Awarded with Trip Advisor’s Certificate of Excellence and Airbnb’s SuperHost Award every year since opening

 "...My wife and I were fortunate, to be some of the first to have ever stayed at Pura Vida Ecolodge…”

…We spent 8 absolutely magnificent days in the remote lodge, far away from the bustle and hustle of big cities or even settlements. The lodge is very artfully crafted from natural material and the photos on this page do not even do it complete justice how well designed it all is. Simple, yet stylish and very open. Having the sliding doors open all day whether rain or shine allowed us to always experience the rainforest at the doorstep in its fullest including the various sound and lightscapes. During the day, one can lounge on the deck, sit in the pool or simply walk around the various (unpaved/natural) roads and paths without seeing a single soul. We found howler monkeys, all sorts of insects, butterflies and birds over birds. The drive down into the little village of Coronado is a bit of a challenge given some steep parts and a 4WD is a must here. If one does not want to bother going "to town" too often, we would definitely recommend buying some basic groceries for some days in advance before making the way up to the lodge. There are also some nice restaurants in close vicinity from Coronado up and down the main highway, specifically towards Uvita. Getting to the lodge from SJO was about a 4 hour drive without major breaks and adhering to the speed limit. Overall, we can recommend Pura Vida 100% to everybody who is looking for serenity, natural bliss and an almost spiritual experience. For us, coming from NYC, it was a perfect antidote to the hectic city life. Listening to and living in the rainforest is a truly amazing experience. Thanks to Joe and Kika for this fantastic place!" Martin Lange, (via Airbnb) Nov 2012

"...We would absolutely recommend you. We had an amazing time at the lodge!”

…So much serenity and opportunity to completely tune out from the daily stress. We loved the open space, the freedom, to move around as we wanted without direct neighbours and the rainforest right outside with all the sounds and sights. We would definitely come back immediately, had we not have a rule for never to visit the same country twice in our lives! Thank you very much for this serene experience!
AirBnb Member Since June 2011

"... Yesterday on our way back home we saw a leopard…”

…just 3 meters for our car, 100m from the Villa. It was a baby but still it was completely amazing to see that !! Amazing to know that he was so close to the villa :))But today it's going home time (back to Switzerland where it is -2 degrees so we would like to thank you VERY much for the stay in your Jungle Villa it was very cool, relaxing and we had such great moments my girlfriend and I, just the 2 together in the middle of nowhere! A great experience we will never forget. You're house is just perfect and beautiful and we would highly recommend Pura Vida Ecolodge!" Jasmina & Matthieu, Switzerland (December, 2012)

“...We had a pure pura vida jungle experience!”

It's a real nature introspection as you're in direct contact with the nature all day long (and night). The first night we thought that it would be difficult to sleep with the noise of all the animals in the jungle, but now being back home, we are definitely missing it !! Henry was a perfect host/contact and helpful friend. He took us for a walk to the center of the jungle and we had saw/swim in a beautiful waterfall. Having a 4x4 is really necessary. The way to get to the villa is a real road trip, you will enjoy it everyday. We advice you to arrive in the day, even if the way is very secured, the first impression arriving at night could be a little bit too strong... Haha! It was very easy to communicate with Joe. He was very helpful before our trip and send us a lot of useful information (the welcome pack is a great idea!) He did answer during our stay to all our request and question. We would like to congrat Joe and girlfriend for the design, choices of materials and deco they choose in order to set up the house. It's exactly like in the pictures, even better. We really liked it a lot! The concept of the whole house is smart and ecologic.We highly recommend the experience and the destination. Pura vida is one of those experience that you have to do once in your life. Jasmina & Matthieu (Switzerland, Jan 2012)

“…Artsy retreat”

Pura Vida Ecolodge is an artsy retreat set among the rainforest with breathtaking panoramic views. My husband and I was staying in this hilltop hideaway with our two friends. We appreciated our hosts’ hospitality – excellent communication, welcome fruit basket, easy check-in and check-out. We woke up early in a morning, enjoyed a cup of coffee on a deck with background music of the jungle, practiced yoga, cooked healthy meals every day, plunged in the pool, read books, napped on a very comfortable couch, hiked the hills, and watched sunsets with a glass of wine. The location is perfect – it is right in the heart of the jungle, surrounded by birds, butterflies, howler monkeys with a short drive to beautiful secluded beaches. I highly recommend Pure Vida Ecolodge to anyone who wants to experience serenity, sanctuary, adventures, and appreciate clean sustainable design and eco-luxury." Aliona Sanarina (booked via Airbnb February 2013)

“…Awestruck”

...We were just meant to visit this place, our stay for Bocas Del Toro was booked by then our visas for panama were rejected, so while I was looking to find places to fill in those days, I came across Pura Vida Ecolodge, and now I have no regrets that our visas were rejected. This was unarguably the best house we stayed in during our 3 weeks in Costa Rica. Joe and Kika have create something very special here and we really appreciated it. Pura Vida Ecolodge is beautifully made with all the amenities required during a stay. Our check in was very smooth, Henry the local Tico had kept the house clean and ready for us and even stocked the refrigerator with many fresh fruits, which we used every day to make smoothies and juices. Well, I definitely recommend having a 4x4 while driving here. Since we had only 3 days on hand, we preferred to stay indoors most of the time and enjoy the house and the pool, however we did do a half day amazing snorkelling tour with Mystique dive Center, which was recommended by Joe! The dive shop is located approx 20 mins from the house and I would definitely recommend people to do this half day scuba / snorkel tour. You drive down to the beach where your speed boat is waiting to rush you to an island called Isla De Cano. Kumari who runs the dive shop is a wonderful person and absolutely brilliant at what she does. We snorkelled for two sessions of nearly 1 and 1/2 hour each with a lunch In between the dives. he coral reef around the island has so much sea life, we saw incredibly colourful fishes, turtles, dolphins and even saw a shark! What's awesome about this palace is that it provides complete privacy and literally nobody passes the house at any time. My only regret will be not staying here longer! Reviewed 4 February 2013 for a stay in January 2013 (Airbnb guest)

"...It was SO GOOD, we extended our trip by 5 days!!!"

With so much to see and do in Costa Rica, we originally planned to stay at Pura Vida Ecolodge for just a couple of nights, but upon arrival and instantly falling in love with the place, location and the unique lifestyle the retreat offers we decided to make it our 'nest' for the entire week. Highlights for us were the morning nature trails on the edge of the reserve, bathing in the fresh water waterfalls and plunge pools, waking up to the sound of crickets and howler monkeys, watching amazing sunsets and sipping tasty papaya 'batidos' in relax on the lodge's panoramic balconies. The 'rustic' Playa Garca and Mangrove boat tour was a real experience and insight into how the local Ticos live. The adventure getting there through the mangroves and the Rio Terraba was rewarded with a 'delightful' walk on the wide, open and deserted beach with lovely little crabs hiding as soon as we were passing by; sensational seeing how the ocean floods, at high tide with a twist of waves, the strip of land called by locals 'Playa Garca' because of the thousands of birds that visit it every day Thank you Gersan and Ily ... an amazing day out and a great 'tico' picnic lunch!!! The Isla de Caño trip was also a great excursion as we dived and snorkled and saw loads of turtles, manta rays and even reef shark. It was amusing to take pictures of the dolphins following our boat and to try to catch their best acrobatic performances. Thanks to Kumari at Mystic Dive! Joe & Kika have created something very special at Pura Vida Ecolodge. It has been designed to literally hang over the jungle canopy so you really get the feeling of 'living with nature' and at the same time it has wonderful ocean views. The lodge's plunge pool (by day & night) was special, and being relatively new to 'eco-luxury', we just loved the concept. Loads of stunning and empty beaches nearby (Playa Ballena and Playa Tortuga our favourites) and fresh fish and tropical fruits back at the lodge every day was a winner! THE EXPERIENCE IN PURA VIDA ECOLODGE IS DEFINITELY A MUST FOR ALL THE NATURE LOVERS!!! Angela DeNicola, Naples, Italy (Booked via Airbnb April 2013)

 “...I live in Costa Rica and my parents were coming out to visit for the first time…”

so I wanted to put us up in a nice spot for lots of relaxing away from the crowds but with access to lots of fun stuff. The Pacific South region really is a great spot and we were all very happy with the activities in the area. Diving / snorkelling / turtle spotting at Isla el Cano, night walking near Dominical, visiting local fish farms, and kayaking in the huge mangroves of the region. We also spent a few days just lazing at the house reading, playing cards, etc. The house itself was perfect for our needs. It is minimalistic in the best way - it has everything you need and nothing you don't. For me the decor and fittings were excellent. The beds were very comfortable. Tucans visited daily and there are all sorts of other critters around to look for. The view to the ocean is great. The pool is a perfect plunge pool for cooling off on those hot afternoons. Overall we were completely happy with the property and the service provided by Joe. The drive up is a bit of an adventure but completely doable. We didn't need to turn on the 4x4 capability of the truck. It's worth it to get away from the highway full of tourists, especially during the busy easter season. Ashraf Dean, San Jose, Costa Rica (Booked via Airbnb March 2013)

“Beautiful and amazing place!”

My boyfriend, me and a couple of friends stayed at Pura Vida and really loved our stay. We wish that we could have stayed longer, Everyone was very friendly and helpful. The view was outstanding. Very clean place. Would definitely recommend staying here." Rachel LaSalle, Quebec, Canada (Booked via HouseTrip March 2013)

“'Designed relaxation in tropical oasis - you'll love the sliding doors.”

Exactly as pictured and described. Great place. Super layout, design and construction. I've stayed at dozens of places in Costa Rica and this is one of my favorites." Patrick Herold, Decatur, Georgia, United States (Booked via Airbnb, May 2013)

“Conscious Perfection”

Pura Vida Ecolodge is a well-designed, inspiring, gorgeous piece of architecture nestled into lush jungle landscape with ocean views...what is not to love? Gersan, the owners' friend and surrogate host, was attentive, accommodating and perfectly charming. We were thrilled to arrive to an infinity pool and large bowl of tropical fruit after a long day of travel! The thoughtful little touches (ample, creatively arranged candles, blender, south pacific area guide, plently of incredibly soft towels) were evident, used and appreciated. The indoor/outdoor flow was absolutely PERFECT, with doors in all the right places for privacy and bug/air control. This space beautifully exploits the exotic wonder of Costa Rica and the pura vida lifestyle!! We loved every minute..thank you for contributing in such a huge way to what was ultimately a wonderful, relaxing vacation!" Suzanne Codiga, San Jose, Costa Rica (Booked via Airbnb April 2013)

 "...This house is really, really well done!”

…We were only there for about 3 days but it was simply amazing. The house is very very comfy. We loved the attention to detail put into the design of the house. It has everything one can need and nothing more. We were especially fond of the amazing sunsets you can watch from the comfort of the awesome couch inside the house. I would return here for sure!!" Lance Moss, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States (Booked via Airbnb May 2013)

"...We fell in love with this spot….”

…The house is everything pictured and then some. We stayed for 9 days and to be honest we could have stayed 9 more. We did the local mangrove tour with garsun and his wife and it was amazing and with every cent. They serve breakfast to your group out of their home and is a great way to take in this culture. We stayed during the rainy season and it was perfect. The entire living room opens up and you feel like your floating in the mountains over the jungle. If your looking for a place to just unplug, go off grid and relax this spot comes highly recommended. We rented a car in San Jose and drove down. The next time for sure I will spend the little extra to fly into uvita which shaves off allot of travel time. I can't wait to go back." Todd Gear, New York, New York, United States (Booked via AirBnb August 2013)

"...The house is high and the range is very green…”

…The view from the terrace of the house perfectly beautiful exterior of the house is also very good blown living very much to the inside finish is good. The owner makes a welcome basket of fruit."
Konstantin Zakharenkov, Russia (Booked via AirBnb September 2013)

"...We stayed here for two nights, if you are lucky you can hear @ howler night and a lot of birds @ day…”

…The house is spectacular, is beautifully decorated keeping its concept. The view from the deck is just unbelievable. Jerson ( the boy who manages the house ) the most sweet and kind local that exists, he'll do everything on his power to help you, whatever you need . The place is about 3 miles from a very small town, so best to bring the basics with you on your first day. The property has as a courtyard some breath taking waterfalls you can visit. Now the kitchen has a water purifier that is very helpful so you can drink water from the pipe.They welcome you with a basket full of tropical fruit. (winch is very nice for snack @ the pool) The house is very comfortable has two levels and enough space for 6 people. My favorite part of the balconies!!! also has a bathroom where you can take a shower facing the mountain or jungle, super relaxing and refreshing. The garage is just for one car but you have enough space for parking outside. And you don't have to worry cuz is very secure! Overall architecture of the place is harmonic with nature and we loved it. It is well worth visiting this place!!! Does not matter if you're a Costa Rican or foreign. I'll come back some time for sure!" Eli Sanchez, San Jose, Costa Rica (Booked via AirBnb October 2013)

"... A Rainforest Paridise! 

…As first time visitors to Costa Rica we knew we were in for a real treat when we came across Pura Vida Ecolodge just before we arrived. It was a very last minute booking but this magical retreat really is (if at all possible) even better than we imagined and is and does exactly what it says on it's profile. We drove down from San Jose which was a great experience in itself, i'd say it was about 3 hours and the directions made it super easy. In the 3 days we were there, we definitely managed to unwind, relax, turn off and embrace the 'pura vida' lifestyle on offer. The location was perfect for us, secluded, beautiful and quiet but within easy reach of some of the best beaches we've ever seen, loads of great activities (we highly recommend the canopy tour) and Ojochal (lovely little village about a 10/12 minute drive away where we had 2 very tasty meals). Back up at the lodge, the facilities were pretty impressive, it's been designed with a lot of attention to detail and it looked like the owners had recently stocked up on a completely new kitchen (my girlfriend LOVED this as she's an avid cook), and Gerzan explained that Joe & Kika had just installed a new wifi router, which meant that I could keep in touch with work and emails whilst taking in the views on the deck. Personally, my favourites were the infinity pool and the huge rain showers in the bathrooms and just up the road from the house, there is really cool nature trail, which basically takes you through the jungle to a river and natural plunge pool - there is no better way to start the day! On the other mornings we did yoga (another great touch) on the deck and enjoyed papaya smoothies (thanks for the fruit basket!!) I'd say the house has everything you need and nothing you don't. We even managed to pick up a bit of spanish the day we did the boat tour with Gerzan and Ily. Again, this comes highly recommended and is really good value for money and quite a unique way to discover the local area and fishing was really fun, those mangroves were amazing and we were lucky to see a whole load of monkeys and birds. If only we could have stayed longer. In short, a great location, great place, and great value for money. Highly recommended! Thanks for this once in a lifetime opportunity." Andy Daniel, London, UK (Booked via AirBnb November 2013)

 "... Pura Vida Eco Lodge - more a feeling than only a name!

…Joe, the owner, did our check-in (and also check-out) himself and made us feel extremly welcome! From the beginning on we definitly recognized that it was the right choise to stay there. Independently which place, room or piece we discovered within the eco lodge, we could see, with how much passion, knowledge and love this was designed. Really well done! The kitchen was extremely well equipped, as well as the remaining house - they thought of everything!!! Beside of all the incredible things the eco lodge had to offer, Joe was a great host and gave us additionally some tipps for the surroundings (the trail nearby and especially the waterfall are absolutely stunning...) This is THE place where you can definitely leave the stress behind, lean back and just have a great Pura-Vida-time! If you have the chance, take it, be a Part of it and spend a few Nights in paradise!" Nancy Schmogrow, Berlin,  Germany (Booked via AirBnb December 2013)

 "...Pura Vida Paradise!! We stayed 5 nights at this wonderful villa, a family of two adults and two kids…”

…The villa live up to all the promisses from the pictures and lots of more. It is well equipped with everything you need, and even yoga mats that we used every morning on the wonderful terrace with absolutely magical views. You will live in the middle of the forest surrounded by stunning scenery. We experienced the most fanatstic stary sky we have ever seen. Make sure you have a 4 w drive otherwise you wont be able to reach the villa. And the drive is a adventure by itself!! If you arrive after dark, be sure to make arrangements so that you will be met in Coronado by Gersan, who takes care of the house to Kika and Joe, he will guide you up the adventurous road. We went on the mangrovetour with Gersan and Illy. A delightful experience with stunning scenery and a wonderful day on a deserted beach. We highly recomend this tour, but for small children the 1,5 hour boattour at the river in the sun might be a bit to long. Kika and Joe has been very helpful and fast to replay in email. The welcomepack we received before we arrived was very helpful. We hope that the villa and its surroundings maintain its unique atmosphere and we are able to visit this unspoiled paradise again! Lots of love Camilla Lars Seth and Sam Sweden" Camilla & Lars Nilsson, Stockholm, Sweden (Booked via Airbnb December 2013)

"...I cannot begin to describe how wonderful our stay at Pura Vida Ecolodge was…”

…The house is tucked away in the rainforest, with a giant porch and view over the trees to the ocean. The half of the walls are screen doors that slide open, making you feel as connected as possible to the birds all around you. I was nervous about being so far south in Costa Rica, but it ended up being exactly what we needed. The highlight of our trip: Playa Ventanas. We went to that beach 3 times in 7 days, and I wish I could return. Possibly the most perfect beach I have ever been to." Brandi Henderson, Seattle, Washington, United States (Booked via Airbnb January 2014)

"...We had a fantastic three days at the beautiful villa…”

Beautiful views, nice setting in the midst of nature, refreshing small pool, cool breezes, it was a real wow-experience. Would recommend it ! It is a nice but shaky ride (approx 10-15 min) from the main road to the villa, so bring drinks and breakfast with you on arrival. But all this is explained in really the best welcome-brochure we ever received." Bart & Linda Elsen, Hasselt, Flanders, Belgium (Booked via Airbnb January 2014)

"...My husband & I had a fabulous experience at the Pura Vida Ecolodge…”

The pictures do not do justice to the beauty of the surroundings and the craft of the lodge itself. We took advantage of the boat tour & loved experiencing Costa Rica with some fabulous locals. Thank you for the opportunity and we hope to be back!" Shanna & Jon Duvall, Asheville, North Carolina, United States (Booked via Airbnb January 2014)

"...Our stay at Pura Vida Ecolodge was way beyond anything we could have imagined or expected!”

The open-air plan gave us a wonderful feeling of being immersed in the tropical jungle. Awakening every morning to the rising sun and the sound of Howler monkeys, sea surf and many many birds was spectacular! We so thoroughly enjoyed our Mangrove / River / Deserted Beach tour with Gersan and Ili. This is truly a special way to engage with the real goodness of Costa Rican people and is not to be missed! We can't find enough good words to say about our whole experience here and we're already thinking about how to go back again." Jeanette & Bill Allen, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States (Booked via Airbnb January 2014)

"...Lovely accommodation. A great view to wake up to in the morning…”

Good functioning kitchen. Be prepared you really do need a 4x4. My husband did the driving and I was glad. The jungle is gorgeous. Gersan who did the boat tour was fabulous, despite his limited english. He brought Elsar along who spoke a little more. The beach is great, bring lots of sunblock as the sun is baking." Gemma Harwood, Jerusalem, Israel (Booked via Airbnb January 2014)

"...We had the most amazing stay at Pura Vida Ecolodge!”

We got the perfect route how to find it in the Welcome Package and once we arrived Gersan was right there to explain everything to us. We even got fresh fruit as a welcome gift! From the very first minute we fell in love with thus beautiful house in a stunning location. Everything was super clean and very well kept in shape. It even has a second guest house on the lower level which we didn't get to use since there was plenty of room for the both of us upstairs. The pool is lovely and refreshing. I did Yoga twice a day with the sunrise and sunset on the terrace with its amazing view. The kitchen is super well equipped so we cooked every day, though there are a lot of great restaurants in the area... On our last day we took the tour with Gersan which was so great! His wife prepared a late breakfast for us at their home and from there we headed of to get to the boat and into the mangroves. We saw tons of birds and even monkeys! Finally we arrived at a super isolated, beautiful beach where we had the picnic they specially prepared for us (were both vegetarians and they had tons of fresh fruit and a homemade delicious guacamole and tortillas). Gersan and his friend were very polite and cool guides, telling us everything about the nature... What can we say: it was a PLEASURE to stay at Joe's & Kika's home and we'd definitely come back next time we're in Costa Rica! Thanks again for being such great hosts!" Julia Tyrolt, Würzburg, Bavaria, Germany (Booked via Airbnb February 2014)

"...Dramatic access to the lodge, we'd suggest a 4WD but once arrived one is compensated with the magnificent view over the forest to the sea …”

Easy checkin and key pick up at the house, where the housekeeper was waiting. The premises were as specified on the website. Rain showers worked splendidly, plenty of clean towels were available, WiFi ran without problems. The 'plunge-pool' provided a welcome refreshment in the heat of the day. The house is equipped with numerous fans with AC & fans in both bedrooms. The housekeeper and his wife offer a fun (and quaint) mangrove boat tour which includes a very tasty typical Costa Rican lunch. In the immediate vicinity of the house are numerous small and larger good restaurants. Very useful & detailed welcome pack sent before checkin. All in all we highly recommended the house, its design and architecture." Walter Grimhardt, Bocholt, Germany (Booked via Airbnb February 2014)

"...Pura vida as it should be - highly recommended !!! The Ecolodge was a highlight of our Costa Rica trip…”

…Everything was as described or even better than the photos can show it. The house is furnished with great attention to detail and has everything you could wish for. In particular, the stylish kitchen is fully equipped and preparing food a pleasure. In addition, we enjoyed very much the environment (jungle, beaches, mangrove tour with Gerzan). Thanks for everything (including the helpful welcome pack and the fruit basket)." Anja Thaysen, Dusseldorf, Germany (Booked via Airbnb February 2014)

"...We spent 6 nights in the lodge with our children (6 and 9) and we all loved it…”

…The first day arrival by night was already the real adventure we were looking for: wild animals (toads, birds, bats...) on the road, climb the hill (4x4 is the only option), alone in the dark... Once there, we discovered this nice and well-designed paradise: the lodge is like on the pictures, the sound of the jungle on top! Eco life style: do not expect a quiet and luxurious place, but as mentioned in the description, a retreat / an experience. The sun rises at 5:30am and the life of the forest (monkeys, birds...) wakes up, it is ideal to observe the nature. The night is quite dark, you can see stars that are not visible close to cities. The lodge is equipped with everything you would expect from such a place (+ a bonus with the pool). The lodge is 25 mins drive to Uvita and 20 mins of the first beach (Tortuga, Ventanas, Ballena, Dominical... playas) and Marino Ballena NP . 1h drive to Manual Antonio NP and to Sierpe (good start point to go to Corcovado NP). Even if they are not present on-site, the hosts Joe & Kika are seriously and remotely taking care that everything goes well and their local friend Gersan is available to welcome you and in case of emergency. Great organization!" Alexandre Capt, Landser, Alsace, France (Booked via Airbnb March 2014)

"...What can I say? We really loved the beautiful house and the overwhelming surroundings..”

…and we had a wonderful time there! Joe, Kika and Gerzan were very helpful and great hosts being very professional and polite. Definitely the highlights of our one month tour through Costa Rica. Thank you!" Joergen Von Bodenhausen, Cologne, Germany (Booked via Airbnb March 2014)

 “...We had an absolutely incredible time at the Pura Vida Ecolodge! “

…We couldn't have asked for a better experience and truly feel thankful that you have opened your retreat to us. We met Gerzan, their host and Zeger, their neighbor to the north and both were so nice and helpful! We utilized the beautiful kitchen and all it had to offer by cooking breakfast, fresh fish and blending fresh fruit smoothies. We used many of their local recommendations on beaches and places to visit which was really nice to have! We didn't have time to do Gerzan's mangrove boat tour but we so wish we could have because it sounded wonderful. We surfed in dominical, saw la Catarata de Uvita, visited Manuel Antonio National Park and explored some local beaches close by! We would absolutely recommend the beautiful retreat full of natural sights and sounds. You will definitely need a 4x4 because the road to get to the Ecolodge is dirt/gravel and very steep with lots of sharp curves. With that being said, we definitely had fun riding up and down everyday! We were unfortunately a little later than expected when arriving which got us there after dark. We were comfortable driving on but I'm not sure we would recommend to most- definitely arrive in day light. We were fortunate that Zeger was there to greet us and let us in late! Everything we needed was there or at the local soda/convenience stores right before turning down the dirt road to the house which was nice, too! Thank you so much again for letting us into your wonderful retreat! We truly hope to visit again in the future- Pura Vida!" Krysten Bauman, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States (Booked via Airbnb March 2014)

"...A fantastic retreat right in the middle of nature, perfectly equipped, tidy and lovely arranged…”

…The boat tour was a real experience and brought us to an amazing beach. Both Joe as well as his local contact were of great help during our stay, especially when we had a break-down with our car." Daniel Meyer, Wiesbaden, Hesse, Germany (Booked via Airbnb March 2014)

"...This house is incredible . My only complaint is that I wish we stayed longer…”

…The pool is greet ... Don't worry about it not being beach front because it's 10 minute drive from the most beautiful beaches I've ever seen . Take the hosts reccomendations they are fantastic ! Gave us the alternate entrance to playa tortuga and we had the beautiful beach to ourselves . Gersan is a great help his mangrove tour sounded amazing but just didn't have the time . Amazing experience ! No complaints!!!" Brian Garrett, Chicago, Illinois, United States (Booked via Airbnb March 2014)

"...Many thanks and high praises to Joe and Kika the owners…”

…and Gerzan the caretaker of the Pura Vida Ecolodge for making our first family visit to Costa Rica a truly memorable experience. The well designed villa was a relaxing and revitalizing retreat yet close enough to many great area attractions that kept us busy exploring during the day. We appreciated their helpful and detailed information on the area and took their advice on beaches, waterfalls, restaurants, fish market, and provision shopping. We thoroughly enjoyed Gerzan's boat adventure through the mangroves and visit to the longest stretch of beach on the Pacific Coast which included a walk through his rural and quiet village. Our trip to the Osa Canopy Tour was also an adrenaline highlight! The neighbor, Zeger, could not believe we were in Costa Rica for only a week, so the longer the stay the better for the Pura Vida experience. A 4x4 is a must and daytime driving up and down the steep, narrow and rocky road to the house is preferable; tire changing skills may come in handy as well. If you are looking for a place to unplug and soak in the sights, sounds and stars, then we highly recommend the Pura Vida Ecolodge! We hope to return someday!" Tom & Nancy Albertson, Rockport, Maine, United States (Booked via Airbnb April 2014)

"...Really enjoyed the place. Had an amazing view and it was right in the middle of the jungle…”

…Though at night, there was a lot of bugs which were attracted towards the house and we had to frequently turn off the lights to reduce their numbers. Overall I would highly recommend the place for anyone who wants to experience a real taste of Costa Rica." Farzad Ehsani, Sunnyvale, California, United States (Booked via Airbnb April 2014)

"...Our 7-days stay at the Pura Vida was everything we wished for and more…”

…The house located on top of the mountain is beautiful and comfortable with incredible views. We had a great time immersing in the natural beauty of Costa Rica while enjoying comforts of a well planned home, such as warm showers, comforatble beds and home-cooked meals. Yoga in the morning accompanied by sounds of congo monkeys welcoming the rising sun or watching the stars at night with the soundtrack of cicadas coming from the jungle, we loved it all! We were able to visit several beautiful beaches, swim in waterfalls and mountain rivers, go fishing, and sample local cuisine in several little restaurants. Both Joe and Gersan were very helpful and responsive. Thank you! Pura Vida! Nataliya Budnik, New Jersey, United States (Booked via Airbnb April 2014)

"...The ecolodge was beautiful, there was a fresh fruit platter waiting for us and it has the amazing view shown in the pictures…”

…The pool is small but deep and very refreshing during the hot Costa Rica afternoons. We came at the start of the rainy season and were treated to an awesome thunder and lightning show from the upstairs bedroom. However, because of the heavy rains, the road was probably a little more rutted out than usual. The road up to the house is only possible with a 4x4 car. Upon check in we were met by the caretaker Gersan who showed how to work all the lights and gave us a tour, we don't speak fluent Spanish and he doesn't speak English but he was SO nice and we communicated just fine. Unfortunately for us, we got sick on our way up to the ecolodge and weren't feeling better until after we left so we weren't able to hike to the nearby waterfalls but we heard the one closest to the house is just so special. Tip: If coming from the north there are 2 large grocery stores in Uvita that are worth a stop as they have more variety compared to the sodas in Coronado and Tres Rios. A quick trip to the grocery store can still take a while because of the hill leading up to the lodge so we recommend stocking up on foods before hand (the ecolodge has a fully equipped/well stocked kitchen), unless you are planning on eating out most meals. Kacee Astorga, Citrus Heights, California, United States (Booked via Airbnb May 2014)

"...Beautiful hideaway - the perfect place to relax!”

