A solar-powered 4BR luxury villa above San José sleeps 13 amid rainforest trails, wildlife, and views of Marino Ballena National Park. Enjoy a private pool, waterfall, palapa, and weekday breakfast and housekeeping.
Overview
Nestled in the mountains above Uvita, Costa Rica, "Refugio Madreselva" offers a serene retreat surrounded by abundant wildlife, pristine beaches, and welcoming locals. This spacious villa is perfect for nature enthusiasts and photographers seeking privacy amid rainforest settings with breathtaking views of Marino Ballena National Park and its iconic Whale’s Tail.
The Space
This four-bedroom, four-bathroom villa provides complete seclusion and stunning vistas that promise to captivate. The open floor plan is designed to embrace ocean breezes and showcase incredible mountain sunrises.
The gourmet kitchen features high-end appliances and granite countertops, ideal for preparing meals. A TV room with a large flat-screen television offers entertainment options.
Two master suites make the villa well-suited for two families sharing the home. All bedrooms include high-quality, comfortable mattresses to ensure restful nights. The year-round average daytime temperature ranges from 73°F to 85°F, with evenings cooling to a pleasant 69°F to 73°F, perfect for sleeping.
Wake up to the calls of howler monkeys and enjoy the natural surroundings. The thatch-roofed palapa (locally called a "rancho") overlooks the valley, providing seamless views and a great spot for morning coffee or a sunset barbecue. Outdoor areas include hammocks and cozy furniture, ideal for relaxing or reading.
In the evenings, the scent of Ylang-Ylang fills the air, and clear nights reveal stars unspoiled by city lights. The property also features trails for hiking, bird watching, and wildlife photography. A short walk leads to a small waterfall with a bench to enjoy the soothing sounds of running water and nature. Visitors often spot morpho butterflies, strawberry frogs, and occasionally howler monkeys.
Sustainability
Madreselva is an eco-friendly home powered by solar energy for electricity and hot water. Built following the highest ecological standards and tropical architectural best practices, the villa incorporates sustainable materials:
- Roof made from recycled plastic
- Pool tiles crafted from recycled glass
- Wood sourced locally from sustainably harvested trees
- Dining table made from a hardwood tree that fell on the property decades ago
Guest Access
Guests have exclusive access to the villa, its trails, and the surrounding 20 acres. The entire property offers total privacy.
The home is mobility-friendly, with all social areas, bedrooms, bathrooms, pool, and entrance located on a single level without stairs.
Location and Access
The villa sits approximately 1,700 feet above sea level, providing a pleasant climate and spectacular views. Access requires a four-wheel-drive vehicle due to a steep one-mile road from the entrance gate to the property. The road is well-maintained but demands use of low gear on a 4x4 transmission.
Additional Information
- The villa accommodates up to 13 guests with 8 beds.
- An extra charge of $10 per person per day applies for guests exceeding 8, covering weekday breakfast, housekeeping, laundry, and utilities.
- Breakfast and housekeeping services are included Monday through Friday.
- Local tax (13%) is already included in the rates.
Upon booking confirmation, a rental contract will be sent for review and signature, which must be returned at least one week before check-in.
Please verify current Costa Rican tourist entry requirements before traveling, as these may change. Compliance is the guest’s responsibility. Refunds cannot be issued if entry is denied due to non-compliance.
Guest reviews
5.0
· 29 reviews
5.0
Cleanliness
5.0
Accuracy
5.0
Communication
4.9
Location
5.0
Check-in
4.9
Value
What guests are saying
5
Sarah
3 months ago
This house was spectacular! The view is absolutely stunning! The pictures do not do it justice. Carolina is amazing, she’s a fabulous cook and has so many wonderful tips and recommendations. The house has bedrooms accessible through the outside so each area felt private (we traveled with two other families so this was nice). If you like to sleep in cool weather, keep in mind there is no AC in this house. Most of the group was fine but a few preferred sleeping in cooler conditions (usually a low of 76 in the rooms at night). We saw lots of frogs, toads, snakes and howler monkeys on the property. I would definitely recommend this property. The breakfasts were a huge perk!
