Reviews of Howler Monkey Hotel
Cabuya, 60111 Montezuma, Costa Rica

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Reviewed: 17 July 2025 · Stayed in July 2025
Verified reviewJim is a really awesome guy. He was super friendly and helped me lots. The Cabina was perfect for me, nice and clean and right next to beach. Absolutely beautiful stay. I highly recommend staying here while in Cabuya!
Hi Adam, Thanks a million for your very kind review,come back any time. Best regards Jim
Reviewed: 11 June 2025 · Stayed in June 2025
Verified reviewGreat place in the middle of nature Loads of animals and on seaside Lovely piece of heaven I strongly recommend
Hi Chris, Thank you kindly for your nice review,come back again. Best regards Jim
Reviewed: 6 June 2025 · Stayed in June 2025
Verified reviewI stayed alone at this beachfront bungalow, and it was exactly what I needed. A peaceful, cozy space surrounded by nature, perfect for disconnecting and reconnecting with myself. Waking up to the sound of the waves and having the ocean just steps away was truly magical. The bungalow was clean, well kept, and had everything I needed for a comfortable stay. The host was kind and respectful, always available if I needed anything, yet gave me the privacy to enjoy my time alone. A perfect place for solo travelers looking for peace, inspiration, and a real break from the noise. I’d definitely come back!
Hi Cristian, Thanks so much for your kind review. Regards Jim
Reviewed: 24 May 2025 · Stayed in May 2025
Verified reviewWe really enjoyed our stay at Jim‘s paradise! It was simple and very calm, cozy and relaxing! There was a warm shower, comfy beds, tropical animals all around, a very clean pool and a kitchen to cook. Jim, the owner, was really friendly and helped us with everything we needed. He gave us a free upgrade so that we could stay in a big cabin, he let us use the washing machine (for free), he recommended us some nice place to buy fresh fish. His 3 dogs were also really adorable!! We recommend this place to anyone who is looking for a quiet get-away close to nature!
Hi Antonia, Thank you for your kind review,come back again. Regards Jim
Reviewed: 15 May 2025 · Stayed in May 2025
Verified reviewI had a wonderful stay at Jim's place!! If you love nature, this place is a little paradise, a full immersion in Costa Rica's nature. Jim has a wonderful garden with a clean and refreshing swimmingpool, lots of trees that provide shadow and at the end of the garden a 180-Degree view over the sea. The perfect place to watch the sunrise and relax. Jim knows a lot about the local flora and fauna and he showed me so many birds, trees, etc. I saw a Coati, Scarlet Macaw, Monkeys and an Iguane among others right in his garden. Jim is a wonderful host, very helpful and a man of integrity and honesty. And Cabuya is very close to Montezuma (Jim lend me his bike) and is a very nice place, less touristic. You can visit the Cabo Blanco Réserve from there, which I really enjoyed. I would recommend you all to go to Jim' s place 😊
Hi Isabelle, Thank you so much for your kind review,im glad you enjoyed my little paradice,and hope you enjoy the rest of your trip in lovely Costa Rica,come back again any time. Best regards Jim
Reviewed: 1 February 2025 · Stayed in January 2025
Verified reviewIf you’re looking for a retreat where you can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and experience nature in its purest form, then this eco-lodge is the perfect place. Located right by the sea, it not only offers breathtaking views but also an experience that goes far beyond the typical vacation. The lodge is lovingly run by Jim, an Irish original. Jim is an exceptional host, who immediately draws you in with a combination of warmth and wisdom. He has countless stories to share, often sitting in his rocking chair surrounded by his three dogs – Milli, Rocky, and Benji. These sweet dogs make the stay even more pleasant, offering constant companionship during outdoor activities. Jim loves to share his deep insights into life and the surroundings, whether it’s through a cozy conversation or a walk in nature. You can immediately tell that he is a true connoisseur of the area and lives with a profound love for nature. Those lucky enough may even get to hear exciting anecdotes about the history of the region or little pearls of wisdom from his own life, as if you were sitting with a wise grandfather. The lodge itself is simple but incredibly cozy, offering everything you need for a nature-filled stay. The focus is clearly on a respectful relationship with the environment – so it’s not uncommon for a few ants to cross your path or for you to find yourself surrounded by flora and fauna. But this is exactly what gives the lodge its charm – you truly become a part of nature, not just a spectator. The sunrise spot is particularly noteworthy – it’s a true highlight! The sunrise over the sea is simply magical, and the peace that surrounds you is indescribable. It feels as though you are the only person for miles, creating the perfect, almost meditative retreat.
