Your Questions Answered

Where is the property located?

Our property is located about 200 miles south of San Jose, in Costa Rica’s southern Pacific region, at the tip of the Osa Peninsula. It is 18 km or 11 miles (35-40-minute drive) south of Puerto Jimenez, the Osa’s largest town, and about one hour from famous Corcovado National Park is an extension of the same rainforest. 

What is the climate like?

Of course, weather is different from year to year, but typically temperatures range from the low 80s to low 90’s, high 70’s at night. 

Mid-December to end of April: Dry season, rain rare, temperatures range from 80 to the low 90s, with March and April the hottest months. 

Early May to July: the beginning of the green season, rains a few times a week, usually at night.

Mid-June to mid-August: “little summer,” rain less likely, almost always at night. 

August through November: wet season, cloudier and cooler, temperatures in the 80s. (heaviest rains in October to mid-November). 

Because San Jose is in a mountain valley its weather is very different from Matapalo. It can be quite cool, so bring a light jacket or sweater for that part of the trip.

Do I need a car?

Not if you don’t mind hiking around, as most activities and restaurants are within walking distance and taxis are readily available. However, if you prefer to have a vehicle, we can help you arrange a reliable rental.

Is the water safe to drink?

It is generally safe to drink the water in San Jose, Puerto Jimenez and throughout Costa Rica. The water at our houses is pure nectar, straight from our artesian wells. 

Is it safe to swim?

Pan Dulce, our beach, is generally quite safe. However, as always with the ocean, caution is recommended. Sometimes it can be like a lake, other times it has great surfing waves, often perfect for beginners and stand up paddling. It’s only 4-6 feet deep for 100 yards out and the clean, blue water averages 83 degrees year-round. And if the surf seems too big (or too small) you can simply change beaches! 

Is there snorkelling?

Because we are on the Pacific and the waves stir up the water, this is not Caribbean quality snorkeling, especially in the wet season. That said, some guests enjoy playing around with masks and snorkels, exploring the waters on our beach in the dry season. In addition, the Golfo Dulce Tour (see our Tours/On Water page) takes you to a reef whit the clearest water in the Golfo, with tropical fish, and supplies masks, snorkels and fins.

How far is Corcovado Park?

This magnificent, 100,000-acre park is a beautiful hour’s drive away. Our manager, William, is an excellent (and affordable) registered guide for this trek.

What is the nearest town?

Known as the “gateway to Corcovado,” Puerto Jimenez is 11 miles from our property (about a 35-40 minute drive). It’s a small, laid- back, friendly town with a well-equipped supermarket, many restaurants, two banks with ATMs, airstrip, gas station, bakeries, various stores and Internet cafés.

Where do I buy groceries?

There are well-equipped grocery stores in Puerto Jimenez. We send you a shopping list of what to expect in advance of your trip. We recommend you stock up when you arrive in Puerto Jimenez, as there are no stores out at Matapalo, where our houses are. However, we can often pick up items for you and there are restaurants within walking distance. 

Where are the closest medical facilities?

Puerto Jimenez has a 24-hour clinic. There is also a hospital in Golfito, across the gulf. For serious conditions or accidents, San Jose has excellent hospitals and is a 50-minute flight by air ambulance. In addition, we keep first aid supplies on hand.

How bad are the bugs?

Surprisingly, there are few or no mosquitoes most of the time, as they are repelled by the tannin of the rainforest debris or washed away by rains. Usually, other insects are only noticeable downstairs in the evening and do not bite. In fact, they are very interesting and exotic! Any biting insects (the occasional mosquitoes or sand fleas on the beach) are easily discouraged with insect repellent. (Any brand that works where you live works in Costa Rica. Repellent containing DEET works for just about everybody, but usually, natural repellents work fine).

Do we need to hire a guide?

There is plenty of great hiking and exploring you can do on your own. We supply you with a map of the local area that shows you how to find nearby beaches and waterfalls. There are also tour guides for hire. Our manager William has his own tour business just for our guests. He grew up playing in the forest and has an eagle eye for wildlife.

What should we bring?

Life on the Osa is simple and casual. Quick drying beach clothes and swimsuits are the usual attire.

Other good things to bring:

A Long-sleeved shirt or jacket and lightweight pants for San Jose.

Flashlights (with spare bulbs and batteries) are a MUST. Large beam recommended.

Binoculars if desired.

Day pack and water bottle for hiking.

Beach towel or mat if desired (beach chairs provided)

Footwear:

• Comfortable walking shoes and/or sport sandals;
• “Aqua sox” (mesh and rubber water shoes) for ocean and creeks;
• Flip flops or crocs;

Sunscreen (at least 50 SPF)

Sun hat

Sunglasses

Insect repellent (with DEET, although natural often works)

Antibiotic ointment

Swimmer’s Ear prevention drops

A light rain jacket in the green season (see ‘What is the climate like?’ section above for the green season dates)

Camera (plus batteries)

Books, cards and games

Spanish/English dictionary

Is there electricity?

Our houses run on solar power. Lights and fans work day and night and run on 110 volts, just like in the U.S. No adaptors are needed. The only things our system can’t handle are hairdryers, toasters and microwave ovens or any other portable electric cookers like a rice cooker.

Do you advise bringing children?

Matapalo is kid heaven and you haven’t gone on a real nature walk until you do it here! The children who have stayed with us have said it was an unforgettable experience. Away from all the distractions of modern life, our place is wonderfully conducive to family time. (Nothing like getting away from the TV, video games, phones, computers, etc.!) 

Toddlers and small children need to be closely supervised, inside and out. The yard is kept manicured, but there is wildlife everywhere and of course, anytime you’re by the ocean strict caution should be observed. 

How can I be contacted in an emergency?

There is 4G LTE phone reception at the houses. You can buy an inexpensive sim card at any supermarket. This will give you free local calls and enough bandwidth to use google maps. There is also wifi at the house. In addition, someone can get a quick message to you by contacting us by e-mail (info@casabambu.com) or phone (US: 512-943-6254; Costa Rica: +506 8702 5906). Those are forwarding numbers and do not accept text messages. If no answer, they can leave a voice message and we’ll get word to you.

How far in advance should I reserve?

To insure you get the exact dates you want, you should book the Christmas/New Year’s, Easter/Spring Break and even Thanksgiving many months or even a year in advance. From Christmas/New Years to August, it is advisable to reserve at least 3 months in advance. Never hesitate to inquire about availability at any time! We have cancellations, so can almost always accommodate you.

What about money?

Costa Rican colones and US dollars are universally accepted. For colones, we recommend changing money at the San Jose Airport in the baggage claim area immediately after you land. You can also change money at your hotel or in Puerto Jimenez at the banks. 

There are two ATM machines in Puerto Jimenez and many in San Jose. If the machines don’t work, you can go into the bank, but bring your passport. Some places in Puerto Jimenez accept credit cards, including the supermarket and produce store. Many tours, if they accept credit cards, charge a fee. 

As regards tipping, there is a 10% service charge incorporated within most restaurant bills. Taxi drivers own their own vehicles, but if they go the extra mile you may want to tip them.

As for prices, generally, you will pay about what you do in the U.S., although some items, such as local produce, cost less. 

There is 13% VAT tax in Costa Rica. Some restaurants include the 13% VAT tax and a 10% service fee.