Pachamama: so cool and shady is this place set within the confines of the Gandoca-Manznillo Wildlife Refuge that the owners took down the ceiling fans. No one ever needed them. Though still within sight of the Puerto Viejo-Manzanillo road, Pachamama delivers a get-away-from-it-all nature experience at a fraction of the cost of other Costa Rican eco-lodges. Cozy wood cabins are simply furnished with two beds and mosquito nets and colorful spreads and drapes. A house can be rented by the week or the month. Personal touches such as breakfast brought to the porch of your cabin are standard. 2 bungalows, 1 house, kayaking, bicycles, laundry service.

- Fodors Costa Rica 2006.

Punta Uva is one of the Top Ten Beaches of the World.  On the extreme southern Caribbean coast, in the depths of a wildlife refuge, a five-mile-long horseshoe-shaped white-sand beach surrounds aquamarine waters. Waves break on colorful coral that extends nearly two miles offshore. Coconut palms line the beach, which is backed by tropical mountains. In one of the most biodiverse places on earth you're likely to see howler monkeys, sloths, green parrots, colorful butterflies, lizards, and birds in addition to the marine life. Dive and snorkel in Technicolor coral gardens, then kayak with the dolphins.

- Outside Magazine Online : Top Ten Beaches of the World 

Pachamama is in Punta Uva. Two delightful two-room wooden bungalows w/ breakfast on the terrace. Nets, balconies, gardens, hammocks, two-bedroom house, week/month rates, friendly owner.

- Exploring Costa Rica 2006, Tico Times

Pachamama offers attractive cabins and a house in a lovely setting; long-term rates are offered. The cabins have two beds and mosquito nets.

- Explore Costa Rica 2007, Harry Pariser

Florine from New York, USA     July 03, 2008

Don't buy the hype..Costa Rica is great in June! It's hot and humid, but there are less tourists during this time.

Billy & Cathy at Pachamama were very nice and accommodating. The B&B is very close to the beach (Punta Uva) and it's quiet. Punta Uva beach is the BEST beach in the area and if you are a beach lover, I would suggest that you stay in Punta Uva.

The only negative is that there were not a lot of cafes to choose from in the area ( you gotta go to Puerto Viejo). Mate Latte is probably the best place to catch breakfast/lunch and the staff is very nice there (Thanks Heather for the good conversation). I didn't try Jungle Love cafe... but all the locals said it was good.

Overall my stay was very positive and I enjoyed myself as a solo traveler. I felt safe and relaxed during the entire time.

JUDY from MESA, AZ     June 09, 2008

THANK YOU, CATHY AND BILL, FOR THE MOST WONDERFUL VACATION I HAVE EVER EXPERIENCED. PACHAMAMA ACCOMMODATIONS WERE JUST WHAT I WAS EXPECTING; RUSTIC AND RELAXING. SITTING OUT ON THE DECK AMONGST THE WILD LIFE AND RAIN FOREST WAS LIKE NO OTHER. WE LOVED OUR DAILY WALKS BUT IT SURE WASN'T NECESSARY TO SEE ALL THE WILDLIFE WE WERE HOPING TO SEE. THE MONKEYS, TOUCANS, BUTTERFLIES, AND BIRDS WERE PREVALENT RIGHT OFF OUR PORCH. ALSO, SHOULD YOU JUST MENTION A POSSIBLE NEED IN CONVERSATION, CATHY AND BILL MADE IT HAPPEN WITHIN MINUTES. EVEN RECEIVED THE FIRST OFFICIAL FACIAL AND REFLEXOLOGY TREATMENT FROM CATHY WHILE SITTING IN THE PEACEFUL AND TRANQUIL SURROUNDINGS. THE DAILY BREAKFAST PROVIDED HAS MADE ME HIT THE GROCERY IMMEDIATELY UPON RETURNING HOME IN HOPES OF RELIVING THE EXPERIENCE EVERY MORNING!! :) A RETURN VISIT WILL BE IN MY FUTURE. CATHY AND BILL, YOU ARE THE BEST!

John & Kate from Denver, CO, USA     June 02, 2008

Rare is the vacation spot so great that a revisit gets planned immediately upon returning home. Such is the allure of Punta Uva, the finest beach we've ever set eyes on, and home of Pachamama.