5
Moneer
9 months ago
Here’s a polished, warm review you can copy-paste, with a natural, genuine tone: We can’t say enough great things about this place. The views were absolutely stunning, and the moment we arrived we noticed the fresh, beautiful fragrance of flowers throughout the property. It felt incredibly private and peaceful, yet had everything we needed. The full kitchen was well-equipped, the pool was perfect—huge, warm, and ideal for relaxing at any time of day—and the nearby hiking trail was an unexpected and beautiful bonus. A major plus was the backup generator that automatically kicks on if the power goes out, which gave us total peace of mind. Laundry service was also available and very convenient. Most of all, Carolina was amazing—responsive, kind, and made sure everything was seamless. This was a truly special stay and we would absolutely come back.
5
Keely
1 year ago
Absolutely stunning!
5
Larisa
1 year ago
we just got back from Madre Selva and I am not sure I can find the words. Unique, peaceful, private and the most beautiful location with unforgettable views of jungle, whale's tail beach, ocean and sunrises. The house has everything you need and more. Carolina and her husband are the nicest and the most welcoming people and their breakfasts and dinners were so delicious. They took a such good care of us, organizing everything and helping us with everything we needed. we felt right at home the moment we arrived. Amazing memories ❤️ thank you so much! Pura Vida 🌴
5
Anthony
1 year ago
Claudia's home is an absolute dream. The pictures in the listing really don't do justice to how spectacular it is. The property is on 20 acres up a private road. It doesn't get any more private and secluded than this. Their land is in a prime mountain location, offering the the best views we've ever seen from anywhere in Uvita (and we've stayed at many places).. Yes absolutely need a 4x4 to get up there, but you do for anywhere you'd want to go in this part of Costa Rica, and it's worth it. The home is absolutely stunning, with the infinity pool as the focal point. What's especially great is how the rooms are situated separate from the living space. So each person can go back to their respective bedrooms and have peace and quiet, and sleep in if they want, but then join up in the common area Claudia was exceedingly friendly and helpful, and Carolina's breakfast was such a treat. My family and I can't wait to stay here again. Don't hesitate. Book this one!
5
Michele
1 year ago
Carolina was wonderful!
5
Dj
2 years ago
Madre Selva is in the most beautiful location. It has a stunning view over Uvita and the Whale's tale. It takes a 4wd vehicle to get up there - but the view is worth it. We were welcomed by Caroline - who maintained contact with us throughout our stay. She also cooked for us on a couple of occasions. The wildlife is, as you might expect, spectacular around the place. Highly recommended.
4
John
2 years ago
I wish there was an option for 4.5 stars. The house and the views are absolutely stunning. The housekeeper, Carolina, is amazing. The only reason that I'm selecting 4 stars instead of 5 is the lack of AC. The master bedrooms have powerful fans and normally get evening breezes, but some members of our group were constantly complaining about how hot the house was. This was particularly true for the interior bedrooms, and the house during the day. If you struggle with heat, then the lack of AC is something worth considering. If not, the house was absolutely amazing and I highly recommend it.
5
Tashia
2 years ago
Words cannot provide enough to capture the beauty, tranquility, and hospitality of Madreselva. You must go visit yourself—if you’re considering whether or not to book, this is your sign to go enjoy the wild, scenic, brilliant beauty and serenity this Airbnb has to offer. Everything from the views (epic) to the local recommendations and outdoor space/pool/patio were stunning. The hospitality of Carolina —her breakfasts, thoughtful housekeeping daily, and joy/conversation made our trip truly remarkable. If we ever come back to Uvita, we’ll stay here again and again.
5
Chloe
2 years ago
The house was incredible - the views, pool, and hospitality of Carolina’s family made our stay lovely. We took the option of having Carolina and her husband cook dinner for us a few times - highly recommend this on the days you do excursions. The area has lots to do, and there’s a short hiking trail on the property to a waterfall. The listing mentions you need a 4x4- this is a must! The hill to the house is a beast.
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