We had a terrific time watching the monkeys. The staff was first rate. The chef & his wife prepared a gourmet fish dinner of 5 star quality |
The Kohly Family – Miami FL USA |
Pura Vida! Thanks for a wonderful experience. We will be back soon! |
The Muly Family, Devon & Kennett Square, PA & Key West, FL, USA |
I have to start before we arrived. Pete and Terry worked with us over the phone and Internet. We felt "taken care of" from this point forward. Not only does this home meet the representations on the Internet, it exceeds the quality of accommodations found in many areas of Mexico, Central & South America. To have A/C, TV, views, private pool and modern furnishings in this area was so relaxing and enjoyable. We, like the previous visitors, found the proximity to nature to be rewarding and religious. Thomas was great, as was the other staff. But, we would have enjoyed more privacy. Thank you for sharing this home, your great taste and your knowledge of Costa Rica. This place is off the hook! I saw monkeys every day and was lucky enough to see sloth on one occasion. Keep your eyes peeled, she is up there. The surf was low, so I didn't get to surf. [Note: there are many "surf" beaches, just ask our manager where the best is for your ability] That is my only complaint. I will be back very soon. |
Paul, Ryan & Trevor – Flagstaff AZ USA |
Six of us are dreading a return flight home because of the hospitality and wonderful time we’ve had here. Two have a whole year to wait for another visit – but rest assured, we will be back. Thank you and your staff. It was a great vacation. |
Conta group – Columbus OH USA |
I know now that I truly have found heaven on this earth. This country, town and house are unbelievable. Waking up early every morning and sitting on the upper deck in silence was my favorite part. The sounds of the jungle are all the music that is needed. Daily, we saw the howler monos, titi monos and the white-faced monos. We managed to see a sloth on the move one day in the tree right off of the pool (The one everyone thinks should be cut down to enhance the pool deck view). The low impact to the jungle from this house is great though! Great job. Our party was great adventurers. We rappelled at Arenal, white water rafted, zip lined, took a private catamaran tour and did some hiking. All were fantastic. We have to come back for the hot springs, and we will. The staff at the home were all fantastic. Liseth had the house looking like the day we arrived every day. Not an easy task with 4 young adults/teenagers. Liseth and her sister Lilly cooked three amazing dinners for us and we had the most amazing appetizers of chicken, fish & beef. They did it all first class. Thomas was fantastic. We had a problem with the house water and he was right on top of it. The restaurants around were all great but I liked our chefs the best. We had some fun evenings at Barba Rojas. The young ones befriended the bartenders and count not get enough of the place. Casa Mono Congo we will see you next year. |
Bruce, Laura, Dave, Lori, Jess, Monica, Whitney, Chris – Olympia WA USA & San Diego CA USA |
A perfect house, unbelievable views, monkeys, dolphins and the best food in the world! We loved the jet ski and four trax tours. Our chef should have her own restaurant. Thomas was great at setting everything up. He was always available and had great suggestions for tours. Each day seems like a week of relaxation. Some of us need to go home mid-week and the balance will be staying on for the canopy tour and deep-sea fishing. A visit to the Sea Glass Spa is a must. A truly memorable trip. We’d like to thank everyone involved for the wonderful time. The white-faced monkeys steal your bananas from the house. Watch out! |
Scott, Todd, Chuck, Mike, Doug, Daniel & Donna – IL USA |
Queremos darles las gracias, en este espacio, por la oportunidad que nos brindaron de disfrutar tan bella casa. Les confesamos que nos faltó tiempo para haber disfrutado al máximo cada uno de sus espacios. Sin duda alguna fue un placer relajarse, disfrutar del paisaje, el clima y la natureleza. Muchas gracias por le confienze brindada y por permitir un espacio para la energía renovable en esta casa. We want to give you thanks, in this book, for the opportunity that invited us to enjoy so beautiful a house. We confess to you that we didn't have time to have fully enjoy each one of your rooms. Without a doubt, it was a pleasure to relax, enjoy the scenery, the climate, and nature. Thanks again for your confidence to invite us and to allow us to install renewable energy systems in this house. |
Hasta Pronto, |
