree right beside the living room, her baby clamped like a starfish to her belly. Masses of macaws, toucans, and scores of other birds flew around (and occasionally through!) the house each day. This open air living is not for everyone, but if you want to experience the wildlife of the Osa, this is the place. The experience is edgy in the very best way--you're not looking at the jungle through double-paned glass in a climate-controlled hotel room, you're living right in it. During cicada season (which is when we were there), that means dealing with the nearby racket of cicadas and occasionally having them dive bomb you at night when they're drawn to the house lights. For me, that kind of experience is a plus--making the tropical experience real and not some kind of Disney fabrication. We loved the little swimming pool, accessed by its toad-proof stepping stones. We loved the many artistic touches throughout the house created by Michael and Blondie, who were helpful and friendly and gave wonderful tips on where to go and what to do. Our stay there was truly memorable!
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Xinia D.

Seclusion in Paradise

My husband and teenage kids stayed at the Lapa's home for 3 nights. This was the first stop to starting our vacation. We were looking for a private place that gave us the opportunity to relax and be summerged with nature. This is absolutely the place to be. The private secluded road to this place is an adventure by itself, which is about 1/2 mile from the main road. You enter the jungle in a narrow dirt road climbing up into the property. When we arrived there, the grounds, the home and the view were breathtaking. Manicured grounds surrounded the front of the property and a jungle bordered the rest. We were welcomed by Wilberg, the inn keeper who was very friendly. We arrived late in the afternoon, and to our surprise, it was the time that the monkeys came out to feed. We saw at least 10 monkey's on our first day there including a mama with her baby in her back. The view of this home is outstanding! You can see the ocean from afar. I made a point to get up during sunrise at about 5 to 5:30 AM. Toucans, lapas, and many other birds, flew by and made their calling, the whole jungle seemed to be awakening...an amazing experience. Lots of butterflies (blue especially) and hummingbirds. The house was as it is showed on the picture. I actually think that the pictures don't do justice to its beauty. It is an open plan, which means that you dont have walls keeping insects from visiting the premises and the heat and cool breezes surround you in the main gathering areas. There are fans and screened rooms to keep the bugs out, and 1 room with air conditioning. The pool was a great plus! There are 3 bedrooms with plenty of beds. The carpentry, woodworking using local trees is amazing. The imagination that these owners used to make this home is outstanding. The art in the home is their own creation and very beautiful. The proprerty is closed to Puerto Jimenez. We shopped for groceries, and cooked dinner and breakfast at the home. We also walked the trials that are in the property and it was like a miniature Corcovado. The beaches and rivers are closed by and there are plenty of restaurants and adventures for the whole family. You have choices as to where to stay and we stayed at some beautiful resorts with all the comforts that you can think off afterwards in Costa Rica, but this home tops it all as far as experiencing living with nature and having your own little solutide for at least a few days!
Archival

10/10 Excellent

WOW WOW WOW

WOW was the word we said frequently on this trip! This place is AMAZING! We were thrilled each day to different birds, monkeys, a silky anteater too! We saw all this right form the tree house without even leaving! We sat each morning sipping coffee and waited to see who would come visit us. We used the hiking trails on the property often, walked up the river early mornings for some thrilling bird watching and had a nice salad from the garden right on site. It is total privacy. We also loved to river rock dipping pool. It was nice to know that it is private and we could skinny dip with no fear of anyone walking in on us! We thought the tree house was decorated & furnished with lots of love & thought to comfort and even though I have a fear of heights, I felt totally safe & conquered that fear! The tree house thrilled us every day & it was a great way to spend a vacation-totally different than any other we have had. We got to meet the owners who are artists & found them to be fun loving & caring people. Kudos go to the caretakers who were available for any questions we had. Since the owners were not there for most of our stay, it felt very comforting to know there was help very close. They are not kidding when they say that you get total privacy & 120 acres feels REALLY big when you are not from a huge farm! We had a blast & would love to go back.
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Kirsten K.

