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El Congo: Fantastic Ocean Views, a Huge Pool, and Central Location!

Photo gallery for El Congo: Fantastic Ocean Views, a Huge Pool, and Central Location!

Amber Chambers (upper floor of Castillo de Amber)
Pool at Night
Amber Chambers - upper floor & loft
Castillo de Amber - front
Balcony & view

Reviews

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 6185.8 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Pool
  • Barbecue grill
  • Kitchen

Explore the area

Map
Manuel Antonio, Puntarenas
  • Manuel Antonio Beach
  • Biesanz Beach
    ‪7 min drive‬
  • Playa La Macha
    ‪10 min drive‬
  • Quepos (XQP)
    ‪14 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Guest bedroom

+8
11 Single Beds and 1 Double Bed

Master bedroom

1 King Bed

3 bathrooms

Bathroom 2

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 3

Toilet · Shower only

Master

Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Dining area

About this property

El Congo: Fantastic Ocean Views, a Huge Pool, and Central Location!

El Congo is the top floor apartment, of a 4 story rental villa called 'Castillo de Amber'. The Castillo consists of 2 x 2-bedroom apartments and 2 x 1-bedroom studios, with a shared pool, pool kitchen and pool bathroom. This 2-bedroom apartment is the nicest in the building, with the best views and parking-level entry.

The apartment consists of 2 bedrooms: The master is large, has a queen bed, private bath, and private balcony. The guest room consists of 2 single beds, and a shared bath. There is also a cozy loft-lounge, where there is also a queen sleeper sofa.

The pool is huge, with a decorative fountain, ocean views, and pool kitchen. The kitchen has a fridge, sink, BBQ grill and bar area--the perfect place to sit back, have a drink and watch the ocean!

The Castillo de Amber is centrally located, steps away from several restaurants, spas, casinos and stores. Buses run up and down the mountain every 30 minutes, and taxis are readily available, with an average 1-way fare being $6.00. Nearby restaurants include: El Avion, Agua Azul, Cafe Milagro, Barba Roja, Emilios and more. Nearby bars include the Jolly Roger, Barba Roja and Cuba Libre.

El Congo is ideal for couples, small families, and groups of friends who enjoy a B&B-type setting. The shared pool is huge, with ocean views, and is frequented by monkeys, iguanas and other animals. The rental includes daily housekeeping, AC, wifi, cable and concierge service.

Please contact us about last-minute deals!

Property manager

Kent Thompson - Manuel Antonio Rental Properties

Languages

English, Spanish

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Pool
Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Air conditioning
Outdoor space

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Smoking allowed outdoors only.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock

We should mention

A car is not required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Manuel Antonio

Located in Quepos, this apartment is near the beach. Zip Coaster and Brisas Wellness Center are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Manuel Antonio Beach and Manuel Antonio Nature Park & Wildlife Refuge. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Manuel Antonio, Puntarenas

What's nearby

  • Playa Espadilla - 19 min walk - 1.6 km
  • Manuel Antonio Nature Park & Wildlife Refuge - 4 min drive - 2.1 km
  • Playitas Beach - 6 min drive - 1.1 km
  • Biesanz Beach - 7 min drive - 1.5 km
  • Playa La Macha - 10 min drive - 1.8 km

Getting around

  • Quepos (XQP) - 16 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪El Avión Restaurant - ‬9 min walk
  • ‪Emilio's Cafe - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪Burû - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Magic Bus - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪El Patio de Café Milagro - ‬5 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Does El Congo: Fantastic Ocean Views, a Huge Pool, and Central Location! have a pool?

Yes, this property has an outdoor pool.

Is El Congo: Fantastic Ocean Views, a Huge Pool, and Central Location! pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at El Congo: Fantastic Ocean Views, a Huge Pool, and Central Location!?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at El Congo: Fantastic Ocean Views, a Huge Pool, and Central Location!?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is El Congo: Fantastic Ocean Views, a Huge Pool, and Central Location! located?

