See all properties

Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails

Property class: 3
VIP Access

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails

A hotel with a mountain view, a reflective pond, and lush greenery.
A hotel room with a bed, a desk, and a view of a natural landscape.
A resort with a pool, lush greenery, and a mountain view.
A wooden deck with a restaurant, overlooking a scenic landscape with a sunset view.
A spacious living area with a wooden ceiling, large windows, a sofa, and a coffee table.

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Parking included

Explore the area

View in a map
22 km Oeste de la Fortuna de San Carlos, 1.7 km del Volcán Arenal, La Fortuna, Alajuela, 21007
  • Place, Arenal Volcano National Park
    ‪1 min walk‬
VIP Access
Curated for quality and service, VIP Access stays consistently receive our highest guest ratings.
  • Expect exceptional service
  • Extra savings and perks for Rewards members
Learn more about VIP AccessOpens in a new window

Room options

View all photos for Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds

A hotel room with two beds, a balcony with a table and chairs, and a view of greenery outside.

Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
(35 reviews)
  • Garden view
  • 269 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

View all photos for Superior Room, Mountain View

A covered outdoor seating area with two people seated, overlooking a lush landscape with a mountain in the background.

Superior Room, Mountain View

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
(34 reviews)
  • Mountain view
  • 215 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Double Beds

View all photos for White Hawk Villa

A room with a large window offering a view of a mountain.

White Hawk Villa

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • Mountain view
  • 215 sq ft
  • 2 bedrooms
  • Sleeps 8
  • 2 King Beds, 2 Twin Beds and 2 Twin Trundle Beds

View all photos for Phil's Villa + Waterfall

A hotel room with a bed, a lamp, a window with a mountain view, and a towel on the bed.

Phil's Villa + Waterfall

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • Mountain view
  • 3 bedrooms
  • Sleeps 10
  • 3 Queen Beds

View all photos for House Economy - Shared Bathroom - Private Room

A lodge with a covered porch, a wooden deck, and a stone pathway leading to the entrance.

House Economy - Shared Bathroom - Private Room

8.8 out of 10
Excellent
(6 reviews)
  • Lake view
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

View all photos for Family Villa

A building with a covered entrance, a stone wall, and a gravel driveway.

Family Villa

  • Mountain view
  • 215 sq ft
  • 2 bedrooms
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 King Bed and 1 Queen Bed

HOUSE ECONOMY WITH SHARED BATHROOM

  • Sleeps 8

DOUBLE TWO QUEEN BEDS

  • Sleeps 4

QUADRUPLE SUPERIOR MOUNTAIN VIEW

  • Sleeps 6

You may also like

Ad
An aerial view of a resort with a central pool, surrounded by lush greenery and multiple levels of terraces.

The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort - Adults Only

La Fortuna
  • Pool
  • Hot tub
  • Breakfast included
  • Spa
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, 1,007 reviews
$231 nightly
The price is $261
Oct 17 - Oct 18
Total with taxes and fees
The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort - Adults Only

About the neighborhood

La Fortuna

Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails places you within 3 miles (5 km) of popular attractions like Lake Arenal and Costa Rica Sky Adventures. This 3-star lodge has 48 guestrooms and offers a full-service spa, an outdoor pool, and free self parking.
View more Lodges in La FortunaOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Arenal Volcano National Park - 1 min walk - 0.0 miles

Getting around

  • La Fortuna (FON-Arenal) - 48 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Shangri-La Gardens - ‬20 min drive
  • ‪Soda Tita Rosa - ‬33 min drive
  • ‪Lemnos Wetbar - ‬27 min drive
  • ‪Baldi Premium Bar - ‬29 min drive
  • ‪Soda Fortuna - ‬36 min drive

About this property

Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails

Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails features a full-service spa, an outdoor pool, and a children's pool. You can take advantage of free parking, along with an airport shuttle (available 24 hours) for USD 225 per vehicle one-way. Front-desk staff can assist with luggage storage, tours or tickets, and securing valuables. Other amenities at this hot springs lodge include free WiFi in public areas, a hot tub, and an arcade/game room.
Bathrooms have hair dryers and free toiletries. Other amenities include 2 bathrooms, balconies or patios, and private yards.
An outdoor pool, a children's pool, and a hot tub are on site.

The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.

Guests can pamper themselves with a trip to the onsite spa, which has 1 treatment room. Services include deep-tissue massages, hot stone massages, Swedish massages, and facials. A variety of treatment therapies are provided, including aromatherapy and reflexology. The spa is open daily.

