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Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails

3.0 star property
Colonial lodge with a full-service spa and free breakfast
VIP Access

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Photo gallery for Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails

Step into a charming two-story home with a spacious porch and scenic views.
Enjoy the serene views of the surrounding landscape from this outdoor deck, overlooking the scenic Los Monos River Trail.
Relax in a spacious area with high ceilings, featuring a sofa, chess table, and leather couch, offering views of a serene landscape.
Experience tranquility amidst lush gardens and breathtaking mountain views.
Relax in this spacious living area with a high ceiling, sliding glass door to a balcony, and comfortable seating for two.

Popular amenities

  • Bar
  • Pool

Explore the area

Map
22 km Oeste de la Fortuna de San Carlos, 1.7 km del Volcán Arenal, La Fortuna, Alajuela, 21007
  • Arenal Volcano
  • Costa Rica Sky Adventures
    ‪11 min drive‬
  • La Fortuna Waterfall
    ‪43 min drive‬
  • La Fortuna (FON-Arenal)
    ‪41 min drive‬
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
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Room options

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

House Economy - Shared Bathroom - Private Room | 1 bedroom, in-room safe, bed sheets

House Economy - Shared Bathroom - Private Room

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

View all photos for Superior Room, Mountain View

Superior Room, Mountain View | 1 bedroom, in-room safe, bed sheets

Superior Room, Mountain View

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

View all photos for White Hawk Villa

White Hawk Villa | 1 bedroom, in-room safe, bed sheets

White Hawk Villa

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

View all photos for Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds

Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds | 1 bedroom, in-room safe, bed sheets

Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
(25 reviews)
  • 269 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

View all photos for Phil's Villa + Waterfall

Phil's Villa + Waterfall | 1 bedroom, in-room safe, bed sheets

Phil's Villa + Waterfall

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

About the neighborhood

La Fortuna

Located 2.8 mi (4.6 km) from Lake Arenal, Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails is within a 15-minute drive of other popular attractions like Costa Rica Sky Adventures. This 3-star lodge has 48 guestrooms and offers a full-service spa, an outdoor pool, and free self parking.
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What's nearby

  • Costa Rica Sky Adventures - 11 min drive - 2.9 miles
  • Arenal Volcano National Park - 22 min drive - 7.6 miles
  • Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park - 28 min drive - 9.6 miles
  • Ecotermales Fortuna - 32 min drive - 13.4 miles
  • La Fortuna Waterfall - 43 min drive - 17.5 miles

Getting around

  • La Fortuna (FON-Arenal) - 50 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Virgita Ristorante - ‬28 min drive
  • ‪Restaurante Río Lounge - ‬39 min drive
  • ‪Agua Ardiente Pool Bar - ‬21 min drive
  • ‪Red Frog Coffee Roaster - ‬31 min drive
  • ‪North Fields Café - ‬32 min drive

About this property

Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails

Colonial lodge with a full-service spa and free breakfast
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 tours or tickets, luggage storage, and securing valuables. Other amenities at this hot springs lodge include free WiFi in public areas, a hot tub, and an arcade/game room.
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.

Languages

English, Spanish

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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
  • Eco-friendly cleaning products used
  • Fireplace in lobby
  • Smoking not allowed

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Food and drink

  • Coffee/tea maker

More

  • Ceiling fan
  • Eco-friendly toiletries
  • Laptop-compatible safe
  • LED lighting
  • 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

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

Important information

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, 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 and cash
This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products
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, 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 and cash.
  • This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products.
  • 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.

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.

Will I be able to park at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails?

Yes, self parking is offered for free at the lodge. 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, prenatal massages, couples treatments, and reflexology.

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 do couples enjoy most about Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails?

There are plenty of amenities for couples at this lodge, including an outdoor pool, a bar, and a restaurant.

Does Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails have a hot tub?

Yes, this lodge has a spa tub.

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?

No, this lodge doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

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 15.4 mi away (50 minutes by car).

Are there rooms with balconies at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails?

Yes, every guestroom at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails comes with a balcony with some featuring lake or garden views.

Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails Reviews

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 690 out of 866 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 140 out of 866 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 29 out of 866 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 4 out of 866 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 3 out of 866 reviews

9.6/10

Cleanliness

9.6/10

Staff & service

9.4/10

Amenities

9.6/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.8/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Carrie

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The lodge was fabulous. It’s definitely more secluded but that’s exactly what I as hoping for. The weather came through for us and we had stunning views of the volcano out our window/patio area. I enjoyed walking the trails and birdwatching. We found about 40 different species with a guide in 2 hours. The rooms were comfy and clean. The restaurant had a free breakfast which was much more than a buffet. Dining at night was pretty good. I wish there were a few more options at the restaurant. Oh also saw spider monkeys on the grounds. Great place. Wish I had more time there
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

praveen kumar

Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Susan, Cohasset

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Absolutely wonderful place to stay in the Arenal Volcano area. We were there for five nights and enjoyed seeing many species of birds both from their large observation deck and on the birding walk with Nestor and the Nature walks with Christian. The view of the volcano and lovely Arenal Lake is magnificent! Also saw several cute and friendly coatis and a spider monkey mama cuddling her baby up in the trees. The staff, though, is the BEST part of staying here! They are all friendly, attentive and accommodating to your wishes or needs. Can't say enough good things about this aspect of the hotel! Muchas gracias por la Pura Vida!!!
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Richard