Situated by the sea, this apartment building is 0.6 mi (1 km) from Zip Coaster and 2.8 mi (4.5 km) from Manuel Antonio Beach. Pará Beach and Playitas Beach are also within 1 mile (2 km).

Reviews

9.4

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 18 out of 24 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 4 out of 24 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 24 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 24 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 24 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

8/10 Good

Albert F.

Great Location

If you are looking for a great location at a reasonable price, this property deserves a try. Centrally located in the hub of Manuel Antonio, this property is a 10 minute walk to everything you need. Restuarant, grocery, shops, and the bus line. The view was amazing. My only surprise was the absence of climate control in the main living area. But, the ample sea breeze makes up for that deficiency. The bedrooms were air conditioned however. Vanessa, the property concierge, was amazing. She was professional, avalable, friendly, and more than willing to do whatever is needed to make your stay relaxing. All in all, a good property and an unbeatable location.
Stayed 6 nights in May 2019

10/10 Excellent

Connie T., Gilbert, Arizona, USA

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Best View in Manuel Antonio

Castillo Amber is the place to stay in Manuel Antonio. We stayed in El Congo for 8 days, the top floor of Amber. The pictures are very accurate but nothing like actually being there. The kitchen is fully stocked and we cooked breakfast every morning, enjoying fresh brewed coffee in the percolator. The best parts of this place are the patios and the view. I cannot describe the beauty we saw. The pictures don’t do justice. And the wildlife we enjoyed each day was amazing - toucans, monkeys, iguanas and much more. The pool was so refreshing after coming home from our excursions. The water was crystal Clear and cool. The steps down to it from El Congo are steep and windy so be aware of this. But very doable and worth it for a cool dip each day. The bedrooms are spacious and have plenty of closet space. The beds are a bit hard but comfortable enough to sleep. Plenty of pillows. Jazmine brought all The towels and linens we needed each day. The unit is air conditioned throughout, which is very nice when sleeping or on especially humid days. Since the windows of the large patio do not open for a breeze this made it comfortable in the main area. However, we only used it twice because it was such nice weather. Kent recommended the driver, Eliud and we highly recommend using him. He did the round trip from San Jose for us and we used his service as a taxi throughout the week when he was available. He knows the area and pointed out so much wildlife snd cultural details. He also has a great souvenir shop. Thank you Jazmine for taking care of us and the unit all week. She’s a gem! I highly recommend staying here.
Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2021

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Two Adults, two kids

This property is in the heart of a neighborhood and street to the property was a bit exciting- down a steep hill with lots of uneven payment. Needless to say we loved this property! It was close to everything. We also felt safe location. We enjoyed the space and view of the jungle and ocean. A few notes that have been mentioned before- only the bedrooms have AC. Thus we didn't use the upstairs (where the couch is) at all here. It was simply to hot and humid. The pool is wonderful. We have stayed at other properties and this by far had the best kitchen supplies. Knives, pots and pans. We were able to cook. Enjoy the monkey and beautiful jungle near by!
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2020

10/10 Excellent

Cristin M., Myrtle Beach, SC

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

That View Tho!!

We had a fabulous time at Amber. From checking in with amazing concierge, Vanessa, to hanging in the pool with our great neighbors, we had a blast. The view was incredible, the rental was so well kept and clean. Jasmin, the daily housekeeper, was unbelievably sweet and very helpful. The pool area with the grill and refrigerator made for fun days at the pool and the location, a short walk, to the best restaurants and bars, was perfect. There is nightly security for the road which made us feel very safe. Overall, an amazing experience and we look forward to visiting Amber again!
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2020

10/10 Excellent

Jean D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location. Beautiful views

We had a wonderful time Castillo de Amber. The top unit had a beautiful ocean view and we could see monkeys in the trees from the room and the pool. The location was close to several restaurants, groceries and shops. Vanessa was extremely helpful before and during our stay reserving transportation and activities. Would definitely stay here again
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2019

4/10 Poor

Franklin G.

