Hotel El Tucano Resort & Thermal Spa

3.5 star property

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Hotel El Tucano Resort & Thermal Spa

A well-lit building with a stone facade, a pond, and a landscaped garden at dusk.
A stone building with a wooden door, a pool, and lush greenery in the background.
A woman in a hot tub with a view of lush greenery and a pool outside.
A resort with a swimming pool, lush greenery, and a well-lit building.
A large, circular building with a balcony, surrounded by well-maintained gardens and trees.

Reviews

7.4 out of 10
Good

Popular amenities

  • Hot tub
  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi

Explore the area

View in a map
7 km North from Central Park, Ciudad Quesada, La Palmeria, Alajuela
  • Place, Juan Castro Blanco National Park
    ‪6 min drive‬
  • Place, Quesada City Park
    ‪15 min drive‬
  • Place, Costa Rica Nature Pavilion
    ‪52 min drive‬
  • Airport, San José (SJO-Juan Santamaría Intl.)
    ‪122 min drive‬

Room options

Junior Suite

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(5 reviews)
  • Garden view
  • 420 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds
  • Free WiFi

Junior Triple Room

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(4 reviews)
  • Mountain view
  • 226 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Queen Bed and 1 Twin Bed
  • Free WiFi

Master Suite

  • Mountain view
  • 538 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free WiFi

Basic Room

7.0 out of 10
Good
(4 reviews)
  • Garden view
  • 226 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Double Bed
  • Free WiFi

ESTANDAR SUPERIOR

  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Queen Bed and 1 Twin Bed
  • Free WiFi

Family Room

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(1 review)
  • Garden view
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 5
  • 1 Twin Bed, 1 Double Bed and 1 Queen Bed
  • Free WiFi

ESTANDAR PLUS

  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Double Bed
  • Free WiFi

About the neighborhood

La Palmeria

Located 1 mi (1.6 km) from Juan Castro Blanco National Park, Hotel El Tucano Resort & Thermal Spa is within a 15-minute drive of Quesada City Park. This 3.5-star resort has 87 guestrooms and offers conveniences like free breakfast, a full-service spa, and an outdoor pool.

What's nearby

  • Juan Castro Blanco National Park - 6 min drive - 1.6 miles
  • Quesada City Park - 15 min drive - 7.8 miles
  • Camara de Ganaderos de San Carlos - 42 min drive - 25.9 miles
  • Laguna Río Cuarto - 48 min drive - 19.6 miles
  • Costa Rica Nature Pavilion - 52 min drive - 31.3 miles

Getting around

  • Juan Santamaria Intl. Airport (SJO) - 127 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Tilapias Quecos - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Cosechas - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Restaurante Francis - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Soda Mac Taco - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Quecos Steak House - ‬3 min drive

About this property

Hotel El Tucano Resort & Thermal Spa

At Hotel El Tucano Resort & Thermal Spa, guests enjoy a full-service spa, an outdoor pool, and a lazy river. There's free parking and an airport shuttle for a fee. Multilingual staff at the front desk are standing by 24/7 to help with luggage storage, tours or tickets, and securing valuables. Other amenities at this hot springs resort include a gym, a sauna, and free WiFi in public areas.
TVs come with cable channels, and free WiFi keeps guests connected. Bathrooms offer hair dryers and free toiletries. Safes, phones, and desks are also available.
An outdoor pool and a hot tub are on site. Other recreational amenities include an outdoor tennis court, a lazy river, a sauna, and a fitness center.

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

The onsite spa has 6 treatment rooms including rooms for couples and outdoor treatment areas. Services include facials, body wraps, body scrubs, and body treatments. A variety of treatment therapies are provided, including aromatherapy, Ayurvedic, and hydrotherapy. The spa is equipped with a mud bath, a sauna, a hot tub, and Turkish bath/hammam. The spa is open select days. Children under 8 years old are not allowed in the spa without adult supervision. Guests under 12 years old are not allowed in the spa. There are hot springs/mineral springs on site.

