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| Details | |
|---|---|
| Bedrooms | 4 |
| Bathrooms | 2 |
| Sleeps | 8 |
| House | |
| Suitability |
|---|
| Pet Friendly |
| FlipKey traveler rating |
| 35 reviews |
| Stayed here? Write a review. |
Get the real scoop!
All reviews are written by verified travelers
Details
| Rental type | House |
| Minimum Stay | 4 nights |
| Bedrooms |
4 Total
Show Details ►
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| Bathrooms | 2 Total |
| Sleeps | 8 |
| Suitability |
Pet friendlyYes Smoking allowedAsk Suitable for childrenAsk Suitable for the elderlyAsk Wheelchair accessibleNo |
| Theme | Adventure, Luxury, Wilderness, Away from it all, Mountain, Tropical |
Description from the owner
Last minute special 40% off remaining April/May weeks. Located 5 minutes away from The Pacific Ocean on the pristine Osa Peninsula in Costa Rica is our Lapa’s Nest Tree House Adventure Rental. Located on over 120+ acres of pristine wildlife reserve this is an Eco Friendly Adventure in the rainforest near Corcovado National Park. Our Eco Treehouse Vacation rental is 3 or 4 Bedrooms and sleeps 6 to 8 (4th bedroom is optional and saves if you don't need it). See rate page & specials for more info.. Our Costa Rica Tree house is in remote Southern Costa Rica near Corcovado National Park and located in the middle of the rainforest. Lapa's N...Read more
Location
40% OFF Apr/May Lapa's Nest TREEHOUSE/Beach/Pool
Puerto Jimenez, Puntarenas, Costa Rica
What's Nearby:
Additional Location Information
40% OFF APRIL/May to mid June 2013. If you want to be near the beach and sleep where its cooler, our Jungle adventure tree house is the place. Hours and hours of hiking through the rain forest awaits you. We are also located on Rio Agujas,and for the adventurers in your group, our caretaker Wilber can take you up to our secret waterfall in Corcovado National Park, as the park is only a hike upstream from our rental homes. Osa Palmas Zip Line tour is nearby, chocolate tours, organic tilapia farms, butterfly farms, kayaking, wildlife refuge, boat tours, dolphins, waterall rappelling....Your touring options are unlimited !
Location Type Away from it all, Mountain, Tropical
Rates
Rates shown in $ USD (change)
| Date | Weeknight | Weekend Night | Weekly | Monthly | Minimum Stay |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rate Summary | $358 | $358 | $1,300 - $2,500 | $0 | 4 nights |
| Jan. 3 2013 - Apr. 30 2013 High Season for up to 6 (ask for rates for up to 8) |
- | - | $2,500 | - | 7 nights |
| Jan. 15 2013 - Jan. 28 2013 JANUARY 5 Night After Holiday Special 3 BedRooms- for up to 4 guests (add $400 and bring up to 6) |
- | - | $1,500 | - | 5 nights |
| Feb. 13 2013 - Mar. 2 2013 5 night school vacation special |
- | - | $1,790 | - | 5 nights |
| Feb. 13 2013 - Mar. 2 2013 February School vacations 3 bedroom rate |
- | - | $2,500 | - | 7 nights |
| Mar. 3 2013 - May. 31 2013 2013 Special (EXCLUDES EASTER WEEKS)for 3 bedrooms (add $400 for 4th bedroom up to 8 guests) |
- | - | $1,800 | - | 7 nights |
| Can't find rates for your travel dates? Contact the owner | |||||
| Mar. 23 2013 - Apr. 13 2013 Easter Holy Week for up to 8 guests all 4 bedrooms and the 4th BedRoom is FREE (saves $700) |
- | - | $2,500 | - | 7 nights |
| Apr. 20 2013 - Jun. 15 2013 April/May 2013 SPECIAL for 3 bedrooms for up to 4 guests (add $400 to bring up to 6) VERY LIMITED A |
- | - | $1,300 | - | 4 nights |
| Jun. 11 2013 - Sep. 6 2013 Summer Vacation June- Early September 2013 for 4 guests/ add $350 for 6 and $650 for up to 8 guests |
- | - | $2,200 | - | 7 nights |
| All Other Dates | $358 | $358 | - | - | 4 nights |
| View all 9 Rate Periods | |||||
Additional notes from owner
MINIMUM (when available) 4 NIGHT STAY for last minute specials. WE do not rent for less than 4 nights. 4 and 5 night specials are meant to fill gaps between weekly rentals and are generally available as last minute special with 30-45 days advance notice or less. Weekly rental rate is good for 4- 6 guests (8 for a small additional fee) at regular prices and some specials are good for 4 guests. Please read details
The 4 or 5 day special is for any last minute rentals and.are good for up to 4 guests. Additional guests (up to 4 additional guests) can be added for additional daily rate for the full term of the stay (not only one or 2 days are available- must be all of the 4 or 5 day stay). Generally we only rent for 4 or 5 days with reservations made no more than 30-45 days in advance but we will consider more advance reservations. Not usually available during holiday or school vacation weeks unless there are gaps between weekly rentals. Not available for high season June-August. Regular weekly rate applies then & sometimes has specials offered. We are almost ALWAYS full between late June through August. Short stay specials are meant to fill gaps between weekly rentals & are randomly available with VERY limited availability.