Wow Nico, What can i say,only shed a teer,that at long last after 21 years of trying,it finally worked and the knowladge i try and give out ror free has been acknowladged. Please come back again as i have only told 5% of what i know,to be true. Best regards Jim O Callaghan (OWNER)
Wow Nico, What can i say,only shed a teer,that at long last after 21 years of trying,it finally worked and the knowladge i try and give out ror free has been acknowladged. Please come back again as i have only told 5% of what i know,to be t… Show more
Reviewed: 1 February 2025 · Stayed in January 2025
Verified reviewGreat location on the water. Located in Cabuya a short stroll from a couple of restaurants and a convenience store. Conveniently located to explore Cabo blanco national park.
Hi Maria, You are to a point,short and sweet,come back any time,my friend Frank,and my friend Roy all told me they met my neece. Best regards Jim
Reviewed: 27 January 2025 · Stayed in January 2025
Verified reviewThe place is great . Fantastic view of the ocean . The owner Jim is a very good person . He has a great sense of nature and know everything on his property. From the wildlife to the plants. He is a very intelligent man with a lot of knowledge and very good story to tell. He can show you the smallest bees in the world, Tiger heron, tell every name of the birds and much more. I recommand this place and i am returning every year , it is a must see!
WOW Bedford, In A NUT SHELL you have told the full story,shorter and sweeter then anybody has ever done before.Congrads you should be a writer,as you know how to tell a story,in 20 years in the hotel ,about 15 with booking,on average 150 new reviews every year,by 15 is 2250 reviews,yours was by far ,the shortwst and sweetest,if there was a prise you would win it. Yesterday i closed my hotel down as i was treatened by a drunk Young Tica and a German father and daughter who was makeing love to the Germans daughter because there were too many spiders in the jungel,so they come to the jungel and they are afraid of a spider webs,the spider might be dead,but once they see the web,they freak out,so now i have to kill all the spiders in my jungel,im not going to do it as they kill all my coackroaches,ants,termites,wasps,hornets and scorpians.So i had to give them there money back and they broke my lock on the door by forceing it,but i dont get any money back as booking are not insured,so they nearly give me a heart attack,use the bathrooms,kitchens,and bedrooms and i have to clean all again more money.I will be 70 in a year,i just cant do it anymore.In future im only renting to people that respect the jungel and my hotel,and wont kill me before ihey leave, ,you will find me at the howler monkey hotel Cabuya,Montezuma.Book early at xmass and easter,as im full,and on Costa Rican holidays.Come back any time. Best regards Jim
WOW Bedford, In A NUT SHELL you have told the full story,shorter and sweeter then anybody has ever done before.Congrads you should be a writer,as you know how to tell a story,in 20 years in the hotel ,about 15 with booking,on average 150 ne… Show more
Reviewed: 18 January 2025 · Stayed in January 2025
Verified reviewEverything was Perfect
Nothing bad to say
Hi Maxime, You and your girl friend are the first return guests i have had back this year,people only come back if they love my little paradise,like i do,but im not a mad scientist,am i.?Come back again next year. Best regards Jim
Reviewed: 30 December 2024 · Stayed in December 2024
Verified reviewGreat location .Nice host Jim
Pretty run down facility. Loose water faucets. No.moskito nets in windows. Payment conditions differ from .original offer: 10% extra for card payment instead of 5% in original offer. Expensive considering quality of facilities.
Hi Konrad, I changed all the stairs,from wood to metal this year,put all the kitchen gas outside in garded cages,put in a new metal gate,changed all cabinas wooden posts to metal ,i spent 2 years profit,everything gets old quick in the jungel.I ONLY am busy for 5 of 7 months of year,i told you allready 10% is now what the banks charge for a credit card,you will see this on updated booking info ,if your too lasy to bring cash,why should i suffer,your just a grumpy old man that needs to go easy on the hard stuff,as you were not in a good mood,for your stay,lighten up a bit. Regards Jim
Hi Konrad, I changed all the stairs,from wood to metal this year,put all the kitchen gas outside in garded cages,put in a new metal gate,changed all cabinas wooden posts to metal ,i spent 2 years profit,everything gets old quick in the jung… Show more
Reviewed: 27 December 2024 · Stayed in December 2024
Verified reviewBest bang for your buck! Won't get any better for $30usd a night. Don't expect to be a 5 star resort for that price. You got your own cabin with small bathroom and kitchenette. (Very basic) You are by the beach and it's super affordable. Don't need nothing else. Pura vida!
Hi Carl, Thank you so much for your kind review,come back any time. Regards Jim
Reviewed: 22 December 2024 · Stayed in December 2024
Verified reviewthe nice nature. monkys all over de place ,iguana s and the sea view. the onwer and his lovely dogs.
Hi Kevin, Thanks for your kind review,come back again. Regards Jim
Reviewed: 21 December 2024 · Stayed in December 2024
Verified reviewThe photos show clean pools, trimmed fauna, clean rooms, clean walkways, and create a fun outdoor environment type adventure. The actuality of how unkept the property is makes the advertisement for this property nothing but disappointing. There is absolutely nothing that I liked about this property.