Similar properties

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Roundtrip airport shuttle (surcharge)
  • Free self parking on site

Food and drink

  • Free full breakfast
  • A bar/lounge
  • A poolside bar
  • A restaurant
  • Snack bar/deli

Restaurants on site

  • La Foresta

Things to do

  • Full-service spa
  • Gym
  • Hot tub
  • Lazy river
  • Mini golf
  • Outdoor pool
  • Outdoor tennis court
  • Sauna
  • Steam room

Family friendly

  • Laundry facilities
  • Lazy river
  • Mini golf
  • Outdoor pool
  • Snack bar/deli

Conveniences

  • 24-hour front desk
  • Gift shop/newsstand
  • Hair salon
  • Laundry facilities
  • Luggage storage
  • Safe at front desk

Guest services

  • Housekeeping (daily)
  • Multilingual staff
  • Tour and ticket assistance

Business services

  • Business center
  • Meeting rooms

Outdoors

  • Garden
  • In the mountains
  • Picnic area
  • Terrace

Full-service spa

  • 6 treatment rooms
  • Aromatherapy
  • Ayurvedic treatments
  • Body scrubs
  • Body wraps
  • Couples treatment rooms
  • Facials
  • Hot tub
  • Hot/mineral springs
  • Hydrotherapy
  • Manicures/pedicures
  • Massage
  • Mud bath
  • Outdoor treatment areas
  • Sauna
  • Spa open select days
  • Turkish bath

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • No elevator
  • Wheelchair accessibility
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)
  • Wheelchair-accessible registration desk

More

  • Banquet hall
  • Smoking not allowed

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided
  • Hypo-allergenic bedding

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • TV with cable channels

Food and drink

  • Room service

More

  • Desk
  • Phone
  • Safe

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 2 PM; Check-in end time: midnight
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before noon

Special check-in instructions

Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

  • This property doesn't allow pets or service animals

Property payment types

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit 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; cash is not accepted
Cashless transactions are available
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
Please note that cultural norms and guest policies may differ by country and by property; the policies listed are provided by the property
  • Check-in: 2 PM
  • Check-out: noon
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
The front desk is open 24 hours a day. For convenient arrivals and departures, you can take advantage of the airport shuttle (fees apply). 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.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit 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. Cash is not accepted. 
  • Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher.
  • Cashless payment methods are available for all transactions.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • Reservations need to be made in advance for massage services and spa treatments. Contact the resort at the phone number listed on your booking confirmation.
  • There are no elevators.
  • No cribs or infant beds are available.

Property is also known as

El Tucano
Hotel El Tucano Resort Thermal Spa La Palmeria
El Tucano Thermal Spa Aguas Zarcas
Hotel El Tucano Resort & Thermal Spa
Hotel El Tucano Resort & Thermal Spa Aguas Zarcas
El Tucano Resort And Thermal Spa
Occidental El Tucano Hotel
Occidental El Tucano Resort
Hotel El Tucano Resort Thermal Spa Aguas Zarcas
El Tucano Resort & Thermal Spa Costa Rica/San Carlos
El Tucano Resort & Thermal Hotel San Carlos
El Tucano Thermal Spa La Palmeria
Tucano Thermal La Palmeria
Tucano & Thermal La Palmeria
Hotel El Tucano Resort Thermal Spa
Hotel El Tucano Resort & Thermal Spa Resort
Hotel El Tucano Resort & Thermal Spa La Palmeria
Hotel El Tucano Resort & Thermal Spa Resort La Palmeria

Frequently asked questions

Are free cancellation options available at Hotel El Tucano Resort & Thermal Spa?

Hotel El Tucano Resort & Thermal Spa offers free cancellation on some room rates. If you'd like to learn more, take a look at the cancellation policy on Orbitz.

How much does it cost to stay at Hotel El Tucano Resort & Thermal Spa?

As of Jul 2, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Hotel El Tucano Resort & Thermal Spa on Jul 3, 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 see around Hotel El Tucano Resort & Thermal Spa?

This resort is located in La Palmeria within a short 19-minute walk of Juan Castro Blanco National Park. You'll also find Quesada City Park and Platanar Volcano nearby.

Is parking available on site at Hotel El Tucano Resort & Thermal Spa?

Yes, self parking is offered for free at the resort.

Is a spa located at Hotel El Tucano Resort & Thermal Spa?

There is a full-service spa available for guests to enjoy and services include body wraps, mud baths, hot springs, and Ayurvedic treatments. The spa is not open daily but only on select days.

Does Hotel El Tucano Resort & Thermal Spa feature a casino on the premises?

No, Hotel El Tucano Resort & Thermal Spa doesn't have a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at Hotel El Tucano Resort & Thermal Spa?

No, this resort doesn't have an indoor pool; however, there are an outdoor pool and a hot tub.

Is Hotel El Tucano Resort & Thermal Spa good for couples?

There are many amenities for couples at this resort, including an al fresco restaurant and an outdoor pool plus some guestrooms feature a private indoor hot tub.