…The two of us stayed one week at Purevida Ecolodge. We simply enjoyed it. Perfect location with views on the pacific ocean. More privacy isn't possible, this place is perfect for people who just want to relax. The house has everything you would need. The hosts, Joe and Kika, are very helpfull and its easy to communicate with them. Also Gersan who lives nearby was around when we needed him. Truly enjoyed this week at this tropical paradise. So all in all we can highly recommend this beautyful place in the middle of the Costa Rican jungle." Michael Poysden, Zurich, Switzerland (Booked via Airbnb May 2014)

 "...We had a wonderful adventure at Pura Vida Ecolodge…”

…We loved the feeling that we were truly immersing ourselves in the Costa Rican experience, something that simply cannot be accomplished if you stay at a resort/hotel. Yes, we booked a tour of a national park (Corcovado), and yes, we went ziplining (Osa Mountain Tours), both of which are within easy driving distance of the house. But our favorite experiences were the things that can ONLY be done by staying at Pura Vida Ecolodge: the nature hikes that are merely steps away from the property are indescribably beautiful and enchanting, and our trip through the mangroves to Playa Garca, where we literally had the entire beach to ourselves thanks to housekeeper Gerzan's private boat tour, was unforgettable. Getting to the house is an adventure unto itself as you climb the winding, steep dirt road, but we loved it and considered it to be part of the experience. And the views that you see in the pictures are even more incredible when you see them in person. We never had to turn on the air conditioning because of the nice cool breeze, particularly in the evenings. And you will enjoy being awoken by the howler monkeys each morning! If you are looking for a unique experience that is truly off the beaten path, then this is a good home for you to rent. Its proximity to activities (national parks, ziplines, beaches, etc.) is excellent, and there are some great restaurants just up the road in Ojochal (Exotica was my personal favorite -- try the shrimp banana curry dish, it's delicious!). At the same time, you are far enough away from things that you will not feel like a tourist. My wife and I feel that our daughters not only enjoyed themselves, but also gained an appreciation for Costa Rican culture that they would not have had if we were to have stayed elsewhere. Our whole family left Pura Vida Ecolodge saying that it was the best vacation we've ever taken." Tim Mauri, Point Pleasant, New Jersey, United States (Booked via Airbnb June 2014)

"...We had a great experience all around, staying for a week…”

…Joe and Kika have provided useful and timely information and support. The house is really in the middle of nature and the kitchen/living room let's you experience all the noises of the jungle, while the sleeping rooms have had windows and aircondition, providing a more quiet and on demand cooler environment. The local help Gersan is nice and we can only recommend the boat tour that he offers." Chris Huber, McCordsville, Indiana, United States (Booked via Airbnb June 2014)

"...Where do I start. Had a very memorable stay here…”

…We, my girlfriend and I, stayed at the lodge for five days. We flew in from SJO drove to the lodge which was about a four hour drive. We showed up around 6:00 and by then it was dark, luckily we had Gersan to guide us to the lodge. Long story short the place is like no other. You're literally way up in the mountains away from everyone and everything. The place had a wonderful view. The home itself suited us perfectly, from the plunge pool the the open living space. You must visit Turtle beach which isn't far at all. Literally have the whole beach to yourself. Gersan was very helpful and kind hearted. You will definitely need a 4x4 to get up to the place. Don't short out on renting a small car, get the most rugged one you can. Also go and pass by the market and get food before going up the place so you can stock the fridge. Already miss sitting on the couch, watching the lightning, hearing the thunder and the rain poring down." Martin Consul, Everett, Washington, USA (Booked via Airbnb July 2014)

"...This was by far the coolest thing I've ever done!”

…It was a jungle wonderland that we never wanted to leave. Gerzan (house manager) was super awesome and helpful. He even made us a coffee maker out of bamboo!! I would highly recommend this to anyone and everyone!! Seriously amazing. THANK YOU!! The house was gorgeous and very comfortable. There was AC in the bedroom to make it feel comfortable like a hotel but then when you want to walk outside it's an amazing jungle with tons of wildlife and beauty" Julie & Garrett Freeman, Huntington Bech, California, USA (Booked via Airbnb July 2014)

"Beautiful!...So reviews are for you, the traveller, to get a better idea of the place and to read other peoples opinions...”

…So that's what this is, a bit of info and my opinion, but I will try to stick with info. As others have said, the road is rough. 4 wheel drive with good tires is a must! It's incredibly steep, but because of that the view is exceptional. I suggest taking a walk further up the road as well. It's a beautiful and peaceful area. We are a family of 5, the 3 boys slept upstairs so the twin beds in the master bedroom worked for us. My husband and I slept in the jungle view room which doesn't have the incredible view or the cross ventilation that the upper floor rooms had making it a bit musty but not a big deal. It's the jungle after all and your only sleeping there. All of the beds were comfortable, the eco-washing machine takes a bit of getting used to, the internet was in and out for us (make sure your devices have notifications and apps closed, it's a SIM card that gets charged in town and not something we were used to, but I think there were other issues as well... like rainstorms!). Solar hot water heater, clouds and rain and 5 people = warm to cool showers. The kitchen is stocked with what is necessary and is easy to navigate. We cooked dinner every night. We never had issues with power going out as we did in other houses.I love the openness of the house, the huge sliding wood doors to make it even more open, the master bedroom view... wow. Relaxing on the deck was my preferred spot This house would be perfect for a honeymoon. I highly recommend Gersan's mangrove tour. He is a young local man with a lovely wife and baby who took the 5 of us in 2 boats with a couple of other locals through the mangroves to a very private and beautiful beach. His wife made us a very delicious lunch. Special moments include - A lightening storm so far south is was only on the horizon and at the same time the area was filled with fireflies. Magic. Our last night, probably the best sunset of our trip.Poison dart tree frog in the bathroom. Gersan chopping open green coconuts with his machete for us to drink. Try to visit Bob's Roadshack Deli in Uvita... best sandwiches ever and artisan beer. Joe, the owner stays in contact with you and is very helpful. When you confirm your reservation his directions include photos! Why doesn't everyone in Costa Rica do that! VERY helpful. Good luck with your decision and enjoy your trip!" Marianne Orme  (Booked via Holiday Lettings, August 2014)

"...A magical honeymoon experience like no other - Gosh, it seems impossible to put into words how amazing this place is…”

…My husband and I went here on our honeymoon and still look back and the photos and long to return. So hard to describe how peaceful, beautiful and relaxing this place is. It is completely secluded, no people in sight. Everything is so well kept and comfortable. I love the scroll back doors that let you be technically "indoors" but having the entire house open to the jungle while you sit on the couch and read a book or while you're sitting at the table eating breakfast. But then, if it becomes a little too much my husband and I would go to our "escape" (aka the bedroom) and there is a very nice AC unit that works AMAZING and a beautiful rain shower. The price is AMAZING for this place, I'm so thankful I found this website. So many local adventures to do in the area. We would wake up and go to an excursion (zip lining, CANYONING!!!!, or just explore a beach) and be back up to the house at around 2pm and just enjoy the balcony and pool at the house. **sighhhhhhhhhhhhhh** Just talking about it makes me wish I was back there again. And the FOODDDDDDDDDDDDDD!!!! Oh so good!! We went grocery shopping to have food at the house (passion fruit, pinapple and mango juices are AMAZING!!) but we also tried out the local restaurants and they were SO GOOD!! Man, words and pictures don't do this place justice, trust me when you say that you HAVE TO GO!! My husband and I are already planning when we can go back to visit!! ANDDDDDDD, the housekeeper Gersan is so amazing!! He even handmade my husband a bamboo coffee maker because he loved the one that was in the house!! Gersan also invited us to his house to meet his wife and 2 month old baby girl. They are so friendly and welcoming, it was such a delightful treat. I have traveled to over 15 different countries and done some pretty cool things but this by far was my favorite place to visit and CANYONING (costacanyoning.com) has been my favorite thing I've ever done!! Thank you so much Pura Vida Ecolodge!! We'll see you in the future for sure!! Julie Freeman (Booked via Airbnb, September 2014)

...Where do I start. Had a very memorable stay here…”

…We, my girlfriend and I, stayed at the lodge for five days. We flew in from SJO drove to the lodge which was about a four hour drive. We showed up around 6:00 and by then it was dark, luckily we had Gersan to guide us to the lodge. Long story short the place is like no other. You're literally way up in the mountains away from everyone and everything. The place had a wonderful view. The home itself suited us perfectly, from the plunge pool the the open living space. You must visit Turtle beach which isn't far at all. Literally have the whole beach to yourself. Gersan was very helpful and kind hearted. You will definitely need a 4x4/AWD SUVV or truck to get up to the place. Don't short out on renting a small car, get the most rugged one you can. Also go and pass by the market and get food before going up the place so you can stock the fridge. Already miss sitting on the couch, watching the lightning, hearing the thunder and the rain poring down. This place is not for the faint of heart, there will be critters all over the house, in and out, and the terrain getting up to the place is like no other place I have driven, super steep inclines and uneven rocky roads. No way would we be able to get up when it rains. Also never left after dark as it would be to risky. Overall a experience like no other" Martin Consol (Booked via Airbnb Sept '14)

 “...Our stay at the Pura Vida Ecolodge was truly a magical experience!”

…The villa is surrounded by the most magnificent jungles. We saw all sorts of beautiful birds and creatures from the porch which made just relaxing on the porch an activity in itself! There is also several great hikes just a few minutes walk from the house. The house is also not too far from the main roads and we were able to go to the nearby beaches, and do all sorts of activities without traveling too far. Thank you Joe and Kika for a wonderful experience, it is one that we will never forget!" Malka Rothman (Booked via Airbnb Sept '14)

 ...My Girlfriend and I had an unbelievable experience at the Pura Vida Ecolodge recently. The pictures certainly do it justice!”

…Costa Rica is a beautiful country and this location and lodge is the perfect place to stay. Very Tranquil location surrounded by rainforest. Joe and Kika are very responsive hosts. Definitely rent a 4 wheel drive vehicle as you will need it! No complaints! Would love to come again!" Chris Murray (Booked via Aribnb Sept '14)

 "...From the beginning booking and preparing for this was easy…”

…Once we had made the booking Joe and Kika were really helpful and provided a complete welcome pack. This covered everything we needed in a simple and clear way (and made us very excited!) In the end we printed out the pack and took it everywhere to help find the beaches and other local places like the local fish shop where we bought some lovely fish. It also covered the practicalities as well for the lodge, like the safe, and the directions for getting to the lodge that were really helpful, with pictures and distances. Once there, although the pictures are good, it is even better. The views are amazing from the lodge and we never bored of simply sitting on the balcony, drink in hand, watching the weather pass us by, sun go down, and all the nature around us. The lodge itself is open and airy. It is full netted so as long as you keep the doors closed you are quite bug free (relatively as remember you are in the jungle). However, you never feel trapped as it is so simple and open. It is an incredible building with an understated feel of luxury with the two walk in showers, spacious rooms and tall ceilings. We especially loved the sofa where we would have a lovely afternoon snooze under the throws provided. You do need a 4x4 and were pleased Joe flagged this. The final road up to the lodge is a bumpy track but it is fine if you have a 4x4 and after a couple of drives you do not think about it, night or day. You simply just need to be able to drive sensibly. Locally, the beaches are quite hidden away but secluded and beautiful. The water was really warm. The welcome pack helps and locals were also helpful. Playa Arco was incredible with monkeys and waterfall. That said, you do need to pay $18 to go through the entrance at the hotel, but that includes a walk through their jungle trail, the amazing beach and a piece of cake and juice when you return. We were happy with the money spent! We found a couple of great restaurant but to be honest, often cooked ourselves in the evenings. The kitchen has everything you need which is great including a simple and easy to use bamboo coffee maker the locals all use.Overall, we couldn't recommend this highly enough. We wanted to get away from the rush of city life and spoil ourselves and this was perfect to do this. If you appreciate what it is and where you are going it is perfect. If you are expecting a 5 star hotel all inclusive, you will probably still be converted!" William Davies (Booked via Airbnb Oct '14)

 "...We stayed 4 nights at Pura Vida Ecolodge and had a wonderful experience!”

…Gersan, the house manager, met us there with his wife and dinner ready on the table which was delicious. Joe and kika were very attentive to our needs during our stay and the welcome packet had everything we needed. The grounds were amazing however the roads are rough this time of year and a 4 wheel drive is definitely necessary. We hiked near pura vida and enjoyed some local spots down the hill. Some Of our favorite moments were interacting with the locals, and enjoying gerzan's mangrove tour. Do be sure to close all doors and windows before bed as bugs will find there way in. If you are partial to a type of pillow it's probably a good idea to bring one of your own. Overall a great experience, and would definitely recommend. Particularly to the more adventurous airbnb traveler." Melissa Melcher (Booked via Airbnb Nov '14)

"...This is a special place. A perfect place to unwind and relax on the deck with a gorgeous view…”

We saw many birds and a howler monkey! If you are driving go the short way. It is actually easier. 4x4 is necessary. The house is well located. Manual Antonio is an easy day trip and you can boat to the Corcovado Park from nearby Sierpe. We only stayed 3 nights and wished we had stayed longer." Mary Kasher (Booked via Airbnb Nov '14)

"...Gorgeous place, really thought out design, executed to high spec with tasteful decor and the most stunning views…”

Make sure you have a 4x4 as it's a little off the beaten track and the road can be quite treacherous. The welcome package explains the road pretty thoroughly so you won't have problems finding it. Ghersan who looks after the place is ace too... All in all - feels like a 5 star stay!" Kristophe Hofford (Booked via Airbnb Nov '14)

 "...Wonderful location. Great interior design taste…”

We had a fantastic holiday." Christof Weisner (Booked via Airbnb Dec '14)

"...The Pura Vida ecolodge is exactly what is promised and Joe and Kika are great hosts…”

The house is gorgeous and the location is remote! Seriously, make sure you rented a 4x4 to go here because you are on top of the world in this amazing location." Eddie McShane (Booked via Airbnb Dec '14)

 "...Pura Vida Ecolodge is a very beautiful place with a spectacular view and surrounding…”

We enjoyed every minute of our stay, we loved the boat tour with Gersan and Capitano through the mangroves and the delicious dinner on the beach. Our daughter was Reading for hours in the pool and we all really had time to relax and enjoy the nature. To celebrate New Years Eve at your place is an unforgettale memory for us. The way to the ecolodge definitely needs an SUV and some driving experience, but if you got too ot an your way down, you can jump into the river and cool down, It's a perfect place to experience Costa Rica." Rita Siegemund (Booked via Airbnb Jan '15)

"...Arriving late in the afternoon sunshine at Pura Vida ecolodge in the sumptuous Costa Rican jungle felt like arriving in the Garden of Eden!”

…The whole experience was magical and unique and was enhanced by Joe and Kika's attention to detail; they've thought of everything to make our stay as comfortable and life-enriching as possible. The villa is spacious, thoughtfully designed and beautiful; natural and harmoniously respectful of the surrounding beauty by minimsing the impact of our stay. We spent many a warm, sunny afternoon on the outdoor teak deck contemplating the beauty of where we were. The trails and walks from the villa down to the waterfalls in the jungle were great fun and I particularly enjoyed working out on the new yoga deck (a new addition apparently) with views over the jungle and on towards the ocean. The infinity pool is so cool! Such stunning views - I can think of very few places in the world where I can relax in a plunge pool with breath-taking views over the rainforest to the sea. Some memorable afternoons were spent there! Finally, I'd really recommend Gersan's boat trip; another entirely new and unique experience for us; beautiful wildlife through the mangroves to Gersan's 'secret' island; coconut's and galla pinto on a deserted beach in a tropical paradise.....and we didn't see another soul!! Thanks Gersan. Unique one in a life time experience - can't recommend it highly enough. Thank you Joe and Kika." Simon Musik (Booked via Airbnb Jan '15)

"...We stayed in the ecolodge from the 9th of january until the 16th. We rented a car via National (4x4) like recomended and it really was necessary…”

When we arrived Gersan showed us all of the rooms, gave us the key and offered to help us in every kind of way. A big basket of fruits was waiting for us and the beds were decorated very welcoming. We instantly felt like home. The view and the house in general is just from another planet. It´s really hard to describe the overwhelming feeling when you have the first look off the balcony. Joe and Kika were always really helpfull and asked (via whatsapp ) whether we need any help whatsoever. In before we received a welcome package with lots of recommendations of restaurant activities and places to visit which helped a lot ! (Por que no? - super restaurant ) In addition to the recommendations Gersan offered a boot trip in the manglares and to a "private" beach which was a really cool experience ... especialy to do such a tour with a true tico . We really can say that this was one of the best experiences with vacation housing ever. We are really gratefull for everything. 110% recomending this Ecolodge. Pura Vida mis amigos." Jana Jasper (Booked via Airbnb Jan '15)

 "...We stayed at Pura Vida for six nights at the end of February and absolutely loved it…”

The location is remote, which is a big part of what we enjoyed about it. As everyone has mentioned, the dirt road up to the lodge is very bumpy, but once you make it up the mountain and into the rainforest, you understand that it is worth the trek with the spectacular views you get from the lodge! We had an automatic 4x4 and it was fine. We really enjoyed the location of the lodge on the southern end of the Pacific coast. The further south you go, the less developed it appeared to be (a positive for us), but there were still enough small towns for plenty of restaurants and groceries. The welcome packet was a great guide to activities in the area, and the pictured landmarks were helpful in the directions to the lodge. Trip highlights: -Boat tour with Gersan - Private tour of one of the most beautiful and remote beaches I have ever been to. -Manuel Antonio - Definitely worth the hour+ drive. Lots of animal sightings and beautiful beaches at the National Park. Would also highly recommend El Santuario Canopy Adventure Tour. -Exotica and Citrus restaurants in Ojochal -Massage on the beach in Dominical -Exploring local beaches, especially Playa Ventanas Be prepared to wake up at 5:30am each morning with the animals. I am not usually an early riser, but it helped us get a head start on the days' adventures. Gersan was great! His wife made us a home-cooked meal upon arrival and for the boat tour. He even invited us into his home for a fruit smoothie. I would recommend a Spanish dictionary for communication! We made friends with the neighbor two houses up the hill - Seyran (who served as a great translator between us and Gersan!). He was very nice and let us use the trail he created on his property. We hiked down the hill and up the river to a waterfall. You are definitely out in the wilderness - luckily no snake spottings, but we did see a poisonous dart frog. As part of the "green" theme of the house, you have to put all of your toilet paper in the trash can and take all the trash out yourself. This threw me off a little, but I guess was part of the "experience." The internet was a lot more spotty than we expected. Only one of the sim cards had been preloaded, and the internet only worked briefly for two of the nights, even after we reloaded one of the cards. Seyran let us in on a good tip - there is a restaurant with free wifi up the highway just before you get to Uvita. You can pull in their parking lot (next to a BM) and access their wifi. In general, I would not bank on internet connection! Wonderful trip overall, and we would highly recommend Pura Vida!!" Ellen & Brian Hoffman (Booked via Airbnb March '15)

 "...Having just returned back from 14 days in Pura Vida we are suffering with severe "holiday blues…”

Our Pura Vida experience has been amazing! The lodge and location exceeded our expectations and the host Gerzan was a delight! The lodge has everything you need and the owners Jo & Kika kept in contact with us and had we needed to we could have contacted them at any time. A 4x4 is a must would recommend a manual one. The road seems a bit scary at first but once you go up and down once or twice it its fine. There are too many things to list about how amazing this place is, highlights are firstly the "STUNNING" location, we spent so many lazy days just sitting on the deck listening to the sounds of the jungle and taking in the incredible view. Gerzan's mangrove tour is a MUST! Swimming in the numerous waterfalls. We visited the local animal sanctuary which was really cool and we also went on a wonderful horseback ride up to a waterfall for a swim (at Rancho La Merce in Uvita). National Park Tour (saw Dolphins and Turtles on the way). There are too many beautiful beaches to list here and hardly anyone on them and lovely sunsets. The sea is warm as is the weather at all times but not unbearably hot. I regularly applied deet and did not have any problems with bites. We saw, Howler Monkeys, Scarlet Macaws, owls, Iguanas, birds, insects and one evening a host Cappucino Monkeys (by the beach). Costa Rica way of life is laid back and friendly. Favourite thing of all??? Leaving behind the TVs, mobiles etc and sharing the peace and seclusion of "Pura Vida" ecolodge with our dearest friends! Thank you so much Jo & Kika for sharing your piece of paradise with us and enabling us to meet our new friend Gerzan. We will be back for sure." Alison Russell (Booked via Airbnb Mar '15)

 “...Pura Vida is, in a word, spectacular. Without a doubt the highlight of my trip!”

…It's the perfect place to disconnect for a while from city life, one leaves completely recharged. The house itself is beautiful, the view is amazing - especially from the infinity pool. I didn't find the road challenging and in any case it is well worth it!! The local contact Gersan is an absolute gem. He was friendly and welcoming, always available and his boat tour was great. Joe was really easy to contact, speedy replies and he provides a thorough and helpful info pack prior to arrival which is invaluable. For the sporty types there's a great little workout area and yoga deck which we took advantage of every day, with a newly installed shower to cool off, very nice! All in all it was a genuinely fantastic experience, highly recommended, and it won't be the last time we visit. Thank you!" Laurent Baldoni (Booked via Airbnb March '15)

 "...We had a wonderful week at the Pura Vida Ecolodge…”

…The setting is breathtaking, and each morning we woke to the sounds of birds singing and a view of the ocean. The house is beautiful and comfortable. The kitchen is well supplied, and we had everything we needed to cook family meals. My husband hiked the immediate area and was amazed at the beauty. Like many other reviews we read, the 5km drive up the mountain seems daunting at first, but it really wasn't a problem for us once we knew where we were going. It's a 13 minute drive, and we definitely needed 4WD. The area beaches and restaurants were easy to get to and we found a new and beautiful beach just about every day. Joe was very helpful throughout our stay and answered every question we had. Gersan was very friendly and helpful too. We couldn't have asked for a better experience. Highly recommended." Kristen Zolten (Booked via Airbnb Mar '15)

 "...We loved staying here it was amazing. It's a great ecologic house with a stunning view and modern space…”

Joe was an awesome host . We definitely recommend staying here. It's a peaceful and relaxing." Geannina Padilla (Booked via Airbnb April '15)

 "...Increíble casa en un lugar privilegiado…”

…Solamente por pasar unos días en Pura Vida Ecolodge volvería a Costa Rica, solamente a disfrutar de la casa, la tranquilidad y esa pequeña piscina donde disfrutar tras un largo día. Joe & Kika estuvieron al tanto siempre, incluso cuando nosotros no dimos señales de vida. Son un encanto y están dispuestos a ayudarte en todo lo que necesitas. Y Gersan y su hermano lo mismo. Dispuestos siempre a ayudarte. Muchas gracias Joe & Kika. Vuestra casa es magnífica!!!" Patri Alvarez (Booked via Airbnb April '15)

 "...Beautiful home with an amazing view...very comfortable...”

…great location to have a home base for exploring southern Costa Rica...cute soaking pool for relaxing after a long day of exploring...thanks again for sharing your home..." Bruce Lanzl (Booked via Airbnb April '15)

 "...What a stunning place to call home for a few days...”

Between reading in the pool or on the deck, making dinner in the kitchen with local ingredients from the store at the end of the road, and watching the sunset and the stars, we truly recharged. Gersan was a fantastic host on the ground, helpful and patient. It was convenient to be able to Whatsapp with him about arrivals, departures and plans, and we enjoyed lots of gesturing with our poor Spanish :) His mangrove/deserted beach boat tour was a blast--just watch out for the strong currents! Joe and Kika were helpful, responsive, and took care of issues before they came up. It was a joy to visit." Veronica Selzer (Booked via Airbnb April '15)

 "...This place lives up to its hype. The house is truly in the middle of the jungle, and it has a low impact eco-oriented design…”

All that without missing most the comodities of a good hotel. Gerson, the housekeeper is a true gentleman. We went on a mangrove tour with him and it was a phenomenal experience. Make sure you rent a 4x4, accessing the property on a sedan would be virtually impossible. Pura vida!" Borja Izaguirre (Booked via Airbnb May '15)

 "...Three of my best friends and I went to Costa Rica to relax and recharge…”

…The only plan we had was zip lining at Osa Canopy Tours (we highly suggest visiting them by the way- amazing time and really fun guides!) The rest of our trip was spent exploring, relaxing, and enjoying the beauty that the Pura Vida Ecolodge and surrounding areas had to offer. Gersan was great- he left us fresh fruit from his property and we made smoothies everyday. Joe responded quickly when we had questions also! They were not lying when they said we would need a 4x4... those Costa Rican mountain roads are no joke! We took the "harder" route everyday and it is very doable- just takes some courage! The drive from the San Jose was super easy and great road conditions. The locals are so kind as well- we befriended some young school teachers down at the local market and had a nice little "going away" party on our last night. If you are looking for privacy, this place is perfect. If you want to interact with the locals, this place is also perfect. You seriously can't go wrong staying here. Our only little recommendation to future guests- don't forget to stash up some colones for your drive to and from San Jose, there are a handful of tolls that we weren't quite prepared for. All in all, it was an amazing trip, and we are all seriously missing waking up to the sounds of the jungle already. Thank you Joe, Kika, and Gersan for a wonderful get away!" Lilly Sutherland (Booked via Airbnb May 2015)

“...We just finished a 10 - month family trip around the world with a stay at Pura Vida Ecolodge…”

…We couldn't have picked a better spot to unwind and reflect. Pura Vida is beautiful and charming and wonderfully remote. Definitely one of the best places we stayed of the 21 countries we visited." Christopher O'Brien (Booked via Airbnb June 2015)

"...I do not even know where to start. Let me start by saying that the Ecolodge is beautiful! Breathtaking!”

