Rancho Armadillo Estate
Rancho Armadillo Estate
Playas del Coco 5019 Costa Rica
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About
#3 of 15 hotels in Playas del Coco
Location
Rooms
Value
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Rancho Armadillo Estate, a small Boutique 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.
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Property amenities
Free parking
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Pool
Free breakfast
Board games / puzzles
Children Activities (Kid / Family Friendly)
Business Centre with Internet Access
Non-smoking hotel
Wifi
Pool / beach towels
Swimming pool toys
Outdoor pool
Shallow end in pool
Bar / lounge
Breakfast buffet
Outdoor furniture
Shared kitchen
24-hour check-in
Laundry service
Room features
Allergy-free room
Blackout curtains
Air conditioning
Housekeeping
Interconnected rooms available
Coffee / tea maker
Cable / satellite TV
Walk-in shower
Soundproof rooms
Wardrobe / wardrobe
Bottled water
Private bathrooms
Tile / marble floor
Wake-up service / alarm clock
Kitchenette
Refrigerator
Radio
iPod docking station
Bath / shower
Complimentary toiletries
Hair dryer
Room types
Ocean view
Bridal suite
Non-smoking rooms
Suites
Family rooms
Good to know
HOTEL STYLE
Mid-range
Quaint
Languages Spoken
English, Spanish
Location
Getting there
161 Restaurants
within 10 kilometers
Reviews
Traveller rating
- 202
- 15
- 3
- 1
- 0
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Detailed Reviews
Hotel's Favourite
It's all about Rick the owner. Rick will arrange tours. Rick will arrange pickup from the Liberia Airport and back. Rick will give you tips on where to go and not to go. Rick will drive you to town for dinner and then come and pick you up after. Rick will drive you to the ATM. Rick will drive you to the grocery store. Rick will make you dinner. Rick will make you breakfast every morning. He is truly an amazing person and made our 4 night stay very special. Certainly the hi light of our stay was going on a boat trip for 4 hours that Rick arranged. We not only caught some fish and we are not fishermen or fisher persons. But we did. Going on a boat tour gives you a whole different perspective of the area. We ended snorkelling on a reef which was pretty cool to see giant turtles and of colourful fish. His hotel up hill from the town of Coco where there are all sorts of restaurants and bars.
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Date of stay: November 2024Trip type: Travelled as a couple
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Room Tip:Â We did not have a car but would get one if we returned. The walk to town is not the best but...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We stayed with Rick about 15 years ago and his place and his dinner were so amazing that we decided to stay here again on our way home via Liberia. I regret that we only scheduled one night. It really needs 2-3 days to unwind on the way in or on the way out as it is very close to the airport. 15 years later, I have the same opinion – great rooms, great pool area and hammock area to relax at, fabulous multi-course dinner made upon request. I highly recommend requesting the dinner as it is a nice break from Tico food. Rick is a wonderful chef and is more than just a great host. As I was planning the trip, he steered me away from a more touristy location and to a location that was wonderful and less crowded for hiking in the rainforest for one portion of our 3 region trip. We will be back.
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Date of stay: February 2023
Rooms
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
This is a great spot to stay for couples, families, and groups. There are three bungalows with a total of six rooms that sits on 25 acres of private property, so we could stay near the beach but enjoy a peaceful setting. The rooms and grounds were very clean and well maintained. We had the honeymoon room with lots of space and privacy. The pool is excellent, with an awesome view. Breakfast is included offering the best fruits, breads and waffles you will ever have.
Rick the owner, is an excellent host and is happy to help you with tours, directions, and all the local knowledge you could possibly need.
We will definitely return, this is a diamond of a spot that should not be missed. Highly recommended!
Rick the owner, is an excellent host and is happy to help you with tours, directions, and all the local knowledge you could possibly need.
We will definitely return, this is a diamond of a spot that should not be missed. Highly recommended!