All specials require full payment at time of reservation & before the expiration to qualify for rate. and have no cancellation period. Please note cancellation policy is as follows, for non holiday weeks with cancellation made more than 120 days in advance full refund minus $250 admin fee. For holiday weeks there is no cancellation unless we can fill your week and a $250 admin fee. We turn others down for holidays once we are reserved. If we can reserve another guest for your week, we will issue a full refund minus admin fee. Dates can be changed to a time more convenient if you need to make changes but there is $250 fee to do so.
For large group reservations, there is no refund unless we can fill your week(s) plus admin fee
Refundable Damage Deposit on ALL rental is $500 or $250 (depending on # of days & # people) refundable after departure if all is on order & no damage.
Availability
AvailableUnavailable Last updated: April 10, 2013 ◀▶
What Past Guests Are Saying
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wedotidwell
fort collins, coloradoClosest to jungle immersion we could find in Costa Rica
Left on 04/08/2013 for a stay in March 2013
Our stay in the tree house was a beautiful adventure. Blondie was very helpful planning our excursions. It is quite secluded, and the town near the home was truly Costa Rican, without the touristy feeling of many other areas. The little dipping pool was refreshing, and our children loved the adventure outside every door and window. The sounds of nature were all around, and the beautiful rainforest surrounding the home is beautiful, authentic, and so easy to experience. The caretaker, Wilbur, was a wonderful rainforest guide, and the waterfall hike was perfect for our family! Be prepared to keep caveman hours (down with the sun, up with the sun), and to appreciate the quiet,solitary environment - it isn't for everyone, but we couldn't be happier that we skipped the orchestrated eco-tours so many others haave taken for a real and authentic trek into the life of the Osa Penninsula. We would not recommend the Poas Volcano and La Paz Waterfall tour from San Jose. While our driver, Erik, was wonderful and gracious, and truly knowledgeable, the tours were a terrible way to end a trip filled with authentic and lively interactions in Puerto Jimenez and the forest. We really enjoyed our authentic jungle stay, and will have one foot in the rainforest for a long time!
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The Walton's
Appomattox, VAAdventure of a Lifetime!
Left on 02/07/2013 for a stay in January 2013
We were the "tree people" from Jan 4-Jan 11 2013, and wow what an experience! If you love the outdoors, and enjoy camping - this is an amazing adventure for you! I say that because the treehouse is glorified camping basically. I've seen some negative reviews, but I think it's all in expectation. If you're expecting a 5 star hotel type stay, you will be disappointed. This is a Treehouse! You're up high in the beautiful jungle, surrounded by all the unbelievable creatures that inhabit it. We stayed in the Treehouse with our three children - ages 15,13,10 - and for all of us, it was something out of a movie. We loved stepping out of the world of technology and quickly adapted to no cell phone service, and opted to forego all technology altogether. The Tree was equipped with a TV, but who wants to watch TV when you can watch the wildife just a few feet away?! The monkeys came every morning and every afternoon, and it was absolutely wild. My kids were always thrilled to point out a new lizard or frog that had perched itself somewhere in our living quarters. We had nightly visitors that we finally got pics of the last night we were there. A Kinkaju (sp?) came into the kitchen every night foraging for food. At first knowing how close you were to animals was intimidating, but it was absolutely the experience of a lifetime. We were in the middle of the jungle! During the day, we went on all kinds of adventures. The beaches were breath-taking!!! We snorkled, hiked to a waterfall, went on a chocolate tour, swam with dolphins,and even visited a Wildlife Refuge. This trip was nothing short of amazing. The treehouse was well equipped. We cooked all of our meals in the Tree. A grocery store was only a short drive into town. The Tree was very cozy, and we thoroughly enjoyed it. The kids each loved their rooms, and were never bored in the tree. Michael and Blondie were both very helpful as was Wilbur the Caretaker. Thank you for an adventure of a lifetime!!
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Francesca Giova... P
Ramah, New MexicoJust like Tarzan and Jane
Left on 12/26/2012 for a stay in December 2012
There's only one way to describe this experience: it is the ultimate rainforest lifestyle one may dream to do at least once in a lifetime. I got hooked.
Getting up, high in the canopy, with a howler monkey being your alarm-clock with his powerful solo, and the scarlet macaws being the choir right after, you start your day greeted by some squirrel monkeys (Titis), coming right next where you're having coffee, downstairs, in the open-air kitchen, with the lush vegetation of the forest being your IMAX.
Then, as you lazily walk over to the bathroom #1, to wash up and do your other things, you look out over the wonderfully painted Mermaid in the sink: butterflies (huge Morphos among them) flying around all over, and the many different birds (Manakins, Motmots, Tanagers, Orioles, Honeycreepers, Toucans, Aracaris and Parakeets to name just a few) serenading you silly.
Shower-time awaits, with its tremendous impact as you step onto a glass-bottom enclave that gives you the vision... all the way down to the roots of "the Tree" (as I call our jungle-home in the Osa). If you're not awake by then, you will while getting a nice, hot shower suspended in the air, as it seems.
Wilbert (Wilbur for friends), the property caretaker, is ready to guide you on memorable hikes, river-walking to waterfalls, or through canyons and ridges of primary and secondary forests, showing you the wonders of nature, telling you of edible and medicinal plants, and having you taste some in the process.
Then, there are other activities offered in the area, from horseback riding to water sports, Chocolate Farm touring and Guaymi Indigenous People to meet, visit their territory, and learn about their culture, language and traditions.
As you return to Lapa's Nest (Scarlet Macaws Nest), as it is called "the Tree", you'll find waiting and greeting you, iguanas and lizards on trail, leaf-frogs, geckos and toads up the tree-trunk, and also a beautiful (harmless) golden tarantula couple, making itself visible here and there, so you'll gain enough awareness not to harm them, while they are hunting for insects.
