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Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails

3.0 star property
Travelers can take in spectacular views of Lake Arenal while relaxing or enjoy family fun at the playground and arcade - perfect for all ages

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Terrace/patio - Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails (La Fortuna)
Front of property - Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails (La Fortuna)
White Hawk Villa | In-room safe, bed sheets - Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails (La Fortuna)
Breakfast, lunch, dinner served; international cuisine - Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails (La Fortuna)
Poolside bar - Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails (La Fortuna)
Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails near Lake Arenal offers a peaceful retreat with free breakfast, garden access, and spa services. Enjoy terrace views, hiking, biking, or horseback riding nearby. Features high-speed WiFi in public areas and an outdoor pool with sun loungers.

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Parking included
  • Restaurant

Room options

Available filters for rooms
Showing 5 of 5 rooms

View all photos for Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds

Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds | In-room safe, bed sheets

Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
(31 reviews)
  • Garden view
  • 25 sq m
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

View all photos for Superior Room, Mountain View

Superior Room, Mountain View | In-room safe, bed sheets

Superior Room, Mountain View

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
(33 reviews)
  • Mountain view
  • 20 sq m
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Double Beds

View all photos for White Hawk Villa

White Hawk Villa | In-room safe, bed sheets

White Hawk Villa

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

View all photos for Phil's Villa + Waterfall

Phil's Villa + Waterfall | In-room safe, bed sheets

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

House Economy - Shared Bathroom - Private Room | In-room safe, bed sheets

House Economy - Shared Bathroom - Private Room

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

About the neighborhood

Located in La Fortuna, Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails is in the mountains and in a national park. Costa Rica Sky Adventures and Ecotermales Fortuna are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Lake Arenal and Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park. Traveling with kids? Don't miss Butterfly Conservatory. Kayaking and rafting offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with ziplining and cave exploring nearby. Visit our La Fortuna travel guide
View more Lodges in La Fortuna
Map
22 km Oeste de la Fortuna de San Carlos, 1.7 km del Volcán Arenal, La Fortuna, Alajuela, 21007

What's nearby

  • Panorama of volcano Arenal and view of beautiful nature of Costa Rica, La Fortuna, Costa Rica. Central America
    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
  • Virgita Ristorante
    28 min drive
  • Restaurante Las Palmas
    27 min drive
  • Lemnos Wetbar
    27 min drive
  • La Mesa de Mamá
    14 min drive

About this property

Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails

Family-friendly lodge near Lake Arenal
Located close to Costa Rica Sky Adventures and La Fortuna Waterfall, Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails provides free cooked-to-order breakfast, a terrace, and a garden. Active travelers can enjoy ecotours, hiking/biking, and horseback riding at this lodge. Treat yourself to a facial, a body scrub, or a body wrap at the onsite spa. The on-site international cuisine family restaurant, El Jilguero, offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Stay connected with free WiFi in public areas, and guests can find other amenities such as a playground and an arcade/game room.
Other perks at this lodge include:
  • An outdoor pool and a children's pool, along with sun loungers
  • Free self parking
  • A roundtrip airport shuttle (surcharge), table tennis, and a front-desk safe
  • A foosball table, tour/ticket assistance, and smoke-free premises
  • Guest reviews say great things about the helpful staff, first-rate property condition, and location
Room features
All guestrooms at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails include comforts such as laptop-compatible safes.
More amenities include:
  • Eco-friendly toiletries and showers
  • Private yards, LED light bulbs, and coffee/tea makers

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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
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Front desk (limited hours)

Pets

No pets or service animals allowed

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome
2 children, per adult, up to the age of 8 years, can stay for free if using existing beds when occupying the parent or guardian's room
Rollaway/extra beds are not available
Cribs (infant beds) are not available

Property payment types

Important information

Fees

You'll be asked to pay the following charges at the property. Fees may include applicable taxes:

  • Deposit: USD 200 per accommodation, per night

We have included all charges provided to us by the property.

Optional extras

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

The above list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits may 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
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

We should mention

This property does not have elevators
Pool access available from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Only registered guests are allowed in the guestrooms
No pets and no service animals are allowed at this property
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

Does Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails have a pool?

Yes, this property has an outdoor pool and a children's pool. Pool access is from 9:00 AM–10:00 PM.

Is Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking?

Self parking is free at this property.

What time is check-in at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails?

Check-in start time: 3 PM; Check-in end time: 10 PM.

What time is check-out at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails?

Check-out is at noon.

Does Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails provide a shuttle to the airport?

Yes, there's an airport shuttle that runs on request. A fee of USD 225 per vehicle applies.

Where is Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails located?

This family-friendly La Fortuna lodge is located in a national park, 2.7 mi (4.4 km) from Lake Arenal, and within 6 mi (10 km) of Costa Rica Sky Adventures and Butterfly Conservatory. Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park and Ecotermales Fortuna are also within 12 mi (20 km).

