Origins by Mantis

We were really expecting an incredible experience here but were disappointed. There are some very nice touches like the outdoor fire heating the plunge pool and the magnificent views from the rooms towards Nicaragua. However the team there were a bit gruff and the food was very odd - spaghetti bolognese and minestrone soup… not the kind of food you expect to have in Costa Rica! Drinks were insanely expensive..Breakfast was great though. Bed and bedding in room could have been more comfortable. Night walk was super and we saw a lot of wonderful wildlife with our guide. We visited Cagne Negro which was incredible and walked to the Cielo Waterfall which is a must do. The sound of wildlife as you are sleeping and waking is magical. We had come in from Papagayo and there was a huge difference in climate which we had not appreciated. Bring hiking clothes and waterproofs!

This was the most MAGICAL experience. We were greeted by the entire staff upon our arrival. There was nothing I would change about anything. Staff, Claudia, Allen, Fabian, Sharon, Gaspar, Eduardo, Fernando, Steve, the Floral team, the chef, the witnesses for our ceremony, ALL were over the top Professional and became our Family. From the initial contact, 8 mos prior, Carlos and crew designed the wedding of my dreams. The venue, and attention to detail far exceeded anything I had asked for. The lodge and property are a cross between Fantasy Island and Jurassic Park. There is nothing that was not thought of. All of our needs were tended to immediately. I would rate this experience 10 stars!

Booked this place with free cancellation until Dec 19th 23:59. Cancelled early on Dec 18th as we are now going to a different area. Hotel took full payment on Dec 19th! It has been over 3 weeks and they have still not refunded me. They have not responded to my email so I have got the agent involved. Apparently they are ignoring the agent's emails and I've been told they are not picking up calls. Extremely worrying. It's a lot of money (I was also charged huge bank fees as well). I've been completely stung for thousands of pounds and had to report it to my bank who are investigating. Really put a downer on our vacation (and my birthday) and I'd rather not go any more. Please be wary of this place and consider booking elsewhere.

A slice of paradise! Origins is such a special and fantastic place and it grows on you. It is practically in the middle of nowhere and with the most amazing view of Lake Nicaragua and a divine landscape which kind of makes you feel like you are right there at the beginning of the World. It is soothing, makes you feel calm and relaxed and it is full of neautiful animals and flowers and the kindest and most welcoming staff who all make you feel at home in the cozy restaurant and bar area. Small when it comes to the no. of rooms but so big in area and heartwarming experiences ;-)

Our three night stay at Origins was the perfect start for our vacation in Costa Rica. Origins is nestled not far from Tenorio volcano near Bijagua. With gorgeous views, superb food and attentive staff, and each lodge with its own hot tub heated by a fireplace on the deck, what is not to enjoy from this experience?! The room was spacious, the king bed was very comfortable, and the extra touches, like rain ponchos, umbrellas, and binoculars made our stay even more comfortable. I would love to return on my next visit and spend more time at Origins.