While you were gone, a fully equipped army-ant battalion had gone through the tree-house, level after level, cleaning up every little crumb and insect at hand. When those ants come to your floors it looks better than Spic and Spam!
If you happen to go to the kitchen in the "stillness of the night", you may be lucky to meet "Gigi" (as I named it), the Kinkajou. Of the weasel family, but with big red eyes (night-vision), the kinkajous love to visit and see if, by a chance, you left some food unattended on the counters or range... If none, they'll leave.
In periods around full moon, it's magic all over again, while laying in bed and looking through the port-hole above you, the canopy shades and lights move to the breeze.
Oh! The private, spring-fed tub in the forest: what a treat! We got down there as soon as we arrived, after dark, poured on by a typical rainforest shower...
Puerto Jemenez is a jewel on its own right, with the calm, warm Golfo Dulce in front, and the colorful, laid back way of life all around, year round.
We wouldn't have it any different than we had it. We, actually, want more, much more.Response from Blondie & Michael - 01/08/2013
Owner
O Francesca- we miss you! What a gem of a person you and Umberto are. We hope to see you here again one day (soon please)! You came as a guest, you left as a friend.
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bvaeth
Columbus, OHA Fun and Unique Experience
Left on 06/27/2012 for a stay in June 2012
We were two adults and two kids (11 and 13). We rented a car and drove down from San Jose. The drive was easy and fun. The treehouse is really cool and was very comfortable. We had daily visits from Monkeys in the trees right outside the house. Puerto Jimenez is an easy, quick trip so the location is a great base for exploring the Osa (or for a quick beer run). The people were friendly and the Osa was the high point of our trip.
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Derek Cavilla
Orlando, FLAmazing Stay in Osa Peninsula Treehouse
Left on 04/17/2012 for a stay in March 2012
The Osa is one of the most pristine, beautiful places I have ever visited - in fact, the only vacation I have ever taken that topped this amazing adventure was a three-week safari in Botswana, which is a tough trip to match. On top of the amazing natural beauty and adventure in the Osa, the treehouse of Mike and Blondie is an unrivaled experience. It is not like a mundane treehouse "hotel" that is part of a resort; this is the real deal! It is a custom made tree-house that truly blends with the environment. Imagine troops of monkeys coming within feet of your sitting area with nothing between you and exotic birds perching and flying by at all times of the day. The treehouse is beautifully furnished with an amazing kitchen and comfy rooms. As if it couldn't get any better, the owners are a dream and very helpful and the caretaker of the property is one of the most genuine and caring people I have ever met. I will certainly return to this amazing oasis and encourage anyone who has the opportunity to visit to take it as soon as possible. It is a life-changing experience that will heal the soul and renew the life of anyone who visits.
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Linda
WisconsinGreat place to stay!!!
Left on 03/27/2012 for a stay in March 2012
The pictures cannot do the treehouse justice. This is a place that you have to see to believe. We had a wonderful time. It is exactly what is promised. Wilbur is a great guide and caretaker. You never feel not taken care of. My favorite part was having coffee in the am and listening to the jungle waking up. We heard sounds that we've never heard before. It was like a wonderful little orchestra of bird songs (and I'm not kidding!!!) My husbands favorite part was probably having a margarita and watching the day end. The tours they recommended were great and much better than the tours recommended in Manual antonio. I rated it only "Very good" for comfort because it is after all a tree house!!! We have called this a "trip of a lifetime".
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David
North Baltimore, OhioAwesome experience
Left on 03/14/2012 for a stay in February 2012
The service we recieved from Mike and Blondie as well as the caretaker was outstanding. They even set up tours that we wanted so we didn't have to use our vaction time doing so.
We stayed in the tree house and it was very tidy and clean. The location is right in the jungle with awesome views and encounters with nature.
The memories we brought home with us is by far the best of all my vacations. I hope to be able to return and stay again with my new friends. -
Bothar Oscail (Open Road)
Medford Ma/Castleisland Co. Kerry EireA truely wonderful experience.
Left on 03/09/2012 for a stay in February 2012
I traveled south to Osa with my 10 year old daughter for a few day and was blessed to have found Mike and Blondie's Tree house. Lapa's Nest.
We were pleasantly surprised and how beautifully designed it was. What a truly beautiful feeling it was to be high upon the tree and have such company of sounds, colors and entertainment from toucans, Macaws and a family of monkeys with their babies.
It was accessible by car and a handy 10 minute drive to Puerta Jimenez.
A wonderful place to stay, just did not get to spend enough time in the tree so if you plan, take an extra few day.
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lexiblesUSA
USAHowler monkeys :)
Left on 09/12/2011 for a stay in January 2011
Had a great time. Was a little more "open" to nature than I expected, but I'm glad my dad choose this place for his 80th birthday getaway! We saw lots of monkeys and birds and almost hit an ocelot on our way home from town one night. The only terrifying thing was crossing the old bridge to get to town, but I suspect the new one is finished by now.
P.S. My dad is really fit, so if your looking for a place to say with someone older keep in mind there are a lot of stairs. -
Jeff Kraus
DenverAbsolutely amazing Fun, Unforgettable, & One of a Kind!!