Joe, Kika, and Gerzan were so wonderful. They were very helpful, accommodating, and welcoming. When making the reservations, Kika and Joe were very informative and helpful. They always responded very quickly and politely. The suggestion to rent a 4x4 was very accurate. You must get a 4x4! I cannot imagine driving a sedan up the (extremely) bumpy and winding mountain (more about the roads later). You may think the pictures are perfection but they do not compare the real-life experience. The Ecolodge decoration and ambience make you feel at peace and relaxed. Yoga pads and games are available. But all you need is the amazing view. I woke up every morning at 6am to enjoy the thick clouds and beautiful misty mountains. Every night we sat outside in the dark and appreciated the lightening. The insects and animals chirping were unforgettable. We saw many insects, frogs, and spiders. In fact, we all slept upstairs after finding a HUGE spider. It was a classic horror scene. However, even that experience was fun! Gerzan is soooo wonderful. An amazing housekeeper and host. He was very patient and willing to help us with anything we needed. We got extremely lost and arrived late. He waited and came out to find us in the dark. He answered our calls and whatsapp messages very quickly. My best friend secretly arranged to have a private horseback ride with Gerzan and a local horse keeper. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! The ride lead to a waterfall which you can swim and relax. Blissful! The ride was amazing—a true adventure. She also secretly arranged to have Gerzan and his wonderful wife cook me a birthday dinner and cocktails. They personally delivered the food and set the dinner table. The presentation was lovely. The drive to Tres Rios was so fun. It was an adventure for sure. If driving from San Jose, leave early and arrive before 4pm. I had a great time driving up and down the mountain. Get ready for a ride! There are two grocery shops on the main road. Make sure you check the expiration dates. Most of our food was expired. We did not realize until we began cooking. Gas station was 24/7 which was nice. All together my experience was one of the best I have had. I will certainly be back and I cannot wait!!" Dayana Suazo (Booked via Airbnb June 2015)

"...If you are on this side of Costa Rica this is the place to stay !! Great place nestled in a great view !!”

Joe & Kika did it right with this place !! Gersan and his family were great also. If you get a chance take his Boat Adventure ! Him and his brother treated us like royalty and his wife made a fabulous picnic :) Very centrally located to fun towns and great activities ( highly recommend the canopy tour by Osa and just up the road from the house ) But like the other reviews just be prepared for the road up to the retreat !! You will need a 4 wheel drive !! But don't be like my husband and try not to use it ! You will need to use it :) All in all we enjoyed our stay and would recommend it in a heart beat !! Hope to visit again !!!!" Deborah Trione (Booked via Airbnb July 2015)

"...My family and I spent four nights at the Pura Vida lodge and we were sorry to leave it…”

…It is a beautiful retreat with amazing views and wonderful flora and fauna all around. Gersan - the caretaker was very welcoming and helpful. We did go on his boat tour and it is absolutely recommended - a truly enjoyable and memorable experience - so much more authentic than a tour Our favorite place to go while we stayed was the Tilapia Cascades in Ojachal - http://www.mydestination.com/costarica/restaurants/135370/tilapias-la-cascada The surrounding area (Ojachal - Coronada) is very peaceful and laidback. It is not overrun with tourists and businesses catering to tourists like some of the more popular destinations. All the same, within close distance there are a number of really good restaurants. We had two wonderful dinners at Exotica (we liked the first so much that we went a second time). For breakfast - the french toast at Pancita Cafe is a must. Cafe Remy had good quality food and if you want a quick bite of local food - the nearby Sodas are very reasonable. One thing to bear in mind - the lodge is in the rain forest -so expect to see some bugs and reptiles in and around the lodge - nothing harmful. We spent a lot of time just relaxing on the deck watching the views and the wildlife. We would definitely go again!!" Jimmy Maher (Booked via Airbnb July 2015)

 "...Nice house with a spectacular view…”

…Everything was perfect organised." Sora Kim (Booked via Airbnb August 2015)

 "...This place is amazing. We thought it'd be hard to live up to the reputation from the site, but it fully exceeded our high expectations…”

…Everything was very well done, the views are spectacular to say the least, both of the Pacifico and the Jungle. The wildlife continued to astound us throughout our week long stay. Toucans, Howler Monkeys, wide variety of birds, and other exotic insect species. Las Cascadas (the waterfall hike) is a must-do activity. Go either way at the bottom of the well-marked trail, and be taken aback by the adventure. Stunning pools and waterworks abound. Gersan, the housekeeper, is the man. Totally helpful, extremely nice, and all around good guy. We could go on but the place was all-in-all amazing. Don't think, just do it! Muchas gracias Joe, Kika, y Gersan... Pura Vida. Jay y John" Jay Waxse (Booked via Airbnb Aigist 2015)

"...We had a an amazing time in Costa Rica and at the Pura vida Eco lodge…”

…We stayed at the lodge for a week during August (non peak season) which suited us great, the beeches were empty and excursions ended up being private :). If you stay at the lodge I would recommend doing the ISA canapy tour, a visit the the villa alturas wildlife sanctuary and gursans mangrove tour (early start but worth it). We at at citrus, azul, exotica and ceviche remy, all of which I would recommend. The lodge its self is amazing and a real sanctuary away from busy city life. You really are in the jungle here so don't expect anything less (bugs included), you will also 100% need a 4x4!!!! The views are amazing, watching the sun set over the sea with a cold beer after a hard days tracking in the jungle was awesome. Also, go to the local supermarket and ask them to take you to the hide em waterfall, a bit of a walk but 100% worth it. We had the whole thing to ourselves All in all an amazing trip and an amazing place" Tobias Henry (Booked via Airbnb August 2015)

 "...My husband and I went to the Ecolodge on our honeymoon, the booking was very last minute…”

…but Joe & Kiki were quickly able to provide us with more information than we would ever need. The house is better than you can imagine, the location is breath taking, and there are endless opportunities for exploring within the area. The house has everything you need, except for some beach towels, and a pen to sign the guest book. I highly recommend taking the tour with Gersan, it's a wonderful experience, and you'll end up on a private beach with no other tourists. If you're lucky you'll see a family of Macaw's. The house is so peaceful, the pool is nice and cool, and the sounds of the jungle are very relaxing. The house is definitely off the beaten path, but well worth the trek." Brittany Todd (Booked via Airbnb August 2015)

 "...We planned our trip to Costa Rica two weeks prior. It was my first experience with airbnb…”

…so I was a bit apprehensive but the reviews on Pura Vida were so consistently good that we decided to go with this one. It seemed the perfect combination of jungle and ocean. The owners recommended arriving before dark however I didn't realize sun sets around 6pm. The first trek up is challenging and a bit scary so definitely do it in the daylight. The house is every bit as beautiful as the pictures. Our first morning we did the longer hike described in your welcome packet. We were literally speechless when we emerged at the first waterfall. We started toward the left and climbed through probably 20 waterfalls before turning around. It was beyond amazing. Not another soul in sight. There are dozens of beaches within an hours drive and they are all so unique. You could beach hop for days and never tire of it. The house is so tranquil at night. All the living room and kitchen walls are on sliders so it is like bringing the outdoors in with you at all times. We were actually so relaxed we had a hard time keeping our eyes open at night!! The owners were extremely prompt in their responses and the caretaker lives right next door should you need anything at all. I have already recommended this property to many others and we hope to return. I have been home now for two weeks and every morning I still feel a sense of disappointment when I wake up and find I am not in the ocean view villa!" Tiffany Deshano (Booked via Airbnb September 2015)

 "...Best part about this place was listening to rain forest in evening/night…”

…The living room is thoughtfully designed with mix of nets and bamboo. We did a little hike which Gersan suggested to us down to a stream and it was so blissful experience. We wish we had time to do the boat tour with Gersan. All in all, we had a great time in an amazing house with lot of wildlife around." Keyur & Neha Gor (Booked via Airbnb December 2015)

 "...The place is stunningly beautiful. All of it: the view, the jungle, and the house that perfectly fits the surroundings...”

…Joe and Kika put a lot of thought and artistic taste to design this place. It is perfectly minimalist in both architectural and consumption sense, while still being very comfortable. Pool and the wooden deck are awesome. It is very secluded and you do feel right in the middle of the jungle sitting in the pool, on the deck or in the living room. Beautifully done! Without exaggeration, it is the most romantic house we ever stayed in. While we certainly spent plenty of time enjoying the place itself, there was not much to do right around the house without driving out to the beach or other destinations. The couple of nature trails are pretty short (back and forth in 20 min). On the second trail you can follow the creek up but that involves scrambling up wet rocks, which we weren't prepared to do with toddlers on our backs :). We would drive to the beach every day. Local beaches were great and we had them all to ourselves half the time. Gersan and Iliana boat tour was a pleasure. The road to the house is fine. Steep at places, but weren't stressed driving up and down with kids every day." Mikhail Ovchinnikov (Booked via Airbnb December 2015)

 "...Our experience at the Ecolodge was amazing! The house itself is beautiful nestled on a hilltop surrounded by lush greenery…”

…The pictures definitely don't do it justice. Its the best place to relax and get away from everything. It was amazing going to sleep with the sounds of the forest and waking up with birds chirping. There is a great lookout which is perfect for yoga (mats are available in the house). There are lots of trails to enjoy nearby including one that takes you to a beautiful waterfall/river. We really enjoyed our time here! Gersan is awesome! He was able to help us tremendously during our visit and is very resourceful. Just a quick note that its crucial to rent a 4X4 to get up the hill. There is no way to get otherwise." Sneha Raju (Booked via Airbnb December 2015)

 "...Tout était très bien organisé, la maison bien rangée, une personne disponible par téléphone est venu…”

…nous chercher pour nous montrer le chemin dans la jungle et nous présenter la maison. Parfait !!!" Samuel Beroud (Booked via Airbnb January 2016)

"...Pura Vida Ecolodge was hands down one of the best experiences of our life…”

…From the view and accommodations to the boat tour with Gerzan, our adventure through the jungle climbing up the waterfalls, we created memories that will last a lifetime! We highly suggest Pura Vida to anyone looking for an adventure but also wanting to take a step back from reality and relax!" Sarah Fitzmaurice (Booked via Airbnb January 2016)

 "...Paradise on earth - My wife and I stayed in this one-of-a-kind ecolodge for 9 days in February 2016…”

…We rented a 4x4 (which indeed was very helpful) in Uvita Alamo Car Rentals. Joe, the owner, had sent us beforehand detailed information how to get to the house and there waited already Gersan, the local caretaker, and showed us around. What a place! Modern and stylish rooms and interieur, spacious and breezy. From the decks you are almost in the midst of a dense, green jungle (at least very close!) with its vibrant life and all the exotic sounds of nature. What else was remarkable for us: comfortable, large bed, fully equipped kitchen, nice and warm shower and last but by no means least, the cosy little pool. Especially on hot afternoons it was our delight to cool down and look / listen to many birds around. An absolute must is a half day boat tour with Gersan. In his boat he guided us through a tangle of channels, through a maze of mangrove forests, part of the huge Terraba River estuary. It's really difficult to put together a brief description of this fabulous Ecolodge up on the rolling hills of Tres Rios but we have tremendously enjoyed our stay and can recommend Pura Vida Ecolodge thoroughly." Helmut & Brigitte Pauliny (Booked via VRBO February 2016)

 "...Oh my, I don't even know where to begin! It's not the easiest place to get to but that's not negative at all-it's part of the magic!”

…Our first thought was "someone put their heart and and soul into building this place!" It just has that special quality to it. The groundskeeper Gershan is a lovely young man and greeted us upon arrival. He showed us how to navigate the nuances of the home. We loved opening all the doors and letting the sounds of the jungle in. We had planned day excursions but decide we had to stay one full day and just relax and soak in what this property has to offer. Quick note on the amenities and service. The communication from the owners is amazing. I would advise thoroughly reading the welcome packets they send before you get there and again, once you arrive because EVERYTHING you need to know is there. Also, the beds... To die for! I am looking into buying the COCO-MAT range for home. Best nights sleep ever! I would recommend this to anyone who would like to relax, have a romantic getaway, honeymoon... It's perfect for shutting down and taking in the pure life! We hope that return someday for sure!" Katina Hutchinson (Booked via Airbnb March 2016)

 "...We had an absolutely amazing week at Pura Vida Ecolodge…”

…The house and yoga deck are absolutely gorgeous and spending time in the pool with its amazing views of the rainforest and the coast was simply paradise. We stayed at the lodge with our one-year old and had a vacation we will never forget. For any other family considering the lodge: The house is a dream come true - even for the kids. The nature (waking up with the jungle in the very early morning) with all its sounds and animals fascinated even our very little one. The house has every comfort possible to make for a perfect base to explore the surroundings with its hiking paths, waterfalls and beaches. For anyone traveling with smaller kids, we recommend bringing a child carrier, which made hiking through the jungle easy and a great experience for everyone. Our favorite most kid-friendly beach was Playa Ventanas with a lot of shade and beautiful scenery. Favorite restaurant was El Jardin, the local fish place recommended by Joe & Kika, where we stopped nearly daily for lunch. Gersan could not have been a more welcoming and was always available and helped in any way possible. Joe and Kika were amazing hosts and answered any question within minutes and it was great to meet Joe in person when we departed and to hear their story on how they build this little piece of paradise. Don't get scared by the drive up to the house - the feeling of remoteness and nature up in the house is more than worth the bumpy road. Yes - it's steep but totally safe and easy with a 4x4. We arrived in the dark and even that was not a big deal even though arriving in the daylight is probably even easier. Our stay at Pura Vida was more than special and one that we will never forget. The view and nature surrounding the property will make you speechless and we truly hope to be able to return." Christopher & Lisa Heyn (Booked via Airbnb March 2016)

 "...this place is just paradise. from the first moment we felt like home also because of the warmth welcome of joe…”

…we already miss the place to be honest. everything is just perfect. the kitchen, the pool, the view, the airconditioner in the sleeping area... there are so many little details about this place who make it perfect. we defenitly will come back. this is absolutly the place to spend your honeymoon as we did. thank you joe :)" Clauida & Valentin Nabholz (Booked via Airbnb March 2016)

 "...Oh. My. God. This place comes as advertised: just the right amount of remote, extraordinarily beautiful, and very peaceful…”

… Joe went out of his way to make sure we were taken care of. In fact, when we arrived, there was a fresh, home-cooked meal waiting for us! Lots do, all within easy driving distance. Highly recommend the zip lining, Playa Ventana at low tide, and a little boutique hotel called El Castillo, where we enjoyed a swim and an incredible meal. (It was so good we went back the next night). One important note: get the biggest, baddest SUV you can find. The road to the house is definitely an adventure. We cannot wait to return!" Geoffrey Mccartney (Booked via Airbnb March 2016)

"...We absolutely loved our stay at Pura Vida Ecolodge, we didn't want to leave and definitely, in hindsight, should have stayed on longer!”

…The view is totally breathtaking. The house sits within the jungle canopy providing a real sense of open-ness and space - overlooking the tops of the trees and out towards the ocean. Gersan greeted us with warmth and smiles (as did the local wildlife!) and the welcome pack really does tell you everything you need to know - Joe and Kika have thought of everything. The lodge is full of beautifully crafted little touches, which really do make it such an easy place to relax. We woke early to the sounds of the jungle, did a little yoga workout on the platform as the sun was rising, delicious fruit and coffee for breakfast, and did some amazing excursions during the day - Gersan's boat tour through the mangrove forest is a MUST. Seeing parts of the natural habitat you can't otherwise access - and where else can you get hundreds of meters of beautiful beach to yourself? Such a memorable experience. In the evenings we enjoyed cooking our own food back in the lodge, sipping a cold ron con piña and dozing off not too long after the sun goes down. The Coco-Mat beds were AMAZINGLY comfortable! Stepping away from a hectic city working life, to the luxury of space and time, uncomplicated living and nature, really was the break we needed and now feel totally rejuvenated. Thank you to Joe, Kika and Gersan (and to the Pura Vida lifestyle of Costa Rica!) for making this all possible. We will be back!" Deborah Daniel (Booked via Airbnb April 2016)

 "...Our group had an amazing time at Pura Vida Ecolodge…”

…The views are even more incredible in person than they are in photos. It's definitely secluded, private and you are truly staying up on a mountain in the jungle - a very unique experience! The house is clean, well maintained and has all the amenities you need. Joe and Kika paid attention to all the details and made it into a wonderful place to stay. We never lost power and, considering the location, the wifi was consistent too. The beds are very comfortable, clean and the shower in the jungle suite is awesome. The kitchen is well-equipped with everything you need to prepare your own meals. We particularly liked using the blender to make smoothies with the fresh fruit. Outside is even more beautiful. Every angle has a beautiful view. The pool is the perfect size for cooling off and the outdoor shower is a nice touch! We spent a lot of time in the pool and lounging on the deck in the comfortable chairs. Gersan was wonderful and we thoroughly enjoyed his boat tour. The lunch was delicious and the private beach was beautiful. We also got to stop by Gersan's home and meet his wife and adorable daughter. We highly recommend taking Gersan's trip. The only issue we had during our trip was with the car rental company (Vamos Rent-A-Car). Joe was very apologetic about this and ensured us he would look into it (although it wasn't his fault or responsibility), but we appreciate his concern for all aspects of our trip. Joe and Kika are excellent hosts who genuinely want others to experience what Pura Vida Ecolodge has to offer. We have recommended this spot to our friends and family and hope to return in the future!" Caroline Shoalts (Booked via Airbnb May 2016)

"...Séjour de 3 jours incroyable. Nous serions volontiers restés plus longtemps…”

…Des informations très utiles et complètes reçues avant notre arrivée. La maison a beaucoup de charme, les vues sont incroyables." Jean Boucher (Booked via Airbnb May 2016)

 "...My husband and I spent three days of our honeymoon here and we're so glad we did!”

…From the very start of our stay, we were welcome by Gersan and his wife with a home cooked Tico dinner which was one of the best meals we've ever had. After a long trip from the states and delayed flights that was exactly what we needed and really set the tone for the trip! Every little detail of the house is perfect from the shower, infinity pool, close by hiking trails to the hammock on the deck. We enjoyed ourselves. We also took Gersan's boat adventure which we highly recommend. As others have mentioned but the owners made it known that the road up to the house is rocky and requires 4x4. No complaints as we went into it expecting that and added to the adventure. Thanks for making our honeymoon so memorable!" Melissa Stack (Booked via Airbnb May 2016)

"...We had a wonderful stay! Such a beautiful house and location with no shortage of things to see and do...

…Beaches, waterfalls, hiking trails...just laying around in the hammock with a pair of binoculars is a treat. Gersan, who takes care of the house, is the homie--such a kind, generous person, as are his wife Ilia and daughter Shayla. Thanks for a great trip!" Andrew Waddell (Booked via Airbnb June 2016)

 "...Não podiamos ter escolhido melhor! O paraíso. A casa é um verdadeiro retiro, embrenhado na selva com vista mar…”

…Acordar cedo e ficar a descansar na varanda da casa era um dos programas preferidos. Gostámos muito do passeio de barco com o Gersan, do Canopy Tour, do passeio a cavalo, de ir jantar ao Exótica e ao Yjang Yjang em Ojochal e almoçar ao "Por que no" em Dominical. As praias da zona são muito bonitas, praticamente desertas e com boas ondas. A simpatia do Gersan e da sua linda familia foi com certeza um ponto alto!" Diana Guerreiro (Booked via Airbnb June 2016)

"...I've got to say this has to be one of the greatest experiences I've had in awhile…”

The pura vida ecolodge is by far an awesome place. With its amazing view peace and quiet with the beauty of nature all around. The lighting storms are so cool to watch at night almost better than watching Tv. It's a bit of a drive up the mountain once you get off the highway and not a smooth one. I recommend utilizing a 4x4 nothing less. Gersan was a great host very kind and kool to talk to I appreciate him inviting me and my girl friend into his home for dinner our last day, also introducing us to his beautiful family. We missed out on the boat tour due to high tide but for those who are visiting don't miss out do it. I'd recommend the pura vida ecolodge to anyone. Perfect location very nice people with tons of activity in close proximity all around. For those who are about to embark on the pura ecolodge experience you will have a blast and enjoy every moment there. Joe and kira thanks for sharing such an awesome space." Kareem Johnson (Booked via Airbnb July 2016)

 "...Gorgeous place: quiet, secluded and relaxing, just what I was looking for…”

…The most impressive part of the experience was watching the constantly shifting clouds as they moved from the ocean inland to the mountains and then faded into fog that hugged the mountainside. You can watch for hours. Did I mention that the home itself is beautiful and well-designed? Excellent use of bamboo throughout, both for decorative and structural purposes. A word of advice to other guests: make sure you come with a real 4X4 SUV or truck. We made the mistake of driving a Kia Sportage with something they called all-wheel-drive. It was useless. You need a real 4 wheel drive vehicle for this road. Another word of advice: Don't worry about staying busy or active; just relax and enjoy the gorgeous surroundings." Allen Rosen (Booked via Airbnb July 2016)

 "...The experience has been wonderful in this paradise. The house is really comfortable, clean and has all what you need…”

…If you want to disconnect, this place is the perfect place. Views are amazing and all the adventure that the area provides are another plus. Also don't loose the opportunity of going with Gersan to the mangroves, discover the monkeys and swim through his private beach entrance. He gives you access to a 10km espectacular beach only for you. Choose this place with no doubt!" Cristina Caumel (Booked via Airbnb July 2016)

"...We has an amazing vacation at Pura Vida Ecolodge. the place is amazing, Located in an amazing area…”

…We were sorry we couldn't stay there more days. we were7 people including our 3 kids and my In laws and all of us had a very good time. The place was clean, cozy, comfortable with an amazing view." Eynet Meytahl (Booked via Airbnb July 2016)

“...Place is amazing for the nature and the view is breath taking... it really is... sounds of the birds at morning and looking a storm coming and going was a pleasure…”

…Ariving is easy folowing the directions and 4x4 car recomended. House is very clean and I felt I could live there... Communication was great and easy arrival. You need to prepare the day to go out and just come back at the end of the day for relaxing... Local market is ok at Coronado, better is close to Uvita with good selection. I recomend Sibu cafe at Bahia Ballena for excelent Ristretto and food. If you want to cook local fresh fish market at the way to Tortuga beach. I definetelly recomend staying here!!! Pura Vida!" Paulo Willig (Booked via Airbnb August 2016)

"...The Ecolodge is an incredible place to stay. The pictures provided are beautiful but in person the views are even better…”

…The combination of the beautiful area of Costa Rica, the welcome packet, and help from Joe, Kika, and our house keeper Gersan made our Honeymoon very relaxing and easy to manage. The recommendations and tips on the welcome packet were very helpful, especially because we are not fluent in Spanish. The locals were also very helpful and willing to help us work through our broken Spanish to get our questions answered. The warm meal prepared by Gersan and his wife when we arrived set the tone for the rest of the week. The canopy tour, surf lessons, beach time, private boat tour, Manuel Antonio, local waterfalls, and all of the amazing restaurants in the area were highlights of our trip. The number of animals we saw was also very exciting. A lot of frogs, toads, butterflies and various birds around the home. We also saw more exotic animals during our time at Manuel Antonio-- sloths, deer, monkeys, bats, and lizards to name a few. Jordan and I had an amazing honeymoon trip and had a great experience because of Joe and Kika's ecolodge and all of the direction they gave us. Highly recommended." Brock & Jordan Buckellew (Booked via Airbnb September 2016)

"...We had a wonderful time and loved the house. Amazing views and such a cool part of Costa Rica…”

…The rivers and waterfalls were amazing. Playa Ventanas is incredible. You definitely need 4x4 to get to the house. It's so worth it. We'll be telling everyone to stay here when the go to Costa Rica!" Wayne Sleight (Booked via Airbnb September 2016)

"...Pura Vida Ego Lodge was just amazing. After getting totally lost on our way to the lodge we were so thankful to get picked up by Gersan (the housekeeper)…”

…We enjoyed the stay to the fullest! The lodge and the surrounding is so nice. Everything is made with much love. When you wake up and see the sun rising at the end of the rainforest... indescribable feeling :) The communication was very good and everyone was helpful. Gersan is an amazing housekeeper and we totally recommend to do the boat trip with him. Hopefully there will be a second time a pura vida ecolodge for us! Thanks for everything" Anja Pixis (Booked via Airbnb October 2016)

"...Staying at the ecolodge was an experience of a lifetime…”

…The ecolodge allows you to be so close to adventure & nature all the while feeling comfortable and at home in a beautifully designed space. The directions to get to the lodge were very clear and easy to follow and the suggestions for tours and hikes around the property came in very handy. From the location, to the views, and the insider information about the area that Joe, Kika, and Gersan provide, you cannot go wrong staying here! Emily Chichwolski (Booked via Airbnb October 2016)

"...This place is amazing. We had such a great time there. The house itself is an architectural gem. Its location is stunning…”

…The view of the mountains, valleys, sky, clouds, and ocean is never failing but ever changing beauty. I couldn't sleep in the morning, partly because sunrise came early, but mostly because I didn't want to miss the view from the bedroom window. Gersan served well as our on-site host. We really appreciated the dinner prepared and served by Gersan and Ilya the day of our arrival. The boat ride with Gersan to his private beach was a real treat, and we were totally blown away when he served us a hot lunch on the beach. The papers that Joe & Kika lovingly prepared are above and beyond anything I have ever seen from an airbnb host and added immeasurably to our experience. This was our first visit to Costa Rica; it will not be our last. I hope to visit Pura Vida Ecolodge again." Richard Bunyan (Booked via Airbnb November 2016)

"...Amazing house! Location and overall a one of a lifetime experience!"