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The property has an excellent location. The restaurant is also really good. Our first room a short drive away had a very nice balcony. We upgraded to the volcano view room on the 2nd night but the room we were given was different from the photos, very small and not large enough for 3 people. The front desk agreed to move us and after some discussion it was resolved.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Alison

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Our two-day retreat at Arenal Observatory Lodge was nothing short of magical. Nestled amidst the lush rainforest, the lodge offers an unparalleled connection to nature. Waking up to a symphony of birds and the breathtaking view of the volcano was a rejuvenating experience for the soul. The abundance of birdlife and plant species made every moment a discovery. The well-maintained trails and observation decks provided serene spots to immerse ourselves in the natural beauty surrounding us. On our final evening, we dined at the lodge’s restaurant, El Jilguero. The meal was exquisite! From starters to desserts, compliments to the chef. What truly set our experience apart was the warmth and friendliness of the staff. Their genuine hospitality made us feel welcomed and cared for throughout our visit. Arenal Observatory Lodge isn’t just a place to stay; it’s a sanctuary that nourishes the spirit and reconnects you with nature. We left feeling refreshed, inspired, and eager to return.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Maureen

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

Well recomended

Wonderful area, good bird watching with feeders. The trails are challenging and very steep. Breakfast was great, and room was excellent with a terrace.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

marie

Liked: Amenities
nice welcoming , beautiful view
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mario

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
A very peaceful spot. Nice and well marked trails with an abundance of birds and insects to see.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Maryann

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
We were so headed that we decided to stay here. It was fantastic. Location, grounds, amenities. I highly recommend it
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Prema

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
It was an amazing experience!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

8/10 Good

Cathy

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
A friend and I stayed here for a week on a birding trip to Costa Rica. We found most aspects of AOL to be good, but we really disliked our restaurant experience. I have food allergies and gave the staff a translated card explaining what I can and cannot eat. This approach worked well in every other place we stayed, but not at AOL. I was provided with a meal that I was told the next night was not appropriate for my diet. So why did they give me that meal the first night? The exact same thing happened another night. On yet another day I ordered hummus with gluten free bread, only to find that the bread was still frozen. And yet again on another day, I ordered hummus with gluten free bread, only to discover that the bread on my plate was not gluten free. For an establishment that advertises their high quality restaurant and high prices, this is just not acceptable. As you can imagine, by the time I left after a week, I was quite ill.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mike

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Shreyaben

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Daryl

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Beautiful property and excellent staff
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

brian

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
isolated quiet and good staff.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mathew

Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Carolyn

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Wonderful place, up close to volcano, beautiful grounds, flowers and birds everywhere. Pictures don't do it justice. Staff all extremely helpful, we had a flat tire the last day of our trip and had a flight to catch - one staff member took us to an air pump on site, but then we discovered the nail in the tire, so another staff member helped us put on the spare and we managed to make our flight! So very grateful! Food delicious at the restaurant as well. Hope to come back here some day.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jeffrey

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Wonderful property! Extremely well managed and professional, friendly and helpful staff. The best of Costa Rica is well represented here. Pura vida!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

8/10 Good

Stephen, Shreveport

Liked: Staff & service, property conditions & facilities
The property grounds and hiking trails were amazing. The road to get there was rough.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Daniel

Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Stephen

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

Arenal Observatory adventure

We absolutely loved our stay at the Observatory Lodge. Such a beautiful location, lovely room, helpful staff especially Christien our guide on the first morning - we learned so much about the flora and fauna. The setting was stunning, view of the volcano myriad birds and animals - difficult to express more how wonderful our stay was. Steve and Sally
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Douglas

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lynne

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We loved being so close to the volcano and waking up to a group of coatis on our deck. Hiking was fabulous and the staff was wonderful.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Steven, Centerville

Traveled with family and small children, Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
3 night stay Und of February with 2 adults and 3 boys under 12. This place was a Peacful & Serine Jungle Stay. This property exceededed expectations. From gaming rooms, pool, hot tub, dining. Walk right out to the trails with a short drive to Lafortuna. We Hiked, did horseback riding, ziplines and swam waterfalls. We do recommend rental car. Down side is there is No AC but evening are cool in the jungel and a ceiling fan helps. Also no mini fridge or ice machines we had to get it from the dining facility. This place is well kept with a natural feel. Definitely recommend.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025

8/10 Good

Nancy

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
comfortable rooms, clean, walkable trails
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025

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