We love the house! It’s awesome. We’ll have more to write as the week progresses. My suggestion is only one, lop down the top of the tree so the beautiful view of the ocean can be seen from the pool and main living area. That would be really awesome. We are off to the beach. The beach is okay, very rough water & salty, but we had a nice relaxing time. More refreshing in the cold pool. Too cold. My opinion. We went on the Canopy Safari zip line tour – early and was great. Our guides were very cautious (safety wise) and fun! We did not have a swim in the river because it is the wet season, but we stopped for cerveza and coca-cola by the river at Café de Tourismo. We have enjoyed relaxing by the pool and watching the monkey show. We had many squirrel monkeys playing the trees and at the other property. The monkeys were all over the roof and satellite dish, tumbling and jumping. Later the white-faced monkeys came but they just breezed through. Every morning so far, the howler monkeys and others wake us up. Today we toured the Manuel Antonio National Park with Alberto. Thomas hooked us up with him in a moment’s notice, so water & fruit was not supplied. Bring your own and price was way off but Alberto was very knowledgeable and friendly (Everyone has been). We saw sloth, monkeys, an anteater, lizards, weevil bug, a male hummingbird sitting on a branch waiting for a mate, bats & crabs. It was quite impressive. We’ve eaten at L’Avion & Mar Luna. We enjoyed both. Now we are in a torrential downpour and incredible lightening striking very close. We had to run back in it because it would not let up. That road above was totally flooding – another adventure. It is still raining. Tomorrow a fishing day is planned. We are loving this holiday and home. If the screens are up and you go upstairs to the upper bar, shut them. A monkey came in and took fruit and left the peels on the floor and another was caught about to snatch another banana. We have had a great time and today we are leaving. We’ve relaxed at the beach, shopped along the beach, Quepos and Manuel Antonio. We enjoyed a spa treatment at the Sea Glass Spa and Richard was terrific to talk to while waiting. Be careful of the hill when it is wet, very slippery. I was probably the only one who enjoyed hiking up the hill, great exercise. We had terrific weather with sun and late afternoon rain or storms or dry all day. Thomas arranged Miguel as our driver and he was very nice. We used taxis and the bus to get around locally. A long day of fishing and finally on the way back, low on fuel and rain. They caught a large tuna. Thanks for the memories. Last evening we ate at the Plinio restaurant. Great food with international flair. We then walked next door to Bambo Jams and enjoyed the music. We had a terrific time here in Casa Mono Congo. The monkeys made us feel right at home here in the jungle. Coming from the flat lands of Houston TX, the walking up hill was quite an adventure. I’m glad to say “I survived the jungle”. Thanks for sharing your beautiful home. The natives have been very friendly. Thank God for solar power and A/C and beautiful weather, even when it rains. |
Linda, Rich, Steve, Janice, Wendy & Jim – TX & MD, USA |
From this house we could enjoy two wonderful things: one made by God (this marvelous view, the forest, different animals, an unforgettable night with full moon, etc) and a beautiful house that shows the good taste of our friends. Thanks Pete & Terry! We really enjoyed our vacations and our family fell in love of nature and your beautiful home. Congratulations. Dear Pete & Terry, Chicago's loss is our gain. What a fabulous place you've built and created. Needless to say, our family was totally impressed & delighted by the experience. Your kindness & attention is just first rate. We love the house, the setting & most of all, our roommates. All types of monkeys & birds in what it seems to be a constant show. We saw congo, squirrel and white-faced monkeys. The staff is wonderful and the house could not be more comfortable, beautiful and enjoyable. You'll definitely be our #1 recommendation in Manuel Antonio. We had a "fantabulous" time here at Casa Mono Congo. We were received by the entire community of howler monkeys, which set the pace for all the excitement we were to experience. The canopy tour is really fun. The best kept secret is the restaurant at Makanda Hotel. Ask for Randall and ask him for a Parcha Margarita (passion fruit). It is to die for. We highly recommend the house. The beds were especially well received after so many days chocked full of activities. We would definitely come back |
Ali & de Paz Family – Costa Rica |
Our stay at Casa Mono Congo has been absolutely wonderful! Everything from the comfortable accommodations to the waking up with monkeys. Our family of 8, ages 11 – 77, came here to celebrate our 2 oldest children’s graduation from college. Everyone was comfortable, had great experiences on the tours and loved the Tico lifestyle. Grandma, age 77, enjoyed the adventure as well as our 11 year old daughter who delighted in the sloth hanging about, birds, lizards, frogs, butterflies and the plants all about us. The beaches and Manuel Antonio attracted the 20s age group. I could go on and on. I especially want to thank Pete & Terry for their open and honest representation of Casa Mono Congo. We have traveled frequently and found places disappointing. Casa Mono Congo was just like you described and we have been more than delighted in this fantastic accommodation. The staff has been great. Thomas is always available for questions. Thank you again for a wonderful Costa Rican experience. If you are around, do the canopy tour. The ATV tour was fun but a bit disappointing for the price. Make sure to go on a tour and eat lunch. That's the best food everywhere. What a wonderful week of solitude and serenity with my children, grandchildren and friends, celebrating the college graduation of Travis & Alicia. View was wonderful. Sounds surrounding of birds, monkeys and animals of the habitat. Experience of a lifetime for me. |