Emmanuel Goodwin (Booked via Airbnb December 2016)

"...Wow! Words can't describe how much we enjoyed our stay here! It was absolutely wonderful…”

…Communication was easy, directions provided were great. Gersan met us at the house when we arrived and was always attentive to all our needs. When we ran out of gas on the second day he was there in 20 minutes with a gas tank over his shoulder that he carried up the hill. The views were incredible and so peaceful. It was the perfect retreat for our family vacation. We did both hikes; the short one and the more adventurous one. That second one was a bit of a struggle but SO worth the views and incredible waterfalls we got to at the end! We would highly recommend this place!!" Michael Ramos (Booked via Airbnb December 2016)

 "...The pictures really don't do justice to this place, particularly the setting and the view which are absolutely incredible…”

…You can spend hours just watching the ever changing splendour of the natural vista and the local wildlife, or head out to explore the many beautiful beaches, waterfalls and other natural wonders in the nearby area. Nearby Ojochal has some great restaurants too if you feel like eating out. Take heed of the transport advice - you will need a 4x4 to get up here. Also bear in mind that this is a retreat, the seclusion in nature comes from being several kilometres up the mountain, which means that just popping out to the shops takes a little more time and effort than it does in the average tourist destination. This is what makes it all worth it though - if you're up for a bit of adventure you'll absolutely love this place." Lee Eyre (Booked via Aiorbnb January 2017)

"...What a perfect and secluded getaway. The house is so unique and the finishes are wonderful…”

…The host and housekeeper were easy to communicate with and were so eager to help with anything we needed. Definitely get a meal made for you during your stay. So delicious! The wildlife and scenery were second to none. Definitely will be back!" Christine Morfopoulos (Booked via Airbnb January 2017)

"...The house is exactly how it is described. It is a peaceful getaway in a great location that you can use as a base point to explore the region…”

…It's near countless beaches, many waterfalls worth visiting, close to stores and restaurants. When you get to the house you are in your own private retreat. Like many people have said before the pictures do not do the view justice, it's incredible watching the sunsets each night. I would highly recommend staying at the Pura Vida Ecolodge." Ryan Doran (Booked via Airbnb January 2017)

"...Pura Vida is remarkable. Wonderfully remote and private while within short beautiful drives to picturesque beaches and magnificent National Parks…”

…We are back home with wonderful memories of or stay. Our experience exceeded expectations. We gave directions to the driver who was delivering lumber on our way out. You must have some major plans in mind. I hope we have a chance to meet again. Thank you" Ken Stevens (Booked via Airbnb February 2017)

"... Don't hesitate to book your stay at Pura Vida Ecolodge. It is truly heaven on Earth and I am so grateful to have stayed there...”

…We were much later with check in than we had planned and Gersan and Iliana were so gracious and kind even though we were very late. Iliana's home cooked meal was exactly what we needed! And, as many others have mentioned, the boat tour through the mangroves to Gersan's private beach is spectacular!" Jessica Moretti (Booked via Airbnb March 2017)

"...This place.. Magical. The 'Suerte Vida' (lucky life) if you get to stay here and experience all there is to see, eat and do!”

…This amazing place is off the beaten track so if you are an adventurer, look no further. About a 3.5 hour drive from San Jose, soaking in the sights and stops along the way. Arriving at this breathtaking jungle villa we were BLOWN AWAY! The view, the sounds, the luxurious accommodations.. the outdoor shower and plunge pool, and yoga in the morning.. Unlike no other. The beaches in the area are gorgeous (Playa Ventana was out favorite) and the Casadas Tipico (typical Costa Rican dishes) just about anywhere were all amazing. Ceviche- get it everywhere you go. We hiked the private trail Pura Vida Ecolodge directs you too, and we also hiked Cataratas Nuayaca Falls, one of the most incredible things to experience. There are also small towns with tours as well as national parks with tons of wildlife to see in the area. The private mangroves and secluded beach tour Gersan (the house concierge) offers is a must do! Plenty to keep our days full from sun up to sun down. The villa offers a fully stocked house with anything you might need. Including food catering from Iliana (Gersans beautiful wife.. SOO DELICIOUS!) The bed was the most comfortable thing I have ever slept on. (In fact, I slept in my own bed last night and now need the coco mat in my life.) Joe, Gersan and Iliana are beautiful people ready to help at a moments notice. Get ready to relax like never before. seriously. THE BEST. Pura Vida!! Lynsey and Voytek..." Lynsey Swidersk (Booked via Airbnb March 2017)

"...UNIQUE EXPERIENCE - My girlfriend and I stayed there for 3 nights. It was our last accommodation of our Costa Rica trip and the absolutely highlight of our trip!”

…We experienced a lot of nature and adventure in Costa Rica but the Pura Vida Ecolodge was just unique. We even can't compare it with any other 5 star resort. On the pictures it looks beautiful but once you arrive there for the check-in, everything is like 10 times more gorgeous than you imagined. It's a dream to live the pura vida lifestyle just surrounded by the jungle and the noise of its animals. Everything is furnished with so much love and about the building itself... we recommend to lodge there for a couple of days and you'll feel the uniqueness ;)..." Claudio Caccialupi (Booked via Airbnb April 2017)

"...This house is wonderful, set high up in the jungle with the most spectacular view. It is exactly as described…”

…If you are ready for a little adventure, being immersed in the wild and completely disconnecting then you won't be disappointed. The drive up to the house from the highway is a bit intimidating at first, but after a couple goes, you get the hang of it and it is a piece of cake as long as you have a 4x4. I went with my husband and 2.5 yr old son and my sister and her husband. The house suited the 5 of us perfectly. Just a forewarning/reminder - you are in Costa Rica in the middle of the jungle, so be prepared to find yourself face to face with many little critters. Hosts were very easy to communicate with via air bnb and their onsite guy, Gersan, is lovely."  Marisa Buchkowsky (Booked via Airbnb April 2017)

 "...We've stayed 3 nights at Pura Vida Ecolodge for our honeymoon and these days will remain the most memorable of our trip in Costa Rica! “

…We have almost spent the entire days in the lodge enjoying the beautiful place and observing the surrounding jungle ! We particularly enjoyed the magical sunset while eating a delicious typical Tico dinner prepared by Iliana ! The place is totally different than any hotel you can find, that's why I prefere to talk about an Ecolodge experience that I would definitely recommend !" Vincent & Marilou Lorival (Booked via Airbnb April 2017)

 ...We stayed for a week and I can't possibly say enough about our wonderful experience. Communications from the owners were timely, accurate, and thorough…”

…The house is amazing -- it's remote and simple yet also luxurious. The view is breathtaking. And the local caretaking couple is adorable, charming and helpful. If you want to do touristy things this probably isn't the right place for you. But if you want to wake up to a racket of amazing bugs and birds, visit remote and pristine beaches and truly revel in the magic of nature you will love this place. We like to travel and rarely visit the same place twice. This one will be an exception. We'll return." Michelle Gubola & Lee Fredette (Booked via Airbnb April 2017)

 "...Our stay here at Pura Vida Ecolodge was the greatest trip to date. We had an amazing time, and loved being within the jungle, so close to nature…”

…The house is well designed, filled with nature's essence inside and out, and the area is so peaceful. If you choose to cook, there are grocery stores along the main road, and the kitchen is large and stocked. Please choose to have Gersan's wife (Iliana) cook you a dinner, you won't regret it. Also, please make sure to follow directions *very* carefully - we got lost and took a right past the old bridge, instead of a left, and got ourselves into a really bad situation with our 4x4. However, Gersan (the housekeeper) was able to get us out of the situation. He was so helpful and hospitable. Although there are many things to do in the area, we loved staying at the house the majority of the time. Our 5 days there were truly amazing, and we cannot wait to go back next year. Thank you, Joe & Kika!!" Kiele Turrini (Booked via Airbnb, May 2017)

 "...Pura Vida is definitely somewhere you visit when your goal is to get away and be absolutely disconnected…’

…The entire Pura Vida team is professional and as helpful as can be. Only suggestion would be to ensure you make it before sundown to avoid getting lost on your first night as well as stopping by the shops in uvita to pick up snacks and drinks that you will need as it's a minimum 30 minute drive to the nearest shop from the Ecolodge. Absolutely try the nature trails and embrace the Pura Vida lifestyle. Thank you again for a wonderful experience." David Prado (Booked via Airbnb May 2017)

"...We brought our family (kids 9 and 6) to the Ecolodge for our first international vacation. We fell in love with it…”

…In the morning as the sun rose we opened up the four large sliding doors to let the rainforest in and watched the mist rise from the hills below. We made coffee in the bamboo chorreador and sat on the deck where we listened to the rainforest wake up. The first day we could see howler monkeys, hummingbirds, and a couple of toucans that stayed with us on our last days. When it is raining you can sit in the front and stay completely dry in anything but the strongest storms. The family enjoyed the infinity pool and really enjoyed swimming below the waterfalls a short walk away. Our first night I woke up at midnight and walked outside to experience the Milky Way for the first time. Gersan is the caretaker if there are any problems during the stay and he offers a great boat tour of the mangrove wildlife and a visit to Playa Garza. Iliana, his wife, is an outstanding cook and prepared a delicious birthday meal during our stay. They have a daughter and seeing the three kids playing together on the beach was a sweet moment. The owners checked in with us throughout the week to ensure everything was running smoothly and that we were enjoying ourselves. The care they had for our happiness was appreciated. The Ecolodge was the perfect home base as we ate at the local soda (more amazing local food), shopped at the pulperia (grocery store), flew over the canopies on ziplines, and visited the amazing local beaches. Thank you for sharing paradise with us." Alexander Siegel (Booked via Airbnb, June 2017)

 "...A beautiful little house in the middle of the jungle! We really enjoyed the stay - it was soo relaxing."

Stefi Zuberbühler (Booked via Airbnb June 2017)

 "...If you are looking to disconnect from the world, have a mouth dropping scenic view and really connect with the locals then this is the place to be…”

…The stars were clear at night, we woke up with an amazing view in master bedroom, we enjoyed sipping coffee on the balcony while early morning birdwatching, the hikes to the little and big waterfall were an adventure ( bring hiking shoes, and we left some good hiking sticks in the garage for further travelers). Gersan and Iliana were very welcoming, his boat tour was breath taking and her welcomg dinner was super yummy. She also cooked breakfast for us that was included in Gersans boat tour. We recommend eating at the local restaurants, playa ventanas, OSA Canopy tours, Gersan mangroves and private beach tour and at the Uvita information center we booked a private fishing and whale watching tour where we saw giant whales, sea turtles, dolphins that played with us, and caught fish which the CAPT de-boned and cut in fillets for us. I then bought some Pankco breading at the BM and fried at the home. It went along great with some limes, red onions, cilantro and a dash of oil salt and pepper( a homemade side salsa I learned from my abuelita). We did a lot and saw a lot, so much I can keep typing away but you must come and check it out for yourself! If you are looking for adventure and are not scared of little cute frogs or lizards, are amazed to see giant toads and bats at night and yes the occasional spider than this is th place for you. We will definitely be back for more next year! Pura Vida!" Jeannie Wade (Booked via Airbnb July 2017)

 "...We are a family of 4. We enjoyed our time in the Ecolodge very much...”

…It was a nice experience for us and we enjoyed the driver up there and the quiet stay. We were just by our selves and looked in the green jungle in one side and the other we had a beautiful view to the see. We enjoyed the view from our bed room and wished to wake up like that more offen. The care taker was very friendly and helpful. We don't speak Spanish ( or jus a few words) but we managed. There a lot of restaurants and beaches not far. We enjoyed the area very much. There is a lot to do, but you must like to take the car." Annegret Feldbrugge (Booked via Airbnb July 2017)

 "...The Pura Vida ecolodge is a wonderful place, we really enjoyed it. Don't worry about getting there…”

…it is easy to find and the drive up there is fun! We would also recommend going on the tour with Gersan, the beach is stunning and totally safe even for small kids." Roland Erzberger (Booked via Airbnb July 2017)

"...What van I say. It's just perfect. You want to be here. Surroundings are impressive...”

…Visit corcovado and uvita! Gersan is the best host. We had a unforgettable week" Gert & Conny Veurink (Booked via Airbnb August 2017)

"...If you're looking for adventure with a touch of luxury then this is the place for you! We stayed with our three sons aged 7, 10 and 11, and Pura Vida Ecolodge was the perfect base for our first time in Costa Rica…”

…The local beaches are stunning, there are plenty of activities nearby (zip wires, waterfalls and plunge pools, animal sanctuary, pre-Colombian stone spheres etc) and Gersan's mangrove tour is a must! Being able to return to the beautiful lodge every afternoon meant we had one thing of relaxation alongside our excursions. Joe and Kika's information packs mean it's easy to find the best beaches, best places to eat and the best local waterfalls. Homemade smoothies every morning watching the sunrise and the stunning views made this our own little piece of paradise. Thank you, Joe and Kika, for sharing this wonderful place." Jane Mann (Booked via Airbnb August 2017)

"...Gem of a property. Totally secluded. Great for self-sufficient people looking for a real taste of Costa Rica…”

…A lovely balance of luxury and simplicity. Joe and Kika are great hosts offering thorough welcome packs prior to arrival containing all the info you could ever possibly need. 4X4 vehicle absolute necessity for reaching the hill top property. The view is priceless." Aaron Polsky (Booked via Airbnb Sept 2017)

 "...Amazing view. Amazing location. Pleasant stay overall."

Matt Lachance (Booked via Airbnb Sept 2017)

 "...Pura Vida was the perfect get-a-way spot! We were provided with fresh fruit on arrival as well as suggestions on restaurants, excursions, and local beaches weeks before we arrived…”

…The hosts have created a very thorough packet with all of the details you need to know about the house. It is definitely up a mountain, as the view shows, and you will absolutely need a 4x4 and maybe someone who enjoys offroading. The wifi connection was a medium strength but very steady. We went in the middle of the Green Season, Sept 26th to Oct 2nd and enjoyed amazing weather. Sunny and beautiful all day and then heavy rains in the evening, starting around 5p. The Eco Lodge definitely requires some planning around your day so as not to leave and come back multiple times. The road up is manageable but not very enjoyable to make multiple trips on. The house is immaculate and there are many areas that you can see the love built right into the home, including the pathway that led down to a waterfall. The wildlife is abundant, we saw so many amazing creatures off of the balcony of the house. Pura Vida is a very special place and I'm so glad that we got to experience it! If you're on the fence about booking, this one is a must!" Leslie Woods (Booked via Airbnb Sept 2017)

 "...The Pura Vida Ecolodge is an amazing and tranquil retreat…”

…My partner and I enjoyed ourselves tremendously and it's a great way to disconnect from the world. Cell Data Reception is a bit spotty so be aware of this. Also the path to the private waterfall trails are not for the novice or faint of heart. They require balance and some level of condition. But once there it's majestic and private just as described. Amazing!!" Miguel Ortiz & Ben Shaw (Booked via Airbnb Oct 2017) 

"...We stayed at the ecolodge for 3 nights during our CR honeymoon and loved our time at this private jungle treehouse overlooking the rivers and ocean!”

…It was the rainy season and we loved having the walls open when the afternoon thunder storms rolled in. We were welcomed warmly by Gersan and Ili, the local property managers, and Ili made us two of our favorite meals we had during our two weeks in CR! The road to the house is definitely an adventurous trek but it’s fun and doable with a 4 wheel drive vehicle. Lots of wildlife, birds and panoramic views to see from the decks and windows. We loved it!" Kimberley Ortigoza (Booked via Airbnb Oct 2017)

 "...My wife and I chose to stay at Pura Vida Ecolodge for our honeymoon to Costa Rica and we were beyond impressed!

This is such a beautiful place and the views are gorgeous (the pictures just can't do it justice). The details throughout the Ecolodge are amazing - everything from the porches, ceilings, countertops, bathrooms, etc. This ecolodge is secluded and private, but is a very reasonable drive to the local store, which is down the mountain, or into Uvita for the super market and local restaurants. Upon arrival on our first night, Gersan and Ili presented us with a delicious authentic meal, which was a surprise honeymoon gift from Joe and KiKa! We highly suggest having Ili prepare a meal during your stay. We arrived our first night after dark, which ended up being perfect because we got to wake up with an AMAZING view from the Master Bedroom that we really got to appreciate! The area surrounding the ecolodge is filled with wildlife and breath-taking views. During our stay on the mountain of the ecolodge, we saw everything from monkeys and sloths, to beautiful hummingbirds, parakeets, and tucans, to waterfalls, and beautiful streams. During our stay, we also ventured off the mountain and did some adventures. We highly recommend doing a boat tour of some sort, as the views of the Costa Rica mountains from the water are amazing. October is the rainy season, but we loved it! It would typically only rain in the afternoons and at night, so it never bothered us or any tours we had scheduled during the days. Because of the rain, all of the waterfalls and streams were abundant and flowing and the rain forest is green and full of color! Overall, Joe and KiKa are amazing hosts and we will definitely be going back to the beautiful country of Costa Rica and staying at the Pura Vida Ecolodge! Highly recommend! Pura Vida!!!" Adam & Leeana (Booked via Airbnb October 2017)

 "...Breathtaking location and beautiful architecture integrated with the surroundings - you feel like you're inside the jungle."

Erika (Booked via Airbnb October 2017)

 "...We had an absolutely amazing time in Costa Rica, and truly loved staying at the lodge for our honeymoon…”

…Joe and Kika have done such a stellar job with the home, and we felt like we had the whole package of paradise, nature, adventure, and relaxation all in one trip. I appreciated and was in awe of the obvious focus to be sustainable in the home, and the happy medium of a comfy yet natural home. The last full day we had there, we spent most of the morning climbing the waterfalls off the trail near the house…that was definitely one of the highlights of our trip. It way more stunning that we could have imagined, adventurous, and challenging…definitely a great team building exercise during our honeymoon! The icing on the cake was hearing the howl monkeys as we were walking through the jungle. Gersan and his wife were great as well, and after the long day of traveling to get there, the ‘welcome meal’ was simply perfect and delicious. In addition, they provided an awesome fruit bowl as well as an entire limb of bananas from a nearby tree...there were so many that we didn't even come close to finishing them unfortunately. Having the Nutri Bullet in the kitchen made smoothie making an every morning ritual, and definitely helped us plow through some of said bananas. We couldn’t have been happier with the choice of destination and lodging for our honeymoon. The people of Costa Rica are seriously the friendliest people, and made the whole experience very special. My husband and I forgot some cash at the lodge, and Gersan immediately notified us, as well as Joe and Kika. Unfortunately we were already out of the country, however Joe wired the amount to our account instead of sending the cash through the mail. His kindness and willingness to go above and beyond was certainly appreciated. We seriously cannot wait to visit again, especially during mango season! Highly recommend!" Amy (Booked via Airbnb November 2017)

 "…If you love jungle combined with style, if you like a little adventure but still sleep comfortably at night, the Pura Vida Ecolodge is a great place for you…”

…We stayed four nights in the lodge and had a great time. The way to the lodge is not trivial however we were provided with excellent instructions and had no trouble finding it. Having a 4x4 car is a must! And beware of the alternative Punta Mala route, it is not well maintained at all, therefore should not be used at night or in heavy rain. The little dart frogs surrounding the lodge are a fantastic extra and the view is hard to beat. The beaches along the coast are very special since they are kept natural. No deck chairs or bars but pure nature." Frank (Booked via Airbnb November 2017)

 "...Our experience at the Pura Vida Ecolodge was everything we hoped!”

…The lodge is very much up in the mountains, secluded and peaceful. Gersan and Illi both greeted and helped guide us upon our arrival. Definitely make sure you try one of Illi's dishes- absolutely wonderful! The lodge itself was very clean, beautiful view, and we had many encounters (outdoors) with the wildlife during our stay. The property was great for exploring. Make sure you read all of the information that Joe and Kika provide in the welcoming packages. Many useful tips! Would stay here 100x over again. :)" Kelsey (Booked via Airbnb November 2017)

"...It really is just like the photos! One of our favorite places we’ve stayed on our many trips to CR…”

…The views are outstanding, the big picture window in front of the bed was great. They include hotel-like touches (nice towels, pillows, and robes) which is always a plus for me. As people have mentioned, you have to be prepared for seclusion and rustic, in a very comfortable setting though! I could stay up there for weeks. Would definitely not let the drive hinder you, anything worth getting to in Costa Rica has a tricky but fun drive up some mountains!" Jessica (Booked via Airbnb December 2017)

 "...We had a great time at Pura Vida Ecolodge. We wish we could have stayed longer…”

…You definitely need a 4x4 to get there, but the drive up is worth the view. On our last night we ordered from Pura Vida Cafe, and it was our best meal of the trip. I would also recommend the boat tour with Gersan. We would love to return someday." Roma (Booked via Airbnb December 2017)

"...My wife and I just returned from our honeymoon and all we can say about the Pura Vida Ecolodge is, WOW!”

…Everything about our experience, from the communication with Joe & Kika beforehand to the help of the caretaker Gersan (led us to the house in the dark, dinner from Iliana, boat ride through the mangroves) to the beauty and serenity of the property itself, were excellent. Going into the honeymoon, our goal was to have a combination of relaxation, adventure, and immersion into our surroundings. Staying at the ecolodge affords all of this and more. Most mornings during our stay consisted of waking up early with the jungle around us, sitting on the lounge chairs on the deck, and drinking coffee and smoothies, all while listening to and spotting incredible wildlife everywhere. Monkeys in the distance, many interesting species of birds, frogs, geckos, bugs. The mornings with these sights and sounds, combined with the spectacular view from the deck, will definitely stick with us for a long time to come. It is important to be prepared and know what to expect at the ecolodge, as the house is basically set in the jungle, which is the most amazing aspect about it! Additionally, the drive to the house is pretty steep and bumpy at times, but with a 4x4 vehicle you should not have any difficulties getting there. Following these peaceful mornings, we would venture out and explore the area. There are fantastic beaches all along the coast, great restaurants, and one day we drove out to Manuel Antonio National Park. Two of the mornings we also explored the ecolodge property via the two nature trails suggested in the welcome packet. The shorter trail is easier, however please be aware that you are still walking through the jungle and both hikes require some physical strength. The second hike is definitely physically demanding, but as they say, if it was easy everyone would do it. After walking up the road past the house and down hundreds of tiny stairs you get to an open expanse of stream, and looking left are a series of gorgeous waterfalls. Once at the stream, we hiked up for a long time, climbing up waterfalls (some easier than others), and walking through the refreshing water (water shoes suggested here). Once we reached a waterfall too steep to climb we turned around to head back, stopping at different plunge pools along the way to jump in and swim around. Regardless of our activity each day, when we returned to the ecolodge in the evening the peace and serenity that enveloped us was amazing. After a relaxing rain shower, we would play scrabble with the doors open looking out to the Pacific Ocean, soft breeze blowing through, just an incredible scene. The food in the area is great almost everywhere you go, but we definitely recommend Soda Coronado (in the welcome packet) and their nachos de pollo. We ate a lot of delicious food over our 10 days..."Evan (Booked via Airbnb December 2017)

"...This is my second time staying here, and honestly it is one of my favourite places on earth…”

…so much so that I left a few hours ago, and am already scheming about how soon I can come back.... and am tempted to give a bad review to help keep this place a secret! It is remote and that is exactly what I love about it! Waking up to the toucans, parrots, scarlet macaws and howler monkeys is amazing. I am not at all a morning person, yet slept on the couch so that I wouldn’t miss dawn - and woke up at 5:00 every morning because I was so excited to see what I could see. Lots of great birding, butterflies, (literally 🦋!) and other critters. This is not a good match for folks who are scared of nature in all its forms (for example, the green dart frogs hang out on the steps after the rain, there are geckos and anoles in the house, and the grasshoppers are the size of your hand), but the sunrises and sunsets cannot be beat! Also, the drive up the mountain can be intimidating— four wheel drive is a must, and I strongly recommend getting the higher end model. First time we stayed, we got stranded on the drive because our Jimmy didn’t have enough power for 3 people and the luggage. We got a Montero this time and had no troubles — but do listen to their guidance and get there before dark — 4 PM at the latest if you can. The drive from San Jose always takes longer than you plan. The house has what you need for basic cooking, pots, pans, glasses, flannel coffee maker and hot water pot, etc — which is good because it was better for us to have breakfast in, a big lunch out and then cook dinner in — especially because we didn’t want to miss sunset. Walking further up the road gives more great views. The pool and the outdoor showers are great. The 2 part guide to planning and staying in the house is everything you could ask for and more, and I spent hours each day looking at the wildlife guides in the house. I am absolutely in love with this place, and will be back as soon as I can swing it and will stay longer!" Eli (Booked via Airbnb December 2017)

 "...Man lebt inmitten der Natur. Ein einmaliges Erlebnis. Die Unterkunft ist sensationell, kann ich nur weiterempfehlen."

Urs (Booked via Airbnb December 2017)

 "...Thank you Joe for your kindness and quick communications…”

…Thanks to Gersan for being such a nice and smiling person ;-) Cannot ask for more: mountains, view, birds, calm. A real paradise! Pura Vida." Martin (Booked via Airbnb January 2018)

 "...If you are looking for secluded luxury with amazing views in a peaceful setting, look no further...”

…We loved our stay so much and didn't leave the ecolodge despite plans to go on local tours because it was such a lovely place to hang out it. Wonderful!" Elizabeth (Booked via Airbnb February 2018)

 "...We stayed at Pura Vida for a glorious 8 nights and loved it! The view from the surround deck was unbelievably gorgeous…”

…and the sounds of the rainforest full of life. Magical! Sitting in our comfy king size bed looking out the perfectly framed window was the most beautiful site! The drive to and from our beautiful Pura Vida was exciting and we were so appreciative to have our 4x4! It handled the curves and ruts and incline beautifully. Passing the Brahman cows and various birds and dogs on our way up and down the hill was a lovely daily delight. We zip lined with Osa Tours and loved it, did the Mangrove tour with Gersan and saw 10-12 Scarlet Macaws and about 20 (no exaggeration)capuchin monkeys crossing the river, swinging mangrove branch to mangrove branch. What a special experience! And the private beach at the end of the river was amazing....warm and with crashing waves to body surf and play in. We loved our time here, Joe was always responsive to any questions as was Gersan. He and his wife Illiana were lovely and dear. Thanks so much for sharing your beautiful retreat with us! Dana and Jim" Dana & Jim (Booked via Airbnb February 2018)

 "...The lodge was wonderful and the views were incredible!! We loved the open air concept, hearing all the animals was amazing...”