Similar properties

A lush, tropical garden with a hot spring area, stone seating, and a variety of plants.
Hotel Los Lagos Spa & Resort
La Fortuna
  • Pool
  • Hot tub
  • Breakfast included
  • Spa
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, 1,625 reviews
$139 nightly
The price is $157
Oct 13 - Oct 14
Total with taxes and fees
Hotel Los Lagos Spa & Resort

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • 24-hour roundtrip airport shuttle on request for a surcharge
  • Area shuttle (surcharge)
  • Free self parking on site
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking available

Food and drink

  • Free cooked-to-order breakfast available daily 6:30 AM to 8:30 AM
  • A bar/lounge
  • A restaurant

Restaurants on site

  • El Jilguero

Things to do

  • Arcade/game room
  • Children's pool
  • Ecotours
  • Foosball table
  • Full-service spa
  • Hiking/biking trails
  • Horseback riding/rentals
  • Hot tub
  • Library
  • Outdoor pool
  • Playground
  • Table tennis
  • TV in common areas

Family friendly

  • Arcade/game room
  • Children's pool
  • Laundry facilities
  • Outdoor pool
  • Playground
  • Pool gate

Conveniences

  • Gift shop/newsstand
  • Laundry facilities
  • Limited-hour front desk
  • Luggage storage
  • Safe at front desk

Guest services

  • Housekeeping (daily)
  • Tour and ticket assistance

Business services

  • 2 meeting rooms

Outdoors

  • Garden
  • In a national park
  • In the mountains
  • Pool loungers
  • Terrace

Full-service spa

  • Aromatherapy
  • Body scrubs
  • Body wraps
  • Couples treatment rooms
  • Deep-tissue massages
  • Detox wraps
  • Facials
  • Hot stone massages
  • Prenatal massages
  • Reflexology
  • Spa open daily
  • Swedish massages
  • Treatment room

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Accessible airport shuttle
  • No elevator (single-level property)
  • Pool access ramp on site
  • Well-lit path to entrance
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)
  • Wheelchair-accessible concierge desk
  • Wheelchair-accessible lounge
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible pool
  • Wheelchair-accessible registration desk
  • Wheelchair-accessible restaurant

More

  • Built in 1992
  • Colonial architecture
  • Fireplace in lobby
  • Smoking not allowed

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 2 private bathrooms
  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

More

  • Ceiling fan
  • Laptop-compatible safe
  • Window screens

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3 PM; Check-in end time: 10 PM
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before noon

Special check-in instructions

The front desk is open daily from 7 AM - 10 PM
Front desk staffed during limited hours
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Front desk (limited hours)

Pets

  • This property doesn't allow pets or service animals

Children and extra beds

  • Up to 2 kids 8 years old and younger stay free, per registered adult, when using existing bedding

Property payment types

  • American Express
  • Discover
  • Mastercard
  • Visa

Important information

Fees

You'll be asked to pay these charges at the property:

  • Deposit: USD 200 per accommodation, per night

These are all of the charges provided to us by the property.

Optional extras

These fees and deposits will be charged at check-in, check-out, or the time of service.

  • Airport shuttle fee: USD 225 per vehicle (one-way, maximum occupancy 7)

This list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits might not include tax and are subject to change.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts credit cards and cash
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a smoke detector
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
  • Check-in: 3 PM
  • Check-out: noon
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
The front desk is available during limited hours. For convenient arrivals and departures, you can take advantage of the airport shuttle (available 24 hours), which is offered for a fee. Driving? This property offers free parking.

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit or credit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • This property accepts credit cards and cash.
  • Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher and a smoke detector.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • Pool access available from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
  • Registered guests are the only ones allowed in guestrooms.
  • There are no elevators.
  • No cribs or infant beds are available.
  • No rollaway or extra beds are available.
  • This property welcomes guests of all sexual orientations and gender identities (LGBTQ+ friendly).

Property is also known as

Arenal Observatory Lodge La Fortuna
Arenal Observatory Lodge
Arenal Observatory La Fortuna
Arenal Observatory
Arenal Observatory Hotel La Fortuna De San Carlos
Arenal Observatory & Trails
Arenal Observatory Lodge Spa
Arenal Observatory Lodge Trails
Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails Lodge
Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails La Fortuna
Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails Lodge La Fortuna

Frequently asked questions

Are free cancellation options available at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails?

Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails offers free cancellation on certain room rates. For specific requirements, take a look at the cancellation policy on Orbitz.

How much does it cost to stay at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails?

As of Oct 12, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails on Oct 14, 2026 start from $129, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

What's there to do around Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails?

This lodge is located in La Fortuna, close to Arenal Volcano National Park, Arenal Volcano, and La Fortuna Waterfall. You'll also find Lake Arenal and Costa Rica Sky Adventures within a short drive.

