Lodge
 Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa

Airport shuttle. Airport shuttle available at an additional charge. You can request this in the next step.

24 km Oeste de la fortuna de San Carlos, 21007 Fortuna, Costa Rica – Excellent location – show map

Excellent location – rated 9.6/10! (score from 976 reviews)

Real guests • Real stays • Real opinions

9.3
Wonderful
976 reviews

It is an absolute oasis. Perfect for people who are seeking to unwind and connect with nature. Absolutely beautiful!

Claudia United States of America

The food, service, location were fantastic and the rooms and grounds were clean. We saw monkeys, birds, coati, and it was a nice location for Arenal adventures.

Amy United States of America

This property was absolutely the best lodge I ever stayed at. It's super nice and has the best views of the volcano. There are so many trails to take on the property and the daily free tour gives you a great idea on how to get started. It felt like a luxury in the rainforest but also very ecologically involved.

Erkin Turkey

The views & grounds were amazing. We loved that there were so many trails to explore on the property. The restaurant was very good! Our favorites were the complimentary morning wildlife & plant tour as well as the night tour we paid for. Well worth it! Our guide was so knowledgeable and nice.

Shirley United States of America

Amazing view of Arenal volcano, great viewing deck outside the restaurant with volcano and lake views. Lots of birds and monkeys to be spotted. Wonderful grounds with nice pool and hot tub. Great staff.

Schreudersjordy Netherlands

Beautiful property, very helpful staff, lots of wildlife

Catherine United States of America

Excellent location, lots of birds, monkeys and other animals to observe without leaving the property. Extensive path network for hikes, pool and hot tub are great. Staff can’t be any more hospitable and the restaurant was excellent- especially if you like Costa Rican food!

Linda United States of America

location at the base of the volcano is amazing. great trails, great facilities. nice restaurant with excellent breakfast

Alice United States of America

Great stay at the lodge. Our apartment had an amazing view of the volcano (even though the top was covered in clouds throughout our stay). Rooms were extremely comfortable. Lots to in the area. Great to watch the birds on the deck by the feeding station. Also great walking trials to see the area, to go to a waterfall and spot wildlife. During our walks saw lots of frogs (especially by the frog pond), some snakes and different types of monkeys. Also did a night walk, which again seen lots of wildlife (even though it was raining hard) and very informative.

Rene United Kingdom

I liked pretty much everything, but the view to the volcano and the food of the restaurant is something out of this world!

Pablo Costa Rica
9.3
Wonderful
976 reviews
  • What guests loved the most:
  • “It is an absolute oasis. Perfect for people who are seeking to unwind and connect with nature. Absolutely beautiful!”
    Claudia Claudia United States of America United States of America
  • “The food, service, location were fantastic and the rooms and grounds were clean. We saw monkeys, birds, coati, and it was a nice location for Arenal adventures.”
    Amy Amy United States of America United States of America
  • “This property was absolutely the best lodge I ever stayed at. It's super nice and has the best views of the volcano.”
    Erkin Erkin Turkey Turkey
  • “The views & grounds were amazing. We loved that there were so many trails to explore on the property. The restaurant was very good!”
    Shirley Shirley United States of America United States of America
  • “Amazing view of Arenal volcano, great viewing deck outside the restaurant with volcano and lake views. Lots of birds and monkeys to be spotted. Wonderful grounds with nice pool and hot tub.”
    Schreudersjordy Schreudersjordy Netherlands Netherlands
  • “Beautiful property, very helpful staff, lots of wildlife”
    Catherine Catherine United States of America United States of America
  • “Excellent location, lots of birds, monkeys and other animals to observe without leaving the property. Extensive path network for hikes, pool and hot tub are great.”
    Linda Linda United States of America United States of America
  • “location at the base of the volcano is amazing. great trails, great facilities. nice restaurant with excellent breakfast”
    Alice Alice United States of America United States of America
  • “Great stay at the lodge. Our apartment had an amazing view of the volcano (even though the top was covered in clouds throughout our stay). Rooms were extremely comfortable. Lots to in the area.”
    Rene Rene United Kingdom United Kingdom
  • “I liked pretty much everything, but the view to the volcano and the food of the restaurant is something out of this world!”
    Pablo Pablo Costa Rica Costa Rica

Categories:

  • Staff9.5
  • Facilities9.4
  • Cleanliness9.5
  • Comfort9.4
  • Value for money8.9
  • Location 9.6
  • Free WiFi8.6
High score for Fortuna

You're eligible for a Genius discount at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa! To save at this property, all you have to do is sign in.