Does Hotel El Tucano Resort & Thermal Spa have a hot tub?

No, but this resort does have hot/mineral springs.

Does Hotel El Tucano Resort & Thermal Spa have a restaurant that serves breakfast?

Yes, Hotel El Tucano Resort & Thermal Spa serves free full breakfasts at La Foresta.

Will Hotel El Tucano Resort & Thermal Spa allow pets to stay for free?

No, pets and service animals aren't allowed at Hotel El Tucano Resort & Thermal Spa.

Does Hotel El Tucano Resort & Thermal Spa have connecting rooms available?

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

How close is the airport from Hotel El Tucano Resort & Thermal Spa?

The closest major airport to Hotel El Tucano Resort & Thermal Spa is La Fortuna (FON-Arenal), which is about 19 mi away. Another top airport is Juan Santamaria Intl. Airport (SJO), which is around 28 mi away.

Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at Hotel El Tucano Resort & Thermal Spa?

Yes, some guestrooms at this resort offer a balcony/patio where guests can enjoy garden and mountain views.

Hotel El Tucano Resort & Thermal Spa Reviews

Reviews

7.4

Good

Rating 10 - Excellent. 125 out of 384 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 115 out of 384 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 69 out of 384 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 45 out of 384 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 30 out of 384 reviews

7.8/10

Cleanliness

7.6/10

Staff & service

7.2/10

Amenities

6.8/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ramakant

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Great location
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Deyanira

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The spa was relaxing. Everything was excellent
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

6/10 Okay

Srinivas

Rooms are old and bathrooms doesn’t flush properly. There are no other attractions around and have to go to la fortuna for any activity which is an hour drive. The resort is good with thermal spas and pools .
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

8/10 Good

jeffrey

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Disliked: Amenities
Staff was courteous.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sharla

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great place to stay.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2024
Verified

6/10 Okay

D

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Just a heads up. All locals. Pool area in disrepair. Does not look as good as the pictures. People are great. They are quick to respond to requests. People at the desk awesome.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Pratik

Liked: Cleanliness
Its a family friendly hotel. Hot sprinds are nice. Breakfast was also good. Hotel building is bit old and washrooms were average cleaned. Only 2 towels were left initially. No comforter in the room. Front staff was nice and they gave them to us.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Rohn Thomas

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
We very much enjoyed our stay and will return. The natural beauty of this location is unmatched!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
Verified

2/10 Terrible

jobi

Disliked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The toilets dont work most of the time so maintenance has to be called atleast once a day to get the water running. Breakfast is free but EVERYDAY it is Horrible eggs, sausage plantains, and rice...location is far away from most attractions. Rooms were dirty however housekeeping states they come everyday. 2 towels for a family of 4. Absolute NIGHTMARE!!!
Stayed 5 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Timothy

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The local food was excellent
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Martha

There were very nice and courteous people. I would suggest that they should keep the place better, clean the areas from debris, making repairs from areas were the people are walking and watching the nature. There is an area around the river where there are a lot garbage and old objects that could be thrown away and the area would be cleaned and looked better.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Abel

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Definitely a great experience, enjoyable place.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2023
Verified

8/10 Good

Catalina

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great breakfast included!
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nazareno

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Nice hotel
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2022
Verified

6/10 Okay

PRASANNA

Disliked: Staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Not as expected
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jamie

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very large spacious rooms...Excellent customer service
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

jeff

Liked: Staff & service
Great pools and sauna
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jaishiri

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Beautiful setting!

Our family of 5 had a great stay! Staff was very friendly, breakfast included was delicious and fresh, and the location and setting is stunning! The hot-spring pool is open 24 hours and the property has multiple pools, a sauna and a beautiful hike through the gorgeous grounds with a waterfall. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024
Verified

8/10 Good

Ravi

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Staff was very friendly and always eager to help
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2024
Verified

8/10 Good

Maria

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The river and pools was the best part.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Julio

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great for elders
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Venkataramana

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very clean but looks old needs renovation. Near by two trails of 2 km to hike on and hot water pools. Good location to get out of town to spend time in the property in a forest. Our family really liked the stay, breakfast and dinner.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024
Verified

8/10 Good

gustavo

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The nature arrond the place.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2024
Verified

8/10 Good

Jessica Burgos

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Nice and relaxing
Verified

8/10 Good

Kathi

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I loved the large thermal water pool, and my husband loved the steam room, warm pool and cool pool. We also liked being in an environment with the majority of people being Costaricense, as we weren't interested in an exclusive tourist resort.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2025