Arenal Observatory Lodge

Hotel · San Carlos

Arenal Observatory Lodge

Hotel · San Carlos

7Km Sureste del Parque Nacional Volcan Arenal, Provincia de Alajuela, San Carlos, 21007, Costa Rica

Highlights

Volcano views, wildlife hikes, pool, spa, restaurant & bar

7Km Sureste del Parque Nacional Volcan Arenal, Provincia de Alajuela, San Carlos, 21007, Costa Rica Get directions

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Arenal Observatory Lodge | Best places to stay in Costa Rica

"By far the best reason to choose to stay at the Observatory Lodge is that it is the only accommodation inside the Arenal Volcano National Park. And that means as guests you are in the park at dawn – the best time for seeing animals and a full two hours before the gates open to the general public. You’re not coming for luxury. Colourful art and scatter cushions can’t disguise the functional simplicity of the older tile and whitewash standard rooms – which were built for visiting scientists in the 1970s. They do have tall windows opening onto wonderful balcony views. Smithsonian rooms are a little plusher and as well as balconies, smaller windows offer views of the volcano at every turn. From the dining room and bedroom balconies though, the mountain’s cone is so close you could almost touch it. And the wild is literally outside your window. Guiding and wildlife-watching facilities are excellent; and include an observation tower with 360-degree views. You’ll see white-faced capuchin monkeys and ultra-rare birds like guans or even resplendent quetzal in the forest around the hotel grounds. The hotel has a spa and a pool set in beautiful bird and tree-frog trilling woodland gardens. " - Alex Robinson

https://www.bucketlisttravels.com/place-to-stay/arenal-observatory-lodge

View Postcard for Arenal Observatory Lodge

R G

Google

After visiting the small national park we saw they had smoothies which sounded perfect…..but to get there it was $20 per person for a lodge day hiking pass. The 92 foot tower alone made it worth it. Stunning 360 degree view above the trees, howler monkeys being noisy, a few clear views of Arenal. The hiking paths were all excellent. Spent 2-3 hours and it was much more impressive than the national park itself. They also had some hanging bridges so we crossed another planned place off our list. It was October so it felt like we had it all to ourselves. Even a waterfall you could go in. A very happy surprise find!

Kelly Borrello

Google

We had such a great time here! We came out for the day to do the trails and eat at the restaurant. We saw a band of coatis. The views were amazing and Maria our server went above and beyond for us at lunch. They didn't have the poke bowl I originally wanted but the chef made me something very similar which honestly was probably better then the original lol. The rest of the food was cooked perfectly and tasted great! We will definitely come back!

Ann Safo

Google

AOL did not disappoint! We stayed for 4 nights and didn’t need to leave, there was plenty to do and see. Overall we had an amazing experience. The White Hawk villa deck each morning was our personal bird watching; we were able to add 27 species to our bird list! We booked several tours and were very satisfied with the animals:monkeys, birds, frogs, & snakes. I recommend booking the night tour with Abner and the bird tour with Aaron.

David Adams

Google

Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails is a jewel in the world. The proximity to the volcano is awe inspiring. The facilities are truly what I love about Costa Rica, traditional, comfortable and real. The rooms are so amazing with views that will be in your memories for ever. Service is refunded and a focus of this location, from check in to check out, the staff is wonderful. We have had dinner in the restaurant twice and the food is very good as are the craft beers and specialty drinks. We have had the pleasure of being looked after by Maria at the first dinner and Marcela at the second dinner. Such a pleasure to have met them and have enjoyed their hospitality. This lodge is taking great effort to curate a unique and very special experience. Please add this place to your list of special trips in your list of life’s adventures.

Megan

Google

We enjoyed our stay here so much and have already talked about coming back! The views are amazing and you will see lots of wildlife across the property. We enjoyed the restaurant and the servers were amazing and attentive! Enrique and our bar tender were knowledgeable on drinks and delivered on the service. All the severs were so nice:)

Rachel Kramer

Google

Loved this hotel and the grounds. Our room was the perfect size and had an amazing view of the volcano! The food was good at the restaurant and we enjoyed the night tour and natural history walk. We saw a lot of animals on-site and our kids became skilled at spotting them. All the staff was fried and very helpful. A few tips: There is no AC but a small battery operated fan was great to help dry things (without everything stays a bit damp - they have laundry service). Bring binoculars and a flashlight for spotting animals. There is a lot to do in the area but leave at least a day to explore the grounds at AOL - the waterfall is beautiful. Slow down when visiting.

Janelle Corliss

Google

Costa Rica knows hospitality and this place is no exception. From the moment I walked in I felt welcome and special; the receptions, the bell hop, the housekeeping, bartender Mario, the servers in the restaurant, the coffee shop gal…EVERYONE. they really put on a great presentation. 10/10 stay here if you like to feel special, and immersed in the rainforest. The pictures online do not do this place justice. One consideration is you may want a car if staying here as la Fortuna and other popular attractions are a bit far.

Katherine McLain

Google

Our stay here far exceeded our expectations. The accommodations are tastefully tucked into the beautiful jungle landscape, each with breathtaking views of the volcano or the lake. The restaurant serves spectacular food that is well worth the price. The most impressive thing about our stay was the impeccable service. Everyone was professional and friendly from beginning to end. Our server for dinner, Alfredo, was particularly delightful, providing both great service and conversation. To top it all off, the cleaning staff surprised us with birthday decorations. The rooms were spotless and the beds comfortable. We will be back!