House in Puntarenas Province
12 guests · 4 bedrooms · 4 baths
Reasons to book
Guests love it hereGuests give this property a top rating
Top-tier experienceA high end property in this area
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About this house rental
Off-grid, solar powered, this handcrafted, unique home is a private resort cradled by nature. It is one of the most remarkable homes in Matapalo, if not the whole of Costa Rica.
With continuous rainforest connecting to the famous Corcovado National Park, the wildlife viewing is unrivalled with monkeys and macaws daily visitors.
Pura Vida!
The space
At dawn, dive into our deep tropical pool, unwind at sunset with a tranquil float and witness the jungle settling in for the night.
Nature lovers will appreciate the very special design of this house with its abundant suite of amenities ably handled by the onsite manager who will guide you on your adventure.
This extraordinary off-grid eco-villa sleeps a maximum of 12 and is open plan with only walls where necessary to provide privacy and is playfully designed to be at home in the jungle.
The main platform comprises the kitchen, dining area, living room and two ensuite bedrooms, the Junior Suite and the Family Suite.
The upper level comprises the Master Suite with a walk out to a private platform open to the stars and an ensuite shower room. The Canopy Suite offers a further bedroom and large deck at monkey eye level with an ensuite two shower room.
In the garden enjoy your very own private waterpark with 3 connected swimming pools including a deep pool with a springboard, a slide and waterfall, a shallow lounging deck, a swim up bar party pool and finally 2 smaller dipping pools with sun-deck barbecue and hammock area.
Rounding up the relaxation areas are a shaded games area and a rancho with hanging chairs and hammock.
Finally, up behind the house, in the primary forest, there is a private yoga deck with a view over to the ocean.
Choose your favourite corner and catch up with a good book, interrupted only by the world of monkeys, macaws and butterflies.
ROOMS
At Casa Vida Verde it is hard to know where the interior ends and the exterior begins!
The Master Suite has a king bed with mosquito net and large shower room and a private toilet with a hanging bridge to a walk-out deck elevated into the trees.
The Junior Suite on the main floor has a private deck, king bed with mosquito net and shower room and private toilet.
The Family Suite has screened windows (no need for nets) with a shower room and private toilet attached. The set up in this room can adapt to the guest's needs, being a third king bedroom or a king with 2 or 3 additional single beds or can be a bunk room with single beds for 5.
The fourth bedroom is the new Canopy Suite accessed by a hanging bridge and has a king bed with mosquito net, a double shower, private toilet and a private deck at monkey level overlooking the pool area. An additional single bed can be set up here on request. All the beds have cotton sheets and hotel quality pillows and mattresses.
Fall asleep to the sound of the surf knowing you are in the most comfortable beds in the area!
OUTSIDE
The viewing deck is the perfect spot to watch the jungle wake up each morning and birds and butterflies starting their day in the golden dawn light. Steps take you down into the garden.
The organic design of the house is evident here too with a fun, funky water park of three pools, one deep with springboard, slides and waterfalls, surrounded by lush tropical foliage and flowers.
Poolside, you will find a bistro table and benches, a BBQ and an outdoor shower and in the basement, we have a pool table and ping pong and cinema.
Much of our property is primary forest behind the house. Explore this area using the well-tended circular trail of steps and spend some time up at the large private yoga platform with a view to the ocean. This is the perfect spot for yoga, massage or bird and wildlife watching.
Other things to note
WHAT DO WE PROVIDE?
All linens, towels (including beach towels), kitchen towels and toilet paper, biodegradable shampoo, conditioner and shower gel, liquid soap, dish detergent, and other staples for the kitchen.
We also have some games and books together with information cards on the flora and fauna of the area. Some herbs for cooking are grown on site and there is also a variety of fruit trees. Carlos will supply you with these as available.
WHAT ARE THE CATERING OPTIONS?
Self-Catering by default - bring your groceries with you or for an additional charge shopping and delivery of groceries can be arranged.
Private chef options are also available for breakfast and dinner or all 3 meals a day. Their rate per person per day includes all menu selection, shopping, cooking and clean up.
In addition, the preparation of occasional local dishes can arranged, please ask.
WHAT WILL THE WEATHER BE LIKE?
Temperatures average mid-80s during the daytime and fall to the mid-70s at night. The coastal waters are a constant 74 degrees all year long. There are two seasons: the Dry (December through April) which is less humid and there is less rain, and the Green (May through November) when there is more rain usually in the afternoons and at night. October and early November are the rainiest months.
