Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get there?
You can take bus, car, fly, white water rafting trip... Many
possibilities. Check our Location page
for full details.
Why should I go there? What makes Puerto Viejo worth
visiting?
If you don't see the Caribbean coast, you are really missing
half the country. But, who cares what we have to say? Here is a
link to a board of many people who have visited Puerto Viejo
and read what they have had to say. Give it a read and see you
think Puerto Viejo is for you. The link contains
photo albums,
videos,
news articles and
travel blogs all about the area.
What's
there to do there?
We're happy to arrange activities for you in the area —
there's so much to do!
Some of our favorites are
hikes in Cahuita National Park and
Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife refuge (you're sure to see
monkeys and many other animals on these treks),
Whitewater rafting (it's world class!),
Canopy/zipline trips and going out on
turtle (in-season) or
bird watching treks.
Click
here for a list of tours and
activities we can arrange for you.
What is the weather like?
Contrary to common opinion that it rains all the time on the
Caribbean, there are actually places such as Manuel Antonio that
get more inches per year. The difference is that on this side,
it is more spread out over the year. Also note that most rain
comes at night and days clear by early-late morning.
Our neighbor Charlotte has graciously let me use her rain
chart that shows trends in rain patterns. You will note that
while there are some trends, it's still a crap shoot. And most
time, when it rains, it may be short, but dump an amount of
water you might have never seen before. It can be very magical.
For more detailed information on weather,
click here.
What about surfing in the area?
Surfing is very popular in this area. Loco Natural is located
near Playa Negra beach. Some local surfers that prefer to be on
their own like to surf in this area. Just down from our house
towards town is a great beginners surfing break. It is very
popular with younger (non-adult) surfers and instructors.
For
the more avid surfer, best is Salsa Brava or Cocles beach which
is just at south end of town. For more info on surfing in Costa
Rica, check out CR Surf.
What do we need to bring?
Not much. House is fully equipped including towels and
changes of bed linens. Kitchen is well equipped and corner store
is about 300 meters away. A flashlight is essential for
nighttime
plus there are plenty of nocturnal animals you will be able to
see.
What About Maid Service?
People who rent more than one week will receive maid service
once a week if desired at an additional cost of $10 for each
cleaning. This will include a full cleaning of the house and
change of towels & bed linens.
How far is the Loco Natural property from town?
We are a little less than a mile from Puerto Viejo (see
map link). A 5 minute walk to the beach, and a gorgeous 20
minute walk along beach to town. And it is about 5 minutes by
bike. We are located north of town 150 meters off the main road.
I have a dog(s). Is that a problem?
Yes it is. Unfortunately no dogs are allowed.
What about Internet Service?
The houses are equipped for Highspeed Wifi internet
connection. If you have a laptop, you log on upon arrival.
Do we need air conditioning?
Actually it is very rare for houses here to have A/C. It does
not get as hot as Pacific side and fans seem to always be
sufficient.
What about Mosquitoes and Bugs?
They come and go. But remember, you'll be staying in the
jungle where flora and fauna are abundant. All beds are equipped
with high quality mosquito nets to ensure a comfortable night's
sleep.
Repellent comes in handy on the occasional bad bug days.
Is the house and area safe?
The houses are private and secure compared to most rentals
due to their seclusion. As for the area, petty theft is a
problem throughout Costa Rica and especially beach towns. Puerto
Viejo is no more affected than any other places.
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