The hype
Travelers universally praise the stunning architecture and views, often calling it the highlight of their honeymoon.
Oxygen Jungle Villas
$300-500/ night
Book this if You want to feel like you're sleeping in a high-design terrarium suspended in the Costa Rican rainforest, with zero risk of hearing a child scream.
Why People Love It
- The all-glass villas that make you feel completely immersed in the jungle (while enjoying AC)
- The infinity pool that lines up perfectly with the 'Whale's Tail' sandbar in the distance
- The adults-only policy that guarantees dead silence except for the howler monkeys
Quick Take: A sexy, secluded glass-box hideaway that requires a 4x4 to reach and offers zero nightlife beyond the sounds of the jungle.
Reviewed by @thetraveldoc1: I couldn't believe this wasn't Bali. Staying in these glass villas in Costa Rica gave me all the exotic jungle vibes without the jet lag. The floating breakfast in my private pool was the romantic highlight of the trip.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The drive up the mountain is terrifying for some, and the isolation means you're likely eating dinner on-site most nights unless you're brave enough to drive the road in the dark.
- You are on a honeymoon or romantic escape
- You love modern architecture and floor-to-ceiling glass
- You want to disconnect from screens and listen to nature
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9.5
- Housekeeping: Impeccable. Reviews consistently mention 'spotless' rooms despite the jungle setting.
- Bathroom hygiene: Pristine. Rain showers are well-maintained with no signs of mold in the grout.
- Maintenance: Excellent. The glass is kept streak-free (a massive feat in this climate) and AC units are well-serviced.
- Linens & towels: High quality, fresh, and plentiful.
- Odors & scents: Fresh jungle air; no musty damp smells reported, which is rare for this region.
Sleepability™
9SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Howler monkeys (very loud at dawn)
- Rain on the roof (soothing for most)
- Cicadas and frogs at night
Before you book
Good to know
- The road is real off-roading; rent a 4x4 like a Suzuki Jimny or similar
- Breakfast is included and served a la carte
- Dinner service ends relatively early (around 9pm), so plan accordingly
What to pack
- Bug spray (DEET free if possible, but strong)
- Hiking sandals or water shoes for the waterfall trail
- Binoculars for spotting toucans and sloths from your bed
Room Genie
Best picks
- Villa 12 (Jungle View) for maximum privacy and proximity to the waterfall trail
- Ocean View Villas for the iconic sunset shots over the Whale's Tail
Rooms to avoid
- Villa 3 if you want total seclusion, as it is closer to the clubhouse and pool area
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am celebrating a special occasion and would love to request Villa 12 for its secluded location near the yoga pavilion, or a high-elevation Ocean View villa for the best sunset vantage point.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Do I really need a 4x4?
Yes. Do not attempt the drive in a sedan. The road is steep, gravel, and can be slick with mud.
Is there AC in the glass villas?
Yes, powerful air conditioning keeps the glass boxes cool despite the humidity.
Are there bugs in the room?
It's the jungle, so yes. While housekeeping is excellent, ants or a gecko might slip in. It's part of the experience.
Is the pool heated?
No, but it's an infinity pool in the tropics—the temperature is generally refreshing, not cold.
How far is the beach?
You are up in the mountains. The beach (Playa Uvita) is about a 15-20 minute drive down the steep hill.
Is there a spa?
Yes, the Diö Shum Spa offers treatments, often in an open-air setting near the river.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Walk the private trail to the hotel's own waterfall—it's often empty and very peaceful.
- ✨
Order the 'Hercules' smoothie at breakfast; it's a guest favorite.
- ✨
If you want to see whales, visit between July and October (the best season).
5 things to know before you go
💡The glass walls have curtains, but you might still feel 'exposed' to the monkeys watching you shower.
💡The drive down to town for dinner in the dark is stressful enough that you'll likely just eat at the hotel restaurant every night.
💡The wifi is surprisingly fast for the jungle, but there's no cell signal in some spots.
💡You can hear the ocean waves from the property even though it's kilometers away due to the acoustics of the valley.
💡The 'minibar' prices are high, so stock up on snacks at the BM supermarket in Uvita before you drive up.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Oxygen Jungle Villas is located and what's nearby.