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From136US$ /night
Check-in
18Jan2026Select date
Check-out
19Jan2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

24 Km Oeste De La Fortuna De San Carlos, La Fortuna, Costa Rica, 13411-1000
-
Close to Lake Arenal
Perfect
9.1
9.7
/10
4.8
4.7
/5

Rooms

Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails features multiple lodging options, including Smithsonian Rooms, Junior Suites, Standard Rooms, La Casona, White Hawk Villa, and Phil's Villa. Smithsonian Rooms include picture windows, framing Arenal Volcano, Lake Arenal, rainforest, or gardens. These rooms feature two double beds, a private bathroom, a terrace, a coffeemaker, and a safe. Five Smithsonian rooms are equipped for disabled people and wheelchair access. Standard Rooms feature two double beds, a private bathroom, a coffeemaker, a safe, lounge chairs, and a desk. Some Standard rooms have balconies with forest or partial volcano views, while others, 500 meters from the main building, offer lake views. Junior Suites, near the restaurant, feature two king-sized beds, a living room, a safe, a coffeemaker, a refrigerator, and ceramic paintings by a local artist. The two-story White Hawk Villa, 1.1 km from reception, has a living area with a fireplace and smart TV, a kitchen, a dining area, three bedrooms with private bathrooms and safe boxes, and an outdoor jacuzzi. Phil's Villa, 800 meters from reception, includes a living room with a fireplace, a smart television, a dining room, a kitchen, and three bedrooms with private bathrooms and safes. Certain rooms have tea and coffee facilities.

Dining Options

The restaurant, El Jilguero, features Costa Rican and international cuisine, views of Arenal Volcano and Lake Arenal. An ample breakfast selection fills visitors with hot coffee and tea, fresh juices, cereals, eggs, bacon, fresh homemade breakfast bread, and Costa Rica's gallo pinto. Happy hour is available on the deck daily from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. COATI Coffee & Smoothie Bar, located in the Visitor Center, offers six fruit smoothies optimized to revitalize and replenish the body.

Leisure and Entertainment

Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails provides access to primary forest with rivers, waterfalls, tropical gardens, and grazing lands. Guests can access 7 miles of trails for hiking, horseback riding, or mountain biking. The property features the Observatory Museum, detailing the area's natural history, and the Observatory Visitor Center. The Spa at the Arenal Observatory Lodge offers massages and treatments. Guests have access to the pool and jacuzzi. The property also offers canopy zip lines, horseback riding, whitewater rafting, waterfall rappelling, aerial trams, kayaking, and Arenal's volcanic hot springs.

Location and Transportation

Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails is located within the Arenal Volcano National Park and near the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. The entrance to the Arenal Volcano National Park is 16 kilometers from the town of La Fortuna, on the same road to Arenal Observatory Lodge. The lodge is 35 km from Aeropuerto de La Fortuna. The property offers transportation service to nearby areas and from-and-to the Juan Santamaría International Airport in San José, the Daniel Oduber Airport in Liberia, and the local airport in La Fortuna. Landmarks nearby include Costa Rica Dog Rescue & Adoption (4.5 km), Rio Fortuna Waterfall (4.5 km), and Butterfly Conservatory (5 km).

Services

Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails provides daily complimentary walks with naturalist guides. The hotel offers free Wi-Fi. Children aged 8 and under stay for free when sharing a room with their parents. The Observatory Visitor Center features high-speed wireless internet and private meeting rooms. The property provides a bird list. The property closes at 11:00 pm. Check-in is from 3:00 pm to 10:00 pm and check-out is at 12:00 pm.

“Nestled in the Arenal Volcano area, this hotel distinguishes itself with meticulously maintained grounds and trails ideal for bird watching, creating an immersive natural experience. The generously sized rooms, some boasting volcano views, offer a comfortable retreat after a day spent exploring. I particularly appreciate the provision of guided morning tours and the option to arrange specialized bird watching excursions.”
Hotel logo
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel
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Select your room type

The hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Smithsonian Room Waterfall
2 persons
220 sq. feet 
2 King Size Beds
Shower
Balcony
La Casona Rooms Share Bathroom & Private Room
2 persons
2155 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
White Hawk Villa Waterfall
2 persons
1615 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed and 1 Sofa bed
Shower
Phil’s Villa Waterfall
2 persons
1615 sq. feet 
2 Queen Size Beds
Shower
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Facilities

The hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Free parking
  • Safe deposit box
  • No pets allowed
  • 24-hour security
  • Luggage storage
  • Smoke detectors
  • Electric vehicle charging station
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key card access

Sports & Fitness

  • Canoeing
  • Hiking
  • Horseback riding
  • Cycling
  • Table tennis
  • Fishing

Services

  • Paid airport shuttle
  • Housekeeping
  • Car hire
  • Laundry
  • Tours/Ticket assistance
  • Welcome drink
  • Happy hour

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Packed lunches

Children

  • Cots
  • Board games
  • Children's menu
  • Children's pool
  • Children's play area
  • Game room