It seems that every travel book uses the same gorgeous photo of Punta Uva Beach, so we were curious as to where exactly it was and how far we would have to travel to get there. Let's just say it takes longer to grab one of the free bikes Pachamama offers than it is to walk across the street. It is THE place to stay for those who rue the "travel" to the beach.

Pachamama's appeal is difficult to nail down to a single aspect, but Bill's breakfast is missed even more than the gorgeous sunsets. In addition to the quality restaurants a short walk from home, Bill & Cathy's dinners are better than all of them. It was fun checking out the local fare, but the real flare is on site. To completely blow us away, they helped us celebrate (completely to our surprise) with the finest pineapple upside-down cake I've ever tasted courtesy of, (get this...) their 10 and 13 year-old son and daughter. Seriously, the Ritz should do so well.

Accomodations were divine. Beds, pillows and sheets straight out of the good ol' US of A and decks on each and every property right in the middle of the jungle. Thank God there was no cable television!!!! The only interruptions are the howler monkeys and the fresh fruit truck (my heaven's.... the fruit).

Location, location, location. Paramount to real estate, it is what works for staying at Pachamama. We did not want to travel the entire country on hot buses staying in different places every night, but did want to see the many sights (and sounds) of Costa Rica. For our one week stay we surfed (well, tried) at Playa Cocles, snorkeled the coral inlets and visited the rain forest in Manzanillo, went caving on the back side of Punta Uva's point, and kayaked up the river to see the monkeys -- all within 3 miles of Pachamama!! There is no gear to rent as it is all on site, free of charge (that's masks & snorkels, bicycles, kayaks, etc).

Thankfully the medical supply cabinet @ Bill & Cathy's is not third world (they had all the supplies necessary for minor surgery to remove our coral reef splinters acquired in Manzanillo).

In closing I wish to address our friends here at home who, being the worldly travelers that they are, informed us that we were going to Costa Rica, "For the rainy season." Yes, it rained. Beautiful, beautiful rain. It smelled as good as it tasted, and was even better to sleep to. We were only awarded between 7 and 12 hours of absolutely gorgeous sun EVERY day during this "rainy season", causing me to wonder when, then, is prime time? I imagine as soon as you arrive, whatever time of year that happens to be.

P.S. As cool as the rafting and canopy zip-line tours are (also easy day trips from Pachamama) visitors would be remiss to skip the Sunset Cafe @ Punta Uva Beach -- a two-minute walk from Pachamama -- home of the greatest cocktails we've ever had. Twenty minutes may seem a long wait for a daiquiri, but just trust us on this one.

Anita Cairns from Canada     May 22, 2008

Ahhhh Pachamama..a month since our return to Canada and I think we still talk about coming back, wishing we were back, how quick our stay was, and what can we do to get back faster. Bill and Cathy, our second stay was just as great as the first!! Thank you for your hospitality, the great spot you shared with us and especially for "disturbing" us whenever there were any cool bugs or animals to see around the property. We're having a hard time being back to reality as it really got under our skin the last time and hope to see you again some time soon!!

Ruchi and Tonylee from Brooklyn, NY, USA     April 11, 2008

What can we say? It’s been 2 months since we left the loving arms, pure bliss, fantastic hospitality, and the new family that we found at
Pachamama, the luscious beach-jungle palace in thee indescribable paradise that is Punta Uva. And we are still high, reeling, and plotting our imminent return.

Our first time in Costa Rica we absolutely found our second home at Pachamama, aka Bill & Cathy Land, thanks to the kind generosity, 5-star meals, and impeccable attention to detail that these fabulous hosts bestowed upon us happily, graciously, and seemingly without effort.

On our first night, Bill greeted us with frozen umbrella drinkys, gave us the grand tour, put us on their/ our bikes (for the week), told us to take our flashlights and sent us off into the night to a great restaurant with live jazz. Riding our bikes over the fantastically bumpy road in the pitch black with a ceiling of stars that outnumbered the black space in the sky, we realized we were somewhere special. That was just the first 10 minutes of our nine-day stay and it only got better.

Wowzerz!!!

What just hit us? Sensory overload, as we swing in our hammock, drinking from the nectars of the jungle while the rainforest sings right off our back porch. Coming from NYC we had no clue what to expect and our expectations were completely blown away with the subtle and delicious intensities that unfolded right before our smiling, blissed out eyes. Did we say bliss? BLISS BLISS BLISS!!!

