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Arenal Xilopalo

Property class: 2.5

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Pool - Arenal Xilopalo (La Fortuna)
The entrance to a hotel named 'Xilopalo' with a covered walkway leading to the entrance, surrounded by landscaped gardens and tropical plants. - Arenal Xilopalo (La Fortuna)
An outdoor patio with wooden furniture, string lights, and star decorations. - Arenal Xilopalo (La Fortuna)
A rustic kitchen with wooden cabinets, a built-in refrigerator, a wooden bar counter, and a television mounted on a wooden stand. - Arenal Xilopalo (La Fortuna)
A room with wooden paneling, a bed with a patterned blanket, a television, and a wooden table. - Arenal Xilopalo (La Fortuna)
A rooftop terrace, a garden, and a hair salon are just a few of the amenities provided at Arenal Xilopalo. Adventurous travelers may like the horseback riding and cycling at this hotel. Guests can connect to free in-room WiFi.

Reviews

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful

Popular amenities

  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • Business services
  • Housekeeping

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Room options

Available filters for rooms
Showing 3 of 3 rooms

View all photos for Standard Room

A room with two beds, a desk, a TV, and a wardrobe.

Standard Room

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
(9 reviews)
  • 30 sq m
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Double Beds

View all photos for Superior Room

A room with two beds, wooden walls, a desk, and a chair.

Superior Room

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(4 reviews)
  • 30 sq m
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Double Beds

View all photos for Family Apartment, 2 Bedrooms

A room with four single beds, each with a teal bedspread and pillows.

Family Apartment, 2 Bedrooms

  • Mountain view
  • 50 sq m
  • Sleeps 7
  • 5 Twin Beds and 1 Double Bed

About the neighborhood

Located in La Fortuna, Arenal Xilopalo is in the city center and in the mountains. Baldi Hot Springs and Los Lagos Hot Springs are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore La Fortuna Waterfall and Arenal Volcano National Park. Arenal Adventure World and Kalambu Hot Springs are also worth visiting. Be sure not to miss outdoor adventures like mountain biking, ziplining, and ecotours, or hop on a moped rental nearby and take a self-guided tour around the aera. Visit our La Fortuna travel guide
Map
Calle 478, La Fortuna, Alajuela, 21007

What's nearby

  • A church with a bell tower, surrounded by a garden with red and orange flowers, palm trees, and a mountain in the background.
    La Fortuna Park
    9 min walk - 0.5 miles
  • A waterfall in a lush green forest with clear water at the base.
    La Fortuna Waterfall
    15 min drive - 3.7 miles
  • A waterfall in a lush green forest with a person sitting at the base.
    Tabacon Hot Springs
    16 min drive - 8.9 miles
  • Baldi Hot Springs
    6 min drive - 3.3 miles
  • Los Lagos Hot Springs
    7 min drive - 4.0 miles

Getting around

  • Juan Santamaria Intl. Airport (SJO)
    160 min drive

Restaurants

  • Restaurante Fortuneño
    4 min walk
  • Lava Lounge Bar & Grill
    5 min walk
  • Chocolate Fusión
    6 min walk
  • Tayakiry Cafe
    6 min walk
  • La Fonda 506
    4 min walk

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Property amenities

Internet

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

Parking and transportation

  • Roundtrip airport shuttle (surcharge) from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM on request
  • Free self parking on site

Things to do

  • Bicycle rentals
  • Horseback riding/rentals

Family friendly

  • In-room refrigerator

Conveniences

  • Hair salon
  • Limited-hour front desk
  • Luggage storage

Guest services

  • Concierge services
  • Housekeeping (daily)
  • Tour and ticket assistance

Business services

  • Computer station

Outdoors

  • Garden
  • In the mountains
  • Rooftop terrace

Spa

  • In-room massages

Accessibility

  • No elevator

More

  • Reception hall
  • Smoking not allowed

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided
  • Blackout drapes

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer (on request)
  • Private bathroom
  • Shower
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • 32-inch flat-screen TV with cable channels

Food and drink

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Refrigerator

More

  • Air conditioning (climate-controlled)
  • Desk
  • Iron/ironing board on request