Boudreaux Family – Louisiana, USA |
Hola! What an absolutely amazing experience! From the unfolding beauty of Costa Rica to "tico style" wonders... we gathered such special memories! "Casa Mono Congo" Rocks! Love the decor and location is phenomenal! A most welcoming venue. |
Muchas Gracias! Pura Vida! Susan, Michael, Scott, Ryan |
Connecticut USA < - - - > Costa Rica We are a bunch of 8 late 30 to early 40 year olds from New London, Connecticut. We travel together often, and all of us agree, this is a magical, Inspiring, Magnificently BEAUTIFUL PLACE!!! We were in complete awe - the first evening when the monkeys came - we became children again- and the first time we heard the "Howlers" - forget about it - we were all running around from deck to deck. Truly incredible! Manuel Antonio State Park is Spectacular! Bring your Camera! There are beach chairs & umbrellas on the main beach & inside the park is natural shade from the palms - ... The canopy safari tour was a "Life Changing" Experience & an absolute must while you are here. The staff there is great! & the pictures they sell afterwards are worth the investment. They give you about 500 photos on CD. 1/2 of which are beautiful shots of the country - sunsets, animals, flowers etc. We can't say enough about the house staff, they are all very friendly & Professional & Thomas was right there anytime we needed him. We will definitely be back for years to come! Have fun! "O.M.G." We just love that hill! Don't forget your flashlights at night! |
Diane, Mary, Dina, Jeff, David, Jerry, Rick & Steve |
"The Bo Derek Family" We had a magnificent time!! The staff are efficient, warm, friendly and helpful. Pete, it was so great to meet you and learn about life in this lovely country. Will keep in touch. P. S. Thomas was so great even though we woke him up on a Sunday!! The chefs were delightful, and formidable cooks. |
Paul, Steve, Jim, Ray, Ricardo, Bo, John, Steve, Barbara |
Thank you Thank you, Thank you! Our week at Mono Congo was nothing short of spectacular. A Casa with everything in. The great cooks Nery & Lilliana - do yourselves a favor and hire them (we did 3 times!) The facility and staff are a 5 star. Pete, great meeting you and do hope our paths will cross again. Special thanks to Thomas, Priscilla, Irving, and the great night guard. We found the Costa Rican people to be great. The Manuel Antonio Area and National Park to be all that. Love the beaches and the shops at the beach. Look forward to returning and will miss Mono Congo. |
Our group of 8 friends had a great time at this house! We had so much fun at the house it was hard to leave everyday for activities and sight seeing. The ATV tour was a blast and a great way to see the countryside. We were covered with dust afterward and enjoyed a great breakfast! A guided tour through Manuel Antonio was amazing. We saw three-toed sloths, cool birds and lizards. Our guide was extremely knowledgeable about Costa Rican history and wildlife. The canopy tour is a must do while in Costa Rica! We were all swinging from the trees like little monkeys! Back at the house the monkeys came out in full force around dinner time. Sit back and enjoy the show. Howler monkeys kept their distance but talked a lot very early in the morning. The beaches inside and right outside Manuel Antonio were perfection. The ocean was calmed clear, and warm. The beach vendors supplied muchas cervesas for us while lounging in beach chairs under the canopy. Absolute paradise! Drive an hour north to Jaco for dark sand beaches and surfing. Scuba diving isn't Costa Rica's best offering. Lots of fun, but poor viability. Food and coffee in Costa Rica are wonderful. We did not have a bad meal the entire time we were here! Some of our favorite restaurants nearby were the Pizzeria, Rico Tico, and the place upstairs at the top of the road (Agua Azul) We loved watching sunsets and sipping cocktails at the Avion. Thomas was very helpful setting up tours and transportation to and from the airport. We enjoyed staying here so much that we are certain to return again! Thank you so much for a dream vacation! |
Scot & Val, David & Wendy, John & Joan, Sara & Joey, Indianapolis, IN |
Dear Pete & Terry, There is not enough words to describe your house. And, always, Costa Rica is my 2nd home. I appreciate your hospitality and we will see you next year. |
Robert B. - Wilmington, Delaware USA |
This house is the life! The Zorns and us (the Regans) are here. There have been 3 types of monkeys visiting us here at this house. There has been white faced monkeys, howler monkeys, and squirrel monkeys. There is a very pretty view! Also, the elevated beds are cool! (very relaxing) When I first saw this house I thought to myself... how strange it's purple and orange. Then when I looked inside, I had one word to say "WOW" |
Hope we stay here again, Zorns and Regans |
We couldn't have been more impressed with the house! It created one of the best vacations ever. We've recommended your property to other tourists and we will certainly plan another vacation here! It's hard to leave! Your staff was wonderful - they did a great job. |