Two Weeks in Paradise

My family, parents and nephew spent two weeks on the Osa and stayed at Lapa House. Blondie made renting the house and planning activities incredibly easy and I found all of the advice she gave to be right on the mark. When we arrived, there was a bunch of bananas from the property waiting for us. They were so good that I realized I'd been eating facsimilies all of my life. There were 7 of us and the house was spacious and comfortable. Having the pool there was perfect for our 4 year old twins who would wake up in the morning & jump right in. The only rooms that are enclosed are the bedrooms so one needs to be comfortable in the outdoors to enjoy the house. All of the common areas are shaded for most of the day, though, so it was very comfortable. Considering the heat and humidity, a condo or totally enclosed house would have been very unpleasant. The open design is the only way to go on the Osa. The house was very clean and we were extremely well cared for while we were there. Mike came by a few times to say hello and he proved himself to be an interesting and entertaining fellow. When not relaxing at the house, we enjoyed zip lining, kayaking, hiking and a boat tour. We also toured FincaKobo, a cocoa farm, which should not be missed. All of these activities were arranged by Blondie and her assistance made all the difference. We had two weeks in the paradise that is Lapa House and we look forward to returning one day.
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Second Visit- Won't be The Last!

My wife & I came here a year ago and loved it so much we decided to come back again this year. We had a good time enjoying the house & all the acres and privacy on this reserve both stays. We don’t get this atmosphere in an ecolodge no matter how nice. Since we wanted to come at a time the owners were going to be closed for some work, they gave us a great deal which fit our vacation time! The house is already fabulous but they are going to trick it out even more (I'm an architect). I just read the last review & can say that I was there from 14-21 January 2011 and we found no dissatisfaction with appliances or furniture. We actually love the bamboo furniture because it is great for our backs- we are a middle aged couple with backaches and after hiking it felt great to get back & lay down after getting out of the pool! Their caretaker Wilbur & his family are excellent and Wilbur is also a very good guide. We hiked from the reserve to Corcovado and never passed another human. We had an awesome reward when we got to the waterfall & found 2 river otters in the water. It is an adventurous hike which we enjoyed immensely. Last year we came with our teenage sons, this year we came with another couple. All enjoyed the Osa- zip line was especially fun but also very educational- it is not just a cattle call for tourists where we felt herded as we had in other areas of Costa Rica. The group was only the 4 of us (they keep groups small), It is a family run business with emphasis on safety first, but also education. Speaking of education, if you are interested in not only enjoying a wonderfully private location where the rainforest meets the sea, but also in leaving behind a positive impact, these owners of the vacation home, Mike & Blondie, are heavily involved in local conservation efforts & sponsor 2 local kids in the private school at their own expense. Blondie booked our flights, car & tours for us so we could relax immediately. We stay here because we like the house, location, service & people. You will too. PS We did notice that the downstairs rattan furniture has a little peeling on one arm- I believe they are replacing that. People need to understand this is a remote place where you cannot run to your local store & buy replacements easily - it is local & handmade. People come here because it is not commercial. We come here because it gets us back to pristine natural surroundings void of traffic, lights,distractions & back to nature. We'll be back.
Archival

4/10 Poor

Great location but house is rundown

If you want to experience the rain forest, this is it. You are right in the jungle. There is a wonderful caretaker on site who also is a great guide. But... the house and especially the kitchen is very rundown. Many appliances don't work, light fixtures are rotted out, chairs are broken, the couch is just a foam board, etc. So I would not come back at the price being charged. Look instead into the nearby ecolodges.
Archival

10/10 Excellent

TREEHOUSE FANTASIA

our week in the treehouse was spectacular...scarlet macaws, toucans, a troupe of squirrel monkeys in the trees and butterflies flitting in and out of the open air kitchen...humming birds humming us with curiosity in the study...we were living just under the canopy of a living breathing rainforest and we were entranced...the four level living area is heart stoppingly beautifully...the house is an architectural sculpture sinuously spiraling around but never touching the trunk of an absoulutely magnificent tree...plenty of space for four adults...and every room beautifully appointed and decorated with grace and whimsy...full refrigerator and a six-burner stove (how did they manage that?)...double sink...comfortable beds...two bathrooms...a wonderful glass bottom shower...and a housekeeper who comes to freshen the place up once a week...and will even do a load of your laundry if you want...and even with all that luxury...you can still feel good about living absolutely green... my husband and i spent most days wandering the forest trails which began only a few feet from our door...blue morpho butterflies and leafcutter ants...incredible birds...our friends often took the car to explore farther afield...we did get out to kayak the mangrove forest...wonderful tour...excellent guide...and the zip line...amazing and not scary at all after the first ride...(and i am 63) blondie was wonderfully responsive to all my questions while we were setting up the vacation by e-mail...always up beat and efficient...when we arrived blondie and michael met us with warmth and welcome...their hospitality morphed into friendship effortlessly...our last night we all cooked dinner together in the treehouse kitchen...imagine dinner for six under the canopy...lightning bugs flashing...and howler monkeys calling in the distance... i would and have recommended michael's treehouse to friends and relatives alike...the only caveat i would mention...it was pretty hot and mostly dry the week we were there (mid february) and heat can be draining...if you are heat sensitive don't go at the hottest time of the year...and don't forget your hat (like i did)
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10/10 Excellent