WHAT ABOUT BUGS?
If you are seriously concerned about the possibility of insects being around you, it is possible the open air living at Casa Vida Verde is not the best environment for you. Please be aware. There are many insects around, but most insect encounters are part of the wonder of being in the rainforest. Remember, there is a whole food chain out there and there are plenty of animals and birds’ intent on eating all insects found. However, it is a good precaution, especially in early evening, to have insect repellent and we provide a natural liquid repellent in each of our bathrooms to make this convenient.
CAN YOU DRINK THE WATER?
Yes! Our water comes from our own deep well and is safe to drink. As an additional precaution, the water from the small sink on the island in the kitchen is filtered.
IS THERE HELP NEARBY?
Our manager, Carlos, lives on site. He is an amazing host, speaks English well will want to ensure that your stay is as enjoyable as possible. He knows the area very well and is a very experienced host. Our guests report that nothing is too much trouble for him.
DO WE NEED TO RENT A CAR?
No, you do not need to. Many guests find themselves drawn to the house and the local area and plan fewer days out. So, a rental car may just sit there costing money. Therefore, if you are happy to walk locally, we recommend you getting a taxi to other locations. The taxi drivers know the area well, will often spot animals and birds that you would miss and can look after the driving while you enjoy your surroundings. However, if you prefer to have your own vehicle, this can be sorted with pick up and drop off in San Jose or Puerto Jimenez.
CAN WE USE ELECTRONICS?
Yes, please bring your own cameras, phones and laptops and devices. We do have both cell reception in Matapalo and wireless internet. We have 2 sources of internet but be aware we cannot guarantee that it will always be working. We have a Bluetooth speaker if you wish to bring your own music. Please don’t bring hairdryers or curling irons, as these use too much power. You will not miss them; in the jungle you don’t have to worry about what your hair looks like! The outlets are standard North American for 110V applications.
WHAT IS IT LIKE TO LIVE OFF GRID?
Almost the same as on grid except PLEASE, charge devices during the day when the sun is creating oodles of power and PLEASE be aware of lights and fans being left on, especially at night, which will drain the batteries. While we have backup generators, we much prefer to only use them for utility purposes.
ARE THERE LAUNDRY FACILITIES?
Yes – please ask Carlos. The facilities are not directly available to guests due to the complicated logistics involved in managing our water and power. However, for a fee, the amount dependent on load size, laundry can be done on site. If you prefer, there are service wash facilities in Puerto Jimenez as well.
With continuous rainforest connecting to the famous Corcovado National Park, the wildlife viewing is unrivalled with monkeys and macaws daily visitors.
Pura Vida!
The space
At dawn, dive into our deep tropical pool, unwind at sunset with a tranquil float and witness the jungle settling in for the night.
Nature lovers will appreciate the very special design of this house with its abundant suite of amenities ably handled by the onsite manager who will guide you on your adventure.
This extraordinary off-grid eco-villa sleeps a maximum of 12 and is open plan with only walls where necessary to provide privacy and is playfully designed to be at home in the jungle.
The main platform comprises the kitchen, dining area, living room and two ensuite bedrooms, the Junior Suite and the Family Suite.
The upper level comprises the Master Suite with a walk out to a private platform open to the stars and an ensuite shower room. The Canopy Suite offers a further bedroom and large deck at monkey eye level with an ensuite two shower room.
In the garden enjoy your very own private waterpark with 3 connected swimming pools including a deep pool with a springboard, a slide and waterfall, a shallow lounging deck, a swim up bar party pool and finally 2 smaller dipping pools with sun-deck barbecue and hammock area.
Rounding up the relaxation areas are a shaded games area and a rancho with hanging chairs and hammock.
Finally, up behind the house, in the primary forest, there is a private yoga deck with a view over to the ocean.
Choose your favourite corner and catch up with a good book, interrupted only by the world of monkeys, macaws and butterflies.
ROOMS
At Casa Vida Verde it is hard to know where the interior ends and the exterior begins!
The Master Suite has a king bed with mosquito net and large shower room and a private toilet with a hanging bridge to a walk-out deck elevated into the trees.
The Junior Suite on the main floor has a private deck, king bed with mosquito net and shower room and private toilet.
The Family Suite has screened windows (no need for nets) with a shower room and private toilet attached. The set up in this room can adapt to the guest's needs, being a third king bedroom or a king with 2 or 3 additional single beds or can be a bunk room with single beds for 5.