Left on 09/07/2011 for a stay in August 2011
My wife and I recentely got back from our trip to the Osa Peninsula and spending 3 wonderful, incredible days/nights in this most unique and unbelievable Tree House. The tree house exceeded our expectations, and was beyond what we imagined it would (or could) be like. No where else in the world I know of can you rent out a fantasy dream house like this one. Seriously...it's incredible. If the idea of staying in a tree house seems interesting, and you don't want to "rough it"...this is the ideal one to experience. It has anything you could ever need. I even has amenities(luxeries in a rainforest tree house) like TV and internet, but who wants to tap into the real world when you can soak in the sights and sounds of the rainforest in a once in a lifetime experience like this. Yes, you can expect to see & experience a few rainforest bugs in the house, but if you're a nature lover and interested in the idea of experiencing spending a few days/nights in the living breathing rainforest ecosystem...this is the place for you. Though this place is private unto itself, there's not much privacy inside...what I mean by that is if you're squeamish about hearing bathroom noises from others etc. it might not be the place for you. Seriously though, overall it's a really really cool place and experience. Oh, and I highly recommend paying the super nice young local Tico caretaker, Wilbur, take you for a hike in the beautiful rainforest around the tree house. Mike and Blondie were super helpful over all and made some great recommendations for a few day trips. I highly recommend experiencing the tree house. I'm pretty sure this is one vacation experience we'll never forget and will tell others about for many years to come. Loved it!!!
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Donna
Braintree, MAOnce in a Lifetime Experience
Left on 08/20/2011 for a stay in August 2011
The pictures of the treehouse do not do it justice. Climbing up into it for the first time is incredible. Watching the monkeys, birds and other creatures every day while drinking your coffee is an experience that will always be remembered. Our 6, 11 and 12 year old loved the fact that there were no walls and they could shower in glass bottom shower. Blondie was awesome with tour recommendations and setting them up for you. She knows all the good adventures to keep you going.
We had originally looked at staying at an ecolodge in Matapula but decided on the treehouse cause - well its a treehouse! We did go to Matapula one day for a tour and were very glad we did not get that primitive with our accomodations.
The treehouse has all the amenities a grown up needs (including internet) but all the fun a child wants. It was nice to come home after a day of touring, settle down, cook dinner & watch the wildlife from your kitchen counter. There is a river down the driveway that we swam at (bring a blow up tube to float down it!) and there is also a great little pool down the ravine on the property.
The location of the treehouse was very convenient to everything - 10 minutes from Puerto Jiminez. It is off the main road - easy in & easy out. We made a daily trip into town to pick up groceries and visit the ice cream lady :). There is also some great restaurants.
We had many visitors at the treehouse during our stay - the kids looked forward to finding the next one and even named some that hung aroung for a day or too like the Hermie the tree frog who loved to hang on the shower curtain & Johnny the lizard who crawled up and down the tree trunk!
We ate fresh bananas from their banana tree and watched a pineapple growing. We found coconuts & had the caretaker open them.
We would reccomend the treehouse to everyone who wants not only to see Costa Rica but have an experience that they will talk about for the rest of their lives - I know we will.Response from Blondie & Michael - 08/20/2011
Owner
I love the names for our tree visitors! We'll keep them & let other guests know what to call them! We are glad you all had a nice time! These are the kind of memories you'll all talk about when the kids are adults & have their own kids!
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JRM
Philadelphia, PAA dream {I never imagined} come true!
Left on 08/06/2011 for a stay in July 2011
I remember how special I felt when my family and I moved into a house that had a treehouse in the backyard (one level, bunkbeds, and electricity).
Come to find out this idea of a treehouse that only kids dream of living in can actually be a reality!!! It's so hard to explain to others that I was sure to take multiple video tours - it is literally a multi-story house that is built surrounding an enormous tree which you can see on every level.
I lived in the treehouse while my family and I were in Costa Rica to celebrate a wedding. I chose to stay in the monkey room (each room had a theme). The monkey room was the first room in the house, up only a few steps. It was extremely comfortable and bugfree with the exception of one bug which found its way in when I left the mesh screening open.
My aunt and cousin slept on the floor right above me in the surf room - which is accessed by walking up a step or two onto an amazing desk, and then one or more steps. It was a pretty amazing, not to mention creative, setup! On this floor there was also a half bath, seating area, and office area.
The next level has a great kitchen (we baked a wedding cake in it!), full-bath, seating area and "the moshpit" - a huge bed/couch. This is the level of the treehouse that has an amazing view of the monkeys!!!
Because we had so many people with us, we also used the master bedroom at the top of the treehouse!
Oh, did I mention the wonderful outdoor shower?
I'm not sure there are any words that can explain the treehouse to the extent it deserves - there was so much to see, explore and discover. It's like something that a little could would dream of and be told "that's not possible." Except, it is!
I loved the see-through bottom shower (no worries, no one below can see when the water is running...you only see the persons feet!), the creative and artistic sinks in the two bathrooms, the spiral stairs...Everything!
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Happy-go-lucky
Albany NYThis trip allowed me to experience new adventures!!!
Left on 08/06/2011 for a stay in July 2011
I traveled to Costa Rica for a wedding. Everything was included in my trip which made it very convenient! I went zip lining, kayaking, and even went swimming with dolphins! I also had a great experience hiking to a 68 ft. tree, climbing it and finally jumping from it. Overall my experience in Costa Rica is one I will never forget!!!
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Evan K.
Mill Valley, CaliforniaBest tree house on planet earth!