Spa & Leisure

  • Infinity pool
  • Sun loungers
  • Sun terrace
  • Garden area
  • Leisure/ TV room
  • Spa & wellness centre
  • Jacuzzi
  • Body scrub
  • Facial
  • Treatment room
  • Body wraps
  • Full body massage
  • Pool with view
  • Shallow end

Room features

  • Sitting area
  • Dressing area
  • Patio
  • Terrace
  • Garden furniture
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Dining table

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries
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Dining Onsite

El Jilguero provides a delightful dining experience with a focus on local flavors, featuring Costa Rican cuisine in a warm and inviting setting. Guests can savor hearty breakfasts that highlight traditional dishes, perfect for fueling a day of exploration.
Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails La Fortuna Restaurant photo

El Jilguero

Local
Ambiance
A cozy and welcoming environment that reflects the charm of Costa Rican culture, perfect for casual gatherings and family meals.
Key Offerings
A generous breakfast selection includes locally beloved 'gallo pinto'-a savory mix of rice and black beans-warm homemade breakfast bread, and a variety of fresh juices and hot beverages.
Reservation
Not needed
Open daily from 07:00 to 20:30.

Location

24 Km Oeste De La Fortuna De San Carlos, La Fortuna, Costa Rica, 13411-1000
Map view
24 Km Oeste De La Fortuna De San Carlos, La Fortuna, Costa Rica, 13411-1000
Nearby
Park
Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa
1100 ft
Restaurants
El Jilguero restaurant
1200 ft
Arenal Observatory Lodge
Explore La Fortuna
Local Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Arenal Volcano
Arenal Volcano
25 minutes' walk
The iconic Arenal Volcano offers stunning views and hiking trails amidst lush flora and fauna, enhancing the natural beauty of the area.
Laguna Cerro Chato
25 minutes' walk
This picturesque crater lake is perfect for hiking, swimming, and enjoying serene nature, attracting outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa
Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa
4 minutes' walk
An area of rich biodiversity, ideal for spotting wildlife and relaxing in nature, just a short stroll from the hotel.
Sky Trek Sky Tram
Sky Trek Sky Tram
10 minutes' drive
A thrilling zipline adventure that offers breathtaking views of the rainforest and volcano while giving an adrenaline rush to adventurers.
Yoga Retreats
5 minutes' drive
Relaxing yoga sessions set in a tranquil environment are available nearby, ideal for those seeking serenity and rejuvenation.
El Jilguero Restaurant
5 minutes' walk
A cozy eatery featuring local Costa Rican cuisine, known for its fresh ingredients and friendly atmosphere. Reservations are advised.
Restaurante Don Rufino
10 minutes' drive
An upscale dining option offering diverse international dishes and local flavors, perfect for a romantic night out.
La Fortuna Night Market
10 minutes' drive
An engaging evening market with local crafts, live music, and food stalls, providing an authentic touch of Costa Rican culture.
Tabacon Thermal Resort
30 minutes' drive
Offering natural hot springs in a lush setting, this resort also features dining and relaxation options for all ages.
Getting around
City Centre
La Fortuna13 min  ·  5.0 mi
Airports
La Fortuna (fon)47 min  ·  19.4 mi
Liberia Airport (LIR)207 min  ·  85.8 mi
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-22:00
Check-out
from 07:00-12:00
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible at a location nearby for free.
Internet
is available in public areas for free.
Breakfast
The hotel Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails serves a full breakfast for free. 
Children & extra beds
There are no extra beds provided in a room.  There are no cots provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Number of rooms:
42
Questions of the users
About Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails
Do the rooms provide air conditioning, or just ceiling fans?
15 January 2024
The rooms come equipped with ceiling fans for your comfort, but there is no air conditioning.
How far is the nearest dining option from the lodge, and how long does it take to reach downtown La Fortuna?
20 February 2024
The closest restaurants are located about 30 minutes' drive towards La Fortuna.
Is there a shuttle service available from the international airport, and if so, what are the costs?
22 March 2024
A transfer service from San Jose or Liberia International Airport to the lodge costs US$190 for a one-way trip and takes approximately 3.5 hours.
What is the distance from San Jose International Airport to the lodge?
12 April 2024
It's about a 3.5-hour drive from San Jose International Airport to the lodge.
Are there transportation options available to get from La Fortuna to the lodge without a personal vehicle?
18 May 2024
Yes, options like Uber, private transportation, or regular taxis are available to reach the lodge from La Fortuna.
Is it possible to leave the lodge after hours, and what is the procedure if I want to return late?
30 June 2024
Guests can come and go from the lodge freely. The gate closes at 11:00 PM, but there will be staff available to assist with entry after hours.
If I book through a third-party site, can I still join guided nature walks at the lodge?
22 July 2024
Yes, booking through platforms like Booking.com includes access to the free guided walk on the property.
Are hot springs located on the lodge property for guests to enjoy?
10 August 2024
There are no hot springs on the property, but there is a hot tub available along with numerous trails to explore nature.
Is there a way to get assistance in arranging transportation to La Fortuna for activities during my stay?
15 September 2024
Yes, it is quite simple to arrange outings from the reception area, and getting into town is very manageable.
Do accommodations include a hairdryer for guests?
27 October 2024
Every room is equipped with a hairdryer for guest convenience.

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