…Our two daughters loved the plunge pool. Between Joe & Kika and Gersan all of our questions were answered very quickly with a ton of helpful tips on beaches, restaurants and guided tours! The recommend using Vamos car rental and we had a great experience through them, we actually spoke with other people at the airport and all of them complained about their car rental company so I was glad we paid a little bit extra and had great service but more importantly a new dependable car. The drive up to the lodge is insane, bumpy and very steep but strangely after a few goes at it we became comfortable with it. If you are the type of person that wants to drive to town for a quick something, then this is not for you. For us it was part of the adventure and it made for a great memory! The lodge was stocked with everything we wanted and more. The only thing that we truly missed was a coffee pot, the lodge does have a bamboo pour over coffee maker but with three people drinking coffee each morning - it was a process. We would highly recommend the lodge, our daughters 8 and 5 loved of the wild life. There are no TVs, which in the end our girls loved the most because we would play card games every night! Thank you again for an amazing experience!" Emily (Booked via Airbnb February 2018)

 "...This was our second time at the Ecolodge - my wife and I were here 3 years ago and decided to come back for our 1-year wedding anniversary…”

…It was just as magical as we remembered it with some additional touches as well (great hammock, expanded pool area, poolside shower, among other improvements). The location here is close to Dominical and Uvita where you'll find plenty of great restaurants, markets, and things to do (surfing, caves, waterfalls etc). This is our favorite Airbnb - we highly recommend it. You won't be disappointed!" Jeff (Booked via Airbnb February 2018)

 "...The Ecolodge was the most rewarding vacation we have taken yet…”

…We arrived late and with the clear instructions we arrived. Gersan was great and we had a meal made by his wife which was delicious. We took the jungle hike and climbed waterfalls enjoying plunge pools to cool down. We went to a secluded beach where we were the only ones for an entire day. The locals were so kind and helpful everywhere we went. The Ecolodge set you up for the most beautiful view of the jungle and ocean. We will definitely be returning here if we ever return to Costa Rica. " Kristina (Booked via Airbnb March 2018)

 "...The best vacation I have been on in my 40 years. Went with friends to celebrate my 40th…”

…Gerzan and Illy are the best hosts. Illy made delicious food for us that was delivered to the villa night one and night three. Recommend using her services for night one since you'll be traveling much to get there. 4X4 is a must! For ladies, as long as you have a bit of adventure in you, you will not have any issue getting up and down the mountain. It's about a 15 drive up. Take advantage of the nearby hikes and waterfalls. Definitely to the private beach tour with Gerzan. Beyond the obvious peace it will bring you, there's this unexpected serenity you feel the whole time. You may feel like staying at the villa all day. The bamboo coffee maker was a highlight for me. Coffee drinkers, Costa Rican coffee and that drip bamboo coffee maker was a hit! If flying in - best to arrive as early on the morning or early afternoon as possible. You don't necessarily want to take on the mountain for the first time in the dark. However, if you have to, gerzan will meet you at the bottom to escort you. The drive from airport is about 4 hours. You will also have to build in time for cat rental - about an hour. This is a vacation for those that need to feel close to nature and away from the busy city life. If you enjoy being barefoot, dont mind seeing a bug or two and can live unscripted in the most comfortable and beautiful villas in Costa Rica - this vacay spot is for you. Not very many tourists around and the locals were great. Def recommend for honeymooners or a group of friends. Have fun! - Jen and friends" Jennifer (Booked via Airbnb March 2018)

 "...This is a fantastic property. We especially enjoyed the bird watching from the deck. We had daily visits from toucans and fiery billed aracaris, as well as many other species…”

…We heard howler monkeys each morning and evening, and found a small troop a short walk from the house. The pool was a hit with the kids and a nice place to cool off for the adults. A four wheel drive vehicle is necessary to get to the house, but not too bad if you are used to driving dirt roads with steep inclines. The house is around 300 meters above sea level and the added elevation provides relief from the hotter weather at the beaches. The longer hike described in the welcome pack takes you down a steep trail to a river with swimming holes and waterfalls. You leave right from the house and we didn't see another person on either of our two hikes to the river. There is a small market at the bottom of the hill and several restaurants within half a hour of the house. The caretakers Gersan and Iliana are friendly and helpful. Iliana made a few delicious Tico meals for us during our stay. Gersan met us on the first day and escorted us up the hill. We also took Gersan's mangrove tour. The tour is in a small boat and allows you to get deep into the mangroves. He also took us to a secluded beach on an island. Definitely brush up on your Spanish as Gersan and Ilianas' English is very limited. We spent a few days relaxing at the house and also took day trips to local beaches, the Oso Peninsula (Corcovado National Park and Sierpe mangroves), and Manuel Antonio National Park. If you want to explore Costa Rica's southern Pacific coast and don't mind dirt roads and speaking a little Spanish, then Pura Vida Ecolodge is an excellent place to stay." Casey (Booked via Airbnb March 2018)

 "...The Pura vida Ecolodge is the perfect place to enjoy Costa Rica. It has outrageous views, comfy beds, and great hospitality…”

…The drive up the mountain in the 4x4 is completely and utterly worth it. We loved the plunge pool and the hikes on the property and its proximity to great beaches (we loved Playa Ventanas) and other activities. Gersan and Iliana were incredibly helpful; you MUST have Iliana cook you at least one dinner! I could go on and on, but of all the places we've stayed, this was our favorite!" Ashley (Booked via Airbnb April 2018)

 "...We enjoyed our stay at Pura Vida Ecolodge a lot…”

…The house could need some refreshments here and there, but all in all it is a very special place. The view is stunning and we could relax very well. Joe always responded very quickly and friendly and the house keepers Gersan and Illiana have been very friendly as well. You can also order food from Iliana - it was very nice (try the chicken!). One thing that you should have in mind: although the house is quite remote there are quite some cars on the road close to the house, also quite early in the morning that could wake you up. It was ok for us, just to know. Thank you for a great stay!" Andreas Gutsch (Booked via Airbnb April 2018)

 "...Gorgeous place. Amazingly photogenic. They’re not kidding, it’s a steep and bumpy ride to get there, but so worth it…”

…You definitely feel like you are in the jungle. Lots of bugs and dusk and birds and howler monkeys! Gersan is amazingly helpful, he even delivered dinner to us one night after a massive rainstorm. We lost power one night for about an hour, but it was not a big deal. Overall, this property was incredible and we loved our stay." Jason (Booked via Airbnb April 2018)

"...Gorgeous view, amazing decor. Great beaches near by. The location was remote and beautiful…”

Definitely an adventure getting to it but well worth it. I would stay at this Airbnb again in a heartbeat." Nicole (Booked via Airbnb April 2018)

"...We had an amazing time at the lodge, the space is unbelievable and like nothing else we’ve experienced before…”

…Gurzan the local contact was friendly, knowledgable and more than happy to help. The welcome meal we had on the first night was a great help in getting us settled in! The sunsets on the balcony or in the hammock are an absolute must as well as the trials to the local waterfalls and pools, depending on how adventurous your feeling! We can’t recommend this place enough for a private jungle get away!" Mathew (Booked via Airbnb April 2018)

"...This is a special place and, especially after seeing many of the hotels in the area, I would always opt for a home such as this…”

…The house itself is thoughtfully and beautifully designed with sliding doors that open the space to the jungle. We could have spent all of our time simply hanging out there, but there were too many tempting beaches and waterfalls nearby to explore. We really felt like we got to be a part of the local town. I highly recommend using Pura Vida Eco Lodge as a home base for your Costa Rica experience!" Molly & Matt (Booked via Airbnb May 2018)

 "...Pura Vida Ecolodge surely did not disappoint. This place was absolutely incredible. The view and the lodge itself was amazing...”

…The design, rooms, set up and just everything was great. The board games and puzzles were a great touch. If you’re reading these reviews and getting worried about the drive to the lodge.... don’t be. My wife and I are both Southern California born and raised with zero 4x4 experience but made it up with out a problem. Just make sure to do your homework, review the packets Joe & Kika send, be safe and pay attention... you’ll be fine. Everyone around the lodge is very friendly. This lodge is some how very very secluded but a close even drive to every thing. Plenty of restaurants off the main road. The views were breathtaking and the deck and plunge pool were awesome. The key about this place is to do your research and remember where you are. There’s going to be plenty of bugs around but also plenty of great animals. Read the book of all guests experiences on the table. A lot of people mentioned their favorite beaches, restaurants and activities. The book was a really nice touch. Thanks for a great stay, don’t hesitate to stay here." DJ (Booked via Airbnb May 2018)

 ...Pura Vida Ecolodge was one of the most beautiful places my girlfriend and I have ever stayed!”

…Everything down to the last detail was perfect. Joe & Kika have thought of everything and truly go out of their way to make sure you are comfortable and have the best possible time while visiting the Ecolodge. I would without a doubt recommend staying here to anyone from a newlywed couple to a group of friends going on an adventure. Costa Rica has it all and Pura Vida Ecolodge is THE place to stay. We left feeling truly lucky and grateful to have found it." Tyler (Booked via Airbnb May 2018)

 "...Thank you for the most wonderful stay of our lives. Your wealth of knowledge helped us enjoy the offerings of Costa Rica…”

…in the short time we were there and the lodge was outstanding. Make sure you go to Sibu in Uvita for some amazing food and make the most of the local beaches. On the way to SAN Jose make sure to make a stop in Jaco as it has fantastic shops and the most beautiful beach." Paul (Booked via Airbnb June 2018)

 "...What a beautiful spot the Pura Vida Ecolodge is!!! Such Paradise!”

…Our family of 5 (3 teenagers) really enjoyed our time here! We spent 5 nights here and could have stayed longer. It is a great home to get back to nature and spend time as a family!! Little WiFi, no tv!! A little piece of heaven for us! Please note-Joe is NOT KIDDING when he describes the trek up the mountain in to the lodge. It is LONG & in some parts, QUITE STEEP-especially when you have to walk because of a flat tire!!!😢 But just another adventure to add to our list! If you want to enjoy a QUIET part of Costa Rica, away from all of the tourists and crowds, I highly recommend Pura Vida Ecolodge! A vacation home that we will not soon forget!" Alli (Booked via Airbnb June 2018)

 "...Words cannot describe, and pictures only begin to tell how magnificent this Ecolodge is…”

…The road to arrive isn't nearly as bad as I had come to expect, and once you arrive you'll see that no expense was spared in creating a once in a lifetime experience. The views are to die for. The sounds of the jungle provided for some of the most relaxed sleep I've ever had. Even before we left, my brother was talking about a return trip!" Anastacio (Booked via Airbnb June 2018)

"...Wonderful place to stay to relax and enjoy the view. The house was great and the view amazing…”

…Be sure and have some tours to set up for in the surrounding areas beforehand!" Garrett (Booked via Airbnb July 2018)

"...Pura Vida Ecolodge truly was a piece of paradise for us! From the first breath taking moment when we arrived, everything was wonderful!…”

Joe and Kika remained in constant contact with us from booking thru checkout and were amazingly hospitable! Gerzan greeted us and also took us on the Pura Vida Boat Tour that was spectacular! We loved every minute of our time in Costa Rica! Thank you so much! Ricardo & Melissa PS The essential oils throughout the house were a fabulous touch that I loved!" Melissa (Booked via Airbnb July 2018)

...If you are looking for beauty, peace and communing with nature then this is the place for you…”

…The view is unbelievable and there is so much to do within 30 minutes of the house. We enjoyed hiking to waterfalls, playing on the beaches and eating great food. We would definitely recommend this place to our family and friends." Jackie (Booked via Airbnb July 2018)

"...We had such a fantastic stay at Pura Vida Ecolodge! The drive was not as treacherous as expected, and the views up to the lodge were incredible…”

…The house is a dreamy jungle paradise. Our welcome dinner was absolutely delicious, and our boat tour to the secret beach with Gersan was so much fun. A highly recommended, relaxing escape. Thanks again!" Margot (Booked via Airbnb July 2018)

 "...Overall the stay at Pura Vida Ecolodge was everything we expected! The views from the entire house all had great vantage points…”

…The 4x4 WAS NEEDED but was part of the whole experience and made for an adventure every time. 4x4 Low is recommended for descent from the lodge if you want to save the brakes. The restaurants in the local town of Ojochal had a variety of different styles and price ranges. The local beaches all have their own perks and the hiking at the eco lodge is recommended to the various waterfalls." Patrick (Booked via Airbnb July 2018)

 "...Pura Vida Ecolodge is the place to stay if you’re looking to get away, relax and tap into the heart of Costa Rica…”

…The views are amazing. You can see all the way to the ocean. We opted to have a meal provided to us the first night and I would recommend it. It allowed us to get settled and enjoy a traditional Costa Rican meal. The house isn’t far from activities and great places to eat. The hosts were very nice and very accessible via email and on the AirBnB app. I would recommend Pura Vida Ecolodge time and time again. It was truly an experience of a lifetime!" Christina (Booked via Airbnb August 2018)

...”An amazing location and property. The lodge is located in the forest and so the view, sounds and smell are just amazing…”

…The owners are always on call via text or phone and everything is taken care of. Really high level living in the middle of the forest. Highly recommend if you want to detach yourself from the day to day and spend quality time with your family" Ariel (Booked via Airbnb August 2018)

"...Fantastic place, great catered food, amazing view, comfortable bed, great amenities, fast communication, great place to relax & feel more one with nature…”

…Secluded but close enough to still go to nice beaches, explore caves, fish, swim & go to restaurants. The drive up is not bad at all even in the rain & the view alone is MORE than worth it!" Casey (Booked via Airbnb August 2018)

"...The most amazing place! A peaceful retreat and the most beautiful location..."

Darcy (Booked via Airbnb August 2018)

"...This place is really incredible. we had booked for 2 days and stayed 5. very nice architect house, very remote place…"

Thierry (Booked via Airbnb August 2018)

 "...This was hands down an incredible hidden gem that we were beyond grateful for finding…”

…I wanted to take 3 friends out of the country on an adventurous trip and this trip definitely set the bar high for any future trips. Not only was the Ecolodge absolutely beautiful in every way, but the organization and recommendations from the host was above and beyond fantastic! They have thought of every little thing before-hand to make sure your trip is an easy transition from your normal way of life to the Costa Rican way of life. Read the packets of information they send you! I would also 100% use Vamos rent-a-car again, they were awesome and work very well with the Ecolodge. It’s a MUST to have a 4x4 vehicle. It takes about 15-20 minutes to drive up a rugged mountain to get to the lodge and though it is a beautiful and fun ride, it would be impossible with out a 4x4 because it gets very steep and bumpy. We also used some of the host’s recommendations of things to do and we did the Costa Canyoning as well as hiked some waterfalls in our area and it was a BLAST! I have nothing but great things to say about this Ecolodge and I can’t wait to come back with more friends and family to show them the beautiful country of Costa Rica!" Erika (Booked via Airbnb September 2018)

 "...We are a family of 6 and stayed at the eco lodge for 5 nights. The house is located up the hill so its best to have a 4x4 to get there...”

…The surrounding is beautifully wild with jungle, waterfalls and the house is like an oasis - well maintained, has the best amenities and the most wonderful view. We loved our stay there and discovered warm and kind super-hosts. We warmly recommend it!" Michal (Booked via Airbnb September 2018)

"...Such an awesome location and home…”

…Due to some flight problems our stay was shortened to only 2 days, but we made the most of it. Beach hopped one day through Ventanas, Tortuga and Ballena (our favorite) and tried out the Osa Canopy tour (worth it!). Even without air conditioner this place was super comfortable at night, especially with the many sounds of the jungle to sing you to sleep! Loved it." Chris (Booked via Airbnb September 2018)

"...What an incredible place!! This is truly an off the beaten path adventure and you need to enjoy being out of your comfort zone,..”

…which my husband and I love! But if you want the most authentic experience possible, including the most beautiful views and gorgeous, unique home, this is for you!! the off roading is a blast, the recommendations were spot on, and this basically still untouched wilderness provides such needed rest and exhilaration every day. We COuld not have chosen a better more romantic and exciting place for a honeymoon and we will be back!" Sara (Booked via Airbnb October 2018)

"...This home is amazing. If you have never been to Cost Rica and are looking to get away this is the place to do it!”

…I have already recommended several people to visit the area, and possibly Pura Vida Ecolodge. My wife and I were on our honeymoon, and Pura Vida delivered exactly what we needed. The first day we arrived the Coronado route was unaccessible so Juan lead us up the alternate route. Luckily we are used to off-roading in the United States, but this was still quite an experience in the pouring down rain! The next day the weather started to clear and we were able to really enjoy the beauty of Costa Rica! We took it easy and only did one outing a day, choosing to spend the afternoons enjoying the beauty at the lodge. One day after we returned from the beach it was raining so hard that we just rinsed off in the rain; a true rain shower! It was amazing! We also went on the OSA zip line tour and whale watching with Bahia Adventures. Both trips were a blast and our guides were absolutely amazing. On the zip line tour we saw a white hawk, which I guess are really rare. Dean our guide at Bahia mentioned that we brought luck having seen him the day before. We must have because we saw a mother and calf humpback not 30' away from our boat, truly mesmerizing! On our way home we stopped at Les Manglares for some beers and ordered the nachos as well. If you get the chance, order the nachos! They were the best we have ever had! Thanks to the design and location of Pura Vida; as well as the people around Coronado. We plan on returning and possibly having a place of our own eventually! Alex and Tami Quinn" Alex & Tami (Booked via Airbnb November 2018)

"...Beautiful stay off the beaten path! This was the perfect ending to our honeymoon…”

…The home, views, wildlife and hospitality we received from Joe and Kika all met expectations! If you are looking to disconnect and fully enjoy the natural wonders of Costa Rica, this is the perfect place!" Brittany (Booked via Airbnb November 2018)

 "...Incredible place, cant wait to come back!"

Jason (Booked via Airbnb November 2018)

"...This is one of the best places you’ll ever stay. The views are to die for and the owners have thought of every design to make the lodge relaxing and tranquil…”

…You’re in the midst of nature whilst overlooking the beautiful Pacific. The sunsets are like nothing we’ve ever seen before and go well with a g and t! And if you do venture out there are some superb restaurants nearby recommended by the owners that have a cool vibe and fabulous food. If your contemplating staying here I would say go for it as you’ll not regret it!" Anna (Booked via Airbnb Nov 2018)

 "...This place has the view which is breathtaking every morning you wake up and just does not get old. Will definitely recommend."

Ruslan (Booked via Airbnb Dec 2018)

"...Costa Rica was an absolute dream! We are so happy to have experienced the region, which seemed to us, to be just far enough outside of the more popular tourists areas…”

…We had planned on taking a few day trips to areas further north and south along the coast, but after arriving, we found ourselves not ever needing to drive more than an average of 25 mins away from the lodge, the atmosphere was too beautiful! You could easily spend your entire time up in the lodge if you're looking to completely disconnect. The deck literally hangs over the forest canopy. We saw toucans and howler monkeys without leaving the lodge. Pictures do not do the views surrounding the lodge justice. Waking up to the sounds of pristine rain forest made this trip one of the most relaxing we've ever been on. We had some of the best food we’ve ever had in the provinces adjacent to Tres Rios. We recommend the ThreeSixty hotel for a truly amazing dining experience. We went on a few relatively local tours, our favorite being a horseback ride to a waterfall w/ La Merced Ranch Tours in Uvita. Overall, we could not have hoped for a better Costa Rican experience. The hosts were perfect & Juan Carlos was very helpful. Pura Vita! *PS: Do read the detailed manual that the host's provide and take their tips, we printed one out and took notes before we arrived, there's some good stuff in there!" Beverly (Booked via Airbnb Dec 2019)

"...Offers a very peaceful and restful stay. Spacious living areas. Lovely bamboo screens throughout which allow lovely breeze to come through yet really secure…”

Nice plunge pool. Well looked after property that is beautifully presented with stunning views in particular the sunsets. Lots of wildlife to enjoy." Nigel (Booked via Airbnb Dec 2018)

 "...Wow, the views are absolutely amazing! If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle this is certainly the place to do it…”

…So fabulous hearing the animals and seeing a few. We definitely recommend a stay at Pura Vida Ecolodge. (Make sure you rent a 4 x 4, they are not kidding, but getting there is part of the experience)" Steven (Booked via Airbnb Dec 2018)

"...Excellent place for submerging yourself in the Costa Rican nature. beautiful nature, peaceful…”

…and plenty of birds and butterflies I recommend that you do your grocery shopping before checking in so you don't have to leave that same day and don't forget to bring any spices and cocking oils etc as well. Bring a good book and just enjoy! Pura Vida ❤" Elin (Booked via Airbnb Jan 2019)

 "...Pura Vida Ecolodge is honestly stunning! The pictures and description don’t do it justice!”

…You have to visit to appreciate the full extent of the beauty! Joe is an excellent host. He met us at the local pulperia and directed us to the house which about 10 minutes off the highway up a bumpy road! Super fun driving on! But make sure you have a 4x4! He was a wealth of knowledge of things to do and places to eat in neighbouring towns. The lodge is beautifully designed, spacious and stylish. Despite the hot weather, it was cool and breezy even though there’s no AC, just fans. The kitchen is fully equipped and we enjoyed buying local produce and cooking a few nights at the lodge. Joe even left us a fruit bowl and coconuts on our arrival. The scenic views from the deck are breathtaking. Even though the WiFi is pretty slow, it didn’t bother us. The views and wildlife are better than Netflix!! We would definitely recommend staying here and if we ever come back to Costa Rica, we would love to stay here again." Charlotte (Booked via Airbnb Jan 2019)

 "...My husband and I returned for a week after a wonderful first visit 2 years ago…”

…As we left the paved road for the notorious adventure drive up the mountain I admit I had a pang of angst. Why visit the same place twice? How can it possible live up to our dreamy memories of the first time? Turns out it was even better. This property is being so lovingly maintained. We noted fresh paint and other upgraded finishes. There's a second yoga deck, this one tucked discretely into the side of a hill to take full advantage of the sunset. We hiked from the lodge into a waterfall ravine, where we were surrounded by giant blue morpho butterflies as we searched out the tiny colorful dart frogs. We had a beach to ourselves and watched a large group of capuchin monkeys foraging and playing in the trees directly above our blanket. While we all go about our busy lives of work and family and other obligations the other creatures on this planet are doing their own things, and at Pura Vida you can't miss the fascinating rhythm of the day. First you notice the birds, sweet and soothing enough at first to enjoy before you even get out of bed. Then come the howler monkeys. When you make it out to the deck with a cup of coffee you'll see the Toucans, then the hummingbirds, then the fun family of chattering green parrots circling around the lodge. Watch for a few days and you'll learn the order. It all happens in reverse at sunset, until finally the bats (small cute ones) emerge to dance in the yard. Then it's time to lie back on the deck loungers to watch the stars - more than I've seen anywhere else. If that appeals to you you should stay here. You'll love it." Michelle (Booked via Airbnb Jan 2019)

 "...Highly recommend. This was an amazing place to stay with breathtaking views…”

…Definitely suggest you have a 4x4 with all wheel drive as the road is a little bumpy getting to the home. Joe and Kika were great hosts and provided so many great local recommendations. Pura Vida!" Tom (Booked via Airbnb Feb 2019)

"...This space is unreal. We saw toucans, enjoyed the yoga/workout space. It’s in the middle of the jungle but it’s very luxurious!”

…The pools was perfect." Chelsea (Booked via Airbnb Feb 2019)

“…Magnifique moment passé dans ce luxueux eco lodge surplombant la jungle !”

…Apaisement, calme et contemplation sont de mise dans ce bel endroit. Merci beaucoup !” Jeanne (Booked via Airbnb Feb 2019)

“…Pura Vida is a beautiful jungle oasis. Joe, Kika and Juan Carlos were the perfect hosts...”

…It was an amazing experience from the moment we arrived. Perfecto! Jill (Booked via Airbnb Feb 2019)

“…Хотите провести неделю в раю? Тогда берите чемоданы и летите в этот райский дом среди первозданной природы…”

…Если вам интересно пожить в зоопарке, не раздумывайте, и бронируйте проживание в этом месте! Великолепно! Незабываемо! Дом находится в джунглях, ежедневно вы будете находиться в компании колибри, ревуна, тукана, лягушек (больших и маленьких), огромного количества разных птиц, среди которых мы часто видели сову и сокола. Вид на джунгли с балкона и площадки для йоги невероятный. В спальне имеется огромное окно, даже находясь в кровати, можно в него смотреть. Нам очень нравился вид ночью, когда перед тобой силуэт дерева и звёзды. На балконе имеется гамак, шезлонги, а также пара очень удобных кресел. От дома есть две тропы, одна короткая, другая подлиннее к водопадам. Мы были в сухой сезон, и ближний водопад пересох, но дорожка к нему была интересной) Рядом с домом имеется несколько пляжей, два небольших магазина, в которых есть все самое необходимое. Большой супермаркет находится в 15 км по дороге в сторону Увиты. В доме есть все необходимое для жизни и отдыха (кухонная утварь, средства гигиены, моющие средства). Есть даже вещи, которые мы не ожидали, например блендер для смузи (соков), который мы использовали чаще всего))) есть бинокль, настольные игры) Мы были счастливы в этом доме, и очень грустили, когда покидали его. Спасибо хозяевам, которые стараются делать дом удобным для нашего отпуска.” Elena (Booked via Airbnb March 2019)

“…We stayed in Pura Vida Ecolodge for a week to meet up with family and celebrate our birthdays. It was perfect!”

…Stunning location and beautiful lodge. We did lots of trekking and wildlife spotting and were not disappointed. The lodge was well equipped for us to cook and eat in during the evenings. Fabulous times with our family. Royner the chef came to the lodge to cook for us, this was a lovely way to celebrate our birthdays. The food was five star! Would highly recommend this. We had great communication with joe and Kika. We followed their suggestions and everything worked out a treat! They really deserve a five star award for being eco friendly!” Janet (Booked via Airbnb March 2019)

“…As I’m sure countless people have said, the pictures do not do this place justice…”

…It was absolutely gorgeous from the natural scenery down to the minute details of the eco lodge. I wish we could have stayed longer as there was so much more we could have done! Be sure you are very very comfortable driving off-road. The trek from Coronado up to the lodge is a bumpy and steep one, but well worth it once you’re there.” Amanda (Booked via Airbnb March 2019)

“…Beautiful lodge in an amazing location, as long as you have 4WD. The house is tastefully decorated with lots of extra touches…”

…The plunge pool was great for cooling down after a hike or day at the beach and the views were amazing. I only wish we’d stayed longer!” Elizabeth (Booked via Airbnb March 2019)

“…We chose to end our 3 week road trip around Costa Rica at the eco lodge. It was the perfect place to completely unplug and savour the essence of pura vida…”

…We had our 3 small children 2, 4, and 6 with us for our stay. The plunge pool was the perfect place to let them play and cool off while we packed for a day down at one of the amazing beaches just a short drive down the hill. The views and the surroundings made life feel so natural and peaceful even while juggling the little ones on vacation. The fresh fruits for us on arrival and the basket with pantry staples like rice, beans and coffee made all the difference the first night allowing us to relax and unwind without having to run to the market first thing. My children loved using the binoculars to spot the different birds that they had hoped to see. We found ourselves discussing ways to leave our lives in the U.S. behind to live pura vida full time. The concept behind the ecolodge will become a part of you if you let it. We all felt emotional leaving the last day as we said goodbye to this little piece of heaven on earth. Joe and Kika you have made such an amazing place that combines nature and luxury so perfectly. I plan to incorporate more of the eco lodge philosophy into our everyday life. I hope we will be lucky enough to make it back one day. Special thanks to Juan Carlos for helping make our stay just perfect!” Tiffany (Booked via Airbnb April 2019)

“…We had a great stay at Pura Vida Ecolodge. The welcome packets Joe and Kika sent contained all the information we needed to prepare for our rain forest vacation...”

