economie

I spent 2 nights in an overgrown tiny house in Panama’s rainforest for $300. Take a look inside.

September 12, 20240
The exterior of Bambuda Castle in Boquete, Panama.

Monica Humphries/Business Insider

In recent years, Boquete, Panama, has blossomed into a popular travel destination. It’s home to expansive coffee plantations, challenging hikes, and a growing population of American retirees.

I visited the town earlier this year, and when it came to finding a place to stay, a castle seemed like a remarkable choice.

And while castles usually ooze luxury and extravagance, Bambuda is one of the town’s more affordable hotels.
One of the four tiny homes on Bambuda’s property.

Monica Humphries/Business Insider

It’s not just a castle that Bambuda is known for. Four tiny homes on its property feel straight from a “Lord of the Rings” novel.

Each tiny home can accommodate two guests. A few weeks before arriving in Boquete, I reserved a “Hobbit house” for two nights. After taxes and fees, the tiny house cost me $155 a night.

On arrival day, I found the reception desk at the front of the castle, checked in, and received a key to my tiny home.
A path to the Hobbit homes.

Monica Humphries/Business Insider

Once check-in was completed, the receptionist pointed out a short trail to my tiny home for the next two nights.

As I dragged my suitcase along the paved path, I admired the lush green grass, blossoming flowers, and towering palm trees.

The tiny homes themselves were impressive from the exterior. The entire structure was coated in thick, soft grass. I figured the room’s bed would be comfortable, but the grass looked equally enticing for a nap.

It was like I had been transported to Hobbiton, the fictional place in J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit” books.

Outside the structure was a small patio overlooking the Baru Volcano and lush coffee plantations.
The entrance to the tiny home.

Monica Humphries/Business Insider

After taking in the view, I pulled open a sliding door and stepped inside the tiny house.

One large room had enough space for a queen-sized bed, two small nightstands, some storage space, and a small table.
A door led to the tiny home’s bathroom.

Monica Humphries/Business Insider

The room’s wooden accents, stone walls, and metal details felt rustic and reminiscent of Hobbiton.

Along the back wall, a large wooden door led to the bathroom.

The domed bathroom had space for a sink, toilet, and shower.
A view from the tiny home’s window.

Monica Humphries/Business Insider

With fresh towels, clean sheets, and a stunning view, I was all set for my short stay in Boquete.

That afternoon, I explored the rest of the property.
Cabins at Bambuda Castle.

Monica Humphries/Business Insider

These cabins seemed more spacious than the Hobbit homes, and each cabin had a larger, shaded terrace.

According to Bambuda Castle’s website, they’re a bit more affordable at $90 a night.

Then, I headed back toward the castle. A moat filled with koi fish surrounded the stone structure.
A shared space inside the castle.

Monica Humphries/Business Insider

Bambuda Castle had two large shared rooms. The first was home to the property’s restaurant and bar, which served various foods, from burgers to sandwiches.

Whether you were purchasing food or not, guests were welcome to use the area’s seating, pick out a board game to play, or head upstairs to a TV room.

Downstairs was a pool, jacuzzi, and communal kitchen.
The author in her tiny house.

Monica Humphries/Business Insider

While the castle and cabins were stunning, the views from my Hobbit houses were the highlight of my two-night stay.