Left on 06/24/2011 for a stay in June 2011
We stayed in the treehouse for three nights, and I cannot say enough good things about the place. My father writes books on homebuilt houses so I have seen thousands upon thousands of owner homebuilt homes. But I have never seen something as amazing as this place! the pictures don't do as much justice as going there and seeing it for yourself. In the morning when we were there a group of monkeys would cruise through the trees and check us out! It was absolutely amazing. There are trails that take you around the grounds and even a pool fed by a stream to cool off in during the day. My wife and I went to the tree house for 3 of our 10 day honeymoon trip to Costa Rica and we wish we would have stayed for more. It is a really unique way to experience Costa Rica and I have to say this place is a must! The grounds are extremely beautiful and I could spend all day discovering. The instant we put our bags down we felt at home. We spent almost all of our time in the kitchen level just hanging out and on the lookout for monkeys. The shower has a plexiglass floor and you look down about 40ft to the ground while showering. It is pretty hard to beat watching the sunset over the forest while sitting 50 feet up in a treehouse and drinking Pina Colada made from freshly harvested pineapples. I highly suggest checking out the Osa Wildlife Preserve when you are there, it requires taking a 20-30 minute boat ride across the gulf towards Panama, but it is definitely worth the trip. You will not be let down if you go there. It was a truly life changing experience and we are already talking about returning asap. If I built this place I would have a hard time letting people stay there because I would want to stay there all the time. This place is truly magical and you will get an experience you will not find anywhere else in C.R. This place really made our trip over the top amazing and full of great experiences. I suggest renting a car when arriving there so you can check out the Osa.
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Jean
Spring Green, WisconsinAn amazing Christmas with the family
Left on 01/13/2011 for a stay in December 2010
We were delighted and amazed with our treehouse experience over the holidays. There were eight of us in our family group (including three adult children) and at first glance wondered if we would all fit in for the week. We adjusted immediately to the treehouse and loved every minute of our time there. We cooked together, laughed, told stories, and played games as well as taking in the sights and sounds of the Osa. Thanks to Wilbur, we had a great hike to the waterfall that was one of the highlights of our trip. He is a gem of a caretaker and so helpful. We found a beautiful beach at Playa Preciosa, enjoyed our tour of the chocolate farm, and trip to the animal reserve. Most of all it was a great get away for us all and a way to reconnect with our family in a very special way. Thanks to Blondie for making all the reservations ahead of time for us. Alex and Erik were wonderful drivers to and from the Osa everything was extremely well organized. How many people can say they stayed in a treehouse with monkeys coming to visit and eating bananas off your counter!
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caroline
SeattleAn adventure!
Left on 01/06/2011 for a stay in December 2010
The Treehouse is a major feat of engineering and architecture. On the edge of a rainforest on the Osa Peninsula it is miles from life as we, a family from Seattle, know it! Loved falling asleep and waking to the sounds of the rainforest; crickets, rain, buzzing hummingbirds, the rustle of the leaves warning us that a band of monkeys is about to pass by, even the screeching macaws!! Luxury it is not (although it does have a TV!!) but an experience of a life time, yes!! We missed not having a pool and found the dipping pool a disappointment, (our teenagers refused to go in it) but we found time to play cards, cook together, read and get to know the birds of the rainforest. The treehouse is a place to slow down, relax and rejuvinate. It is a wondeful base for exploring the beauty of Costa Rica but be warned it is a long and tough drive from San Jose.
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Mimi
Edmonton, CanadaOnce in a Lifetime...Unforgettable Experience!
Left on 12/12/2010 for a stay in December 2010
Our stay at Lapa's Nest Tree House was incredible! We arrived late after driving in from San Jose (tip: if you're not used to the roads, it might be best to wait until daylight...the roads get pretty scary once you turn toward the Osa!) and were greeted by Wilbur, the caretaker, and a symphony of crickets (it's almost deafening!). The tree house seemed to emerge in the darkness, and took our breath away. The tree house is spectacular! Everything about it is just indescribable. The moment we arrived, my husband told me that he would never want to leave...and we both had this feeling all the way to the end. We wished we could stay there forever! Every morning and afternoon, a family of squirrel monkeys made their way past the house, just metres away from us! We also had a hummingbird come in and say hello on two separate occasions, as well as a bat! Being surrounded by the sounds of the rain forest, day and night, was very special. We also saw toucans and iguanas around the house! The caretaker, Wilbur, and his family are the most kind, friendly people.
We would love to stay here again the next time we're in Costa Rica, and recommend it to everyone! -
joe
Blacksburg VaA great experience in an amazing and remote area
Left on 12/10/2010 for a stay in November 2010
The tree house was great. definitely a bit "rustic", it's pretty much all open-air so you must be able to cope with some insects, etc. but absolutely worth it. we saw monkeys, toucans, lizards, and a lot more.
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FInn
Blacksburg, VAAmazing
Left on 12/02/2010 for a stay in November 2010
This tree house was the absolute perfect way to spend a vacation. I mean, does it get any cooler than being in a tree in the jungle? We saw so much wildlife and had many great experiences. Waking up to parrots and looking out and seeing monkeys is incredible. The tree house is not far from other places, but you still get the feeling of being in the middle of the jungle. We went kayaking, zip-lining, and hiking, not to mention just chilling out at the house! This is a really cool house in a really cool place. I'll definitely try to come back!
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Jungle Dane
Blacksburg, VirginiaFabulous Jungle Experience!
