A unique tropical jungle experience amongst magical gardens and rainforest.

Outdoor pool
Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop
Terrace/patio
Terrace/patio
Property grounds
4.7
Outstanding(126 Reviews)

House in Alajuela Province

22 guests · 7 bedrooms · 7 baths

Reasons to book

Guests love it hereGuests give this property a top rating
Great for petsBring all your friends and family, even the furry ones
Top-tier experienceOne of the higher cost properties in the area

About this house rental

Princesa de la Luna 'Eco Lodge' experience is everything one imagines a stay in Costa Rican paradise to be. The house ,complex perches on the edge of the valley providing incredible views of the the jungle spread out below and the volcano looming over the far side of the valley.

These views were one of many reasons that NBC chose to shoot part of their reality show, 'Love In The Wild,' here. 'Highly, highly recommend it for groups and families...'

The Ecolodge provides a unique lifestyle experience by social integration with the local community.

The kitchen/dining room area accommodates up to 30 people. There you will often find bunches of bananas and coconuts hanging from hooks and ready to be used. Large, locally made wooden tables provide functional preparation and dining area and there are propane and wood fired stoves as well as a microwave, toaster and coffee maker. There is also a brick grill/oven with a motorized spit large enough for a full pig or a half dozen chickens if you decide to have a party. The kitchen has everything that you need to prepare your own meals.

There are a variety of ways for you to enjoy your time here including MILES of maintained paths created over the course of nine years. The paths are lined with carefully selected plants and the forests have been very carefully maintained to achieve a blend of cultivated fruit and sustainable gardening, park land and virgin forest.

By using proper plants and sustainable permaculture techniques, we've achieved a unique experience here. Maintained grounds gradually give way to more rustic views, which gradually blend into permanent, untouched, virgin jungle. One of the trails ends at a stream that cuts its way down through heavy plant growth and a unique, 'weeping wall' of black earth that is covered in a variety of orchids.

Along the way you'll discover not one but two swimming pools. One is slightly more conventional with maintained plants and gardens around it and is fed by pure spring water. The other is hidden at the end of a hike to the bottom of the valley next to the stream. It is fed directly from the little stream, there are NO CHEMICALS used in either. Just a continual supply of fresh, clean water flowing into the pools and then back out into the stream.Right now the main swimming pool is functional and swimable but needs tiles to be replaced and general maintenance so it is not as well presented as in the fotos!! Sometimes we have difficulty changing the water as from the Natura Spring it can take time to fill up...but most of the time it is usable..
Two German guests recently described their hike to the waterfall and enjoyment of the river pool as the best thing that they've done so far in Costa Rica, saying that the river pool looked as if it had been built by elves and had a 'feel of magic to it.' The River Pool is only sometimes available, as it is prone to flooding after heavy rains. However both are excellent spots for secluded picnics and relaxed enjoyment... either alone or with special friends.

Back at the house you'll find that the line between indoor and outdoor living has been blurred. Huge bedrooms open out onto balconies and a variety of sitting areas, all of which are appointed with interesting curios, wall art and a profusion of plants. Several of the rooms are connected via open hallways lined with tropical gardens instead of actual walls, providing the perfect balance between security and the impression of living right in nature itself.

The natural flow from the balconies into the dining/kitchen area take you past a small, bamboo paneled bar that is right next to a sitting area with a stereo and which easily converts into a dance floor.

The hanging bunches of bananas attract toucans and other birds. While writing this I was watching a Keel Billed Toucan munching away on a plantain with great enthusiasm. Other animals in the area include kinkachoos, a dizzying variety of lizards and lots of other animals.

A guest recently described his experience here by saying, 'It takes a minute to sink in that this is not a zoo and not an animal reserve. It's an actual house, right in the middle of paradise and all of these birds, animals and everything else are real, here and natural!' I think that his comments sum up the experience here quite nicely.

We are only 5 kilometers away from down town La Fortuna, meaning that you are minutes away from all of the typical activities and tours that you might enjoy including:

* Hanging Bridges
* Zip Lines
* Hot Springs
* ATV and other rentals
* Butterfly Conservatory
* Eco-Snake Zoo
* Horseback Riding
* Volcano Hikes
* Rafting
* Canyoning and Rappelling
* Bird Watching
* Swimming
* Much more

We're happy to book activities on your behalf and can save you 5 - 10% if booked in advance.

You'll find this house ideal for group getaways like family reunions, corporate retreats, group vacations, sports teams, civic groups etc.

This place has been a labour of love for a decade and it is truly, one of a kind. I'm certain that you'll love your stay here and I'm looking forward to meeting you.