Appliances not functioning...otherwise would be 5 stars

The oven has clearly not worked for a good while. The ice maker also does not work (which would not be so bad except that the freezer takes 7 hours to freeze trays of ice cubes). The staff has been aware of these issues, so apparently the owner has no interest in making the necessary repairs or replacements. Too bad because otherwise could be great. But we rent places with kitchens because we cook in a lot. So we will not be back.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2019

10/10 Excellent

Kathy K.

Castillo de Amber

Wonderful place...... fabulous views....... extraordinary people!!!! Vanessa was amazing and made all arrangements so easy. Already planning another trip!!!😊
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2019

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth S.

Great Stay in Castillo de Amber

This is a beautiful place. We were on the top floor, though we saw the other floors and they are all nice. The view is amazing. Not everything was perfect. There is a large construction project close by up the street which is noisy but its not too bad and we were out most days anyway. A couple of minor things were not working, and we had a mystery smell one day, but the maintenance team was very responsive. Vanessa was great for orienting us upon arrival and she had many hotel and excursion recommendations. On our first excursions, we forgot to bring payment and the outfitter told us not to worry we trust Vanessa and just pay us later! The restaurants at the top of the hill are walking distance and very good. We did not use the outdoor grill area but would have if we were staying longer. In the top floor place, the beds are big and comfortable. There is AC in the bedrooms but not the great room. This was just fine for us. The upstairs loft area with TV is nice but got stuffy and warm. The stairs up to the loft are very steep. Vanessa recommended for us a beach hotel that rents chairs and we went there and head the best day of our trip with an amazing sunset.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2019

10/10 Excellent

Rachel K.

Lovely

Pool is great! We had monkey visitors which was awesome. Great location, clean, nice space. Only downside is common areas are not air conditioned, but the bedrooms were.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2019

10/10 Excellent

Mike C.

2/2019

Great Property ! Close to great restaurants, beaches, the view is awesome ! Daily housekeeping was a plus.
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2019

10/10 Excellent

arlene r.

Such a great Stay Could not have asked for more

The place was so beautiful and the view so beautiful. We heard the howlers at night so cool and the white faced monkeys and squirrel monkeys visited. The day we left the monkeys came right up on to the roof above us and then one jumped down to the rail right in front of me. Vanessa was wonderful and so helpful. It was very hard to leave this place.
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2019

10/10 Excellent

PENNY Z.

Perfect place to stay.

We had the top floor apartment which has one of the best views I have ever seen. Accommodation was perfect, easy to find and has parking if renting a car. The pool is shared with the other 3 apartments but we never seem to overlap with anyone - so much to do. Vanessa was super organised, even did a detailed itinerary for us, excellent service at all times! The location is ideal as you can walk to restaurants, shops and bank. Would highly recommend this place and look forward to our return.
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2018

8/10 Good

Angie H.

Good property with a great location

This property is well maintained and well positioned between the beach and the forest area of the Manuel Antonio Park. Jessica, the consierge that comes with the property, is wonderful and makes logistics so much easier. She arranged our transportation throughout our stay as well as arranged excursions. She alone is worth booking this property!
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2018

10/10 Excellent

Chris W.

Excellent Property - You Should Book This Now

I'm going to preface this by saying I am generally picky and I don't usually leave reviews, but I felt compelled to in this instance. See highlights below: (1.) Property was in great condition with updated amenities - you don't need to worry about showing up and thinking the place looks materially worse than the pictures (2.) The views from the balconies are amazing (3.) I don't think you can beat the location of this property in Manuel Antonio - walking distance to pretty much every restaurant you would want to go to (4.) The house came with a concierge (Vanessa) and she was unbelievably helpful; here is a list of things she did for us: booked ATV, zipling, and private sunset dinner sailboat cruise; called us a taxi; provided guidance on anything you needed (5.) We saw wildlife (monkeys, iguanas, exotic birds) and heard Howler monkeys (at night) - all very cool and added to the experience I would definitely recommend staying here. The only negative I can think of is the lock on the side door required some finesse to lock/unlock, but it was not a big deal at all. One thing to note, is that this unit is one of several in essentially a big house (each floor is a separate unit). If I was traveling here with a big family (+10 people), I think it would be really cool to rent the entire place out.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2018