Is parking available on site at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails?

Yes, self parking is offered for free at the lodge. Wheelchair-accessible parking is also available for guests.

Is a spa located at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails?

There is a full-service spa available for guests to enjoy and services include deep-tissue massages, Swedish massages, detox wraps, and couples treatments.

Does Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails have a casino at the property?

No, Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails doesn't have a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails?

No, this lodge doesn't have an indoor pool; however, there are an outdoor pool and a hot tub. Guests have pool access between 9:00 AM and 10:00 PM.

What will couples enjoy most about a stay at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails?

There are plenty of amenities for couples at this lodge, including a restaurant, an outdoor pool, and a full-service spa.

Does Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails have a hot tub?

No, there isn't a spa tub at this lodge.

Does Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails feature a restaurant that includes a breakfast menu?

Yes, Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails serves free cooked-to-order breakfasts at El Jilguero each morning.

Will Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails allow pets to stay for free?

No, pets and service animals aren't allowed at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails.

Does Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails have connecting rooms available?

No, there aren't connecting guestrooms at this lodge.

How close is the airport from Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails?

The closest major airport to Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails is La Fortuna (FON-Arenal), which is 15.3 mi away (48 minutes by car).

Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails?

Yes, every guestroom at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails comes with a balcony/patio and some offer lake and mountain views.

Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails Reviews

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 815 out of 1003 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 138 out of 1003 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 37 out of 1003 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 8 out of 1003 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 5 out of 1003 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

9.6/10

Staff & service

9.4/10

Amenities

9.6/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Incredible place with views of the volcano and Lake Arenal, good hiking trails, nice restaurant with excellent service and food, and great amenities and services.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Beautiful place to relax and enjoy nature, clean rooms , delicious food and friendly staff.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Unbelievable gardens, very good food. Very nice and helpful employees.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great food, amazing staff, gorgeous view of the volcano! Highly recommend!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Amazing place to relax and enjoy any celebration. The stuff are nice,friendly and super helpful. I loved the place. 💯 recommend
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
It was nice.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The animal and bird sightings are wonderful here. As a solo female traveler, I felt safe and comfortable. The well-marked hiking trails and daily planned events to enrich your experience are top notch. I will be pleased to stay here again.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Rustic lodging with incredible trails, views, dynamic landscapes, and SOOO many animals!! If you are an animal lover, staying here is a must in La Fortuna!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Terrific location with view of volcano and deck for bird watching as well as many onsite free nature activities
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Beautiful place, views and gardens!
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Uniquely beautiful location and world class birding
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Access to birds, monkeys, and other wildlife was amazing - did not even need to leave the property to see most of them. Rooms do not have ac, so keep this in mind. Food at restaurant was great and staff was very helpful booking daily excursions.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The entire staff were great. The facility was well maintained and terrific. Highly recommend.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The room was amazing. The staff friendly and attentive. The grounds were beautiful with monkeys and birds, especially hummingbirds, happy in the trees and flowers.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The place was incredible in every way
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Highly recommend the villa
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Arenal observatory and lodge is a biodiversity and conservation gem! We saw so many animals and plants while on the property! The accommodations were great and in line with ecotourism. Highly recommend for nature lovers!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This place was exactly what we were looking for - it was right in the heart of the National Park and tucked away from the flashy touristy part of La Fortuna. The property and staff were lovely. 10/10 recommend this for your next vacation.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
It was a wonderful stay. Clean, great bed, attentive and helpful staff, food was excellent, massage was great too!
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Loved everything. Wish they had refrigerator in the room.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2026
Verified review

6/10 Okay

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
The property is very beautiful. It is not located close to anything.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Friendly staff at check-in. Great view from our room. Nice tours.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The Hotel Arenal Observatory is a privilege location at the bottom of the Arenal Volcano.Not other hotel in the area can beat this. Besides the trails are for everyone and the views are gorgeous. All the staff are so helpful,polite and with the intention and great desire for us to know their country.We will come back, hopefully in the near future with other members of our family. I will highly recommend this hotel if you want to reconnect with nature, feel peace, breath clean air and just feel peace surrounded by the multi diversity of fauna and flora of this magical place..
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Everyone was helpful
Stayed 2 nights in May 2026
Verified review

6/10 Okay

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Overall a great place to stay. We enjoyed the hiking trails and pool (though really could only use the hot tub as the pools were too cold/not heated). However, we were extremely turned off by the gate where they questioned where we were going every time we left which felt intrusive and completely inappropriate. They also seemed to try to charge us twice (knowingly) for a tour which was very dishonest and unfortunately similar to other places we visited in the touristy area of Arenal.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2026