…We arrived after dark and were escorted up the hill by Juan. That was extremely helpful on the road up. The fresh fruit on arrival was a nice touch. The views from the lodge are unmatched and we really enjoyed hiking the trails in the area. The lodge itself is a fantastic and the pool is refreshing after the hikes.” Kevin (Booked via Airbnb April 2019)

“…Coolest place ever! We traveled as a family of five (kids aged 12,11 and 8) and it was absolutely perfect!”

…Off the beaten track (and not that easy to get to) but if you want a real Costa Rican adventure away from tourists and living among the animals, this is a perfect spot. Recommend that you plan for food ahead of time and buy the ingredients to make Gallo pinto so that monika- who lives locally-can make you a Costa Rican breakfast. Bring on the mangos and pineapples. Wonderful and unique place, we will definitely come back. The tree house was an architectural feat- just beautiful!” Amy (Booked via Airbnb April 2019)

“…Een fantastische plek! Misschien wel het mooiste plekje op de wereld...

We voelden ons zo welkom! Overal was over nagedacht!” Anne (Booked via Airbnb April 2019)

“…Pura Vida Ecolodge exceeded our expectations! This was our first stop in Costa Rica and it amazed us completely…”

…The mangrove tour with Gersen is a must, his family is very welcoming and his wife cooked some amazing food. He even took us to pick mangos and fresh coconuts right from the tree and told us the best way to make fresh agua de mango! Kika kept in close contact and gave us some excellent restaurant recommendations which we tried all of them and we couldn’t say anything bad, they were all great. If I travel back to Costa Rica this would be a stop for us again, we almost wished we would’ve had other guests with us cause we had a whole extra room we never touched. I’m amazed out how welcoming everyone in Costa Rica is, thank you for some great memories that we get to cherish forever! Oh and we did see a ton of howler monkeys, this is a natures heaven! PURA VIDA!” Katlyn (Booked via Airbnb April 2019)

“…This place is truly an experience all on its own. Costa Rica is a gorgeous country and the Pura Vida Ecolodge really let's you get in touch with that beauty in a way few visitors will be able to…”

…The location, views, and setting are wild. Expansive valley and oceans views with virgin rain forest coming right up to the lodge. The open concept of the home and the large deck spaces allow you drink it all in. There is an incredible diversity of wildlife in all directions. The guide Joe and Kika have put together for their guests is very thorough and full of useful information and recommendations. Follow their guide and you will have no issues! Getting to the lodge is an adventure on its own (but I loved it). When they say you need to rent a 4x4, they mean it! Once you're off the highway, the road up the lodge is not difficult if you have the proper vehicle and a little know-how (make use of the low gears). Juan Carlos is the local caretaker and he is very helpful and friendly. He will meet you on check in day to show you up mountain road to the lodge, so rest assured. He's always available via (Hidden by Airbnb) for questions ect once you're checked in. Overall this is a special and worthwhile experience. Do some research about local wildlife and bring some binoculars, you're in for a treat :)” Michael (Booked via Airbnb May 2019)

“…We absolutely loved our time in the Pura Vida Ecolodge! If you are looking for a getaway, this is it...”

…A big thank you to Joe, Kika & Juan Carlos! Pura Vida!!” Meghann (Booked via Airbnb May 2019)

“…Amazing place with awesome views. Loved the open air feeling of this beautiful home...”

…I would highly recommend this spot, especially for couples wanting to get away from it all! Carolyn (Booked via Airbnb May 2019)

“…WE LOVED the Pura Vida Ecolodge. We never wanted to leave!”

Denae (Booked via Airbnb May 2019)

“…This is the most wonderful place we have ever stayed in. It is just so beautiful!”

…The views are incredible and while walking near the property we saw a lot is wildlife - howler monkeys, spider monkeys, capuchins plus loads of birds and insects. You will definitely need a 4x4 for the drive up. The house is very comfortable and has everything you need. Juan Carlos was very helpful and met us to show us the way to the house. I cannot recommend this property more, it was incredible!” Ella (Booked via Airbnb May 2019)

“…The ecolodge was so beautiful and unique. The owners have an eye for details and offer such a zen experience to living in the hilltop!”

…The location is spectacular and loved waking up with the sun and the view. We devoured the complimentary empanadas and fruit and used the drip coffee everyday! The lookout point was also a fun bonus. We didn’t use the downstairs, but both spaces were so peaceful. We hope to book with you again in the future and bring another couple.” Scott (Booked via Airbnb June 2019)

“…We loved living in the rainforest. Way better than a resort stay if you want to get away from the crowds and into nature…”

…Gerzan's mangrove boat tour was a great way to see some wildlife and the river. Exploring the trails near the lodge was a highlight.” Gary (Booked via Airbnb June 2019)

“…By renting this Airbnb through Joe & Kika, you are not only renting a place to stay, but you are getting the entire Costa Rican experience along with it...”

…This is how Costa Rica should be done, off the beaten path, and full of adventure. Follow Joe & Kika's recommendations with the 4x4 SUV, and you will be well on your way. The guidebook that is provided is key to staying in this part of the country. Joe & Kika have done it right with the eco lodge, but the recommendations they made in the guidebook really made our trip. We drove through dirt roads, across jungles, through rivers/streams. This trip was amazing, and to come home to the Airbnb to relax after a day of adventure was the cherry on top. Highly recommended for anyone looking for adventure, and wanting to experience the 'off the beaten path' side of the country. Book now, you won't regret it!” Martin (Booked via Airbnb July 2019)

“…Beautiful view, stunning home & pool, & amazing hosts. Truly a special place that we will forever remember…”

Carolina (Booked via Airbnb July 2019)

“…Beautiful property with amazing views. Lovely hosts, with an eye for design and thoughtful touches throughout the home. Accurately described…”

…The area - Ojochal, Uvita & accompanying national parks - was one of our favorites for the 15 days we spent in Costa Rica. The boat tour with Gersan was also a highlight. Definitely recommend.” Kelly (Booked via Airbnb July 2019)

“…We had a beautiful stay at the Pura Vida Ecolodge for three nights. No words can describe this space...just go! It’s heaven :)”

Rachel (Booked via Airbnb July 2019)

“…Absolutely amazing. Hands down the most gorgeous views, and comfortable homes...”

…The staff are incredibly knowledgeable and kind, and the hiking trails leans to some of the most incredible streams and waterfalls!” Amanda (Booked via Airbnb August 2019)

“…Non seulement un Lodge mais aussi une parfaite cabane d’observation. Oiseaux et mammifères à portée de main !”

Yann (Booked via Airbnb August 2019)

“…Lugar con encanto, acogedor, increíbles vistas, perfecto para desconectar en medio de la naturaleza.”

Ana (Booked via Airbnb August 2019)

“…Our family of 2 adults and 2 children stayed for 9 nights in August, Pura Vida is the most gorgeous home, amazing views, peaceful location and great amenities…”

Please take the time to read the super informative welcome packs that they send you, the information is priceless. We visited the recommended beaches and they were absolutely beautiful. No problems had with any scary critters, some cute lizards inside the house, the green and black dart frog on the balcony was great to see, giant moths!, some odd looking bugs in the entry way just chilling not bothering anyone (didn’t quite know what bugs you would see, different every day). We walked into the jungle on our first day to the beautiful waterfall and saw a sloth. Would highly recommend to anyone wanting the jungle experience. Lots of thoughtful touches including binoculars, raincoats, coffee, spices... Juan Carlos that looks after the house is super helpful and available through (Hidden by Airbnb) and always reply’s promptly.” Susan (Booked via Airbnb August 2019)

“…This place is truly amazing...”

This was my first time using Airbnb outside of the US so I was a bit worried. Pura Vida Ecolodge was better in person!!! Pictures do not truly do it justice.” Danielle (Booked via Airbnb September 2019)

“…Great place to stay if you’re a nature lover...”

This place completely satisfied me & my fiancé on our vacation. Book Pura Vida Ecolodge!” Khazar (Booked via Airbnb September 2019)

“…Let’s start with getting there…”

Juan Carlo met us at the entrance to guide us up. We visited during green season and happens to have the river with access to the house flood preventing our quick arrival. Juan Carlo and the whole town came out to assist in unclogging the river so we could get up. Thank you. When we reached the house it was nothing less than spectacular The views the fine details , binocular, candles , fruit, coffee, cooking supplies, and even a puzzle of the view from the house, After this we had no issue going to and from the house. We had three guests staying and all were comfortable. I hope to one day not only return to your house but possibly be your neighbor. Views are stunning you don’t want to look away. Thank you for a peaceful retreat.” Ryan (Booked via Airbnb October 2019)

“…Excelente lugar!!”

Lleno de naturaleza. La casa está cómoda y en buen estado. Ana (Booked via Airbnb October 2019)

“…Este lugar es simplemente maravilloso…”

Mejor de lo que esperaba. Tan solo despertar y tener esa vista era fascinante. Incluso con la lluvia le daba el toque de tranquilidad al lugar. Excelente experiencia para despejarte de todo y estar totalmente en paz. Todos los servicios fueron muy utiles, la construccion es preciosa, el lugar es muy limpio, poderte acostar en un camastro mientras escuchas el ruido de la lluvia entre tanta naturaleza lo hace tan especial. Pura Vida Ecolodge te brinda tanta paz y tranquilidad, es simplemente bello. Lleve a mi familia como sorpresa a este lugar y fue una de las mejores experiencias en su vida, les trajo buenos recuerdos de su infancia ya que ellos se criaron en un lugar con mucha naturaleza y tranquilidad. Amamos cada detalle brindando en el lugar. Joe y Kika siempre se mostraron atentos ante cualquier cosa que pudieramos necesitar e incluso Juan Carlos fue muy amable y atento en todo momento. Toda la informacion necesaria la dieron previamente, la cual nos fue de gran ayuda para esta gran aventura, incluyendo la informacion para rentar un coche y llegar al lugar ya que como lo mencionan, es muy necesario un carro 4x4. Cerca del lugar encontramos una de nuestras playas favoritas, "Playa Ventanas", con mucha naturaleza al rededor y un lindo columpio en la parte del rio, al igual que el parque nacional Manuel Antonio. Me voy de este lugar con un gran agradecimiento y con la esperanza de volver. Pura Vida! Marie Isabel (Booked via Airbnb October 2019)

“…The scenery was wonderful. A great place to stay to get away from the crowd…”

Juan Carlos was very friendly and helpful. Steve (Booked via Airbnb 2019)

“…Ook al komt je reis niet in de buurt, dit is het waard om voor om te rijden…”

We hebben hier twee nachten geslapen en daarmee 1 dag gebruikt om even helemaal niet weg te hoeven. Mooie huis, met magische uitzichten. We hadden die ontspan dag wel geluk met het weer vermoed ik, maar het is een echt fantastisch gefaciliteerde woning. David (Booked via Airbnb November 2019)

“…We needed a post deployment, family bonding trip to get away from it…”

all so we chose Pura Vida Ecolodge as an escape for all of us. We stayed 5 wonderful days and on the 5th day, we all were not ready to leave. No one wanted to go home! The house, the views, the coffee, the sounds of the rainforest. All of it is so special. My best advice is to wake up for every sunrise, and be at the house for every sunset. The rainforest comes to life and the sunsets are crazy beautiful from the bedroom window and porch! We had howling monkeys, toucans, bats (the house is covered in bats but they are harmless!) and a ton of birds! Every day we saw something new. Also the boat ride with Gerzan is truly a unique experience and I highly recommend it! The food he prepared was also some of the best we had! Sarah (Booked via Airbnb November 2019)

“…Gorgeous spot to stay in a beautiful area of Costa Rica…”

Breathtaking views, comfortable bed and range of pillows which we enjoyed trying! Loved making ourselves fresh fruit smoothies for breakfast, and cooking in the well equipped kitchen. We also did Gerzan’s boat tour which was good fun, nice to support the local community - we even bought some fresh fish from the boat captain. The road up to the ecolodge is challenging but not dissimilar to other places we visited in CR - ok if you take it slow. We appreciated being shown the way the first time by Juan Carlos. Fantastic sunsets which were different every night! We’d recommend the ecolodge - really beautiful and romantic spot to stay. Marie (Booked via Airbnb December 2019)

“..Pura Vida Ecolodge is everything it promises to be and more…”

The pictures don’t do the view justice. The place was sparkling clean and had lots of nice touches. It doesn’t get much better than this place. Katharine (Booked via Airbnb December 2019)

“…Pura Vida Ecolodge is the best accommodation where I have ever stayed…”

The house is amazing and the landscape breathtaking. The lodge is like in pictures, even better. We enjoyed a lot our stay there and we had everything we needed. I can't find anything to not like. Thank you Joe & Kika! Anca (Booked via Airbnb December 2019)

“…This place is truly spectacular…”

The photos are very accurate but the scenery is even better than we expected. Full sunsets every night and our last night was made even special by seeing a toucan and fireflies in the front garden. We would thoroughly recommend this place. The owners are really responsive and there is a local caretaker on hand if you need him. The road is pretty dicey on the way up - to be expected given its Costa Rica. We would go back in a heartbeat. Andrew (Booked via Airbnb December 2019)

Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious. From the outset we were supported by an extremely friendly and experienced host who spoke great English.

In fact, I think he is English. Despite Brexit, we were provided with well constructed welcome packs containing essential travel and accommodation advice which also included a myriad of local amenity and activity suggestions. The Ecolodge really is something to behold and the pictures on the website purvey only a fraction of what you can expect. The sunsets and the incredibly mysterious ensemble of the dusk ‘til dawn wildlife chorus will have you transfixed for the entirety of your stay. You will find yourself firmly placed in the jungle but the nearest village is only 30mins drive (4x4 required). A few minutes further out you will find supermarket, frozen yogurt etc. We travelled as four adults and two children under 5 with the youngest being 2. The place was more than suitable with a little supervision for the pool and decking area. For us, this accommodation is located in one of the last remaining unspoilt spots of the world. Please, please visit. Thank you Puravida XXX Joanna (Booked via Airbnb January 2020)

”…Wow. What can I say... During our two week trip to Costa Rica, and staying in three different locations, Pura Vida topped them all…”

We stayed here for 4 nights and could have stayed forever. We left feeling like we were leaving a home we never knew we needed. Pure jungle oasis with probably the most amazing view on the mountain, clear view of the ocean, which you’ll find blends in with the rich sunsets at dusk like a real-life oil painting. Just as described, this house is above the jungle canopy, and every morning we were up by 5:30am making coffee, opening all the doors and ready to listen for the howler monkeys and watch for toucans, parakeets and other exotic birds. The big, lion-king-looking tree out front is the hub for several of Costa Rica’s exotic birds, so keep watch from the main bedroom window as you’re waking up or from the view of the couch. We recommend keeping your bedroom curtains open at night so you wake up to the sights and sounds of the animals at sunrise! Simply incredible. Every time of day showcases a different aspect of nature. We found that just after the sun rises and is fully shining, that’s when the toucans will be soaring above to the right. At night, too just before the sun sets. Howler monkeys right as the sun is coming up and right at sunset. My husband was howling back at one of the monkeys and they went back and forth howling at each other for a good hour. Hysterical! The house has an infinity-like pool which is a refreshing place to dip after a hot hike. Look up and around for huge spiders, colorful dragon flies and big blue butterflies 🦋 (the size of my hand!) as you swim. Our advice is to always be on the lookout for amazing creatures! Never put your head down or you’ll miss something. Our favorite part of the stay was sitting in silence on the lounge chairs with our binoculars waiting for nature’s next surprise. We would make coffee in the bamboo coffee maker and snack on some fruit too. Aside from our favorite part, (the nature), the house itself and hospitality, amazing. Juan Carlos was very sweet and responsive and helpful. We were welcomed in with fresh fruit, coffee and two local “Jungle brew” beers (very delicious!). The place was clean and landscaped to perfection. However just remember you are staying in the jungle, so you’ll find a few unexpected things inside the house like ant trails or little spiders if you leave crumbs. Even a few little lizards will find their way inside. Just keep your bedroom door shut and suitcases closed and you’ll be just fine - everything is enclosed there in the bedroom and the animals that slip in are completely harmless. Think hardcore “glamping” (aka glamorous camping). We are tent campers, so this was heaven for us. So fun for me to cook all our meals in open air. My happy place is in the kitchen so I didn’t mind making tropical pineapple cocktails and chopping fruit or making dinner while my husband sat in the hammock to read. NOTES *One thing to note is the road up to this place is a long, bumpy, crazy ride. Around 20-25 min If you’re not used to it. You have to rent a 4x4 or you’re out of luck. It was honestly so much fun for us, and ever since having that drive up and down, everywhere else we stayed is really boring. We really loved driving up it at night, because all the smells of the wilderness are amazing after a hot summer day. Put some “beach boys” playlist on the radio and make the drive an adventure! *No air conditioning! At first, we were a little worried about this part and honestly the first night was HOT. Because the bedroom is completely enclosed. We were brave enough the second night to keep the bedroom door to the main area open to let the natural sea breeze in. (The doors in the main area all close and lock, but the windows are screens so the breeze can filter through.) there were also ceiling fans above you too and then two smaller portable fans which were really powerful! No animals/bugs came in, which I was afraid of the first night. Honestly, we just got used to it and by the time we left, preferred no air conditioning over the air bnb bed and breakfast we had to go to for our third stay. Ugh, you won’t need air conditioning. They truly designed the place to catch the most refreshing sea breeze, and if you’re active enough all day, you’ll sleep like a baby anyway. *Make time to turn off all the lights/fans inside and outside and try not to have all the fans running and lights at the same time. *Be sure to lay outside under the stars. We did this every night! Venus was so bright, it shows up in all my sunset photos on my iPhone and the stars were so incredible we wouldn’t want to go to bed. Bring bug spray though! Download the star app and take a look around. We could see Neptune with the binoculars! FOOD Stock up in Uvita on essentials before you go up the hill! Great grocery store there. Keep in mind uvita is the closest gas station as well. (Maybe 20 min away after getting down the mountain to the main road) For eating out, we also can recommend the soda across from the main little grocery at the bottom of the mountain (right down in the corner to your right coming down the hill). Delicious local food!! We got two huge cosados for $9 total. We also loved the restaurant beside the large grocery store in uvita. Get the ceviche! And also, if you want a good sunset meal, go to “la cusinga”! It’s a boutique. Dana (Booked via Airbnb January 2020)

“…You can expect a paved one lane highway for 60% of travel that feels very safe. Some going 30mph. Some 60 mph. 3.5 hours…”

…15 min slow drive on caliche like road. You will be very safe in a 4x4. It’s not scary. Very beautiful place, friendly and tranquil. If a monkey 🐒 is what you want to see. Go to the entrance of Manuel Antonio national park entrance at 4 pm. All the monkeys come out to eat the trash out of cans. We saw like 15 of them. Saw 0 in the park tho. One sloth. The most beautiful ocean is across street. White sand. Bar. Clean environment. Looked picturesque. Shopping in Dominical. Por que no great restaurant backs up ocean. Fuego for craft beer. Big grocery store in Uvita. The House is amazing. Bring toiletries. Buy cream for your coffee. The jungle room has the biggest breeze/fan. We were very comfortable and we never had bug spray. One bug bite out of 6 days. January will be warm and perfect. Bring light clothing! We can’t wait to go back. They have 2 rain coats here. You will need. They have binoculars and wi fi. (Portable) Pura Vida!😀 Charlotte (Booked via Airbnb January 2020)

“…Amazing place and view! We loved the Ecolodge and had a very relaxing and peaceful time there with our kids aged 8 and 10…”

…who really loved the house and the pool of course ! We saw two toucans at the house and that was most probably the most exiting time at the house for the kids ! The mangrove tour was great too and we highly recommend it : amazing beach and food provided ! We got lucky to have Joe with us that afternoon as he was in Costa Rica that week. It was really great meeting you Joe and we would like to thank you again for your hospitality !! Marie (Booked via Airbnb February 2020)

“…My husband and I had 5 wonderful days at the eco lodge. First off, the lodge and the surrounding area were like a private spa retreat…”

…with amazing views of the jungle and the ocean. The lodge offered many wonderful amenities, some of those included a wonderful plunge pool with a wrap around sun deck for lounging, sliding screen doors for open air living, a wonderful shower, luxurious king size bed, washer and dryer available, and a fully equipped kitchen! We really enjoyed all of the 5 star amenities in the midst of the jungle! The location was centrally located so that we could easily explore multiple beaches, each with their own unique features. One of our favorites was Playa Ventanas and we also enjoyed the restaurants and shopping in Dominical. We would highly recommend the lodge and would love another visit if given the opportunity. Mandy (Booked via Airbnb March 2020)

“…Pura Vida was a peaceful space with lots of thoughtful touches towards sustainability…”

…Very well appointed and Joe & Kika were great hosts! We thoroughly enjoyed Chef Royner for a delicious fish dinner and a mangrove tour with Gerzan! Thanks for all Joe & Kika...Pura Vida! Dana (Booked via Airbnb March 2020)

“…Absolutely stunning space and views…”

…My husband and I stayed here for our honeymoon. We had a wonderful time. You will arrive and never want to leave! Annemarie (Booked via Airbnb March 2020)

“…This house is amazing…”

…Do not even know where to start. I would love to return someday. Page (Booked via Airbnb March 2020)

“…Pure magic... x”

Tara-Jean (Booked via Airbnb May 2020)

“…Pura Vida es un lugar increible…”

…La propiedad tiene una linda vista, inmersa en el bosque trópical y con una propuesta ecoamigable. Los dueños se preocupan por brindar todas las facilidades para un hospedaje agradable y así poder disfrutar de la naturaleza. Es muy importante que no se transporten en carros bajos. El viaje debe realizarse en 4x4 pues existen elevaciones muy empinadas, calles de lastre (piedras) y en la entrada de la propiedad existe un gran hueco o cuneta, es imposible para un vehículo automóvil llegar. La municipalidad ha arreglado las calles pero aún así es muy difícil llegar al lugar sin un 4x4. Andrey (Booked via Airbnb May 2020)

“…A beautiful property with spectacular views…”

…the photos say it all!! The hosts were incredibly responsive for any inquiry we had leading up to our stay, and Juan Carlos was fantastic in getting us settled once we arrived . We hope to return to enjoy this unique and special place again! Kristin (Booked via Airbnb June 2020)

“… Wonderful spot!”

…The views, the weather, the house! All just perfect. If you want to clear you mind and find peace and happiness, this is the spot. Carlos Ricardo (Booked via Airbnb 2020)

“…When my husband and I walked into this home we both said WOW!”

I recently retired from managing 125 vacation rental homes in California, (and currently manage 8 here in Costa Rica), so I'm a bit picky about details. The attention to detail by the Owners is absolutely amazing! And the home was sparkling clean with special touches by the housekeeper (in every room) that show that she really cares. The bedding was super comfy, the amenities were abundant from bathing products, to robes and slippers, to goodies in the refrigerator, a fruit basket, a selection of coffees and teas, a variety of seating options inside and outside for whatever mood you're in. I could go on and on but would spoil the surprises. The house is situated perfectly to take in breezes and amazing views. The waterfall on property is beautiful and the yoga deck is serene. From the very beginning, the Owners communicated extremely well and all instructions were super clear. The Guest Book has every possible question answered and the gentleman who met us, Juan Carlos, was professional and friendly. The Owners even accommodated our friend's request to have an incredible surprise welcome tray waiting for us. Citrus restaurant was delicious as well as the gourmet meal made for us in the home by the Private Chef. Thank you for an unforgettable 30 wedding anniversary getaway! Terry (Booked via Airbnb July 2020)

“…Definitivamente una experiencia inolvidable…”

Toda la temática de la casa es espectacular y se pasa un buen rato 100% asegurado. (Se necesita un carro 4x4, de lo contrarío se dificultará mucho el acceso). Muchas gracias! Estas pequeñas vacaciones estuvieron geniales. El lugar espectacular y todo estaba justo como esperábamos. Jose Andres (July 2020)

“…Espectacular, tenía una expectativa muy alta por las fotos y aún así, fueron superadas…”

Tuvimos la mala suerte de no poder visitar la playa debido al cierre del puente, sin embargo, encontramos todo lo necesario en casa para disfrutar en familia. El trato y amabilidad de Juan Carlos, increíble. ¡Gracias! Adrián (Booked via Airbnb Agosto 2020)

“…Pura Vida Ecolodge es un paraíso en medio de las montañas con una vista inmejorable e inolvidable'...”

Nos recibieron con un lugar sumamente limpio y aromas que despertaban sólo paz y calma. Todos los detalles que manejan son increíbles, desde una guía con todas las descripciones de la casa con recomendaciones de lugares para ir a comer o visitar hasta binoculares para observar la naturaleza que la rodea. Juan Carlos muy amable, nos topó abajo de la carretera que llega a la casa (la estaban arreglando y realmente está en muy buenas condiciones para ser de tierra) y nos llevó a ella, en la casa, nos dio un tour en el cual siempre hizo uso de mascarilla y en la entrada de alcohol. En general, el lugar te invita a sentirte Pura Vida, cómodo, seguro y sin preocupaciones. Definitivamente volveremos. Agradecerles de nuevo por tener ese espacio tan mágico y hermoso y compartirlo con quienes gustamos de conocer lugares nuevos y convivir con la naturaleza. De verdad fue una experiencia lindísima. Melissa (Booked via Airbnb September 2020)

“…El único problema que tiene el lugar es que uno desea vivir ahi…”

Es increíble la casa, la vista, el diseño, se siente parte de la naturaleza desde el confort. Kika y Joe están en constante comunicación, son muy amables, les invito a visitar el lugar, es MÁGICO. Increíble todo! Queremos volver pronto Dayan (Booked via Airbnb September 2020)

“…Peaceful beautiful great host 100% recommended.”

Thanks again for everything we loved your place, the vibe, the energy , your quick response even that you re not in Costa Rica. We will be back for sure and already sharing the place with close friends and family ! Felipe (Booked via Airbnb September 2020)

“…Beautiful setting. Breathtaking views! Hosts were wonderful and responsive. Juan Carlos was very kind and helpful also.”

