Manatus Hotel

From the moment that we got of the boat at Manatus Hotel, I knew that we were in good hands. We were greeted with a cold fruit drink and a "pura vida". The food was fantastic and included. John was our server and was very very good and made us feel welcome. There were sloths and monkeys in the trees near the pool and we saw dolphins playing in the lagoon in front of the resort. We took the night tour and got to experience nature that was almost primordial. Great place and thanks to Rachel at Costa Rican Vacations for setting this trip up.

Half the fun is getting here. Single-engine plane lands, boat picked us up and dropped us off. There are 12 units and we had #10. Roomy and clean. There was an option for an outdoor shower. We didn't partake only because it was raining at shower time and the rain was a bit cold. Had 2 boat rides into Tortuguero Nat'l Park and saw many iguanas, sloths, howler monkeys, a caiman, a turtle, and many birds including toucans. Food was a bit less pleasing than we would have liked. Ingredients were fine and fresh, menu choices maybe a 6 out of 10. Food prep though was only 5 of 10. There was a full bar. We enjoyed our stay overall and the staff was always smiling and helpful.

We spent two days at this hotel from Jan 31 - Feb 2, 2025. Arrived on a short flight from San Jose. The airport is actually just an airstrip on the Caribbean Sea. It is on the same canal as the hotel. We were met planeside by Ricardo, who helped with our luggage and got us on a motor launch. It was a 5 minute trip down the canal to the hotel. We checked in and had lunch right away. The food at this hotel is all included in the price. All of it is ala carte and everything we ate was delicious during all three meals per day. There is a bar, although it is not always open. Cocktails, wine, and beer are available at a reasonable price. There is a modest wine list by the bottle, but it had everything and was reasonably priced. The service is low key, yet attentive. Everyone was quite friendly. There is a small pool, although we did not use it. The gym is actually just an exercise bike and a treadmill, maybe a couple of weights. The rooms are spacious. Two queen beds in each, a TV (we did not use it), some limited storage, and a mini bar. The mini bar is not free. The bathroom was quite spacious and modern, and it opens onto a small outside area with an outdoor cold shower. Note: you cannot flush anything, including used toilet paper. There is a receptacle for that. Tip: bring some Poo Pouree or Lysol spray. Liquid soap, shampoo, lotion are provided. While there, you have the opportunity to go on a boat ride to the village or Tortuguero. It was pouring rain, so we did not go. The next day offers morning and afternoon boat tours of the canals. Splendid! We had Bonnie (guide) and Ronnie (eagle-eyed captain). They did an excellent job, finding us lots of different wildlife. Bring your camera and binoculars. And don’t forget some money for gratuity. Overall, a great visit. It is a little more rustic than posh, but keep in mind you are on the sea and everything arrives by water. There are no roads.