Yes, you can have so many different adventures as described on the website ( http://www.pachamamacaribe.com ) which these guys will easily set up for you. We did a few things for sure. But mostly we just chilled the whole time either in our bungalow or at OUR beach, Punta Uva—means Grape Point—5 mins walk from Pmama by the way (or was it 3?) or at OUR beach restaurant/ bar Ranchito (strawberry daiquiris anyone? I had 50). We sun basked, body surfed, and giggled incessantly as any stress in us vanished
in the gorgeous, warm and gentle surf of the Caribbean Sea.

Your search is over!!! Pachamama is perfect and Bill, Cathy, Cassidy, Liam, Lucy, and Linda are the reason. Thank you guys so much for a superfantastic and memorable homecoming! Pura Vida fo sho!!! Did we mention bliss? See you soon.

Lovelovelove, Ruchi and Tony.

P.S. The sound of laughing you might hear in the middle of the night is not directed at you, its just the horny lizards looking for love…
After all Pachamama is for lovers!!!
Enjoy the best, most satiating, relaxing, exciting, life affirming
Time EVAH!!!

Lance and Adrienne from Petersburg, Alaska     February 24, 2008

So as you are reading the reviews on this one of many available bungalows in the Punta Uva area, I would like to say.....Stop reading any more reviews!.......... because you have found the best place to stay in all of the Puerto Veijo-Manzanilliio area. My wife and I visisted the PV area after we were married on our honeymoon. We stayed at many different bungalow type accomidations, and found, by far, Pachamama exceeded all the others by far. Yes its not right on the ocean, but one of the best beaches in PV is a 5 minute walk from the bungalows. These bungalows are nestled in a non manicured jungle right on a little river which you can kayak from your front door to the beach or up into the jungle to see howler monkeys and sloths. Bill and Kathy are the owners, and they are super accomidating without seeming like they are trying to sellyou every canopy tour in the book. They will give you snorkels, bikes, boogie boards for the duration of your stay for one price, and not charge you per use rentals. Breakfast every morning to your porch, tasty and great coffee, make sure you request the Salsa Lizano with your eggs. Punta Uva is a beautiful beach, secluded and not many folks around, pretty good snorkeling too!!. You can ride your bike to Manzanillio, or PV, and Bill will fix your flat tires every time with a smile. I guess we really liked the privacy and "do your own thing" feel. Definately spring the extra dough for the big house bungalow, great fully stocked kitchen, nice bedroom (most comfy bed we found in all of coasta rica), and bathroom. Suprisingly, we had no bug problem while staying there (the other places we would wake up and be covered in ant bites).
OK Basically this is the most tranquil place we ran into in all of the PV area. Hope you like it!!!!

Fran Keally from Madison, USA     January 20, 2008

My husband, two teenaged daughters and I spent a tranquil week in the house at Pachamama between Christmas and New Years Day, hanging out in the hammock, listening to the birds and monkeys and seeing a blue Morphos float by every now and then. Everyday we rode the bikes into Puerto Viejo or Manzanillo and Bill was there every morning to make sure we had what we needed on our way out and to greet us on our return with some ripe bananas or a homemade bakery item. It was easy to catch the bus every evening into town for a fabulous dinner at one of the restaurants. I highly recommend Pachamama. Bill and Cathy know the area well and can help you with all your coastal plans.

Jill & Jacob from Hermosa Beach, CA     January 16, 2008

If you’ve never been to Costa Rica, than look no further. Pachamama is like a home away from home, that is, if you live in a jungle. As soon as we arrived in Punta Uva, I knew we were in for a treat. Surrounded by a thick canopy of trees and nestled on the coastal beaches, Pachamama offers everything a traveler needs. There’s a river to the right, activity in the trees above and “Pura Vida” everywhere. The House and Bungalows blend into the flora and fauna, giving you the true sense of being “Away” from it all. Our stay in the Bungalow was spacious and accommodating, with views overlooking the breathtaking rainforest. Add hot water, fresh linens and a hammock for those daily siestas, you’ll never leave your room and with Bill & Cathy’s excellent homemade cuisine, your pallet will never want to leave either. A Pachamama breakfast is complimented with the sounds of Howling Monkeys, colorful Toucans who come down and visit, beautiful Butterflies float by in the air and with any luck, a sloth might cross your path. With plenty of areas to explore, the towns of Manzanillo and Puerto Viejo are a scooter or bike ride away. A local bar and restaurant sits right on the surf and is a lazy walk back to your room. And with all of the zest and fanfare of the locals, you'll be sure to find your own adventure and Pachamama is a great way to start one.