The place was dreamy. The views were breathtaking everything about the place was beautiful. Katarina (Booked via Airbnb October 2020)

“…Wow! Where to begin?? My husband and I came to Pura Vida Ecolodge for our honeymoon and it was incredible…”

Joe & Kika go above and beyond right from the moment of your booking. They truly want to make sure your experience is special! Even with the craziness of COVID and PCR testing we knew we could count on Joe & Kika to work with us and they are super supportive! They really care about you, your experience, and the sweet space they’ve created. The space: WOW! Waking up each morning to the sunrise in the bedroom window was unbelievable, the views are unbeatable and it is so private! We felt completely off the map. We saw toucans and frogs at the lodge and saw monkeys and scarlet macaws on hike - so cool! We can’t say enough about how amazing the space. Also huge thank you to Juan Carlos for all of his help showing us up to the lodge in the dark - quite an adventure and being around to help with anything we needed :) the whole ecolodge team is incredible! And can’t forget Gerzan and his boat trip! Book now!! Thanks again for a perfect honeymoon Ecolodge team!! Cc (Booked via Airbnb October 2020)

“…Unreal views, super cool location, and plenty to do in the area. What an awesome place. Highly recommend!”

We had a great stay and appreciate the quick responses and all-around helpfulness. What a great place you guys have! Grant (Booked via Airbnb November 2020)

“…Fantastic place, highly recommend it for a great getaway!”

Roberto (Booked via Airbnb December 2020)

“…Muchas gracias, la pasamos muy bien!”

Mauricio (Booked via Airbnb, December 2020)

“…This is the most incredible Airbnb we have ever stayed in!”

Everything thing about the experience was above and beyond what we were expecting. Sipping a cocktail watching the sunset over the jungle is something we will never forget. Joe and Kika were incredible hosts and Juan Carlos was very helpful! We can't recommend this place highly enough! We can't thank you enough for letting us stay here. We made memories that will last a lifetime! Pete (Booked via Airbnb December 2020)

“…Book it! You won’t be sorry! This place is magical on every level!!”

As soon as we pulled up we were BLOWN AWAY!! The views are breathtaking. Our first night the sunset was out of this world. We saw all types of birds and butterflies on the property. We’d get up just as they were and sit outside and watch them. I’d write in my journal and drink my coffee in complete peace. The hiking trail on the property is so cool! A little slippery but to be expected since it is in the middle of the jungle. If you’re feeling Adventurous hike down the waterfall river and you’ll come across a few more. We climbed down for quite a bit. Totally worth it as long as you’re the adventurous type. There’s no AC but you truly don’t need it. We had the perfect breeze everyday. Couldn’t even tell it was hot outside until we went into the sun. The way up is an adventure. Make sure you follow their instruction and get the 4x4 or you won’t be making it up the mountain. On the way up there’s a sign that says “welcome to the stairway to the stars” and they weren’t kidding!! The amount of stars we saw were truly incredible. One night we took out the yoga Mats and laid on the grass looking up and it was the most beautiful thing hearing all the nightlife and looking up into the twinkling sky. We actually drifted off into sleep for a little before we decided to go inside. We went on a ATV ride through the jungle, stopped at a homegrown coffee farm, a stunning waterfall, a swimming pool at a river, and they took us to the tallest point of Costa Rica. It was amazing! Company is called jungle ATV they were approx 30 min away. Really only 15 on the main road but the ride down the mountain is prob about 15 min. We didn’t get a chance to reserve a private chef like we wanted because it was short notice but Joe and Kika went out of their way to assist us and reach out to a local friend who does home cooked meals and it was fantastic! Pura vida Ecolodge is heaven on earth! I had a really hard time leaving this morning. I wasn’t ready to go. Feel so blessed and grateful to have had the opportunity to stay here. We will without a doubt stay here again the next time we come to Costa Rica! Highly Recommend!!! Thank you again Joe and Kika!! :) Kathleen (Booked via Airbnb January 2021)

“…My family of five was fortunate to have been a guest for 10 days.”

The early morning toucan calls and magnificent sunsets are forever embedded in my soul. I loved the seclusion of the jungle bedroom and view outdoors from the shower. Pura Vida Ecolodge is a nature lovers haven where modern and rustic have a comfortable balance. Be prepared to share your living space when the outdoor elements find shelter inside( bugs and lizards). Visited Osa Canopy Tour, Cascada El Pavón, and plenty of beaches. Only regret is having to leave. Eileen (Booked via Airbnb January 2021)

“…I would start by saying that this place was way better than what we expected.”

Our host was very attentive and responsive, from the moment we booked the place till until after our stay. The moment you first arrive to the house it is simply amazing, from the small touches in all areas to the breathtaking jungle views, specially at sunrise and sunset. I personally loved the fact they are ecofriendly, the solar panel, the rain water system, the coconut bowls, the bamboo straws, utensils and plateware, etc. I bought from the bamboo straws and a coconut bowl, which I loved! They’re also great for souvenirs. I must say I was a bit worried about the solar panel running out of energy, but everything was fine. One night we had a glitch that lasted probably a couple of seconds, but that was it. About the 4X4, they are not kidding when they say you won’t make it up there on a regular car. There’s only one way up and the 15-minute drive up the hill is very bumpy and a bit scary specially at night. When we first arrived to the house we got there around 5pm but by the time we wanted to go get food or do groceries it was already pitch dark. We were frightened of leaving the house because of the rocky route and the fact we didn’t know how to get back specially in the dark. Therefore, we reached to Juan Carlos as a last resource since we were starving! He was very helpful and brought us food up. That was awesome! We really appreciated that act of hospitality. To wrap up this review, I would say you MUST visit this place when visiting Costa Rica. You will have an amazing time and the only thing you’ll regret is not staying here longer enough :) Pura vida! Noely (Booked via Airbnb January 2021)

“…This place is absolutely amazing -- STAY HERE for your pure CR jungle (with ocean view!) experience!”

We loved listening to the rainforest, enjoying the mountain breezes, watching gorgeous sunsets and taking dips in the plunge pool throughout our stay. 4x4 is definitely needed but the hike is worth the view. Cant wait to come again!! Margo (Booked via Airbnb January 2021)

“…The property is spectacular, the house is immerse in nature which is amazing!”

Joe is the best host so kind and concern for you to have the best experience! Monica (Booked via Airbnb January 2021)

“…Where dreams become reality. This place changes you.”

Giganni (Booked via Airbnb February 2021)

“…Perhaps one of the best Airbnb stays ever. Joe + Kika are first rate hosts and their property in Costa Rica is top notch.”

We’d love to be back in the future and highly recommend it to anyone considering it. The one caveat is the WiFi — not the best (which is an issue all across Costa Rica). It’ll be enough for light emailing, but not sufficient to reliably hold over a video conference. The place is gorgeous for a complete disconnect from the real world. Javier (Booked via Airbnb February 2021)

“…A very cool place! We ( a family of 4) stayed there in the end of February. No mosquitos.”

The road requires 4X4 and could be scared for those who don't like adventures. Amazing view, clean hose, great furniture and comfortable beads. We loved our stay, thank you so much! Andrew (Booked via Airbnb February 2021)

“…Very beautiful and well maintained house in absolutely stunning Nature. Pura Vida :-)”

Kareem (Booked via Airbnb February 2021)

“…Rather than reading the reviews, sometimes it is better to experience it in person. Pura Vida Ecolodge delivered on all fronts the true Pura Vida experience.”

The magic hour, the 4x4 driving, giant insects, spiders, birds, frogs, howling monkeys, beautiful sunrises and sunsets, and magnificent beaches. Anyone visiting Costa Rica for the first time really needs to depart the comforts of hotels and stay high up in the jungle and experience the fresh breeze and the magic hour of the jungle. Also, Pura Vida Ecolodge had one of the coldest dipping pools I have ever experienced, perfect for cooling down after a day at the beach or hiking. The hosts and the local help were amazing, from scheduling a 4x4, private chef, massages, to the check-in and out process, truly the best! Vlad (Booked via Airbnb March 2021)

“…Such a beautiful place! Hosts were great and helped us coordinate anything they could.”

The stay was absolutely a dip into living in jungle! Was very clean and drive up isn’t bad if you’ve been on some other roads, LOL. The chef is an awesome touch! Loved it. Tori (Booked via Airbnb March 2021)

“…My friends and I had the most amazing time at the Pura Vida Ecolodge.”

We became one with nature and embraced every moment of it. I would definitely recommend and hope to be back one day. Emily (Booked via Airbnb March 2021)

“…This place is magical and well worth the trek.”

The lodge looks even better in person and the views and hidden gems around the lodge are a treat that you have to experience! Please reserve the appropriate 4 by 4 well in advance as it can be a hassle to look for one last minute. Account for traffic both going to and leaving from the lodge if you are flying into and out of San Jose. If you’re in the mood to relax and let go with nature, I say book it! Trevon (Booked via Airbnb March 2021)

“…The Ecolodge quenched our thirst for much needed open air.”

The views are quite stunning, particularly the room with the ocean view. You won’t be disappointed here! Joe and Kika particularly did a great job with recommendations for what to do in the area; all of our activities and restaurants came from suggestions from them and we quite enjoyed them (e.g., the Adventure Motorsports Jungle ATV tour). Maury (Booked via Airbnb April 2021)

“…The Ecolodge itself was beautiful - pictures don’t do it justice. Watching the Costa Rican sunrise from the deck…”

the couch, even the bedroom window is absolutely breathtaking. We had lots of friendly jungle visitors come visit (geckos, frogs, insects, oh my!) but that is all expected with the pura vida lifestyle! What truly deserves to be mentioned was how helpful the housekeeper Juan Carlos was. We actually had an incident that destroyed our 4x4 rental car earlier the week (and you 1000% need a 4x4 vehicle to get here!). Juan Carlos went above & beyond, taking us up & down the trail everytime in his own car. Even though he knew little English, he was quick to respond via Whatsapp. Joe & Kika’s welcome packets were also very thorough & detailed. Overall loved the Costa Rican hospitality! Will definitely come back :) Natasha (Booked via Airbnb April 2021)

“…Die Unterkunft ist wirklich der Hammer.”

Die Auffahrt ist etwas abenteuerlich und ein Allradwagen wird benötigt. Juan carlos hat uns unten im Tal abgeholt und uns dann hoch in die Lodge gebracht. Alles war blitzsauber und toll eingerichtet. Wir hatten ein einheimisches Essen bei den Gastgebern bestellt was juan carlos mitgebracht hat und sehr lecker war. Zur Begrüßung gab es einen frischen Obstkorb. Wir hatten Besuch von einem Grashüpfer und anderen Insekten was im Dschungel nicht ausbleibt. Vom Balkon konnte man Tucane und Affen beobachten. Alles in allem eine wunderbare Unterkunft. Sehr gute Kommunikation mit den Gastgebern. Das WLAN war wirklich nur zum Emails abrufen und WhatsApp schreiben was uns absolut nicht gestört hat. Wir können diese Unterkunft ausnahmslos empfehlen Pura Vida. Adriana (Booked via Airbnb April 2021)

“…This place was BETTER than we could have ever expected.”

The pics don’t do it justice. The peacefulness that it brings upon you as soon as you get there is unimaginable. Loved every detail that they included. We got dinner delivered one night by a local they recommended and it’s been the best meal so far! The coffee bar was off such a nice little touch! I can’t say enough good things about this place! Denna (Booked via Airbnb April 2021)

“…Thank you Joe & Kika for an unforgettable stay!”

The location of the house is an experience in itself, but the house has multiple little extra treasures (like the coffee bar(!), and all efforts they have incorporated to ensure a sustainable living) which will makes sure to keep you feeling at your best. Joe &Kika are also the most wonderful hosts ever. They go above and beyond for their guests in planning and helping with preparations, throughout the entire stay and ensuring a safe departure. They helped us with everything from recommending local gems and activities (their welcome guide is also A+) to practical stuff as calling internet providers for hours on end to fix the wifi (which unfortunately was not working when we were there - which only was because we needed to work...) Warm recommendation! Johannes (Booked via Airbnb May 2021)

“…Pura Vida eco lodge is a beautiful escape. The property is so thoughtfully laid out and designed.”

it offers many opportunities to relax and enjoy the vast jungle that surrounds. The plunge pool was a wonderful way to stay cool and the yoga deck a quiet place for meditation and movement. We took the hosts recommendation and had a masseuse come to the property and that was a highlight! The property as a whole has a sensitive environmental footprint without missing creature comforts. My family and I stayed here for a month and would recommend this beautiful property to anyone looking to escape and reconnect. Thank you Joe & Kika! Peace & plants. Jamie (Booked via Airbnb May & June 2021)

“…A magical place that took my breath away every moment…”

between rising early to hear the jungle wake up to watching the sunset over the valley and ocean, each part of the stay here was incredible. Would highly recommend taking a hike up the hill, the views are worth it! Abby (Booked via Airbnb July 2021)

“…Beautiful home but definitely need a 4x4 especially in the wet season”

Susan (Booked via Airbnb July 2021)

“…Aucun superlatif ne sera assez fort pour décrire la magie de l’endroit. Fabuleux, incroyable, apaisant, ressourçant, accueillant…”

le paradis au milieu de nulle part. Beauté des lieux, du lodge, des aménagements, des matériaux, de la décoration… Quoi de mieux que de faire une partie de Scrabble en famille dans un décor de jungle ♥️ Un seul regret, n’avoir pu y passer que 2 nuits! Je recommande a tous les amoureux de nature, de beauté pure, vous n’en croirez pas vos yeux. Même s’il a beaucoup plu cela n’a pas empêché le charme d’opérer! Sandrine (Booked via Airbnb, July 2021)

“…Great location, Juan Carlos was helpful. Beautiful place.”

Amira (Booked via Airbnb, August 2021)

“…Good location with great views. Close to nice beaches.”

Jennifer (Booked via Airbnb, August 2021)

“…The place was just as expected. Amazing views, great host, clean, safe…”

not much more to say that hasn't already been said in previous reviews. Definitely worth experiencing for yourself. You will love it! Stefann (Booked via Airbnb August 2021)

Beautiful and comfortable place hidden in the privacy of jungles.

Joe & Kika are wonderful hosts and they make sure their guests are provided with everything essential to have an enjoyable and safe time exploring Costa Rica. They began taking care of our vacation at the time of reservation, which was very thoughtful and touching. Also Juan Carlos was there to help us any time with any questions. We loved our experience with Vamos Rental car services. 4x4 is a must if one stays at Pura Vida Ecolodge and desires to explore Costa Rica with no limits. Thank you, Joe, Kika, Juan Carlos for such a great life-time memories we have about visiting Costa Rica. Pura Vida! Olga (Booked via Airbnb September 2021)

We can’t rave enough about our stay at Pura vida ecolodge.

First Juan was super helpful showing us around when we first got there. The lodge was super clean. We opted to have Juan’s wife, Yorleny, cook us dinner for a few nights and it was some of the best home cooked food we have ever had. It’s a must do in our opinion. Then we did the private chef experience as well and the food and service was astounding! Totally worth the money to do. We also did the Gerzan boat tour and it was a beautiful morning trip. Gerzan was amazing and made us a delicious (& vegan) lunch that we ate in the private beach. We loved all the recommendations given to us by the hosts. Everything was perfect. They even got us low caffeine coffee for my wife who’s pregnant. Don’t let the no AC scare you away, it was perfectly cool at night with a fan running. Also when they say you need 4x4 it is no joke. The main roads are well paved yes, but the side dirt roads and the road the lodge is on are up hill & very steep. Many restaurants are down the same type of roads that you need 4x4 on as well. Thank you for letting us stay at your piece of paradise! We truly miss waking up to the unreal view every morning. I don’t think any other view can ever beat that one. Caleb & Kelsey Gurd (Booked via Airbnb October 2021)

“…No matter what vacation you have in mind, you can do it ALL at Pura Vida Ecolodge.

My husband and I came from North Carolina (USA) for our honeymoon and had the best week. The Ecolodge is the perfect place to unwind and leave the world behind. The design of the space is so perfect for being high up in the mountains in the rainforest. The Ecolodge is minimalistic In design but offers so much more than you’d imagine. The coffee selection provided was fantastic with several options for brewing. (Watch out for the monkeys playing behind the plunge pool early in the morning when making coffee) The gas stove is easy to cook on for breakfasts or dinners on a night in. The indoor shower upstairs is fantastic- plenty of room almost like being in a cave. The patio wrapped around the house is the perfect place to enjoy beautiful views down to the city of coronado and out to the ocean. The sound of the rain falling on the leaves, animals outside your door, the trickle of water in the plunge pool- it’s all so relaxing. Wake up with the sun and read a book or walk down a stone path to a waterfall to start your day. The surrounding towns offer many attractions, dining, and shopping. Don’t pass up on the in home yoga session or couples massage for extra relaxation.” Abby & Austin Brown (Booked via Airbnb October 2021)

“…The views are breathtaking

and lots of good restaurants near by. Juan Carlos is absolutely the best! Our vehicle even though being AWD (due to at the time of our visit no 4x4 could be found) struggled getting up the mountain. Juan Carlos helped us and we could not thank him enough. I can not wait to come back to Costa Rica and yes I would book here again. Everything was great!! The view, the pool, the location, the people. I absolutely LOVE this place 🤍🇨🇷 Pura Vida” Daneiba Lozano & Alex Rodriguez (Booked via Airbnb November 2021)

“…Gorgeous gorgeous place,

great if you want to be deep with nature, lovely beaches and the stay is amazing. No complaints!” Michelle Morales, Shavell Fernandez & Antony Santana (Booked via Airbnb November 2021)

“…This place was breathtaking!

Loved the view and please make sure you get a 4x4 it’s a must! Juan Carlos was amazing! He helped so much! Would definitely stay here again!” Sandi Garcia & Peter Trevino (Booked via Airbnb November 2021)

“…The views were truly spectacular and a very unique experience

if you are feeling adventurous and want to have a true nature experience. The road is fairly difficult to drive up, but well worth the drive for the experience. You do get used to the drive after a few days. Be prepared for lots of wildlife surrounding the place and the occasional ant. Joe and Kika are super responsive. Juan and Gerzan and all the other tour guides really made us feel right at home and safe that we could reach out to someone if we needed something. Costa Rica is a true once and a lifetime journey especially at the eco lodge. Thanks again Joe & Kika.” Brett Hemmer & Kaio Alvarenga (Booked via Airbnb November 2021)

“…This is a magical place.

The spaces are beautifully designed, the view incredible, and the air fresh with the ocean breeze. We never got tired of watching the light change with the sunrise and the sunsets. Joe was a very responsive host, offering lots of helpful advice. He also had great recommendations, two of which we did, and both were fabulous: the Private Chef Experience and the boat trip with Gerzan. You for sure need a 4x4 to get to the Ecolodge, but after the first trip or two, you get used to the road, and it’s easy to drive to great beaches and restaurants and then escape the heat and crowds back up in the mountains. Staying at the Pura Vida Ecolodge is certainly an experience you will long remember.” Alison & Scott Cook-Sather (Booked via Airbnb December 2021)

“…Our stay was initially supposed to be just 2 nights

but as soon as we arrived we regretted not extended it. Luckily for us the host was able to accommodate us 2 more nights. The place itself is a wonder, the view every morning was breathtaking, and the animal we encountered was fun to discover. We so many birds, a lot of little frogs, we hiked to El Pavon...a bit of a challenge with 2 kids and our parents! We loved it too though. I can't thank you enough Joe & Kika for having us and making this trip to Costa Rica an unforgettable one!!!” Nelly Tchayem (Booked via Airbnb December 2021)

“…One of the most special, unique places we have ever stayed at.

Truly off the grid, full of unique touches, amazingly relaxing, and wonderful hosts. A true gem!” Uri Pomerantz & Elana Freeman (Booked via Airbnb December 2021)

“…Very beautiful house in the middle of jungles.

Perfect place to watch the sunset and enjoy incredible view. Authentic design in every detail of the house. Very easy to find with a guide, provided by hosts. Thanks!” Anastasiya Ratushnova (Booked via Airbnb December 2021)

“…This place is eco-friendly and very private, with gorgeous views of the jungle and ocean,

an inviting wrap-around deck, and very comfortable beds. Listening to the jungle sounds at night and in the early mornings and watching the sunset from the deck were some of my favourite experiences visiting all of Costa Rica. Joe was an excellent communicator and he wrote back right away whenever we had a question. It is definitely hard to find, so make sure to read his directions thoroughly before you arrive. Fantastic, magical place!” Nick Schoen & Rebecca Riseman (Booked via Airbnb December 2021)

“…A very beautiful place in the middle of the rain forest.

We stayed three nights. Juan Carlos the housekeeper is very friendly. Joe and kika have provided us with all the necessary information in advance and in between also contacted us if everything is in order. We would definitely come back!” Marcel Zingl (Booked via Airbnb January 2022)

“…The place was great, lots of animals and beautiful sunsets and sunrises,

the place is big and it has everything you need, the place is prepared for any need, and the people are really attentive” Bryan Abrego (Booked via Airbnb January 2022)

“…This was our 1st stop of a month long vacation.

We stayed here for 5 days and we loved every minute of it! The views are INCREDIBLE!!! Even after dark, we could see the silhouette of the tree at the edge of the yard. It was quite magical! The sound of the birds in the morning and the nighttime creatures was beautiful. Even the drive up and down the mountain was an adventure! We can't wait to come back!!!” Kristie Wichman (Booked via Airbnb January 2022)

“…A great place to stay!

It was a great place to rest, with lots of activities to do close by!” Emily & Jacob Martens (Booked via Airbnb January 2022)

“…Just go ahead and book!!!

You will be on your way to a magnificent space nested in nature.” Corrie Sjoblom (Booked via Airbnb January 2022)

“…Best place I have ever stayed!!!

I will spend a lifetime trying to top this vacation. Take all suggestions from the hosts for activities, all are amazing.” Lindsay Dannen (Booked via Airbnb January 2022)

“…Très bel villa sur les hauteurs et à proximité d’Uvita!

Une vue à couper le souffle du matin ou soir! Deux très belles chambres avec salle de bain attenantes très modernes. Une hote très réactive tout au long du séjour!!” Loic Bonnor (Booked via Airbnb February 2022)

“…Absolutely beautiful. All the details and of course the view trumps it all.

Juan Carlos was very nice and lots of nice touches like the welcome fruit basket.” Kathryn Moran (Booked via Airbnb February 2022)

“…Absolutely a fantastic place to stay!

The welcome packets gives you every detail you will need to have a fantastic stay. We did almost every recommended activity they suggested, and all were top notch - pre-ordered food from Pura Vida Pantry so it was there when we arrived, welcome dinner prepared by Yorleny (Juan Carlos' wife), couples massages, private chef, boat ride and waterfall hike with Gerzan, checked out suggested beaches and places to eat, snorkeled Canos island, etc... The house and setting are magical. We had a coati come down from the jungle to visit one morning and toucans flying from tree to tree. We did activities early in the morning so we could come back to the ecolodge and hang out. The sunset sets were spectacular every night. The 4x4 we rented from Vamos Car Rental (highly recommend) handled the road like a charm. We also needed it on various other waterfall roads. Communication with the hosts and Juan Carlos was fast. I can't say enough good things about this place and the people!!!” Angela Paul (Booked via Airbnb February 2022)

“…Simply wonderful. A true ecolodge high up in the hills with a fantastic view.

The 4wd road up ensures peace and tranquility. Well-equipped, very comfortable, beautifully appointed and designed with it’s environment top of mind. Fantastic dipping pool, jungle trails right off the property, dine under the stars, yoga in the trees. Warm, luxurious breezes and ceiling fans keep it comfortable. Joe and his local team very helpful. Great bed and towels. Wifi in and out as expected. Well equipped store at the foot of the hill just 10 minute drive away - 4 star dining in ojochal just another 20 minutes as is medical and pharmacy. Another 10 minutes uvita has everything you need. Joe and Kika have poured their heart, soul and expertise into this nature retreat. Houses nearby so you are not totally alone but you don’t hear or see them. Elegant and refined. If you want to escape this is worth the trek.” Matt & Lisa Kelly (Booked via Airbnb February 2022)

“…We had a fantastic time at Pura Vida Eco Lodge.

We loved the incredible views and being immersed by nature. It’s such a relaxing place, perfect for slowing down. The house is spacious and beautiful, and the staff is lovely. We got very delicious food delivered to the house and enjoyed a romantic sunset dinner at the lounge. We highly recommend staying here. It’s truly the embodiment of Pura Vida!” Lea & Stefann (Booked via Airbnb February 2022)

“…I had an absolutely incredible stay at the Pura Vida Ecolodge.

My only complaint is that I wasn't in Costa Rica long enough to enjoy it further! I came with my mom and some friends, but told my husband we are definitely returning as soon as we can! It is better than any of the pictures posted. The sunrise was breathtaking. I could drone on about how amazing this place is, but just do yourself a favor and book it now!” Janay Taylor (Booked via Airbnb February 2022)

“…The corner deck is a spot you could stay forever.

So happy we found such an amazing place to relax and decompress. Peaceful and serene. Friendly locals, amazing food, epic adventures, stunning beaches and a true slice of heaven in the jungle! Pura vida!” Brian, Tim & Jonathan (Booked via Airbnb March 2022)

“…Similar to all the other reviews, our stay was fantastic. If available, book the ecolodge, you will not be disappointed.

No need to go on with how great the host/location/check-in was (see all previous reviews) so i will state a few things I wish i knew prior to arriving i) although you are secluded with no other homes in eyesight- the main road does run right behind the house so you hear the occasional car/motorcycle throughout the day/evening ii) i would strongly suggest not doing the "hike" to the waterfall detailed in the welcome packet. It took my wife and i (active 30 year olds) ~2 hours to walk down the mountain and ~3 hours to get back up. We envisioned a hiking trail, it was not. We were merely walking on the dirt road the entire afternoon. Take your car to the waterfall, the walk adds nothing (aside from sore legs the following days).” Ryan Dougherty (Booked via Airbnb March 2022)

We simply can’t get enough of this amazing place! This was our third visit, and it was fabulous.

The view is sublime, and the design and style of the beautiful house make you feel peaceful, serene and at one with nature. The owners and local caretaker take such obvious pride in the ecolodge and property. They are talented hosts and go above and beyond to ensure that you will have a great experience. We love to travel and pride ourselves on finding cool places to stay, and we have yet to find anything else nearly this special. Michelle & Lee (Booked via Airbnb April 2022)

Such a great place to enjoy some days in nature. The view is stunning and the house treated with a lot of love.

Jan & Malin (Booked via Airbnb, April 2022)

Paradise!

A hilltop haven in a stunning location that Joe and Kika have carefully crafted—the attention to detail in the design and amenities is remarkable. We expected a lot, from the pictures and listing, and our expectations were exceeded. Very communicative hosts went out of their way to coordinate our arrival and make sure we knew what to expect. We did not want to leave! Simon & Caitlin (Booked via Airbnb, April 2022)

Stunning view and some lovely details! We enjoyed our stay!

Jana (booked via Airbnb May 2022)

We celebrated our elopement at the Pura Vida Ecolodge.