We booked online as we arrived in Montezuma strictly through reading reviews and the pictures on the booking.com site. When we arrived at the property around 5pm the owner Jim, was no where to be found. Another occupant staying there had said “Jim is at the bar”. We drove up to the bar at the end of the street in hopes to run into Jim. They had said Jim was not there so we ordered up a drink to pass some time and the locals watched for Jim’s truck for us. As we waited I called the phone number provided twice with no answer and sent an email. (If I did not book through booking.com I would have made the decision to leave at that time, however I was stuck paying through your site) After an hour we drove back down the road to the Howler Monkey and again asked another occupant about Jim whom pointed out where he lives on the property. My boyfriend knocked on his door with no answer. He then knocked again and after several seconds Jim finally answered. This was just after 6pm. He was groggy (possibly passed out from drinking) and not friendly or personable at all. He walked us through the dump of a property to the treehouse we were going to stay at. The kitchen and bathroom were located at ground level. The kitchen was a closet door that opened to a filthy area with cockroaches running around. The bathroom was in a little better shape with a poor repair job done to the shower. We then walked up the stairs into the treehouse. It was a room with on queen bed and three twin beds all spaced by inches between them, one dresser, and a couple fans. Jim walked in first and brushed iguana shit off the bed saying “looks like the iguanas are living in the roof”. I immediately cancelled the second night. We were up early since we did not get any sleep due to the conditions. We also slept in our clothes feeling as though it was too dirty otherwise. When we went to checkout Jim said he won’t charge us for the second night if we give him a good review!!!!!
I didnt have the cabina ready,you woke me up from a sound sleep,you need to give people time to get things ready.im haveing a problem with cleaning ladies,at present,and have a few other issues,im very sorry ,for what happened,this is not a true refelection,on my place,please except my apology. 2 years ago,i had a cockroach problem,now all organic,goes in the sea to feed the fish,or hermit crabs. When your right in one thing,that does not give you the right to lie about 10 other things,people like you should stay out of the jungle when you are afraid of a few bugs,This is why my place is so full of life,something you and your bug free world would never understand,stay away from my paradice. Who are the people going to believe,the 32 ,ones i was given out of 500 by people like you afraid of a little ant,or 183 ,10s i got out of 500 reviews in 3 years,the bar chart speaks for it self.Nobody will believe all your bull. Also your and your girl friend have a big problem with swtimulents,it makes you lie like qa dog on the road.Dont ever ever ever come back as my dogs didnt like you. Best regards Jim
I didnt have the cabina ready,you woke me up from a sound sleep,you need to give people time to get things ready.im haveing a problem with cleaning ladies,at present,and have a few other issues,im very sorry ,for what happened,this is not a… Show more
Reviewed: 11 December 2024 · Stayed in December 2024
Verified reviewReviewed: 30 November 2024 · Stayed in November 2024
Verified reviewSwiming pool and monkeys and beach and lovely dogs and squirrels and more than in the national park
Hi Sylvie, Yes alot of people who visit the park ,say they see more wildlife hear,come back again Best regards Jim
Reviewed: 16 November 2024 · Stayed in November 2024
Verified reviewGreat localisation near the beach with a lot of place for 2
Hi Melanie, Thank you so much for your kind review,come back again. Best regards Jim
Reviewed: 13 November 2024 · Stayed in November 2024
Verified reviewReviewed: 26 October 2024 · Stayed in October 2024
Verified reviewThe perfect place with an ocean breeze, jungle vibes, and the warm hospitality of Jim who has a heart of gold. Will definitely be back ☀️❤️☀️
God West, I think this was the best review i ever had in my 21 years in the jungel.Come on back. Best regards Jim
Reviewed: 15 October 2024 · Stayed in October 2024
Verified reviewIt's a great place to get unplugged.
Hi Edgar, Also good for pluging in,come on back,i liked your company. Best Regards Jim
Reviewed: 13 October 2024 · Stayed in October 2024
Verified reviewHi Clara, Wow short and sweet,thank you so much,come back again anytime,bring all your family. Best regards Jim
Reviewed: 1 October 2024 · Stayed in September 2024
Verified reviewWe stayed in a spacious cabin with stunning views of nature and the sea, for a great price. Very clean and large room with private bathroom and kitchen. The accommodation has a large and clean pool, it has a fantastic rest area on the beach with hammocks and chairs to relax. Jim and the staff who work there are really friendly and helped us with everything we needed. There are also 3 very cute and friendly dogs. I can't recommend this place more!!!!!
Nothing
Hi Laura, Tkank you for your kind review,come back again. Regards Jim
Reviewed: 30 September 2024 · Stayed in September 2024
Verified reviewHi Neesa, Thank you for your kind review Regards Jim
Reviewed: 28 August 2024 · Stayed in July 2024
Verified reviewHi Lrcas, Im glad you had such a good time and you caught so many fish,i was eating fish for a week,come on back any time Regards Jim
Reviewed: 28 August 2024 · Stayed in July 2024
Verified review