Frequently asked questions

Do we need our own vehicle?

We highly recommend you rent a vehicle, either a 4-WD SUV or an ATV. Without 4×4 the roads are difficult to navigate. All the roads in the Santa Teresa /Mal Pais area are dirt roads with potholes.The 2 rental car companies in the are Alamo and Budget. Star Mountain is located 7 km the main intersection in town where the bus from San Jose stops. From there you can take a taxi and once you are here we can call you a cab if needed.

How close are the beaches?

The scenic beaches of Malpais are only a short 2 km drive from Star Mountain. Santa Teresa with its famous surf breaks is another 3 km away. To the other side of Star Mountain, a 5 km drive will take you to Cabuya which is located on the Gulf of Nicoya and close to Montezuma beach.

Do you serve meals at Star Mountain?

We only serve breakfast at our hotel. Breakfast is included in your daily rate. For lunch and dinner there are some excellent restaurants nearby, the closest being Mary‘s, only 2 km from our lodge, or Caracolas beachfront restaurant, another 1.5 km away. We can also arrange for a private chef to deliver your dinner or to cook for you here at our hotel. Every room is equipped with a refrigerator so you can bring your own snacks and beverages to enjoy in our spacious lounge.

Where is the closest supermarket?

2 km from Star Mountain there is a small grocery store in the beachside hamlet of Malpais. In Santa Teresa you will find larger supermarkets, which will have a good assortment of international food and drink options.

Is it safe for children?

Star Mountain is a beautiful location to bring your children with supervision. We are in the middle of the tropical forest and care does need to be taken to watch your children. Our pool does not have a fence around it, so please take care when your children are close to it. The owners raised their 2 children at Star Mountain. Their children always found beauty and amazement amidst all the tropical wonders. We hope yours will enjoy the same.

Do you offer yoga classes?

Star Mountain has a beautiful, teak wood yoga deck in a private jungle setting, but we don‘t have regular classes. You are free to use the yoga shala at your leisure or we can arrange for a private yoga class, which will cost around $70 for 1.5 hours.

Can we use our credit card?

We don‘t accept credit cards, only cash. Most restaurants and stores in Santa Teresa and Malpais accept credit cards. You should nevertheless bring some cash in small denominations to be on the safe side.

Do you have AC in the rooms?

We no not have air conditioning in our rooms but they are all equipped with ceiling fans.

Is there internet or phone service available?

We have complimentary Wifi for our guests via super-fast glass fiber optic cables. You can make calls via Voip with Whatsapp, Skype etc. We do not have cell phone reception at the hotel unless you hike to the top of our mountain.

Is the water safe to drink?

Our water comes from the mountain at Cabo Blanco. There is a lot of calcium in the water. Some of our guests drink the water but if you are sensitive then bring bottled water.

Will I see any wildlife at your lodge?

Lots in fact! Star Mountain is nestled in lush rain forest surroundings where you can see howler and capuchin monkeys, iguanas, coatis, agoutis, deer and other exotic wildlife, along with many birds and butterflies.

What’s the bug situation like?

We’re lucky to be located in the middle of a beautiful tropical jungle. With this in mind, all sorts of wildlife, including insects, can be encountered. Nevertheless we have fewer mosquitoes than in most other places because our habitat is largely unspoiled. In any case you should bring insect repellent to be on the safe side.

How is the weather and what‘s the best time for visiting?

We are located in the tropics, about 10 degrees from the equator so temperatures are warm throughout the year. There are two well-defined seasons: Dry Season lasts from December to April, and Rainy Season is from May to November. Mid July until August is a period of very moderate rainfalls so this is also one of the best times to visit. The rainiest months are September and October.

What should I pack?

In Santa Teresa the dress code is very informal. We encourage you to bring lightweight, casual clothing, sunscreen, a bathing suit, and sturdy tennis shoes or hiking boots for certain activities.

What is the best way to get to your hotel?

Please see our detailed driving instructions on Travel Info

Do you rent snorkel equipment?

We do not rent snorkel equipment and in Santa Teresa it is hard to find good gear. Better to bring your own equipment with you.

What time is check-out/check-in?

Check-in is from 2 pm until 7 pm. Check-out is at 11 am.