Surrounded by 860 private acres of tropical rainforest and featuring an on-site lake, a swimming pool, a sun terrace and games room, Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa is located within the Arenal Conservation Area, only 1.7 mi from the Arenal Volcano.

The rooms at this lodge feature tropical décor with wood finishes and are equipped with ceiling fan, safety box and a furnished terrace with views of the garden and the Arenal Volcano. The bathrooms are private and have showers.

The on-site restaurant serves international and local food for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and there is also a bar. A guided morning walk and the breakfast buffet is included for all guests.

Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa also features an on-site bird sanctuary that has around 500 different species of birds; other recommended activities include tours of Arenal Volcano's lava flows, exploring the several nearby waterfalls, or climbing the 100 feet. (100 feet.) wildlife observation tower, The Nest. Arenal Lake is an excellent site to practice sports fishing. There are also 6.8 mi of walking trails throughout the property, or guests can just relax in the hot tub or have a massage in the spa.

The property is 5.6 mi from the hot springs at Tabacon River and 14 mi from La Fortuna Village. The Daniel Oduber International Airport is 2 hours and 30 minutes’ drive away.

Couples in particular like the location – they rated it 9.7 for a two-person trip.

Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa has been welcoming Booking.com guests since Apr 11, 2013

Show me more

Most popular amenities

1 swimming pool
Free parking
Free WiFi
Spa
Airport shuttle
Bar

Property Highlights

Top Location: Highly rated by recent guests (9.6)

Want a great night's sleep? This property was highly rated for its very comfy beds.

Free private parking

Saved to 5480 lists

Availability

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4 reasons to choose Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa

  • Prices you can't beat!
  • Booking is safe
  • Manage your bookings online
  • The staff speaks English

Guest reviews

9.3
Wonderful · 976 reviews
Read all reviews
Categories:
  • Staff9.5
  • Facilities9.4
  • Cleanliness9.5
  • Comfort9.4
  • Value for money8.9
  • Location 9.6
  • Free WiFi8.6
High score for Fortuna

Select topics to read reviews:

See what guests loved the most:

  • Claudia
    United States of AmericaUnited States of America
    “It is an absolute oasis. Perfect for people who are seeking to unwind and connect with nature. Absolutely beautiful!”
  • Amy
    United States of AmericaUnited States of America
    “The food, service, location were fantastic and the rooms and grounds were clean. We saw monkeys, birds, coati, and it was a nice location for Arenal adventures.”
  • Erkin
    TurkeyTurkey
    “This property was absolutely the best lodge I ever stayed at. It's super nice and has the best views of the volcano. There are so many trails to take on the property and the daily free tour gives you a great idea on how to get started. It felt like...”
  • Shirley
    United States of AmericaUnited States of America
    “The views & grounds were amazing. We loved that there were so many trails to explore on the property. The restaurant was very good! Our favorites were the complimentary morning wildlife & plant tour as well as the night tour we paid for. Well...”
  • Schreudersjordy
    NetherlandsNetherlands
    “Amazing view of Arenal volcano, great viewing deck outside the restaurant with volcano and lake views. Lots of birds and monkeys to be spotted. Wonderful grounds with nice pool and hot tub. Great staff.”
  • Catherine
    United States of AmericaUnited States of America
    “Beautiful property, very helpful staff, lots of wildlife”
  • Linda
    United States of AmericaUnited States of America
    “Excellent location, lots of birds, monkeys and other animals to observe without leaving the property. Extensive path network for hikes, pool and hot tub are great. Staff can’t be any more hospitable and the restaurant was excellent- especially if...”
  • Alice
    United States of AmericaUnited States of America
    “location at the base of the volcano is amazing. great trails, great facilities. nice restaurant with excellent breakfast”
  • Rene
    United KingdomUnited Kingdom
    “Great stay at the lodge. Our apartment had an amazing view of the volcano (even though the top was covered in clouds throughout our stay). Rooms were extremely comfortable. Lots to in the area. Great to watch the birds on the deck by the feeding...”
  • Pablo
    Costa RicaCosta Rica
    “I liked pretty much everything, but the view to the volcano and the food of the restaurant is something out of this world!”
Property questions and answers
Browse questions from guests for anything extra you want to know about the property