The fourth bedroom is the new Canopy Suite accessed by a hanging bridge and has a king bed with mosquito net, a double shower, private toilet and a private deck at monkey level overlooking the pool area. An additional single bed can be set up here on request. All the beds have cotton sheets and hotel quality pillows and mattresses.
Fall asleep to the sound of the surf knowing you are in the most comfortable beds in the area!
OUTSIDE
The viewing deck is the perfect spot to watch the jungle wake up each morning and birds and butterflies starting their day in the golden dawn light. Steps take you down into the garden.
The organic design of the house is evident here too with a fun, funky water park of three pools, one deep with springboard, slides and waterfalls, surrounded by lush tropical foliage and flowers.
Poolside, you will find a bistro table and benches, a BBQ and an outdoor shower and in the basement, we have a pool table and ping pong and cinema.
Much of our property is primary forest behind the house. Explore this area using the well-tended circular trail of steps and spend some time up at the large private yoga platform with a view to the ocean. This is the perfect spot for yoga, massage or bird and wildlife watching.
Other things to note
WHAT DO WE PROVIDE?
All linens, towels (including beach towels), kitchen towels and toilet paper, biodegradable shampoo, conditioner and shower gel, liquid soap, dish detergent, and other staples for the kitchen.
We also have some games and books together with information cards on the flora and fauna of the area. Some herbs for cooking are grown on site and there is also a variety of fruit trees. Carlos will supply you with these as available.
WHAT ARE THE CATERING OPTIONS?
Self-Catering by default - bring your groceries with you or for an additional charge shopping and delivery of groceries can be arranged.
Private chef options are also available for breakfast and dinner or all 3 meals a day. Their rate per person per day includes all menu selection, shopping, cooking and clean up.
In addition, the preparation of occasional local dishes can arranged, please ask.
WHAT WILL THE WEATHER BE LIKE?
Temperatures average mid-80s during the daytime and fall to the mid-70s at night. The coastal waters are a constant 74 degrees all year long. There are two seasons: the Dry (December through April) which is less humid and there is less rain, and the Green (May through November) when there is more rain usually in the afternoons and at night. October and early November are the rainiest months.
WHAT ABOUT BUGS?
If you are seriously concerned about the possibility of insects being around you, it is possible the open air living at Casa Vida Verde is not the best environment for you. Please be aware. There are many insects around, but most insect encounters are part of the wonder of being in the rainforest. Remember, there is a whole food chain out there and there are plenty of animals and birds’ intent on eating all insects found. However, it is a good precaution, especially in early evening, to have insect repellent and we provide a natural liquid repellent in each of our bathrooms to make this convenient.
CAN YOU DRINK THE WATER?
Yes! Our water comes from our own deep well and is safe to drink. As an additional precaution, the water from the small sink on the island in the kitchen is filtered.
IS THERE HELP NEARBY?
Our manager, Carlos, lives on site. He is an amazing host, speaks English well will want to ensure that your stay is as enjoyable as possible. He knows the area very well and is a very experienced host. Our guests report that nothing is too much trouble for him.
DO WE NEED TO RENT A CAR?
No, you do not need to. Many guests find themselves drawn to the house and the local area and plan fewer days out. So, a rental car may just sit there costing money. Therefore, if you are happy to walk locally, we recommend you getting a taxi to other locations. The taxi drivers know the area well, will often spot animals and birds that you would miss and can look after the driving while you enjoy your surroundings. However, if you prefer to have your own vehicle, this can be sorted with pick up and drop off in San Jose or Puerto Jimenez.
CAN WE USE ELECTRONICS?
Yes, please bring your own cameras, phones and laptops and devices. We do have both cell reception in Matapalo and wireless internet. We have 2 sources of internet but be aware we cannot guarantee that it will always be working. We have a Bluetooth speaker if you wish to bring your own music. Please don’t bring hairdryers or curling irons, as these use too much power. You will not miss them; in the jungle you don’t have to worry about what your hair looks like! The outlets are standard North American for 110V applications.
WHAT IS IT LIKE TO LIVE OFF GRID?
Almost the same as on grid except PLEASE, charge devices during the day when the sun is creating oodles of power and PLEASE be aware of lights and fans being left on, especially at night, which will drain the batteries. While we have backup generators, we much prefer to only use them for utility purposes.
ARE THERE LAUNDRY FACILITIES?
Yes – please ask Carlos. The facilities are not directly available to guests due to the complicated logistics involved in managing our water and power. However, for a fee, the amount dependent on load size, laundry can be done on site. If you prefer, there are service wash facilities in Puerto Jimenez as well.
