Book here and pay
10% less
than on Booking.com!
Check rooms and rates
From136US$ /night
Check-in
11Dec2025Select date
Check-out
12Dec2025Select 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
-
Next to Arenal Volcano National Park
Perfect
9.1
9.7
/10
4.8
4.7
/5

Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails, rated 9.1/10 on Booking.com, features a prime location with immediate access to Arenal Volcano and over 352 hectares of pristine rainforest. The lodge offers spacious accommodation, an on-site restaurant, spa services, and a significant focus on eco-sustainability.

Rooms & Amenities

Rooms at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails include choices like spacious Smithsonian and Standard rooms, each featuring large picture windows that showcase views of Arenal Volcano, Lake Arenal, and tropical gardens. Each room comes equipped with essential amenities such as a safe, coffee maker, and private bathroom.

Dining Options

Dining is available at the on-site restaurant, 'El Jilguero,' which offers Costa Rican and international cuisine with spectacular views of the volcano. Breakfast selection includes gallo pinto, fresh juices, and more, while the bar offers happy hour options daily at sunset.

Leisure & Spa

Leisure activities include hiking on 11.3 km of well-maintained trails, birdwatching opportunities featuring over 500 species, and guided nature tours. The property houses an Observatory Museum, a visitor center with beautiful views, and a spa providing various treatments to relax after exploring.

Transportation & Services

Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails also provides transportation services to nearby attractions including Arenal Volcano National Park, which is 16 km away, and local airports such as Aeropuerto de La Fortuna located 35 km from the lodge. Children under 8 stay free when sharing with parents, while no pets are permitted.

“Staying here means waking up practically at the foot of the volcano; trails crisscross the extensive grounds, leading past gardens, a working farm, and even a hanging bridge. Birders will find this place a genuine paradise, with countless species flitting around the dining area and beyond. It's a remote location, but that's precisely its charm.”
Hotel logo
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Spahotels
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Choose 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
20 m² 
2 King Size Beds
Shower
Balcony
La Casona Rooms Share Bathroom & Private Room
2 persons
200 m² 
1 King-size bed
White Hawk Villa Waterfall
2 persons
150 m² 
1 King-size bed and 1 Sofa bed
Shower
Phil’s Villa Waterfall
2 persons
150 m² 
2 Queen Size Beds
Shower
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Price and Room Availability

Check availability and prices for your dates now!

Facilities

The hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • 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

At Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails, El Jilguero offers a delightful taste of local cuisine, with the serene backdrop of the surrounding nature. This charming venue invites guests to indulge in authentic flavors, perfect for starting and ending adventurous days in Costa Rica.
Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails La Fortuna Restaurant photo

El Jilguero

Local cuisine
Ambiance
Nestled within the lush greenery, El Jilguero provides a warm and inviting atmosphere where the beauty of nature complements the dining experience.
Key Offerings
A hearty breakfast spread that features Costa Rica's beloved 'gallo pinto'-a delectable mix of rice, black beans, and spices-along with eggs, bacon, and fresh homemade breakfast bread, all complemented by hot coffee, tea, and fresh juices.
Reservation
Not needed.
Open daily from 07:00 - 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
330 m
Restaurants
El Jilguero restaurant
340 m
Arenal Observatory Lodge
Explore La Fortuna
Explore Arenal: Attractions, Activities, Dining, and Entertainment
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Arenal Volcano National Park
Arenal Volcano National Park
25 minutes' walk
Home to diverse ecosystems and stunning views, this park offers several trails and rich wildlife observation opportunities.
Cerro Chato Lake
Cerro Chato Lake
30 minutes' walk
A scenic crater lake ideal for hiking and photography, known for its tranquil beauty nestled within a verdant forest.
La Fortuna Arenal Volcano Rain Forest Reserve
La Fortuna Arenal Volcano Rain Forest Reserve
30 minutes' walk
This reserve features lush forests and cascading rivers, perfect for nature enthusiasts looking to immerse in local flora and fauna.
Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa
Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa
4 minutes' walk
A unique combination of luxury and nature, featuring trails and a perfect vantage point for viewing Arenal Volcano.
Hiking at Arenal Volcano
25 minutes' walk
Engaging trails with diverse terrains lead to breathtaking vistas of the volcano and surrounding landscapes, great for all fitness levels.
Relaxation at Kalambu Hot Springs
70 minutes' drive
A tranquil haven with thermal pools and water slides, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure amid natural hot springs.
Sky Trek Sky Tram
Sky Trek Sky Tram
35 minutes' walk
A thrilling aerial tram ride offering panoramic views of the rainforest, ideal for adventure seekers and photography lovers.
El Jilguero Restaurant
5 minutes' walk
A cozy spot serving traditional Costa Rican cuisine, famous for its casado and local coffee. Reservations are recommended.
The Springs Resort & Spa
15 minutes' drive
An upscale dining experience featuring international cuisines and spectacular views of Arenal Volcano. Ideal for special occasions.
La Fortuna Nightlife
15 minutes' drive
Offers vibrant bars and live music venues, showcasing local talent and a lively atmosphere perfect for a night out.
Arenal Eco Zoo
Arenal Eco Zoo
50 minutes' drive
A family-friendly venue featuring various tropical species, offering educational tours that delight guests of all ages.

Getting around
City Centre
La Fortuna13 min  ·  8.1 km
Airports
Aeropuerto de La Fortuna (fon)47 min  ·  31.2 km
Liberia (LIR)207 min  ·  138.0 km
Access exclusive early booking discounts.
Choose your spa escape today!
Check Rates
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
FAQs
About Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails
What is the distance from Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails to the entrance of Arenal Volcano National Park?
The entrance to Arenal Volcano National Park is 16 km from the hotel.
Is there an airport transfer service available at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails?
The hotel offers a paid airport shuttle service to Juan Santamaría International Airport, Daniel Oduber Airport, and the local airport in La Fortuna.
What dining options are available on-site at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails?
The hotel features an on-site restaurant that serves international and local cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Does Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails provide any wellness facilities?
The hotel has an on-site spa offering a variety of treatments, including massages and body wraps.
What amenities are included in the rooms at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails?
Rooms are equipped with a ceiling fan, safety box, and a furnished terrace with views.
What recreational activities can guests enjoy at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails?
The hotel offers activities such as hiking, cycling, birdwatching, and a games room.
What are the check-in and check-out times at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails?
Check-in is at 15:00 and check-out is at 12:00.
Is parking available at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails?
The hotel provides free private parking on-site without the need for a reservation.
What unique features does Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails offer for birdwatching enthusiasts?
The property serves as a gateway to observe over 500 species of birds in their natural habitat.
What activities are recommended nearby Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails?
Popular activities include exploring waterfalls, zip-lining, and visiting the Tabacón hot springs, located 9 km away.
Can guests find children's amenities at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails?
The hotel offers a children's playground and a kids' pool for younger guests.
What kind of views can guests expect from their rooms at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails?
Rooms feature expansive windows that provide views of Arenal Volcano, Lake Arenal, or the lush rainforests.

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