Left on 12/02/2010 for a stay in November 2010
Wow! I booked the tree house as a surprise for my husband's 60th birthday and had looked at the YouTube video many times before we got there, but I think I was almost as surprised as he was when we saw it! You can't possibly understand how cool this place is until you get there. Our most jaded teenager and his brother kept looking at each other all week long, saying, "Can you believe we are living here in this treehouse?" We are not all morning people but we all loved getting up every morning as soon as the sun rose to see what was outside our open-air window in the trees, and we were never disappointed. If you stay here, make sure you leave adequate time for just hanging around the treehouse with your binoculars and your camera. We saw monkeys, toucans, parrots, macaws and more just from our "window". That said, the treehouse may not be for you if you prefer 5-star hotels. It's an open-air experience -- the hummingbirds fly right through the house on occasion -- and it's rain forest, so it's damp. But it's all worth it because, as my son so aptly put it, "How many people can say they stayed in a treehouse in Costa Rica?" And if your an outdoorsy person, you'll love this place.
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Andy
Blacksburg, VA USAMagical tree house
Left on 11/30/2010 for a stay in November 2010
The tree house (what a stunning surprise!) was wondrously magical, and none of us tired of being in it; we all awoke at dawn and found ourselves eager to get up simply to sit, drink coffee, watch the day develop, and wonder what Nature would bring into our view next. As wonderful as we found this place, it may not be for everyone; after all, it is a tree house and open to the Costa Rican rainforest. We found the hot water intermittent but that was a minor inconvenience. Overall I found it comfortable, well-appointed (especially the kitchen) and refreshingly funky. Without a doubt the most delightful lodging I have ever had.
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Emma & Matthew
LondonUtterely awesome treehouse experience!
Left on 08/20/2010 for a stay in August 2010
We stayed at Mike and Blondie's treehouse in aug 2010 as part of our honeymoon - I can honestly say it was out of this world.
Their treehouse is a work of art - it is an incredible design and has everything you could possibly want including a massive kitchen, a glass bottom shower, a monkey room - it even has a surround sound system!
We saw so much nature and there was a lot to do - the tree house is near zip lining, surfing, waterfalls, hiking and the beach. Get a car because you will see much more! Make sure you go to the chocolate farm!
Thanks you Mike & Blondie for the trip of a lifetime, it was amazing.
Emma & Matthew, August 2010 -
tiffwilhelm
Chico, CAA Living Piece of art in the Heart of the Rain Forest
Left on 08/13/2010 for a stay in July 2010
My husband and I along with our three children (6, 8, 10) stayed in the tree house for two weeks in July. The squeals of delight and "ooohs and ahhhs" from the first appearance of the tree house still linger in my memory. There was plenty of room for the five of us and the kitchen was well equipped for cooking. We were treated to squirrel monkeys crashing through the canopy at eye level with us sometimes three times a day. We had fantastic views of tucans, lizards, macaws and parrots. We had a wonderful feeling of solitude and being surrounded by/part of nature. There were plenty of hiking trails and a beautiful garden to explore. We were treated with fresh pineapple and papaya from the garden. We'd never had it so fresh and delicious. A stroll through the garden in the mornings provided serenity and lots of blue morpho butterflies and lizards. It's very lush. There are views of the water in the distance as well as into the rain forest. Although a flat panel television was available, we never found the need to use it as we were entirely entertained by the house itself and the location. This is a wonderful, once in a lifetime experience that we and our kids will always remember. I highly recommend this to any family traveling with children.
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Peggy & Barry Mauerman
Allenspark, ColoardoAn incredible adventure!
Left on 07/07/2010 for a stay in June 2010
We just loved the Lapa's Nest Tree House in the Osa Penninsula! It truly was a vacation like no other. I would definately recommend this to anyone or family with an adventurous spirit! We had monkeys and tucans and frogs come visit while we were there. The Tree House was fully equipped for cooking - hard to believe in the middle of the jungle. The caretaker made a wonderful guide on a great hike to a waterfall pool that very few people have even seen!
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CaptChrisCr
Puerto JimenezAbsolutely Incredible...Perfect Jungle Experience
Left on 07/03/2010 for a stay in June 2010
Pictures just don't do the Lapa's Nest justice, you have to see it to believe it! My fiance traveled here with 3 kids from Pompano, FL. to visit me in Puerto Jimenez. We were lucky enough to spend several nights up in the canopy of the Lapa's Nest watching the monkeys and taking in the incredible surroundings of the tree and the views. We went panning for gold in the stream below the treehouse and cooled off in the riverstone pool right in the stream. The fully stocked kitchen was perfect for feeding hungry kids...there was even ice and a blender for our Margritas!
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The Patel Family
Freehold, NJ USAUnforgetfull
Left on 06/13/2010 for a stay in May 2010
We were very impressed and delighted with our experience in the Tree House. Mike and Blondie have done a wonderful job in building and maintaining this wonderful property in the heart of the Costa Rica rainforest.
We have traveled all throughout the world and have stayed in many exotic locations, however, by far this Tree House location was the best. Seeing the monkeys swing and climb through the trees every morning was a great delight. We enjoyed just relaxing and listening to the sounds of the forest and birds throughout the day while enjoying homecooked lunch or snacks made in the fully furnished kitchen. The sunsets from the Tree House location were just absoulety fabulous.
Our excursions ( Zipline- Osa Palmas Canopy tours , Waterfall Rapelling- Andy and Terry in Matapalo at Suena Verde and Kayaking ) were all arranged by Blondie and were conducted in a very pleasant and professional manner. My family and I had the thrills of a lifetime.
Overall, we would recommend this property very highly and would not hesitate to stay here again when we return to Costa Rica ( hopefully it will not be booked at the time we return ).
