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Rancho Armadillo Estate: Traveler Reviews

Playas del Coco, Playas del Coco 5019, Costa Rica
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Rancho Armadillo Estate
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122 reviews from our community

    Trip type
Traveler rating
    110
    9
    3
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Date Rating
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
1 review
1 helpful vote 1 helpful vote
“Personal Concierge & Awesome Place to Stay”
5 of 5 stars Reviewed February 5, 2013

This was our first trip to Costa Rica and we pretty much planned it on our own. Glad we listened to the reviews on Trip Advisor and went with Rancho Armadillo because our trip was perfect! No, Rancho Armadillo isn't a luxury resort but if you want to experience Costa Rica in its "Pura Vida" form, this spot is the way to do it. Rick is AWESOME! On the first day he sat with us to chat about what we wanted to get out of our trip. He gave us some great suggestions and every morning greeted us with an itinerary and directions ( not to mention a smorgasbord of fresh fruit, smoothies and coffee) to help make our adventures a little bit easier to conquer and enjoy:) It was such a great way to experience our first vacation here. The grounds are quiet and peaceful - there are other guests of course, but everyone pretty much does their own thing. The hammocks are great for relaxing and to enjoy the sunsets and sounds of the monkeys and birds that surround you:) We also had in-room massages that were amazing and super REASONABLE! Overall, this trip was great and we were so bummed to leave! Hopefully we get back to Costa Rica and Rancho Armadillo soon!

  • Stayed January 2013, traveled as a couple
    • 4 of 5 stars Value
    • 4 of 5 stars Location
    • 3 of 5 stars Sleep Quality
    • 4 of 5 stars Rooms
    • 4 of 5 stars Cleanliness
    • 5 of 5 stars Service
Was this review helpful? Yes 1
Ask katers58 about Rancho Armadillo Estate
This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Columbia, PA
Senior Reviewer
9 reviews 9 reviews
6 hotel reviews
Reviews in 7 cities Reviews in 7 cities
4 helpful votes 4 helpful votes
“Incredibly Friendly”
5 of 5 stars Reviewed January 19, 2013

Rancho Armadillo is a "Low key" friendly spot where the owner truly looks after you. He is a professional chef and knows food. He also understands people so he makes good recommendations. It is not a deluxe property, but the view and friendliness make up for it. We stayed for 3 nights and had a very nice time of it. Rick not only recommended where to go, but kindly drove us to the destinations. He also recommended a masseuse who gave us each a wonderful massage on the terrace as the birds sang. The property is clean and well cared for. The staff seems to be happy to be employed there. All in all, it was a "Feel Good" experience.

  • Stayed January 2013, traveled as a couple
    • 5 of 5 stars Value
    • 5 of 5 stars Location
    • 5 of 5 stars Sleep Quality
    • 4 of 5 stars Rooms
    • 5 of 5 stars Cleanliness
    • 5 of 5 stars Service
Was this review helpful? Yes 2
Ask IrisColumbia_PA about Rancho Armadillo Estate
This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Carlsbad, California
Senior Contributor
35 reviews 35 reviews
23 hotel reviews
Reviews in 25 cities Reviews in 25 cities
101 helpful votes 101 helpful votes
“Extremely helpful and a home away from home”
5 of 5 stars Reviewed January 14, 2013

We stayed at Rancho Armadillo for a total of six nights. From the very beginning, Rick the owner was very helpful with trip planning and recommendations. This was our first trip to Costa Rica so the help in figuring out where to go and recommendations for tours, rental cars and restaurants were extremely helpful. Rick also does not take commissions from the places he recommends so there is quite a bit to be saved. The property has a lot of charm and personality. Rick obviously has a love for the country and animals and the place has a lot of animal residents and visitors.
The breakfast spread is one of the best you will encounter in Costa Rica. The layout of the common areas is also very condusive to meeting and comparing travel notes with your fellow travelers. Overall a very enjoyable property and highly recommended for all.