8/10 Good

Monte N.

great view, lovely house with a few small problems

El Congo is the top floor of a 3-story house. Each level is a separate unit. It is beautifully designed with lots of custom wood fixtures and staircase rising to a loft. Of course, such a place needs regular maintenance by craftsmen, not just maids, and it could use a little more. There were minor leaks from the ceiling during heavy rains, and the rain gutters are clogged and overflow. The kitchen is okay, but the gas stove is back in the corner and a little awkward to use. Overall, I very much enjoyed my stay. The ocean view is lovely, and the small pool is quite nice. The place is fairly quiet, but my only complaint is that during the rain storms, the gutters overflow and create an irritating noise, a repetitive and surprisingly loud thumping sound. This spoiled one of the things I love to do, sit quietly (in doors) and listen to a tropical rainstorm do it's thing. Clean/fix those rain gutters and roof, but otherwise, it is a very cool condo.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2018

10/10 Excellent

Christopher W., Enfield CT

Great vacation property

Amazing views from Amber Chambers, perfect concierge Vanessa, beautiful pool, good location, made for a wonderful vacation.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2018
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Tom T., Billings MT

Wonderful for a family vacation.

Beautiful home and views. Nice pool for the kids, daily visit from the local monkeys. We will be staying here again.
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2017
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

James H.

Very nice place.

Everything was very clean and well kept. We enjoyed our stay very much. Highly recommended!!!!
Stayed 5 nights in Feb 2017
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

6/10 Okay

Stephanie T.

Noisy .. million Dollar view, was disappointed !

The view was amazing!! The villa was smaller Than I thought it would be. Vanessa was very helpful. For the price I paid I expected more. Kind of outdated. Small bathrooms, ants ate half our food first day we were there. Not happy! Great location but very noisy never got any peaceful sleep..
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2016
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

carol h.

Loved it!

It was our first time in Costa Rica and I really wanted a view. This I got, plus a beautiful suite with lots of room for our family. We loved spending time by the pool. Close to buses, grocery stores, restaurants...we had no complaints at all. Vanessa was very helpful and available for all needs. We didn't need her often as we have family in the area who helped us as well. Don't miss the Park, zip-lining and mangrove swamp tour - all very fun. We had a few meals at Café Milagro and they were all good.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2016
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth S., USA

Wonderful--A paradise!

Property is manag d very well-- everyone is so friendly and helpful! Views are beautiful. Hard to leave!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2016
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

8/10 Good

Glen and Judy S.

Fantastic View!

Loved this place! The beautiful accommodations had everything we needed, plus a fantastic view and a lovely pool. Would recommend this place highly!
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Amazing!

Amber Chambers is a great apartment for couples or small families who want a smaller, boutique-style setting. My husband and I stayed there alone--though there was plenty of space for up to 6 people, in my opinion. The views were great, the location easy, and there were monkeys nearly every day playing in the trees. Definitely recommended!
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Excellent!

My family and I stayed at Amber Chambers this spring, and really enjoyed everything about our trip. There were 5 of us--my wife, my two teenage daughters, and my 10-year-old son, who slept in the loft. The setup worked perfectly. It's part of a B&B-style villa called Castillo de Amber, where there are just 4 apartments total. In fact, there was only one other couple staying there when we were there--very nice--and it was no problem to share the pool area & pool kitchen. I much preferred this to staying at a busy hotel, or condo, where there are many more people sharing the common spaces. It felt quaint--and cozy, like a B&B.

About the host

Hosted by Kent Thompson - Manuel Antonio Rental Properties

Host profile image
Manuel Antonio Rental Properties specializes in vacation rental homes, villas and condos in beautiful Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica. All of our properties have ocean views and a pool!

Why they chose this property

Great location, great views, great wildlife, great staff!

What makes this property unique

Castillo de Amber has a charming, B&B-style feel, with only 4 apartments in a grand setting. Surrounded by rainforest and wildlife (don't feed the monkeys!), it is a haven for nature lovers and explorers.

Languages:

English, Spanish
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