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: 10:00 PM
Early check-in subject to availability
Late check-in subject to availability
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before noon

Special check-in instructions

This property offers transfers from the airport (surcharges may apply); guests must contact the property with arrival details before travel, using the contact information on the booking confirmation
The front desk is open daily from 7 AM - 10 PM
Guests must contact the property in advance for check-in instructions; front desk staffed during limited hours
To make arrangements for check-in please contact the property ahead of time using the information on the booking confirmation
If you are planning to arrive after 10:00 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Front desk (limited hours)

Pets

Pets not allowed (service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees)

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome
Rollaway/extra beds are not available

Important information

Optional extras

  • Airport shuttle fee: USD 50 per person (one-way)
  • Airport shuttle fee per child: USD 35 (one-way), (up to 6 years old)

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 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
Guests must contact this property in advance to reserve cribs/infant beds
This property accepts cash
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

Frequently asked questions

Is Arenal Xilopalo pet-friendly?

No, only service animals are welcome at the property.

How much is parking?

Self parking is free at this property.

What time is check-in at Arenal Xilopalo?

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: 10:00 PM. Late check-in is available during limited hours.

What time is check-out at Arenal Xilopalo?

Check-out is at noon.

Does Arenal Xilopalo provide a shuttle to the airport?

Yes, there's an airport shuttle that runs 8:00 AM–3:00 PM on request. A fee of USD 50 per person applies.

Where is Arenal Xilopalo located?

Located in the heart of La Fortuna, this hotel is within 2 mi (3 km) of La Fortuna Park, El Salto Fortuna River, and Arenal Adventure World. Costa Rica Chocolate Tour and Ecoglide Arenal Park are also within 3 mi (5 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 Xilopalo Reviews

9.2

Wonderful

9.2

Cleanliness

9.2

Location

9.8

Staff & service

8.4

Property conditions & facilities
Rating 10 - Excellent. 105 out of 149 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 29 out of 149 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 11 out of 149 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 4 out of 149 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 149 reviews

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The rooms were large and great value. The whole hotel had a friendly and informal vibe which was very inviting. We loved being surrounded by the birds and animals. We spotted toucans, hummingbirds, frogs, toads, lizards (of assorted sizes!) more kinda of birds than I can name. The guy who walks around with a little flashlight in the evening spotting the wildlife and showing you is wonderful ⭐👍The front desk staff were friendly and helpful, as was everyone we met working at the hotel ♥️
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Un lugar un especial rodeado de naturaleza, el personal es amable , la vista al volcán arenal única y los desayunos riquísimos
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

6/10 Okay

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Nice location away from the hubbub of the main road but with easy walking distance of shops and eateries. Good WiFi and decent AC makes for a comfortable stay, but they are very stingy with towels and toilet paper and the florescent lighting in the room makes you feel like you’re on the factory floor. The pool was dingy and uninviting, although, granted, it’s rainy season and perhaps the staff didn’t expect it to be in heavy demand. Not good value at all for the price, but will do in a pinch.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The property was really, really pretty and conveniently located - just a short walk to the restaurants and shops. The rooms were decorated in a lovely way. Nice that they included a coffee machine and coffee, A small fridge, and two very large skinks. The staff was so very friendly, very sincere and helpful. The restaurant had outstanding food for reasonable prices, and a wonderful view. Thanks to the front desk staff, we saw two yellow-throated toucans right in front of the hotel !! The sloth tour with Armando, scheduled through the hotel, was a really impressive at the high # of animals we saw in 2 hours.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Cet hôtel, niché en bordure de la forêt et à l’écart de l’agitation, a été un véritable coup de cœur. L’environnement est paisible et immersif, avec de nombreux oiseaux et animaux qui visitent régulièrement les lieux. L’espace piscine est un petit havre de paix, accompagné d’une agréable terrasse avec sofas, hamacs et tables donnant sur un étang où l’on peut observer la faune locale. Les chambres sont très spacieuses, confortables et pleines de charme avec leurs murs en bois. La climatisation et le Wi‑Fi fonctionnent parfaitement. Le restaurant mérite une mention spéciale. Le petit-déjeuner est simple mais savoureux, servi avec une vue magnifique sur la forêt, une clairière et le volcan Arenal. Les couchers de soleil y sont spectaculaires. Les repas du soir sont excellents et offrent un très bon rapport qualité-prix. Le personnel est exceptionnel : chaleureux, attentionné et toujours prêt à aider, que ce soit pour la visite des lieux à l’arrivée ou pour la réservation d’activités. Enfin, l’hôtel se trouve à seulement cinq minutes à pied du centre-ville, offrant le parfait équilibre entre tranquillité et proximité des services. Un endroit que je recommande sans hésitation.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Awesome place, we loved it
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Staff were so helpful and it was easy to book excursions through the hotel. Good, central location. Bring cash - dollars or colones - for booking excursions. Recommend sloth tour with Armando if you have kids, and any of the excursions with Hotel Los Lagos as they end in hot springs and natural cool pools with water slides and a wet bar.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This hotel is great and the staff are super friendly and helpful
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2026
Verified review

