Waking up at 5 AM to the sound of howler monkeys, and going to bed around 6 PM just to talk for an hour or two around before falling asleep, quickly became our new routine at Bolita. It was okay and something we could easily adjust to, although it resulted in many hours of sleep, which we weren’t normally used to. Also both us, our stuff and our bed being continuously wet/moist was not something we were/are used to. The worst was probably the bed and pillows being very moist, it was the thing that was hardest to get used to.
We were supposed to have stayed at Bolita Hostel as Workaways for 2,5 weeks, but unfortunately we quickly realized, that that might not be possible. Unfortunately Ditte is still affected by her concussion from the accident in January 2025, especially when it comes to high continues noise – and off course being in the jungle cicadas is everywhere, and yes they do most of the time make a ton of noise. Something we both normally really do not mind, but this time was another case. With no walls or places to “hide” and take a break from the constant surrounding wild noises, Ditte continuously couldn’t sleep, felt a bit ill, and physically uncomfortable due to dealing with post-commotio syndrome (PCS).
So that and the fact that it was all a bit too slow for us, made is decide to have a chat with the owner Ron to see if we could make some sort of arrangement. We agreed on us staying 2 more days and then he even had another previous workaways couple wanting to return to Bolita, so it was perfect for them that we were leaving. Truth be told we felt a bit ambivalent. Disappointed that it didn’t go as planned, but at the same time kinda relieved that is all got sorted out anyway – with everybody happy even.
Our time (5 days) at Bolita was amazing and we actually loved the much more simple life. We had a great time with the guests – although especially with Alessandro and Darren who was also volunteering at Bolita. We saw even more wildlife, mostly birds. What stood out the most to us was spotting a new type of toucan and even one sitting very close to us. Truly awesome!
At Bolita they have made decent hiking trails (decent because well it is still in the middle of the rainforest, so still muddy, narrow, steep and everything you’d expect for a jungle hike). We managed to hike all of em, and was surprised how much we could actually feel that we were in dense rainforest as seen on movies and stuff. Cool experience.
Oh, and by the way. Just remember that bolita is a clothing optional Hostel. So that was something too.
We’ll never regret going to Bolita. It was such a cool experience and we met some very cool, chilled and nice people. But after all, we are glad to back in our beloved Puerto Jiménez. And was even able to get 4 nights at the same apartments we stayed at before.