Bharat, Kumud, Priya and Shriya Patel -
Jessica & Oscar
Italy / United Kingdom / Costa RicaWow, wow & wow. It´s magic!!!
Left on 04/27/2010 for a stay in April 2010
Wow, wow & wow!!! No words are enough to express the magical time we had while staying at Mike & Blondie´s tree house. After a short walk through the Osa forest, all of a sudden you get to the tree house. It is so tall and still perfectly hidden in the middle of the vegetation. I was speechless… I felt like I was entering a dream world and that characters from a Disney story or Pirates of the Caribbean were going to jump out to greet me. What a dream! The tree house is perfectly organized and equipped. We did not miss anything we needed, including cocktail glasses! There are a few cozy rooms located on different floors, a large fully equipped kitchen, a dining table, many resting areas and a comfortable TV area with a large sofa bed a flat screen TV. In this place even the bathrooms are a fun piece of art. Not to mention the amazing open decks where to sit, relax and enjoy the view of the jungle. There is even a private, little swimming pool for guests. I will not spoil the surprise, but do not miss the “SkyWalk” style shower. The temperature is mild and breezy there. I was surprised to wake up the following morning without one single new mosquito bite, considering that we slept in the middle of the forest enjoying the sounds of nature. There are no bugs there. At the tree house, everything is tidy and clean including sheets, mattresses and pillows. There is a little town a short drive away, hence it´s easy to go and buy things if needed. The road to get to the tree house is in very good conditions. Before we got to the house, Blondie sent us a great doc with all the info we needed. If you want to have something to really remember about Costa Rica, a once in a life time experience, do not miss staying at this tree house. Fabulous, gorgeous, fun and original are the words. Total relaxation guaranteed. This was the highlight of our holiday in Osa. Thanks a million Mike & Blondie for building this gem and for the delightful hospitality. Jessica & Oscar.
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Sally Ooms
Taos, New MexicoUnique experience
Left on 03/19/2010 for a stay in February 2010
Staying at Blondie and Michael's tree house was the experience of a lifetime.
It afforded all of the outdoor wonder of Costa Rica — birds, monkeys,
butterflies, amazing vegetation/flowers — with all the conveniences you
could want. Sleeping in the open air in the jungle was so great, not to
mention being up in the air in a tree! Waking up to a multitude of bird
songs was surround-sound at its best.
The construction of the tree house and its decor are a class act. Cooking in
the evening on the top floor (everything is basically open air) was a delight.
Fresh fish and good fruits and vegetables are available in Puerto Jimenez
not far away. Besides taking many of the walking paths surrounding us, we
took advantage of the area to kayak and explore beaches.
We feel privileged to have been there for a week of our lives. Thanks.
Sally Ooms, Taos, New Mexico
Response from Blondie & Michael - 03/25/2010
Owner
We loved having you & Cathy & the guys too. It was a wonderful dinner you cooked for us. Thanks again. Maybe we'll see you on a Blues cruise somewhere in the world! Blondie & Mike
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john joy
denverCloud 9
Left on 03/15/2010 for a stay in June 2009
My stay with Blondie and Michael was in the clouds and i would say was up there on cloud 9! What an amazing experience and unique accommodations.
Hearing about this amazing tree home and seeing photos can not describe an actually nights stay in this hard to believe structure.
The host and hostess are as interesting as this tree house its self. If you have the opportunity to experience this incredible place on the Osa, don't pass it up.
I hope to return one day soon. -
Doug Baldwin
Saginaw, Michigan USAThis is a once in a life time adventure
Left on 02/06/2010 for a stay in January 2009
Eleven of us, friends and family, stayed at The Lapa’s Nest (Sombra de la Lapa; where the Macaws live) for two weeks over News Years in 2009. I can convey my feelings and observations best by just copying the first two pages from my travel journal:
August 31, 2008:
New Years Eve in Costa Rica, Osa Peninsula. Arrived in the evening to see the tree house lit up like Disney World; glowing in the jungle darkness.
We are amazed when we first see the tree house. We did not expect the lights that spiral upward along the staircase and outline the tree, setting it apart from the jungle foliage. Pictures do no justice to the thing- it is one of the seven wonders of Central America.
The tree house is a sculpture, a living piece of art designed by Michael Cranford. Michael is a creative genius. He somehow finds time to design houses, paint (surrealistically), and organize local projects, including Rain Forest Aid, a yearly concert to raise funds for conservation groups. Michael is funny, brilliant, full of energy.
While Michael designs and paints, Blondie (Rebecca) runs the business. After months of emails and phone calls, she and I (Doug) feel like old friends when we finally meet in the driveway of the retreat. Blondie handled all the trip logistics: The B&B reservations; overland travel; regional air travel; food purchasing; and food preparation. All Doug did was mail money into the ozone and trust that Michael and Blondie were real people! No problem- the Lapa's Nest IS paradise!
The tree house is the space you dreamed about as a kid, only more magic. In every direction there are small details that draw the eye. Photos and videos do not capture the place; the reality is filled with depth, jungle sounds, humidity, smells, thick layers of tropical plants all around, plus the purist oxygen on the planet (you can actually see clouds of oxygen drifting up from the jungle).
It is one thing to read about or see a picture of a glass bottom shower three flights up into the jungle canopy, and quite another to stare down past your toes to the jungle floor!
The location of the tree house is also more than we expected. It is not far from Michael and Blondies magnificent house, and only a short stroll to the retreat (actually a neighbors place that is rented when the group size is large). There is also a small third house that is owned by the caretaker and his Tico family (we loved this delightful young family).