6/10 Okay

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Beautiful propert. The reception wasn’t very welcoming (too many questions). Room was very damp. I was sneezing all night. No one told us about extra charges for breakfast until we had it. $10 pp is $20 extra. If we knew I would’ve skipped it.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Disliked: Amenities, property conditions & facilities
Ok breakfast and it was only $9. Clean room. Needs updating for sure. Pool was ok. Just run down but can’t beat the price!!
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very cool property, lots to do and friendly staff
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Sencilla pero cómoda
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Clean room, friendly staff, wildlife around, beautiful pool.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Towels changed every day. Staff very knowledgeable about area and tours. Quiet part of town. Close to everything. Liked the check in process-being shown amenities and then the room.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great staff, Jose at reception is the best. Excellent birdwatching from the breakfast area.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Different, toucans and other wild animals at sight.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Spotless rooms, amazing staff. Loved it.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Excellent overall stay

Spacious rooms. We loved the breakfast area amidst the trees - enjoyed watching the colorful butterflies and birds all around us! Special shout out to Armando who spotted several sloths during the sloth tour and frogs during the night tour
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I loved this place . This is not a fancy resort nor is it trying to be. This hotel was affordable and perfect for my family of four: spacious rooms, Good breakfast , lots of birds outside our rooms. Nice and helpful staff walking distance to town . We had a car so we did not take advantage of the many tours they were able to provide . I do regret not doing the sloth tour with Armando but we didn’t have enough time in La Fortuna.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
La estadia estuvo muy buena y amena. Atencion y servicio al cliente estuvo agradable. Recomendado.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The suite we had was perfect for our family of 6. It was spacious, with plenty of sleeping space, hot water, air conditioning, quiet atmosphere yet still close to anything we needed in La Fortuna. We saw toucans! The kids played billiards and enjoyed exploring the property.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We loved Xilopalo! It was authentic to the area and felt like a private resort but was close and walkable to town. We enjoyed the pool. The highlight was that breakfast was delicious and had an excellent view of the Arenal volcano. Our suite was spacious. Staff was helpful.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
It's right in the middle of the town. The hotel is basic and clean
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Great location,walking distance to bar/restaurants

We were surprised to an upgraded massive room so that was great! Staff was friendly and helpful.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, room comfort

If you love nature, you'll love this hotel

We loved our stay at this hotel. It had everything we needed as well as being great value for money. The staff were polite and friendly and showed us around the facilities on arrival. It's not 5* accommodation but it more than makes up for it with the wildlife and views. Our room was spacious with 2 double beds, kitchenette and fridge. You can pay for breakfast with a decent choice each morning. Slightly out of the main La Fortuna area, but only a short stroll to restaurants. The main attraction for us was the location and wildlife. Mount Arenal is the backdrop where you can view it over breakfast, alongside all the wildlife that visit. We saw toucans, hummingbirds, red squirrels and woodpeckers and countless other exotic birds I can't name. There is a relax/pool area too. We booked a number of tours through the hotel and they were cheaper than booking through the providers website. I would highly recommend doing Armandos sloth tour, and he was also on hand just after sunset to take you through the gardens and point out the frogs and lizards which we'd never have found. All in all we loved our here.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025