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Date of stay: March 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We trusted all the amazing reviews and booked 2 nights at Rancho Armadillo with Rick. It was our first trip to Costa Rica and Rick was so patient with all the questions I asked while we were in the planning phase, and he provided great information and suggestions that proved to be spot on. The property is beautiful with stunning views, and feels secluded & private despite being a few minutes drive from town. I wish we could have stayed longer, just to spend time relaxing at the pool, in the hammocks, etc. Rick has a masseuse that he contracts with, and he arranged massages for us in advance of our arrival, which was the perfect way to unwind after the long flights. The massages were heaven, and Melissa, the masseuse, set up her table on an open air patio near our room. We listened to the birds and enjoyed the gentle breeze. What an experience! Rick prepared a multi-course dinner for us, which could possibly be the best meal I've ever had. He went shopping to pick up vegan ingredients to accomodate me, and made my friend's meal using regular dairy & cheese. Our room was spacious & comfortable, and the firm mattress was a dream. Rick was an incredible host, and provided wonderful, personal service. The website looks like it's from 2005, but don't let that scare you off. I can't recommend Rick & Rancho Armadillo highly enough.
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Date of stay: January 2025Trip type: Travelled with friends
Value
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Rancho Armadillo was the absolute highlight of our trip. The views of the ocean, lush green trees and flowers make Rancho Armadillo paradise. The pool was a must as well as the hammocks. Rick, a professional chef, made incredible breakfasts consisting of waffles, tropical fruit, German breads, mango juice, smoothies and, of course, coffee. He also made a special dinner as well where we paid for the groceries and labor. It was amazing. Rick also guided us on which tours to do and saved us a lot of money pointing us in the direction of awesome things to do without going through a third-party. He provided detailed maps as well. Rick is so kind and does so much for his guests. We appreciated all the hospitality and 100% recommend Rancho Armadillo.
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Date of stay: May 2024Trip type: Travelled with family
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
The property, on a hillside just out of town, is beautiful. Conveniently close, yet well removed from the main drag. Every morning we enjoyed a great variety of fresh fruit and breakfast in the dining area with a view over the bay and islands. Our room was spacious and comfortable. There's a shaded area by the pool to sit and read if that's your pleasure. 2 nights out of 4 we didn't use AC and enjoyed the fresh air and sounds of the forest. Nearby house had a party one night, but it didn't run late. But what really makes the place is the host, Rick. His personality makes him an absolute natural for the hospitality business, and we consistently felt as though we were being hosted by a friend. His recommendations for other things to do do and see were helpful and spot on.
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Date of stay: March 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Value
Location
Service
Room Tip:Â We had a very positive experience with his recommended car rental company, Adobe.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Rancho Armadillo is an oasis of relaxation, fun, and luxury up on a hill, away from the bustle of Playa del Coco. The bungalows are comfortable, charming, and clean. The pool is the perfect temperature, and is surrounded by hammocks, books, and games. The included breakfast of fresh fruits, breads, waffles, and juices is delicious.
But the real prize at Rancho Armadillo is Rick, the owner. He is incredibly knowledgeable and friendly, and will go out of his way to help you plan your trip in Costa Rica. Rick is a master chef from Detroit, and if you arrange with him in advance he will cook and serve a multi-course dinner especially for you. I cannot recommend this highly enough, especially in this setting. One of the best meals my wife and I ever had, and a stay we will long remember.
But the real prize at Rancho Armadillo is Rick, the owner. He is incredibly knowledgeable and friendly, and will go out of his way to help you plan your trip in Costa Rica. Rick is a master chef from Detroit, and if you arrange with him in advance he will cook and serve a multi-course dinner especially for you. I cannot recommend this highly enough, especially in this setting. One of the best meals my wife and I ever had, and a stay we will long remember.
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Date of stay: March 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Value
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Quite a unique stay in my long experience of travelling. This was like staying at a friends house, such a personal service from owner Rick which started during the early e mail contacts with advice that made our travel plans more efficient. He helped with transport plans, organised car rental for us, ran us to the local restaurants and introduced us to the staff, made killer Pina Coladas and gave us a tour of the estate which was highly interesting and educational. Nothing was too much trouble.
The lodge was well equipped, comfortable, air conditioned and had a nice balcony to chill. The communal areas included a really nice breakfast area, pool and an elevated balcony to enjoy extensive views of the surrounding forest and the Pacific Ocean.