Amenities

Pool
Pets allowed
Kitchen or Kitchenette
Internet / Wifi
Smoking allowed
Parking
Laundry
Balcony or Patio
Wheelchair accessible
Garden

Map of Alajuela Province

$$$$
vrbo logo

Reviews

4.7
Outstanding(126 Reviews)
Summary of reviews
Guests loved the property for its jungle surroundings, adventurous activities, delicious food, and exceptional host William who went above and beyond to ensure a memorable stay.
From real guest reviews summarized by AI
5.0
Jun 2024
The Princesa de Luna Ecolodge exceeded our expectations in every way. Firstly, with numerous ‘cabins’ the 16 of us were a very comfortable fit for the accommodations. It is quite rustic — no elevators, no air conditioning, lots of stairs — but the staff of the lodge were extremely friendly and helpful. Food was local fare and excellent. Probably not for one with infirmities, as it is situated on the side of a hill, and even walking down to the stream and pool required intact arms and legs. Perfect for our crew.
5.0
Jun 2024
La Princesa was perfect for our three generation family. The space and location couldn’t have been better. William, property manager, was so helpful, kind, and warm. He made it so easy for us to get around and book the various activities. William, Anderson, and Michael gave us a great adventure hike of the property
4.0
star 5 empty
Jun 2024
This place is extremely unique. It is a very neat little place. The views are breathtaking. Drinking coffee on the porch looking at the volcano and all of the different species of birds in the area will be something that I forever remember. William the chef is amazing. I definitely recommend getting him to cook for you!
5.0
Jun 2024
Loved the property, our host William, the food, and everything about it.
5.0
Mar 2024
The team was fantastic!! Beautiful property. They were a super understanding and accommodating team! William was extremely welcoming and hand great recommendations, Jorlan found the coolest wildlife on the hike, and Anderson was extremely attentive. This place was a sanctuary and for those who are just looking to relax and experience the rainforest for all it’s glory. Thank you!!
5.0
Feb 2024
I cannot say enough about the quality of experience our family had at Princesa de la Luna. We had our family of 17 ranging in age from 4 to 70 for my father's 70th birthday. The accommodations suited our family of 6 children and 11 adults perfectly with each small family having their own rooms. The property layout embraces the jungle experience with open air seating, kitchen and dining, incredible views and short, but somewhat technical, walks to 2 separate swimming locations. While all of this was incredible, what really sets this place apart from others I have visited is the quality and kindness of the staff. William and the staff are a group of wonderful individuals! We did the adventure tour on the property with our whole group and William led us through the jungle explaining what different plants were and letting us taste different fruits and herbs. We then hiked into a waterfall and down through the creek to the natural swimming pool where there was the option for a therapeutic mud bath. William and the staff also cooked every morning and night for our entire group and every meal was incredible. They even roasted a pig on the open wood fired oven for my father's birthday dinner complete with cake.
4.0
star 5 empty
Feb 2024
This place was such an adventure and way out of our comfort zone! We all had a spectacular stay. Chef William and his staff could not have been any more accommodating! Food was excellent! He was absolutely the best, and Anderson was darling. This is not a place for people looking for a plush place. This is very rustic and outdoorsy. The adventure tour they offer is not for sissies! Great fun and very challenging. The cabins were very much like the pictures and everyone felt comfortable and loved how they were all very unique. New pillows would have been nice. I think all 20 of us would definitely recommend your place for anyone who wants an adventure!
2.0
star 3 emptystar 4 emptystar 5 empty
Dec 2023
Good: 1. William, the guy manages the property is a great guy. He speaks good english and is always available for any questions. 2. Location and the greenery on the property is great and well maintained. Bad: 1. The whole building is old(ancient) and bad here. Very Bad hygiene everywhere in the building. 2. ⁠The pics on the website are misleading. It’s not the same as the reality. I think the pics were taken when the property is new. 3. *Dead bugs everywhere. On the bed, sheets, furniture.* 4. ⁠Stinky fabric furniture/couch. Couldn’t sit for a min. It had dead bugs on it. I have pics and videos. 5. ⁠No access to laundry but you can give your dirt cloths and they will do the laundry. 6. ⁠Had plumbing issues but they managed to fix it. 7. ⁠Bathroom are not in good condition but can get the bare minimum job. 8. ⁠I’m not certain but I think they don’t wash/change the sheets when the guests leave. I observed while checking out. They simply make the bed with the old sheets. I’ll NOT recommend this property but if they take care of the hygiene issues then it will be a great place to stay.

FAQs

How much does this house cost compared to others in Alajuela Province?

The average price for a rental in Alajuela Province is $144 per night. This rental is $1,516 above the average.

Is parking included with this house?

Yes, parking is listed as an amenity at A unique tropical jungle experience amongst magical gardens and rainforest.. For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.

Is there a pool at this house?

Yes, a swimming pool is available for use at A unique tropical jungle experience amongst magical gardens and rainforest.. Enjoy the water!

Is A unique tropical jungle experience amongst magical gardens and rainforest. pet friendly?

Yes! This house is pet-friendly. For more information, we recommend contacting the booking provider about animal policies.

What amenities are available at A unique tropical jungle experience amongst magical gardens and rainforest.?

We found 10 amenities for this rental. This includes pool, pets allowed, kitchen or kitchenette, internet / wifi, and smoking allowed.

Explore similar vacation rentals in Alajuela Province

Explore all rentals in Alajuela Province

Alajuela Province travel inspiration

Read our blog