Pura Vida at Sombra de la Lapa, Lapa's House

When my sister and I decided to go on vacation together with our families, we had to find a place that would accommodate our varying vacation styles as well as our common desire to stay together as a group. We found Sombra de la Lapa. It had 3 bedrooms, the third one had four single beds, perfect for all the cousins to stay together. for those who wanted to take it easy and not seek adventure every moment, there was a dipping pool (the got a lot of use), wonderful rainforest walks surrounding the property (don't forget your map!), and a band of 50+ titi monkies that would pass by the house on their way through the canopy each morning and evening. We also spotted toucans and howler monkies. And my niece climbed up the inside of an amazing strangler fig Michael had shown us on an impromtu tour, during which the kids also got to taste fresh sugar cane. The best decision we made was hiring Blondie to cook evening meals for us - vegan! She scoured the shops for groceries in Puerto Jimenez and San Jose to stock for us before our arrival and then came up a with a week's worth of wonderful evenings of vegan comfort food. Highlights included homemade soy fahitas, pico de gallo, lemongrass coconut soup, and some wonderful desserts - plantains with raisins and homemade sorbets. And let's not forget a homemade load of bread daily. There was such an abundance of food that we often had enough for breakfast or lunch, for the price of just the dinner. This was the best choice we made since I wouldn't have wanted to venture out on that windy, narrow dirt road at night, and it was so relaxing to come home and not have to worry about cooking and cleaning, or even making a decision about what to order! Blondie and Michael are friendly hosts, who make a great effort to make you happy and comfortable. One caution: this is not a great choice for toddlers. There is no outside wall on the second floor living room and the stone floors and stairs can get slippery with wet feet coming from the pool if you are not careful. Come back in a couple of years though for a highly enjoyable and memorable experience. Thank you Blondie and Michael!
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10/10 Excellent

Extremely Romantic/Private/Close to EVERYTHING!

I am an architect so I like to spend my time off in architecturally different places. My wife & I wanted to be somewhere close enough not to spend all day driving to do things, yet have privacy & seclusion. What we liked about this place is that we got it all.We had read some Osa rentals reviews where rental homes are out there with bad solar systems where you have no fans at night, no ice, warm refrigerators, and cannot leave anything plugged in to charge. What we loved about this house & the tree house is that we had to deal with none of that. It is elevated off the beach & is MUCH cooler than the places we visited at the beach, has full grid reliable electricity. Yet still has a wonderful view of water & nice breezes (we have stayed at other beach places where we ROASTED & got bitten by sand fleas on the beach) .We found total peace & tranquility, we had no amenities shared which we LOVED. We could dunk naked in the pools without risking others walking in on us. We spent a week in each house & we never knew if there were other guests on the property or not- there are 2 homes on opposite sides of the property. We did explore other rental homes before we rented this one. I am GLAD we did. Almost all the others (esp those located on beaches near Puerto Jimenez & towards Matapalo & Carate) ONLY had solar power. We like to be responsible travellers too but considering we heard these people were driving all the way back to Puerto Jimenez for simple things like ice & food because they had warm refrigerators, we think we came out ahead of the game in that department. We also enjoyed that we were totally alone when we went back to our home after being out & about. We liked being able to have meals whenever we wanted, we even cooked a few ourselves since we could. We also ate at some nice places in town & found prices to be really good (try Sarpe's- means nightcap, and they had EXCELLENT food). We had a fun "Spaghetti night" at Pearl of the Osa (also a lodge) but were glad we were not staying there since it also has a LOUD band on Fri night. All in all, we would recommend this place for the privacy, it is quite luxurious, nice hiking trails, nice linens,wonderful views, AMAZING WILDLIFE onsite! The owners are artists & wait til you see how nicely decorated & designed these homes are- regardless of which you choose to stay in or choose both! The treehouse is an architects dream & I can imagine either home would be good for families or groups also. We LOVED it.
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10/10 Excellent