Thanks to all - Diane |
Thoroughly enjoyed the house and grounds. Each day we could see monkeys (2 kinds) in the trees & by the pool. This was awesome. Enjoyed the pool daily with plenty of sunshine each day. We are planning our next vacation year to your wonderful property. The staff, Thomas, Priscilla, and others, were very gracious and made the house just that more enjoyable. We will definitely be back. |
Thanks to Everyone - Greg & Patrick |
When your grandmother, who is 90 and an adventurer of the most insistent kind, wants to go on vacation to Costa Rica, there are not many things that will keep her from it. It doesn't hurt to have the company of those she has influenced. We are here because the spirit of wonder (or sometimes wander) has already been passed down to the daughters and granddaughters. Sarah and her friend, Joe, found this Casa far the rest of the family on one of their previous trips to this country. Perhaps the aura of hospitality was all too much of a lure for them and is now so for us. This country is a place of natural beauty and ecological awe, but most of all it is of its people. We are very grateful for all of the people who have shared their experiences with us to make a grand frame in our memories. While we were here:
I don't know that things will conspire so that we are able to return to Casa Mono Congo, but we will recall that this has fostered our curiosities - so further travel is inevitable. |
Pura Vida - Kimberly - Madison, WI; Alice, Jeanne - Wainakee, WI; Denise, John, Sarah, & Joe - Sheboygan Falls, WI |
As I sit here at the table enjoying this stunning view - I struggle to find the words that will adequately articulate what this trip and this house have meant to our group. Suzanne & Colleen chose this location for their honeymoon, and they asked the rest of us to join them for what has become the experience of a lifetime. From the moment we arrived, we have been treated like royalty. Marisol, our cook, prepared a delightful meal that welcomed us to Casa Mono Congo; and every moment since has been filled with comfort, joy, excitement and wonder at the wildlife and beauty that surrounds us here. We have explored all that the house has to offer, and this has truly been a home, as if we have been here many months, and is just a week. We have been awakened by the sound of howler monkeys and been awed and amazed by the titi and white-faced monkeys: who have come by the house as if to give us their own welcome to Costa Rica. We have seen Toucans and a variety of insects unlike anything we have seen before - all of which has humbled us and given us a new appreciation for nature and a renewed sense of spirit about our place in the world. Each evening we have been captivated by the sunsets seen from the 3rd floor bar area. The relaxing sounds of the surf and sea prepared us for peaceful slumber in these comfortable beds. Priscilla is a joy to have around the house. She has cared for us diligently and is meticulous in her duties. Herminio is nothing short of adorable, and he looks after us each evening wishing us a sincere "buenas noches" at night. Rafael is a quiet man, and we appreciate that he has kept the pool clean and ready for us to enjoy daily. Ervin is quick with a smile and makes sure everything is in working order around the house. Thomas has been helpful and informative - we are happy with the entire staff. Casa Mono Congo will have a special place in all of our hearts forever. We leave this place, rejuvenated, renewed and with a new perspective. We are all changed by the time we have spent here. Costa Rica, and Casa Mono Congo will be a part of us from now on. Thank you for allowing us to share this with you, thank you for all this place has given us. |
With love, respect, and sincerity, Suzanne & Colleen, Joann & Bob, Sheila & Andria - East Point, Georgia |
Well, we made it back safely, although at one point, we contemplated barricading ourselves into the house so that we wouldn't have to leave :). You have such a beautiful home and we are so lucky to have been able to stay there- I will say that I think we are now spoiled of any other properties- I guess we will always have to stay at Casa Mono Congo when we come back to visit Manuel Antonio. Thank you for helping to make our honeymoon so memorable! |
Suzanne |
The R.... Family from Oxford. Thoroughly enjoyed our stay in your lovely home. Thomas was very helpful. Thank you for sharing Casa Mono Congo. |
The R... Family |
Dear Pete & Terry We love your adjustable beds and would never get up in the morning if the monkeys didn't wake us. Seeing. Seeing those adorable animals outside our patio doors is just unbelievable. They're amusing and so fun to watch. You've been very nice and helpful to us. Thomas has been wonderful too! We appreciate the opportunity we had to stay here and would highly recommend your house to anyone. We will remember this trip for many years to come. We hope to see you again next year. Thanks again!
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Tom, Pam, Jess, Chris, and Allie |
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Updated 04-Dec-2007