The property usually replies within a few days

  • Are there other restaurant options available nearby? What is the distance between hotel and downtown?
    The closest restaurants are locosted on the way to la Fortuna about 30minutes drive from the hotel
    Answered on October 20, 2019
  • Las habitaciones no tienen aire acondicionado?
    las habitaciones cuentan con abanicos de techo
    Answered on January 11, 2021
  • Are there hot springs on the property?
    Hello, no we dont have hotsping in the property. We do have a hot tub and lots of trails to enjoy wildlife and nature.
    Answered on September 11, 2021
  • Can we request just one bed in the room instead of two?
    Hello !!! yes, you can request a room with one king bed ....
    Answered on April 7, 2021
  • Is the shuttle from the international airport to the hotel free?
    Hello!!! The cost for a transfer service from San Jose or Liberia internaional airport to Arenal Observatory lodge & Spa is US$190 for a one way transfer service and takes about 3.5 hours drive
    Answered on April 3, 2021

  • Still looking?

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Area Info *
Guests loved walking around the neighborhood!
Excellent location – show map
What's nearby
  • Sky Adventures Arenal
    2 miles
  • Arenal 1968 Trail
    2.8 miles
  • La Fortuna Waterfall
    3 miles
  • Arenal Eco Zoo
    3 miles
  • Ecoglide Arenal Park
    3.5 miles
  • Kalambu Hot Springs
    3.9 miles
  • Termalitas del Arenal
    3.9 miles
  • Ecotermales Fortuna Spa
    4.1 miles
  • Arenal Natura Ecological Park
    4.7 miles
  • Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park
    4.7 miles
Top attractions
  • Children's Eternal Rainforest
    6.6 miles
  • Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve
    8.7 miles
  • Selvatura Adventure Park
    8.8 miles
  • Cavernas de Venado
    9 miles
  • Sky Adventures Monteverde
    9.6 miles
  • Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve
    10.9 miles
  • The Bat Jungle
    11.3 miles
  • Monteverde Orchid Garden
    11.3 miles
  • Monteverde Cheese Factory
    11.3 miles
  • Monteverde Butterfly Gardens
    11.5 miles
Natural Beauty
  • Mountain Arenal Volcano
    1.7 miles
  • Lake Arenal Lake
    2.2 miles
  • River Agua Caliente
    0.2 miles
Closest Airports
  • Juan Santamaría International Airport
    45.7 miles
  • San Carlos Airport
    48.6 miles
  • Tobías Bolaños International Airport
    50.9 miles
* All distances are measured in straight lines. Actual travel distances may vary.
Missing some information? Yes / No
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1 Restaurant On Site

    El Jilguero

    Food: Local

    Menu: À la carte

Amenities of Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa

Most popular amenities

1 swimming pool
Free parking
Free WiFi
Spa
Airport shuttle
Bar
Outdoors
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Sun deck
  • Terrace
  • Garden
Activities
  • Happy hour Additional charge
  • Walking tours Additional charge
  • Horseback riding Additional charge
  • Cycling
  • Hiking
  • Canoeing Off-site Additional charge
  • Ping-pong
  • Playground
  • Game room
  • Fishing Off-site Additional charge
Food & Drink
  • Fruit Additional charge
  • Wine/Champagne Additional charge
  • Kids' meals Additional charge
  • Bar
  • Restaurant
Internet
WiFi is available in public areas and is free of charge.
Parking
Free private parking is available at a location nearby (reservation is not needed).
  • Accessible parking
  • Electric vehicle charging station
  • Secure parking
Transportation
  • Airport drop-off Additional charge
  • Airport pickup Additional charge
Front Desk Services
  • Baggage storage
  • Tour desk
Entertainment & Family Services
  • Board games/Puzzles
Cleaning Services
  • Daily housekeeping
  • Laundry Additional charge
Safety & security
  • Fire extinguishers
  • CCTV in common areas
  • Smoke alarms
  • Security alarm
  • Key card access
  • 24-hour security
  • Safe
General
  • Shared lounge/TV area
  • Airport shuttle (additional charge)
  • Shuttle service (additional charge)
  • Smoke-free property
  • Car rental
  • Packed lunches
  • Non-smoking rooms
Outdoor swimming pool
Free! All pools are free of charge
  • Open all year
  • Opening times
  • All ages welcome
  • Fenced pool
  • Beach chairs/Loungers
  • Infinity pool
  • Pool with view
  • Shallow end
Spa
  • Full-body massage Additional charge
  • Spa/Wellness packages
  • Spa facilities
  • Body wrap
  • Body scrub
  • Body treatments
  • Facial treatments
  • Beauty services
  • Beach chairs/Loungers
  • Pool/Beach towels
  • Hot tub/Jacuzzi
  • Massage Additional charge
  • Spa Additional charge
Languages Spoken
  • English
  • Spanish
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Sustainability initiatives
This property has taken steps to provide more sustainable and eco-friendly travel