A highlight of our 6 week Costa Rican holiday.
Robert
The lodge was well equipped, comfortable, air conditioned and had a nice balcony to chill. The communal areas included a really nice breakfast area, pool and an elevated balcony to enjoy extensive views of the surrounding forest and the Pacific Ocean.
A highlight of our 6 week Costa Rican holiday.
Robert
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Date of stay: November 2022Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
My wife and I returned to Costa Rica for the 1st time in 13 years! The last time we were down we stumbled across Rancho Armadillo and it has always held a special place in our heart. We brought our 3 sons and they loved it - we really wanted them to meet Rick! He is the best and provides his guests with an authentic Costa Rican experience. He knows everyone in town (crazy how much it's grown in 13 years) and helps you with reservations and things to do in the area. We wish we could have stayed longer.
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Date of stay: December 2023Trip type: Travelled with family
Value
Location
Service
Room Tip:Â Rancho sits up on a hill on +22 acres - it's carved into the side of a hill in the jungle.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I stayed here with my sister for about 10 days and really enjoyed myself. It is very relaxing sitting by the pool, with a beautiful view to the ocean. Rick goes above and beyond for his guests, and is an excellent source of information about the area and activities close by. I would love to visit again sometime in the future.
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Date of stay: February 2023
Rooms
Cleanliness
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We are located on the side of the mountain overlooking the Gulf of Papagayo, about 1 Mile from the beach in Coco. (10 -15 minute walk downhill) Because the mountains come right down to the ocean each of the beaches north and south of us require a drive. Playas Hermosa & Playa Panama to the north of us is about a 10 minute drive and Ocotal to the south is also a 10 minute drive. Taxi's to and from Coco are about $4.
I highly recommend renting a car, there is so much to do and see in this area, by having your own transportation it will be much cheaper and more convienent in the long run.
"We did not have a car but would get one if we returned. The walk to town is not the best but Rick is there to drive you if you wish. "Read full review
"Rancho sits up on a hill on +22 acres - it's carved into the side of a hill in the jungle."Read full review
"We had a very positive experience with his recommended car rental company, Adobe. "Read full review
"We loved the vistas, breeze, and location of the Cacique Room + Buena Vista 2 room suite for our kids."Read full review
ALSO KNOWN AS
rancho armadillo estate hotel playas del coco
LOCATION
Costa RicaProvince of GuanacastePlayas del Coco
NUMBER OF ROOMS
6
Prices are the average nightly price provided by our partners and may not include all taxes and fees. Taxes and fees that are shown are estimates only. Please see our partners for more details.
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Claim Your ListingRANCHO ARMADILLO ESTATE: UPDATED 2025 Hotel Reviews and 382 Photos (Costa Rica/Playas del Coco) - Tripadvisor
Frequently Asked Questions about Rancho Armadillo Estate
Which popular attractions are close to Rancho Armadillo Estate?
Nearby attractions include Costa Rica Unique Transfers and Tours (2.0 km), Costour (2.5 km), and Playa Hermosa (5.4 km).
What are some of the property amenities at Rancho Armadillo Estate?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free wifi, free breakfast, and a pool.
Which room amenities are available at Rancho Armadillo Estate?
Top room amenities include a kitchenette, air conditioning, and a refrigerator.
What food & drink options are available at Rancho Armadillo Estate?
Guests can enjoy free breakfast and a lounge during their stay.
Is parking available at Rancho Armadillo Estate?
Yes, free parking is available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to Rancho Armadillo Estate?
Conveniently located restaurants include Tandoor Indian Restaurant, Naans & Curries Coco Beach, and Johann Bistro.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Rancho Armadillo Estate?
Yes, guests have access to a pool during their stay.
Which languages are spoken by the staff at Rancho Armadillo Estate?
The staff speaks multiple languages, including English and Spanish.
Does Rancho Armadillo Estate have any great views?
Yes, guests often enjoy the ocean view available here.
Is Rancho Armadillo Estate accessible?
Yes, it offers wheelchair access. For specific enquiries, we recommend calling ahead to confirm.