  • Stayed January 2013, traveled as a couple
    • 5 of 5 stars Value
    • 5 of 5 stars Location
    • 5 of 5 stars Sleep Quality
    • 5 of 5 stars Rooms
    • 5 of 5 stars Cleanliness
    • 5 of 5 stars Service
Was this review helpful? Yes 2
Ask utsixpack about Rancho Armadillo Estate
This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Portland, Oregon, United States
Reviewer
4 reviews 4 reviews
Reviews in 2 cities Reviews in 2 cities
3 helpful votes 3 helpful votes
“The Real Deal”
4 of 5 stars Reviewed January 3, 2013

From the very first communication with Rick the owner, our experience at Rancho Amadillo was handled professionally and with aplomb. We received terrific discounts on car rental, cell phone, restaurants, canopy tour and more from Rick, he did not steer us wrong once. I will say it was a highlight of a great experience, if you want the old school Costa Rica experience look no further. Highly recommended!

Room Tip: All rooms are suites!
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  • Stayed December 2012, traveled with family
    • 4 of 5 stars Value
    • 4 of 5 stars Location
    • 4 of 5 stars Sleep Quality
    • 4 of 5 stars Rooms
    • 4 of 5 stars Cleanliness
    • 4 of 5 stars Service
Was this review helpful? Yes 2
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Ask Michael C about Rancho Armadillo Estate
This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Ottawa, Canada
Senior Reviewer
8 reviews 8 reviews
6 hotel reviews
Reviews in 7 cities Reviews in 7 cities
7 helpful votes 7 helpful votes
“True hospitality at Rancho Armadillo”
5 of 5 stars Reviewed December 25, 2012

If you're looking for relaxation and tranquility within a short driving distance from the restaurants of Playas del Coco (5 minutes) and nearby beaches, Rancho Armadillo is the place!

Upon arrival, I was immediately welcomed by Rick and given a quick tour of the property and amenities. As it was already dark when I arrived, I was unaware of the surroundings. When I came out of my room (incidentally, the Buena Vista) in the morning, I was immediately struck by the fabulous view overlooking the dry forest out to the ocean. The property is located on a hill with an amazing view!

The room was clean and comfortable with a small fridge and coffee maker. Breakfast (included) consisted of fresh fruit, breads, waffles, juice and coffee. The pool was very inviting. Rick has also thoughtfully included a number of extras: suntan lotions and bug repellents, a fully loaded iPod for music by the pool and a filtered water cooler. Beer and non-alcoholic drinks (for a small fee) are provided. Kitchen facilities are available should you wish to prepare your own meals (I didn't).

Rick takes his role as host and owner very seriously and truly makes you feel like a guest. He can provide detailed information on day trips and activities in the area. If you're looking for true hospitality, skip the impersonal resort stay and enjoy some pura vida at Rancho Armadillo.

  • Stayed December 2012, traveled as a couple
    • 4 of 5 stars Value
    • 5 of 5 stars Location
    • 5 of 5 stars Sleep Quality
    • 5 of 5 stars Rooms
    • 5 of 5 stars Cleanliness
    • 5 of 5 stars Service
Was this review helpful? Yes 1
Ask newf_gurl about Rancho Armadillo Estate
This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
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Additional Information about Rancho Armadillo Estate

Also Known As:
Rancho Armadillo Estate Hotel Playas Del Coco
Rancho Armadillo Estate Hotel
Rancho Armadillo Estate Costa Rica/Playas Del Coco
Address: Playas del Coco, Playas del Coco 5019, Costa Rica
Phone Number:
Region: Costa Rica > Province of Guanacaste > Playas del Coco
Amenities:
Bar/Lounge Business Center Free Breakfast Free High-Speed Internet Free Parking Kids Activities Kitchenette Suites Swimming Pool Wheelchair access
Hotel Style:
#1 Romantic Hotels in Playas del Coco
#2 Family Hotels in Playas del Coco
Price Range: $$
Official Description (provided by the hotel):
Rancho Armadillo Estate, a small private mountainside estate overlooking the Gulf of Papagayo. The estate is perfect for couples, families or groups. Our guests feel like they're coming to visit friends who have a really nice place to stay. Our knowledge of Costa Rica ensures our guests experience the best Costa Rica has to offer. ... more   less 

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