Amenities
Non-smoking
No pets allowed
Map of Puntarenas Province
Ratings and reviews
Summary of reviewsGuests raved about the amazing wildlife sightings, comfortable beds, fun pool, knowledgeable hosts, and beautiful surroundings of the property. A truly unforgettable and unique experience!
10 / 10Outstanding·Jun 2026
Amazing spot. Full jungle immersion and great location , walk to Matapalo.
10 / 10Outstanding·May 2026
This was the most exceptional place--a truly special corner of the world. I feel bad for anyone who visits Costa Rica and stays anywhere else. Our group consisted of two nature-loving families (including 3 kids total). The pool, diving board, and waterfall/waterslide were magical. Our kiddos could not have been happier. It was their own secluded water park. We saw all four species of monkeys (squirrel, capuchin, howler and the endangered Geoffrey's spider monkey) from the house. Plus coatis and peccaries and agoutis and toucans and macaws. Saw a sloth down the road near Martina's Bar. Watched a meteor shower from the platform on our first night while we listened to the frog chorus. The Matapalo Beach road to the house is a proper adventure! Our little Suzuki Jimny rental handled it like a champ! Do not expect to pop out for groceries. That would be a half-hour outing to Puerto Jimenez. The nearby beach is a skip down the driveway. It is spectacular and great for splashing in the huge waves, but too intense for regular swimming. Next time we'll take surf lessons! Our host, Carlos was wonderful and welcoming and so generous with his time and local knowledge. He shared his obvious love and respect for the place where he lives. Sianne and Daniel kept everything so tidy and were such lovely people as well. Venus, the sweet dog, made a few welcome appearances and had her own special chores! I do hope we get to visit again in the future! Pura vida!
10 / 10Outstanding·Apr 2025
We had high expectations and they were all met at Casa Vida Verde! Everything was spectacular! Carlos was a delight to work with and so were the chefs Marvin and Franny! Our family created amazing memories that will be with us forever.
5 / 10·Mar 2022
First please note this: this is not a hotel in a resort area. There is no air-conditioning, the house is open, there are no nearby stores. And the road in is rock-strewn and pitted. But here’s the payoff: the adventure and getting away from our spoiled selves made it an unforgettable vacation.
We woke to the ethereal sounds of Howler Monkeys and were amazed at the natural vegetation that was all around us.
We saw Scarlet Macaws, other colorful birds, Spider Monkeys, and a green and black Dart Frog….in the first HOUR. Right from the comfort of the living room we saw agouti’s, Howler and Capuchin Monkeys, Toucans, Blue Morpho Butterflies, and amazing big/beautiful insects. Just spectacular.
The beaches were beautiful and the water was the warmest I’ve ever been in. Also in walking distance was Matapalo Waterfall, Everyday Adventures, and surfing lessons.
The house:
It seemed larger than in the web pictures. It is open, including the kitchen. We drank water from the taps without any issues. The refrigerator/freezer was larger than our needs. The open areas in the bedrooms helped cool us at night, but a small battery-powered fan was a great help. For anyone bug-adverse, the “kids room” was screened all the way around. Actually there weren’t very many bugs in the house at all. Electricity is totally solar-supplied. Therefore it was turned off when we went to bed, and turned on before we got up. There were no issues with this. But bring a flashlight or headlamp just in case you want to wander around at night. The pool was nice and cleaned daily.
The showers are heated separately and seem to be cycled. So they are tricky to use at first. Soap and shampoo were supplied.
The kitchen had 2 sinks, an oven, a stove, 2 coffee makers, and some cooking and cleaning supplies. We cooked breakfast daily. By the way, the closest town is Puerto Jimenez. It is ~ 45 minutes away. Get all the supplies/food you think you need before coming to Cabo Matapalo. We did this and we never had to go back to restock.
There are 2 restaurants nearby: Buena Esperanza and (new) Marluna Lodges.
The caretaker is Carlos. His house is steps away and his presence helped us feel secure. He was a help with information, made sure candles were lit to the house whenever we were out after dark, and made sure things went smoothly. He even went into town to pick up luggage that didn’t make it with us.
It was a splendid stay in the rain forest.
$$$$
Top rated by guests
10Outstanding
(37 Ratings)
Guests raved about the amazing wildlife sightings, comfortable beds, fun pool, knowledgeable hosts, and beautiful surroundings of the property. A truly unforgettable and unique experience!
From real guest reviews summarized by AIDon't miss out! Price and availability may change