Joe & Kika have been amazing at communicating and sharing recommendations to make our stay extra special. We took advantage of the couples massage on the sun deck, delivered home cooked meals, the the Private Chef Experience the evening of our vow exchange. It was truly magical. We loved falling asleep to the sounds of the jungle and waking up to sounds of birds singing and the view from the bed of the beautiful tree overlooking Tres Rios Even though we caught the beginning of early season and had rain every afternoon & evening we will found the place to magical. The recommendation for the 4x4 was no joke, the road up the Stairway to the Stairs was quite an adventure and we learned the hard way to be back at the lodge before heavy rainfall. We missed the stars and sunsets this trip but plan on returning to PVEL again. Thank you so much Joe Kika & Juan Carlos. Honey & Avraham (Booked via Airbnb May 2022)

We cannot say enough about the Ecolodge!

From the location to the view to the privacy, everything was perfect. You do need a true 4x4 to get there, which they made very clear upon booking. The property as a whole is beautiful and there are many ways to enjoy it, tons of things to do on the property itself. Keep in mind there is no TV here, however it is absolutely not necessary as the surrounding nature is entertainment enough. You will see tons of wildlife, we saw falcons, parrots, blue jean frog, dart frogs etc. We may have even heard a monkey or two. There will be house guests (bugs, geckos, hornets and the occasional bird) but this just adds to the experience of being one with nature. There is no AC on property (which is also stated), however again not necessary with the design and use of fans. All in all, we would go here again in a heartbeat. We loved everything about our stay there. Also, the welcome dinner is highly recommended as it supports the locals and was a great treat on our first night. Puja & Joshua (Booked via Airbnb, May 2022)

If you’re looking for an mini adventure before an actual adventure . Everything is truly an experience.

The views are to die for , the place is is the perfect getaway for anybody! Vamos rental is the place you wanna get your 4x4 ( priced amazingly) The ecolodge came well equipped with all the things you might need while encountering mother nature. We went horseback riding ( booked with uvita center) and we were the only people in our group with rain jackets ( HUGE PROPS). The drive up once you are near the ecolodge for the first time for us was a little bit uneasy but after that you’re like oh OK. We visited like five beaches in one day and visited multiple recommended restaurants near the lodge ( Citrus, Las Gatos Locos were our favorites) The welcome meal and breakfast were definitely a great touch to experiencing the culture of costa rica! If you’re considering traveling during rainy season I definitely recommend it. With there being no AC it was the perfect touch to feeling amazing! Mind you they have powerful fans! The plunge pool is absolutely amazing and it’s so refreshing , even while raining!Juan Carlos is an amazing housekeeper and also very sweet! They made my 26th birthday a whole VIBE! Joe and Kika are very responsive , as well as juan carlos. The locals are friendly and i would recommend this place to ANYONE! PURA VIDA BABY! Kimara (Booked via Airbnb, May 2022)

My husband and I stayed here for our honeymoon.

We absolutely loved it. The views are phenomenal and the house is so lovely. Can’t wait to come back! Sarah & Conner (Booked via Airbnb July 2022)

I’ve traveled a ton and this place is in my top 3.

It’s the perfect balance of adventure, serenity, comfort, and connection. This environment feeds the soul. No A/C was not an issue at all. I was chilly most nights. If you’re hesitant because of little things like no a/c, spotty wifi, and no TV then YOU need this place most. That was me. We’ll be back and I will make sure to tell everyone I love that they need this in their life too. Thank you team Pura Vida! Each one you has a special place in our hearts. Cami (Booked via Airbnb June 2022)

from start to finish, I still have no words but left breathless at the thoughts of such a place.,

says plenty. The fact that, this land was once a blank slate and they turned it into something, that only dreams take you, is nothing less than admirable. And knowing that even through terrain that can be tough for those who aren’t prepared….they gave us the pot of gold at the end of a rainbow. So very worth the revival and renewal, you will feel every time you look out. Thank you so much for seeing and knowing… such things had and needed to be shared. You guys killed it. In all aspects. I can wait to go back, to see what growth happens when love is so deeply rooted. Vathsana (Booked via Airbnb July 2022)

Great place and views.

A ton of small details that make this place super.enjoyable if you want to disconnect for a few days. Pablo (Booked via Airbnb July 2022)

Beautiful ! The food stock at the house was a lifesaver

as the first night we had a heavy rain that made the bridge impassable. The views and the wildlife were just incredible ! We used the yoga deck, infinity pool and Nutribullet nearly every day ! We also loved the little touches like the robes and raincoats. It was wet but we were visiting during the rainy season so to be expected. The road is steep, long and rutted which caused us to calculate our outings carefully. Excellent recommendation from Juan Carlos for a Snorkling trip to Cano island ! Jenna (Booked via Airbnb July 2022)

5 stars. I would recommend getting a massage. She was wonderful.

Thank you so much ! We loved it and loved Juan Carlos and the massage therapist. She was so great. And of course loved the house. Claire (Booked via Airbnb July 2022)

A+++++

Chiemela (Booked via Airbnb July 2022)

What an amazing experience to finish our holiday in Costa Rica.

Excellent house, clean, good beds, really fantastic! We loved our stay at Pura vida ecolodge. Thank you for sharing! Marco (Booked via Airbnb August 2022)

Pura Vida Ecolodge is pure paradise.

The view on the ocean, on the jungle are spectacular. What an enchantment to wake up with this view and so our Mo ring yoga outside on the solarium, then jump in the pool, fresh and exquisite. The house is beautiful, very well equipped and comfortable. If the road is challenging to find, we were glad Juan welcomed us and showed us the way to Pura Vida. Ideal for a few days. Highly recommend. What a beautiful place. Nothing but paradise. Aurelie (Booked via Airbnb August 2022)

This place is amazing and beautiful.

The views make the stay worth it alone. I would stay here again without hesitation. The dinner that was prepared for us on our arrival was so good, and it was nice not to worry about food on our arrival night. The only thing I would change is I would stay longer in the future. Katherine (Booked via Airbnb September 2022)

Very lovely place !

The views were amazing, we had a great time. Very close to Ojochal, with some awesome restaurants. It was as described, we were revived with fresh fruits. Thank you !!! Laura (Booked via Airbnb September 2022)

If I can do more than 5 starts I would!!!

We booked a stay for a week with a total of 6 people all different ages and EVERYONE was mesmerized with the amazing views of the Ecolodge we didn’t want to leave! Especially with the views every morning right outside the bedrooms, they were breathtaking! The kids favorite part was the swimming pool of course but also going on an adventure to the waterfall located right at the ecolodge. Everything was clean, organized and fully stocked! they didn’t miss a beat. Juan Carlos the housekeeper was very helpful guiding us and recommended nearby towns to visit. I definitely recommend opting in for the “welcome meal” it was delicious! In addition, renting out a 4x4 vehicle is a must. The first time going up the hills was a bit intimidating but it’s really not that bad. Make sure to use WAZE for gps. We will be booking here again next time we visit the beautiful Costa Rica! Thank you Joe & Kika, everything exceeded our expectations! Carla (Booked via Airbnb September 2022)

This place will take your breath away !

we stayed for 4 nights and luckily were able to extended our stay. The villa is located at the top of the hill with spectacular view. one of the best views we have seen in Costa Rica. The villa itself has everything you will possibly need and more.. super super convenient. I can see myself living there.. its impressive to see how every small detail was thought about in the design, decoration and amenities. For coffee lovers there are all the fine equipment to fully enjoy the costa rica coffee beans. the kitchen has all the things you need to prepare food and enjoy spectacular view from the terrace. if you are a yogi, this is the place for you with multiple decks to workout and meditate. we traveled with our kids (7yrs old) and it was wonderful for them to play and explore the area. there are so many places to visit in the area and the villa is perfectly located within a short drive away. the guest book is super detailed with all the information that your need and we are grateful for the warm hospitality ! looking forward and hope to come back again soon. this is surely one of the highlights of our visit to Costa Rica. Smadar (Booked via Airbnb October 2022)

Thanks a lot for building this house in this piece of paradise !

amazing !! Hands Down! Extraordinary view, with peacefull surroundings, didn't want to leave the house !! we loved the private trail that goes to the creek next to the house... Gracias !! Pura Vida!! Kalani (Booked via Airbnb October 2022)

Great location, and Juan Carlos was super helpful

Leif (Booked via Airbnb October 2022)

We enjoyed our stay here. The waterfall on the property was really cool!

I look forward to returning. We enjoyed ourselves. Thanks for all the personal touches and sharing your space. Joe (Booked via Airbnb) November 2022

We had a wonderful stay with our two teens.

The views were incredible, we enjoyed yoga on the various decks every morning. The massage booked with Japhet was amazing, definitely take advantage of this and the Private Chef Maria is a sweetheart, totally worth every penny. We mainly stayed in and did not venture out much, recharging. We'd love to come back! Tazza (Booked via Airbnb) December 2022

The Pura vida ecolodge was wonderful and the hosts helped make the trip even more special with wonderful recommendations and directions.

The view from the lodge is breathtaking and we one week wasn't enough to explore all the wonderful beaches, hikes, and waterfalls in the area! Laurel (Booked via Airbnb) December 2022

Beautiful place. I would love to go back!

Dvorah (Booked via Airbnb) January 2023

I’ve been dreaming about coming to Costa Rica and specifically Pura Vida for a long time…

and I’m so happy that this was the year. It was an absolutely magical experience. You can easily sit and stare at the view forever, appreciating the changing light and watching the clouds come in. I loved looking at the view whilst eating delicious fresh papaya on the deck after an amazing sleep. We were the first ones I think to try out the baths that have been installed on the deck. It’s such a simple but really original idea. Just lying there, looking at the stars, being so enveloped in the sounds of nature with the steam coming out of the bath was so blissful. Everything has been built with nature in mind and I love the use of bamboo throughout and especially the sofa! It feels like it’s been built in harmony with nature and with a lot of love. I would definitely recommend the mangrove trip to the secluded beautiful beach. It’s a proper adventure with no one around. And of course drinking the Pipa’s! I can’t wait to come back again soon. I could just keep writing! Kata (Booked Direct January 2023)

Another wonderful stay at Pura Vida Eco Lodge—a beautiful home in a stunning location.

Joe and Kika are amazing hosts that go above and beyond. Yes—you 100% need a 4WD vehicle and confidence driving on rough roads, and that is part of the charm. Peaceful, private, and inspiring—and a relatively short drive to nearby attractions. A true gem! Simon & Caitlin (Booked via Airbnb January 2023)

Pura Vida Eco Lodge is absolute heaven, I used this word a lot (everyday) during our stay here…

in fact writing this I am already missing it and wondering when I can return. You will love staying here, the incredible surroundings, the magical views and being fully immersed in all the nature will have you hypnotised during your stay, I spent an entire day deep sighing watching the clouds change formation while Toucan spotting and listening to the sounds of the jungle, it was probably one of my favourite days of our trip around Costa Rica. Pura Vida Eco Lodge has been designed by Joe with so much soul and love, with intention and attention to detail of the highest of standards, I promise you as soon as you walk in you will feel relaxed and very much at home, and your entire being will be immediately soothed, get ready for the best nights sleep and best slow mornings you could imagine. The baths in the garden are incredible and you lose hours unwinding, daydreaming and taking in the mesmerising sunrises and sunsets. Everything about our stay was perfect. If you want to get away and lose yourself in the most beautiful part of the world then you need to stay here, and also please eat at the Soda at the end of the road, it is DELICIOUS! I could keep writing for ages but to summarise... please stay here, your future self will thank you for all eternity. Thank you to Joe for being a wonderful host and I hope we can return very very soon x Lara (Booked Direct January 2023)

My favorite stay during a 3 week roadtrip in Costa Rica.

It really is a little piece of paradise, just for you ✨ we enjoyed living close to nature. We even got a regular visitor, a very friendly pizote. Julie (Booked via Airbnb February 2023)

Pura Vida Ecolodge has been the hifhlogreatest of our trip to costs rica;

incredible and wished we had booked for longer....It's truly amazing and the hosts were spot on! thank you. Natalie (Booked via Airbnb February 2023)

Our family deeply relaxed and played at the Pura Vida EcoLodge.

We enjoyed the welcome meal outside watching the sunset on the first evening and the stay continued just as beautifully. Yoga on the outdoor platforms, runs and short hikes on the well maintained jungle trails, swims in the Tres Rios right down the road are just a few of the lovely adventures right outside the door. We traveled with our 3 and 5 year olds and they both enjoyed watching the animals around and exploring the jungle. Our 5 year old learned to dive while we were there.  Juan Carlos was an excellent host and guided us on a tour of the mangroves and a secluded beach. We appreciated all of his assistance and thoughtfulness. We printed out the welcome guide and kept it in our car and referenced it often for beaches, restaurants and directions. We ordered delicious food from the online pantry and ate it all throughout the week.  The sunsets were so vivid and unique in the evenings.  Each night after we put our kids to bed, we would hang out under the stars. We could see so many stars as the frogs began to croak in the jungle. Danielle & Jason (Booked Direct February 2023)

Our second visit and we have already booked a third!

We rent many houses in Costa Rica but Pura Vida Ecolodge stands apart as a true eco retreat. Matt & Lisa (Booked via Airbnb March 2023)

Pura Vida Ecolodge was magic.

Views are incredible and the house is gorgeous. The road getting up there is rough, but the hosts communicated what to expect very well. Definitely need a 4x4 car and it was great having the housekeeper, Juan Carlos, show us the way the first time when we arrived. By the end of our short stay we felt comfortable doing the drive even in the dark. The property itself is also really pretty, the trails are short but beautiful and a good workout. There is so much this property has to offer. I look forward to coming back again! Samantha (Booked via Airbnb April 2023)

Steps to the stars-locals call the road up to the mountains, and Pura Ecolodge is the brightest star at that road.

Extremely well designed, surrounding with jungle, comfortable. Each day we drive down visited beaches, and parks, waterfalls and restaurants. But every day we went back and spent unforgettable time there. Refreshing pool, open deck with magnificent jungle sounds… Pura Vida!!! Tym (Booked via Airbnb, April 2023)

We had wonderful days @puravidaecolodge

and communication from host went smoothly, among other things with an extensive information package that we received prior to. What a nature around us and the view of the Pacific and the beautiful garden is magnificent. The house is very comfortable and equipped with all the comforts. Joroen (Booked via Airbnb April 2023)

It was a beautiful place!

It will disconnect you from all disruptions and will make you be one with nature, literally. You will see bats at night and wake up to all the different bird songs. The beaches were close and lots of local restaurants along the way. Our favorite thing was the tubs overlooking the beach and jungle, that was super relaxing. Jane (Booked via Airbnb, April 2023).

This was such a wonderful place to get away and relax!

The house itself has thoughtful details and the view is great to wake up to every day. We spent 4 days exploring the local towns and it was nice to come back and relax here, enjoying the sunsets while soaking in some cool, refreshing water! The bathtubs are the best spot. The road up to the house was easy to follow after being led up at check in. They were in good condition but definitely helped to have a 4x4. Thank you for an unforgettable trip. Abigail (Booked via Airbnb May 2023)

Hands down one of the best experiences I’ve ever had with an Airbnb booking.

It was absolutely paradise. Debra (Booked via Airbnb June 2023)

Great place and the host was fantastic.

They helped us so much and it was a peaceful and enjoyable experience. I definitely recommend this air BnB for honeymooners. The view was epic and it was very beautiful. Stef (Booked via Airbnb June 2023)

Not enough words to describe how great our visit here was!

Beautiful place, quiet and THE BEST VIEWS!!!! Definitely get a 4x4 as a rental and you’ll be just fine. One of my favorite stays I’ve been at 😎 Thanks again for hosting us, my family and I made memories we will never forget. You have done an excellent job with this place!!! Carlos (Booked via Airbnb June 2023)

Joe and Kika went out of their way to make our stay at the Pure Vida Ecolodge one to remember.

From their engagement with us after booking onwards they were incredibly attentive, making sure that we had everything that we were going to need for our stay, which was especially appreciated because my partner is chronically ill, so there were a few adjustments that were needed. Joe was responsive, friendly, and helpful in figuring out activities that could work for our needs and helping my make it a wonderful 40th birthday vacation for my partner Tree. The house is beautiful and clean. The location is incredibly fun for just sitting around and watching the wildlife, but also has endless adventure activities at your disposal. Thanks so much!!! Trent & Tree (Booked via Airbnb July 2023)

We spent 5 days at the beautiful and secluded Pura Vida Ecolodge for our honeymoon.

The off roading was challenging at first but Juan Carlos met us and led us up to the property the first time- after that we were pros! The welcome meal was absolutely delicious and it was so convenient after the trek from San Jose! We also did the rewilding and waterfall tour with Juan Carlos and got to visit two beautiful off the map waterfalls that were completely private- we were the only people there! If there was anything we were dissatisfied with it would probably be the resident geckos that appear to have made their home above the main bed upstairs. After 3 days we decided to sleep in the downstairs bedroom because we noticed the geckos/lizards? we’re actually pooping on us throughout the night! Yuck! We totally understand this is something that comes with being in the wild but just keep in mind for health reasons! Jessica (Booked via Airbnb August 2023)

Our stay at the eco lodge was absolutely beautiful!

The surroundings are private, lush with tropics and serene. Pictures don’t do the view justice. You will definitely need a 4x4 getting up to the lodge and after following Juan Carlos the first time up there, we navigated it on our own with no issues. I highly recommend checking out the experiences on pura vidas ecolodge website as there are many excellent recommendations listed. Joe and Kika are extremely thorough with the welcome packets which gives you all the information you need. Our stay there was exactly what we were hoping for; a chance to disconnect (though there is WiFi for some connectivity), be in and connect with nature, and unwind. It’s hard to put in words but there is something so special about the setting that you can only experience while there. Thank you to Joe and Kika for creating and curating a beautiful and serene ecolodge that is one with its surroundings. Monique (Booked via Airbnb September 2023)

Wow. The Ecolodge is an absolute paradise in terms of location.

Waking up to the view (which is even more magical than the photos, especially when you walk out onto the deck) is unbeatable. This is definitely a place for an "adventure vacation" - high humidity, no air conditioning, and the occasional forest critter - but if you are up for the adventure it is really amazing. Joe is very communicative and helps you with everything you need for your stay. He helped us arrange groceries and a home cooked meal to be delivered before we arrived (amazing after a long day of travel), massages, and a yoga session all at the lodge. Magical and memorable! Tyler (Booked via Airbnb September 2023)

the lodge is perfect for an exotic stay in the heart of nature and for observing the local fauna and flora.

The decoration is done with great taste. Juan Carlos, the concierge is responsive. The 4x4 car is indeed essential to access the home. Maxime (Booked via Airbnb October 2023)

The lodge's surroundings are stunning. Beautiful views and so lush.

A wonderful introduction to Costa Rica! Lovely to have the swimming pool and the tubs at the edge of the property. Adored listening to all the wildlife and the sound of the rain, particularly while we were resting and sleeping. Private and peaceful. Excellent instructions and information regarding the house and the area. You must be comfortable driving a 4 x 4 way up in the hills on a steep, unpaved road. Not a quick jaunt into town, and during heavy rains, we chose to not leave the property. We had mixed weather, so the lack of AC, was not an issue, but during the warm, dry season, I would have wanted some relief from the heat and humidity, even if just in the bedroom. I would definitely take advantage of Maria, the private chef . Ojochal is a wonderful area and thankfully, it is not inundated with tourists, yet......hope it stays that way! Really enjoyed our experience at Pura Vida Eco Lodge. Elizabeth (Booked via Airbnb October 2023)

This place delivers as promised.

The hosts are great. The local assistant is excellent. Excellent location. Do it. You won't regret it. We'll be back and we usually don't repeat. Benjamin (Booked via Airbnb November 2023)

What a truly special place to stay.

My husband and I stayed here for a few nights during our Costa Rica trip, and we wish we could’ve stayed longer to enjoy the house and property. We also opted to do the Private Chef experience one night which was so nice ; our meal was amazing and our 2 chefs were awesome. This place is a true representation of the Pura Vida lifestyle. Definitely recommend! Angela (Booked via Airbnb December 2023)

Unique eco lodge with panoramic sea view in the middle of the forest.

Highly recommended! Thank you Joe And Kika, you gave us an unforgettable experience! We miss the baths already. The only important thing we missed was a corkscrew 😂. All the best! Gracie Mille 🙏🏻👊🏻😃 Joop (Booked via Airbnb December 2023)

This little slice of paradise was absolutely perfect.

It felt like we were staying in a tree house above the canopies. The stars at night were incredible! We loved seeing the wildlife and listening to the birds. The open concept of the house is really cool! It welcomes the beauty of the jungle in while you’re cooking or relaxing. We loved our stay! Dorna (Booked via Airbnb January 2024)

Incredibly beautiful accommodation.

The host couple available and a very helpful landlord in Juan Carlos who tipped off on things to do in the area, etc. Simply a dreamy home. Christoffer (Booked via Airbnb January 2024)

Epic airbnb in the hills of Costa Rica! The view is amazing.

I spent most of my time just watching birds and looking at the ocean view from the balcony! Perfect spot to get off the grid and vibe out! Jonathan (Booked via Airbnb February 2024)

We are so glad to have found such a wonderful place.

The only problem is that we didn’t stay longer. The home, attention to detail and location are one of a kind…the pictures don’t come close to the beauty of Pura Vida. Christopher (Booked via Airbnb February 2024)

Definitely recommend.

I really appreciate their commitment to sustainability. It permeates throughout the property. Ava (Booked via Airbnb February 2024)

Third visit. Pura Vida ecolodge is our fav spot in CR and we’ve been top to bottom.

It’s everything it’s advertised to be. Comfy, peaceful eco lodge. Drive up not for the faint of heart but this peace of heaven is worth it. Nu Raw restaurant at the bottom of the drive a must. Uvita has everything you need just 20 minutes away. If you want to escape, this is it and Joe and Kika are terrific hosts and Juan Carlos is just a text away for help. Pura Vida! Matt & Lisa (Booked via Airbnb March 2024)

UNBELIEVABLE. The Pura vida ecolodge blew us away.

The villa had everything we could have dreamed for and more. It exceeded all expectations. By far, the most beautiful and most amazing Airbnb I have ever stayed in. My husband and I had the most amazing time spent here, from enjoying the infinity pool, to fresh baths overlooking the valley and sunset, to brewing our own coffee each morning, and enjoying all of the beautiful wildlife that surrounded us during this peaceful & secluded stay. We never wanted to leave! You can tell how much love was poured into this special and cherished gem in Tres Rio. Special thanks to Joe & Kika for a sharing their beautiful home with us. We can’t wait to come visit again! Gina (Booked via Airbnb April 2024)

We loved our stay at this property.

It was very tastefully decorated with some wonderful views over the valley below. We had a great massage outside on the beautiful viewing terrace as the sun set. It is a place to switch off away from Your phone and lap top, although there is a little WiFi if needed. We were so glad we’d been advised on the 4x4 from the host as you really do venture off the beaten track! A lovely home we would love to visit again. Vanessa (Booked via Airbnb April 2024)

This was one of the most beautiful places,

I have ever stayed at. The whole area and house were just stunning . The host was also very responsive and kind, let us do a late checkout. My favorite part was just chilling in the outside tubs listening to music , drinking champagne , and enjoying the scenery. Would definitely stay here again. I loved it! Roberto (Booked via Airbnb April 2024)

Beautiful lodge. Beautiful and quiet surroundings in the middle of nature.

We loved the ocean view at the horizon from the breakfast area in the garden. So did the tucans. Bob (Booked via Airbnb May 2024)

All i can say is WOW…

Pura Vida Ecolodge property was magical. The 2 story open floor plan, to the infinity pool on the deck, to the backyard full of surprises, workout bars, swings, and my favorite of all the his&hers bath tubs with the mesmerizing view of wildlife in the jungle and ocean just past the trees. Joe & Kika were very sweet and responsive hosts. There welcome packs were outstanding and much needed. The only issue was the critter and crawlers we had in the villa so be prepared but thats just apart of the jungle experience. Loved every second of this place, would definitely book again when im back in costa rica! 🌴 pura vida! Shy (Booked via Airbnb May 2024)

Great Stay, beautiful location!

Tons of natural beauty with great ambiance throughout the entire stay. The recommendations were a great way to get out and feel more engaged in the town and community. Kenton (Booked via Airbnb May 2024)

Wow… that’s all I can really say about the pura vida ecolodge!

I definitely recommend getting the welcome meal (very tasty and healthy!) since this location is up the hill from the main road and after the day of travel you will incur getting here.The property is just beautiful and the details are everything from the robes to the essential oil to the coffee bar! My husband and I loved ending our honeymoon at this beautiful jungle retreat. There is wildlife around the home, but nothing dangerous so no worries. However, expect to see a lizard or two and plenty of little critters after all you’re in their home (the jungle). Fortunately, none of that bothered us. The nearby towns have plenty of activities and restaurants. The bakery in uvita was a daily stop for us. I hope to return one day! Aliah (Booked via Airbnb June 2024)

We came here 10 years ago for our honeymoon and came back for our 10 year anniversary.

My fav spot was the hammock on the lower deck. I’d sit in silence and watch the toucans and parrots come and go. There truly aren’t words to describe this place. I told my husband “there are few places on Earth where you have a hard time picturing heaven being any better.” Pura Vida Ecolodge is one of them. It is a “once in a lifetime” trip that we have so gratefully have been able to experience twice. We will be back again for sure. Do yourself a favor and book this place. Owners are incredible and kind and even gave us a free welcome meal to celebrate our anniversary (ABSOLUTELY DELICIOUS!!) Only critique I would make is that there was AC in the master bedroom when we came 10 years ago and we think it should be added back lol. Thank you guys for another incredible experience! We’ll be back! HIGHLY RECOMMEND Costa Canyoning, Osa Canopy Tour, Paddle 9 waterfall tour and Jungle ATV - GREAT companies Julie & Garrett (Booked via Airbnb July 2024)

Great place with amazing views of the surroundings, the sea.

House very cozy, even in the rain good retreats in the building or terrace, with fantastic views. Upon our arrival, fresh fruit in the basket, coffee and other basics were available for us. We felt very welcome. Communication with the owners very nice. Britta (Booked via Airbnb July 2024)

Slightly elevated, in the mountains ( 300 m above sea level) is the beautiful Ecolodge.

It's a piece of paradise, the view is phenomenal, incomparable. With my family, we did yoga in the surroundings of toucans and other birds of paradise or rocked into the sky. We had a wonderful, intense family time at this place. The journey time to the beaches ( 20 min. to Uvita) also suited us. Thank you for creating such a great place for Joe & Kika. Annegret (Booked via Airbnb, August 2024)

This was an absolute dream to stay at!

Thanks so much for the week in paradise! Rashelle & Andrew (Booked via Airbnb August 2024)

we try to add new testimonials to our guestbook regularly, but you can also read NEW reviews by visiting our listings on Airbnb, our Certificate of Excellence and our new profile on googlemaps