WOW! We LOVED it here

My family & I have been to visit Costa Rica twice now & we LOVED staying here. The Osa Peninsula was by FAR the best area in the country we visited. We stayed in the main house, Sombra de la Lapa, the first time & the tree house, The Lapa's Nest, on the second visit. We like very much that they are on opposite sides of the property- we honestly did not know if either time we were there, they had any other guests! It is so close to town -less than 10 minutes & we could get to everywhere easily. We heard some stories from others we met who were renting houses south of Puerto Jimenez (like Matapalo, Carate) where they had only solar power. We had lots of ice in the freezer, we could leave our battery powered items plugged in & the refrigerator was cold. We met people renting other homes who could do none of that. We had none of those issues because here they have full electricity at both houses. But we still felt that we were contributing to sustainable travel because we did not have to run to town like others we met had to, they have full recycling, are involved with conservation projects, support the local school & hire only locals. We JUST LOVED IT HERE! A little about the houses- the tree house is a fantasy! Our kids loved it, my husband & I found it very romantic too. We even had a movie night which we never expected we'd do here! But we spent most of our time either watching monkeys, birds etc. We had a sloth come right down the tree in front of the tree house. We heard cats in the jungle at night- the tree house overloooks COrcovado National Park. We loved the river fresh water dipping pool. The kitchen in HUGE- the glass bottom shower is a TRIP. The main house was where we stayed the first visit. We loved the spaciousness- I can see why they get both family reunions here & also honeymooners. Or just families like us! The house is really large & open. The owners had pre reserved some tours for us- zip line, chocolate farm, kayak & a boat trip. The house is awesome- pool is great, loved all the extra touches. We LOVED the stereo- bring your IPOD- you'll love this stereo. The house is totally furnished- it is FAR better than staying in a lodge or motel. It IS a HOME! If you are looking for romance or family vacation time- or a group of friends-you will love staying here. We loved the privacy- we did not have to share anything with other guests. We also hired Blondie for the private chef service she offers- DELICIOUS. A vacation dream
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10/10 Excellent

What a Great Place- Offers Everything

My daughters & I came here a few years ago for vacation & this last April we came back with the whole family! Our first time we rented the Main House but when we returnedf we took both Main House & Tree House. WOW! We have stayed at other places in Costa Rica & were roasted on the beach so we found this place really refreshing & MUCH cooler. It was so close to the beach but without the no see ums & the heat which that dark cholcolate sand holds in at night! We also apprecaited that we had full refrigerator & freezer, fans, one room in Main House has A/C & we could charge our laptop, cameras & IPOD's, which we could not do when we stayed at the beach because all those homes were run by solar power. We ran out of fans middle of the night- but here we were thrilled to have ICE & POWER! We loved the pool at the main house but the kids preferred the Treehouse pool at the river. We only rented a car a few days because they are right on the bus route to town & groceries, restaurants- only 10-15 min away (but it is ! We also used the local taxi they recommended & he was a RIOT! The houses were MORE than we expected & we would recommend it. Make sure you know that all the other homes we checked into which were not right in Puerto Jimenez (where we were def not interested in staying) have only solar power, so if the batteries are low, or there are not enough of them, or the sun is not shining, or you leave an IPOD plugged in, you will not have cold food or fans. We had this happen a few years ago & we were not happy at all. We loved that we did not have to worry about that here They have built the treehouse of all recycled materials & they practice recycling of all the materials you use whiel there so we felt that we were participating in sustainable living. You will love the monkeys which visited very closetwice most days . We had a sloth drop out of the tree right in front of us in the yard. Scarlet macaws were in the almond trees a few feet from the living room. We loved being able to see into the canopy through the clear panels in the treehouse. We REALLY loved that we had a whole resort style home with NO other guests. Great stereo for music too. We loved that the chocloate farm, zip lines, boat tours were only a few minutes away. And of COURSE we LOVED the beaches just a few minutes away. We are already planning a return trip & we are also going to send our employees who win the year end trip to this home. You will love this place & we highly recommend