House rules Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa takes special requests – add in the next step!

Check-in

3:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Guests are required to show a photo ID and credit card at check-in

Check-out

7:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Cancellation/
prepayment

Cancellation and prepayment policies vary according to accommodations type. Please enter the dates of your stay and check what conditions apply to your preferred room.

Curfew

The entrance to the property is closed between 11:00 PM and 5:00 AM

Children & Beds

Child policies

Children of all ages are welcome.

Children 9 and above are considered adults at this property.

To see correct prices and occupancy info, add the number and ages of children in your group to your search.

Crib and extra bed policies

There's no capacity for cribs at this property.

This property doesn't offer extra beds.

Age restriction

The minimum age for check-in is 18

Pets

Pets are not allowed.

Mastercard Visa Discover American Express Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa accepts these cards and reserves the right to temporarily hold an amount prior to arrival.

The fine print

Please note that the road to reach this lodge is not in optimal conditions. Guests can rent a 4x4 vehicle to reach the property.

In accordance with government guidelines to minimize transmission of the coronavirus (COVID-19), this property may request additional documentation from guests to validate identity, travel itinerary, and other relevant info on dates where such guidelines exist.

In response to the coronavirus (COVID-19), additional safety and sanitation measures are in effect at this property.

Food and beverage services at this property may be limited or unavailable due to the coronavirus (COVID-19).

Due to the coronavirus (COVID-19), this property is taking steps to protect the safety of guests and staff. Certain services and amenities may be reduced or unavailable as a result.

Due to the coronavirus (COVID-19), this property has reduced reception and service hours.

Please inform Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa of your expected arrival time in advance. You can use the Special Requests box when booking, or contact the property directly using the contact details in your confirmation.

Guests are required to show a photo ID and credit card upon check-in. Please note that all Special Requests are subject to availability and additional charges may apply.

FAQs about Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa

  • Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa has 1 restaurant:

    • El Jilguero

  • The prices at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa may vary depending on your stay (e.g. dates, hotel's policy etc.). To see prices, enter your dates.

  • Guests staying at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa can enjoy a highly-rated breakfast during their stay (guest review score: 8.8).

    Breakfast option(s) include:

    • À la carte

  • Check-in at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa is from 3:00 PM, and check-out is until 12:00 PM.

  • Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa offers the following activities/services (charges may apply):

    • Spa
    • Hot tub/Jacuzzi
    • Massage
    • Cycling
    • Hiking
    • Playground
    • Game room
    • Ping-pong
    • Fishing
    • Canoeing
    • Horseback riding
    • Walking tours
    • Spa facilities
    • Happy hour
    • Body scrub
    • Full-body massage
    • Facial treatments
    • Spa/Wellness packages
    • Body wrap
    • Beauty services
    • Body treatments

  • Yes, there's a hot tub. You can find out more about this and the other facilities at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa on this page.

  • Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa is 5 miles from the center of Fortuna.

  • Yes, this hotel has a pool. See details about the pool and other facilities on this page.

  • Room options at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa include:

    • Double
    • Villa

  • From the nearest airport, you can get to Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa by:

    • Airport shuttle (arranged by property) 3h 30min