Pachamama truly offered an amazing experience and comes with the highest of recommendations.

Kevin Hogan from Chicago     January 10, 2008

I was extremely impressed with the tranquility and serene nature of Pachamama. Bill and Cathy went above and beyond the call of duty to ensure that my stay was a complete success. Listening to Howler Monkeys, and sleeping in such a natural setting made me completely awestruck. I would recommned Pachmama to any of my friends or peers, and truly look forward to my next stay. Not to mention the unparalleled breakfast as well. Truly Incredible.

Patsy from MA, USA     January 08, 2008

My husband and I stayed at Pachamama for 10 of the most memorable days and nights we've shared throughout the Caribbean. Punta Uva beach is spectacular and and meeting Ron Durham aka the beach caretaker and improv Imperial beer stand was a hoot. Pachamama is a haven after coming off the hot sunny beach as the grounds are natural and provide cool shade with the most shades of green we've set our eyes on. The blue morphos, tucans, howler and white faced monkey's were such a treat and even a sloth! The kayaks on site were great to rent and explore the jungle river then turn around and paddle to the beach and enjoy the ocean ride. We plan on making Pachamama an annual vacation! The food is excellent and Bill and Cathy took care of all of our needs.

Tami and Ray from Missouri     December 21, 2007

Bill and Cathy thanks so much for the wonderful hospitality during our stay. Pachamama is a beautiful place to relax and forget your troubles. Hopefully we'll be back soon so Ray can catch that tarpon!

Luanne from Parker, Colorado, USA     October 24, 2007

I you are looking for a real taste of what it might be like living near the ocean or in the jungle, wake up in a Pachamama cabin for your answer. We found the place to be cozy and welcoming, surrounded by jungle sounds and beauty. Yummy food too!

jonathan     July 16, 2007

Excelente atencion, preciosas cabañas en medio de la naturaleza a unos cuantos pasos del mar de punta uva, la mejor opcion si anda en busca de un lugar para relajarse en contacto con la naturaleza.

Jeff and Amber from Virginia     June 29, 2007

Thank you Bill and Cathy for making our honeymoon stay at Pachamama unforgettable. We stayed in the house for six wonderful nights. We've seen our fair share of exotic beaches and can honestly say that Punta Uva is one of the most stunningly gorgeous beaches we have been to, and it was only a three minute walk away. You guys have something special there that everyone should see. The best part of it all probably was the candlelight dinners served on our front porch, we regret not eating at the Pachamama restaurant every night. Thank you again and we will hopefully be back soon.

Kimberly and Mark     June 15, 2007

We stayed at Pachamama for 9 days just a couple weeks back. Absolutely fabulous! We are already planning another trip back next year. It's located an easy walk from a great beach and a car/scooter/bike ride from Pto Viejo and Manzanillo. Great location, great owners, and beautiful property. We were able to see a great deal of wildlife right from our patio. Pachamama comes highly recommended from this traveler!

Mike     June 13, 2007

Bill and Cathy, We really appreciated the fine care you took of us at your wonderful place in Punta Uva.

Tom     December 01, 2006

We referred two women to Pachamama. They said they liked it and the breakfast was wonderful and you were very nice. I still remember your breakfast, and also how good the coffee was and how much of it you brought me!!

Duffy     November 01, 2006

My husband and I stayed in one of your bungalows last August while visiting Costa Rica and we had such a wonderful time. We are thinking about returning again this summer. Punta Uva and staying at Pachamama was one of our favorite experiences in Costa Rica, we hope to be able to return this summer and experience it all again!

Kristy     August 01, 2005

Hello Pachamama! We so enjoyed our stay there back in late April and will surely send some folks your way in the future! Our trip to Costa Rica was just wonderful and made more special by people like you and your wonderful hospitality…our photo of the fabulous breakfast on the bungalow porch with all the foliage in the background hangs on our bulletin board--must say that it is difficult to look at when I’m eating my dry cereal on a dark morning.

Shauna     April 15, 2005

I just wanted to drop you a quick note to tell you how pleased we were with the Pachamama,.. We truly enjoyed ourselves, and will definitely recommend it to our friends..The breakfasts each morning were fit for royalty ... and we've been eating yogurt a la Pachamama since returning home. e will have fond memories of our trip to Punta Uva. You're better than a five-star resort in our opinion!