Can I cancel my reservation for free and receive a full refund?

Yes, this property offers free cancellation on select room rates, because flexibility matters! Please refer to the property cancellation policy on our site for more details about any exclusions or requirements.

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Reviews

Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

9.8

Cleanliness

9.4

Location

9.6

Staff & service

9.6

Property conditions & facilities
Rating 10 - Excellent. 791 out of 982 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 147 out of 982 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 34 out of 982 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 5 out of 982 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 5 out of 982 reviews

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kennan

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

10/10 Excellent

xiang

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

10/10 Excellent

sebnem

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
It was such a wonderful experience. Everyone is so nice and friendly! Great view !
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Todd

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

10/10 Excellent

Nils

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Fantastic rooms and great location with multiple daily feedings of the local bird population. Beautiful property and walking trails. Easy check in and helpful staff.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

jessica

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very clean, friendly & helpful staff. Wonderful gardens, hiking trails & plethora of animals.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

puneet

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Views, wild life and trails. Loved this place. No air conditioning, but you don’t need it unless you are very particular about temperature. It is very property. The road for 3 km is very bumpy.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

gary

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Clean rooms and excellent service from all.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Conor

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This place is a birder’s paradise. They have every tropical habitat you could want on the back trails, and proper guides to spot the birds. The rooms are very good, the front desk staff was charming. The views are spectacular. The feeders are jammed with birds. Only negative was that we were almost totally rained off for 24 hours, but that’s what can happen in a rainforest. I already want to return.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Gregory

Liked: Cleanliness
Yes the staff was great!
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

ron

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
First class experiences. The staff were wonderful.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kurt

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The rooms were very clean and spacious. The food was great. The trails around the resort let you be a part of nature.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

6/10 Okay

William

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Disliked: Amenities
I think it’s great for one night maximum. If you don’t have a car you are very limited. The food options are very horrible, breakfast was fine, but the lunch and dinner options are very expensive and very poor quality. The overall property is beautiful and very well marked. Lots of beautiful nature and wildlife. However that’s the only thing they offer. Everything else is either fine or not very good.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Todd

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
The hotel property is beautiful and the hotel service was amazing. There is so much to do at this hotel!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jason

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Birding is spectacular. The grounds and trails are amazing. So many plants and animals. Beautiful views. Rooms are basic but clean. Food at the restaurant for dinner is average but service was consistently great. Breakfast was better. Overall service was excellent.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

CHRISTINE

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Great place to stay. The trails were amazing.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Austin

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
The first thing you notice at Arenal Observatory Lodge is the spectacular grounds! There are many opportunities for gentle walks and hikes on the property. The staff was extremely friendly and helpful. The rooms had everything we needed but were basic, not luxurious.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Liza

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Beautiful property with stunning views and scenic trails. The restaurant is convenient, though the food quality could be improved.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Alejandro

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Everything is amazing! Wildlife, facilities, hiking, staff. Second time staying here. Love it.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lili

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Spectacular View. Nice staff. Decent restaurant. The only complaint is lack of sound proofing.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

bhadresh

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Excellent location for spotting a rich variety of birds and a great view of arenal volcano from our balcony. Very friendly and accommodating restaurant staff, especially David, Howard and Alexa. Nice room, better than I was expecting, albeit on the small side for a family of 4. If you’re looking for wildlife on your doorstep and a great view of the volcano, it a great pick. We even had a lovely hot but comfortable large jacuzzi for a rainy day. The on-site cafe was poor for vegan options, but the main restaurant made every effort to accommodate our needs
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Janice

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The room was nice, big enough, excellent view, great shower. You feel like you are in the jungle. Saw birds, monkeys, and much more. Great hiking trails. Enchanting place.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Miroslav

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Clean facility with beautiful view, hiking trails, and and other entertaining contents. The food in the restaurant is just average but well overpriced.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Suzanne

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I loved this property. The free guided walks are amazing. I saw sleeping frogs and humming birds and learned so much about the plant life and also the history of the lodge. Edward was a great guide! The breakfast was tasty and the room was immaculate. My kids appreciated the pool. I just loved walking the grounds and the view from the restaurant. Fantastic place and would recommend a stay here.
Walking to the game room
Arenal volcano
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Erin

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Best place to stay in La Fortuna! This lodge was truly special, and has so much to offer we barely needed to leave the grounds. Booking nature walks and guided tours on the premises was super easy and convenient. Eduardo is the main guide and he is so knowledgeable! Facilities were clean and beautiful. We saw so many birds just from our window into the garden. Mario in the restaurant was very personable and made us feel welcome each time we dined. Could not recommend this place anymore!
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2026