A groomed pathway with ground lights connects the tree house with trails going to the other houses. Along this walkway are exotic trees and plants. A trail also goes from the tree house into the jungle to a bathtub! (A great place to sneak off to for an ultra private skinny dip). Backtrack on the narrow road that winds up the steep hill to the compound and you come to a beautiful jungle river. It was shallow enough (knee deep)this time of the year for us to walk in and explore.
January 1, 2009:
There is a wonderful peace that comes from the sounds of the birds; and everywhere there are birds, colorful birds, bird song all day and all night.
A thick humidity hangs over everything. My shirt gets soaked as I walk along the path to the tree house. But this is not North American humidity. There is no agitation, no irritableness. There are glorious breezes around every bend, and a cooling that comes with the clouds and as the sun sets each day.
Every evening we hear geckos and frogs. Off and on there is the background buzz of a godzillion cicadas. The sloth's whistle is music each night, a series of very clear tones easily distinguishable from the bird song.
I walked over the grounds the first day taking pictures of flowers, plants, and trees. The flower pictures are great, but the tree photos don't capture the magnificence. Michael told us that there are more tree species in one hectare of jungle than in all of North America. He also said that every time a tree falls down (or is cut down) two hundred species are affected.
Jared and I walked the jungle path this morning and ended up at the bathtub. The tub is connected to a natural spring; a stream flows into and away from it. We dammed the stream to make a swimming pit, and we sailed boats in the tub.
Back at the tree house in the evening talking with Pete. He says he noticed how each level of the tree house presents a display; there is a different feeling and "show" at each level.
A troop of squirrel monkeys leaped around the tree house about 3:00 PM today. They are fast and agile, and make quite a rustling scene. They are gone about as quickly as they show up. Then a couple Macaws flew by. We are packing a lot into the first day.
On a jungle walk with Michael we find out all kinds of amazing things. Take the hummingbird beetle, for example. It is about the size of a small bird. When it flies, it flaps it's insect wings rapidly and then turns thick antennae forward, touching to make a fake beak. It looks and flies like a hummingbird until it lands in a flower. The disguise fools birds who might otherwise eat the beetle.
Okay, you get the idea. We loved The Lapa’s Nest; it was a trip with great memories, enough to last a life time.
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Philip72
Houston, TXUnbelievable Treehouse Vacation!
Left on 02/05/2010 for a stay in June 2009
I don't even know where to begin in regards to the Lapas's Treehouse! First, it's a natural engineering marvel and reminds you of something you'd see on The Travel Channel. I was amazed to learn that there was nothing screwed into the tree to hold the house in place. The tree is completely unharmed and the house is solid as a rock. Waking up in the morning with the squirrel monkeys climbing by is just awesome. Having a cup of joe in the kitchen 50 ft. up in the rainforest canopy is just incredible. No detail has been left out of the house and it has everything you need, even a flushing toilet! Going to bed at night listening to the pleasant sounds of the rainforest is one of the greatest experiences ever. House has at least 4 levels with lots of places to explore. Being high up in the tree with the birds and monkeys is a completely different perspective than being on the ground. One awesome place!
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www.psychotours.com
Cabo Matapalo, Peninsula de Osa, Costa RicaPura Bueno
Left on 02/04/2010 for a stay in May 2009
THANKS so much Mike and Blondie for sharing your space and the high life to be had in your world. What you've done is stunning, comfortable and beyond cool. Can't recommend your canopy kingdom enough - love, The Pruters
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Stevie W.
Peterborough,NHOMG What a Place! If you are considering it- You have to Stay he
Left on 02/03/2010 for a stay in January 2010
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 rental 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 loved this place & would recommend either the main or treehouse or both if you have time & can afford a week in both- they gave us a 2 week discount. It was spotless,nicely furnished, AMAZING WILDLIFE ONSITE!
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giraffe07
ny, ny usaamazing tree house
Left on 01/12/2010 for a stay in January 2010
This was an amazing experience. As i walked into the treehouse i was
shocked by how it surpassed my expectations. It really felt like i was living in
a childrens story book. It was in the middle of the rainforest by no one. I
loved that i was surronded by nature and the sounds of birds and monkeys. If
you want the highest luxury experience this is not it, but it is an experience
you will never forget. -
Boeck Family
Boston area USASwiss Family Robinson - for real!
Left on 01/07/2010 for a stay in December 2009
We stayed in Mike & Blondie’s treehouse for four nights over our Christmas vacation with our 14 & 15 year old boys. Talk about a magical time! This is the experience of a lifetime. We were visited regularly by all sorts of wildlife (monkeys, birds, lizards…) and even heard a load roar one morning just a few yards away in the jungle (still a mystery as to what it was!) There are plenty of lodges and hotels that say they have “treehouses”, but Mike & Blondie’s is private, secluded, and actually in the jungle – in short, the REAL DEAL! This is their home (should be called a treehome, not treehouse!), and the love they have for it, and the community and country they have adopted, is present and felt through the lovely artistic touches (both are artists) that are found throughout the house. I was also impressed by the great respect they had for our own privacy. Although always accessible (they or their wonderful caretaker Wilbur), we felt like the cast-away Swiss Family Robinson. If you are looking to have an adventure, want to learn first hand about a culture, and wish to bring back a truly unique memory, don’t miss this opportunity!
Response from Blondie & Michael - 01/09/2010
Owner
Thanks for the review- we were glad to have you & the boys- come back anytime. Mike & Blondie
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