Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails: Volcano Views and Rainforest Hikes
Experience unparalleled views of Arenal Volcano and immerse yourself in the heart of Costa Rica's rainforest at this historic lodge.
Nestled within the Arenal Volcano National Park, the Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails offers unparalleled views of the Arenal Volcano and Lake Arenal. Originally built as a research station for the Smithsonian Institution in 1987, the lodge provides comfortable accommodations and access to a network of hiking trails through diverse landscapes.
A brief summary to Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails
- 7Km Sureste del Parque Nacional Volcan Arenal, San Carlos, Alajuela Province, 21007, CR
- +50622907011
- Visit website
Local tips
- Bring binoculars for optimal birdwatching; over 500 species have been spotted here.
- Take advantage of the complimentary guided walks to learn about the local flora and fauna.
- Explore the diverse hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging routes.
- Visit the on-site museum to discover the history of the Arenal Volcano.
- Consider booking a room with a volcano view for a truly memorable experience.
Getting There
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Taxi
From La Fortuna, taxis are readily available to take you to Arenal Observatory Lodge. The ride is approximately 30 minutes. A taxi from La Fortuna to the Arenal Observatory Lodge typically costs around $25-$30. Be sure to confirm the price with the driver before starting your journey.
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Driving
From La Fortuna, drive towards Tabacón Hot Springs, Lake Arenal, and Arenal Volcano National Park. Just before reaching Lake Arenal, look for a police station on the right and a marked turn-off on the left for the National Park entrance. Continue past the park entrance, following signs for Arenal Observatory Lodge. The road ends at the lodge's entrance gate. Note that the final 9 km (5.6 miles) is a somewhat bumpy gravel and dirt road.
Discover more about Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Volcano Jungle Trails
0.8 km
Explore scenic jungle trails near Arenal Volcano. Perfect for families: hiking, picnics, and a playground in a natural Costa Rican setting.
Mirador el Silencio
5.6 km
Experience the natural beauty and serene hiking trails of Mirador el Silencio, a premier nature preserve in Alajuela Province, Costa Rica.
Tabacon Hot Springs
5.7 km
Experience the ultimate relaxation in naturally heated thermal waters surrounded by the lush rainforest at the foot of the majestic Arenal Volcano.
El Choyin
5.8 km
Experience the natural warmth of Arenal at El Choyin, La Fortuna's free hot springs river, a relaxing and authentic Costa Rican escape.
Arenal River Tubing & Hiking
5.9 km
Experience the thrill of Arenal River Tubing & Hiking in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, where adventure meets breathtaking natural beauty.
Soda Tita Rosa
5.9 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Soda Tita Rosa in La Fortuna. Fresh, local ingredients and traditional flavors await!
Callidryas Tours - Costa Rica.
5.9 km
Discover the beauty of Costa Rica with Callidryas Tours, offering personalized adventures in La Fortuna's lush landscapes and rich biodiversity.
Arenal ATV Wheels
5.9 km
Experience thrilling ATV adventures through La Fortuna's stunning landscapes. Explore the Arenal Volcano region with Arenal ATV Wheels!
Arenal Oasis Eco Lodge & Wildlife Refuge
6.0 km
Explore the beauty of nature at Arenal Oasis Eco Lodge & Wildlife Refuge, where adventure meets tranquility in the heart of Costa Rica.
Termalitas del Arenal
6.0 km
Relax and rejuvenate in natural hot springs with stunning Arenal Volcano views, all without breaking the bank.
Paradise Hot Springs
6.1 km
Unwind in the therapeutic mineral waters of Paradise Hot Springs, surrounded by lush gardens and stunning views of Arenal Volcano.
Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa
6.1 km
Experience Costa Rica's largest network of natural hot springs in a luxurious rainforest paradise at the foot of Arenal Volcano.
Arenal History Inn
6.1 km
Discover cozy comfort and volcano views at Arenal History Inn, your gateway to La Fortuna's natural wonders and thrilling adventures.
Soda Las Flores
6.1 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Soda Las Flores in San Carlos. Enjoy traditional flavors and warm hospitality in a cozy setting.
The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort
6.2 km
Experience luxurious relaxation at Arenal's Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort, with stunning views and natural hot springs.
Unmissable attractions to see
Frog Pond
0.2 km
Explore the vibrant ecosystem of Frog Pond in La Fortuna, a captivating tourist attraction filled with Costa Rica's enchanting amphibian species.
Catarata Danta
0.7 km
Explore the enchanting Catarata Danta waterfall, a serene retreat in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, where nature's beauty awaits every traveler.
Point de vue volcan Arenal
2.2 km
Experience the stunning views of Arenal Volcano at this picturesque lookout, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Chato Volcano
2.3 km
Discover the natural beauty of Chato Volcano, a serene crater lake surrounded by lush landscapes in the heart of Costa Rica's Alajuela Province.
The Hand
2.7 km
Explore The Hand in El Castillo, a stunning sculpture that merges art and nature amidst Costa Rica's breathtaking landscapes.
Arenal Volcano
2.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Arenal Volcano, a natural wonder in Costa Rica surrounded by lush landscapes, hot springs, and thrilling adventures.
Sky Adventures
3.1 km
Experience the thrill of zip-lining and explore Costa Rica's stunning landscapes at Sky Adventures in La Fortuna, an unforgettable adventure destination.
Parque Nacional Volcán Arenal
3.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Parque Nacional Volcán Arenal, a paradise of biodiversity, adventure, and stunning volcanic landscapes in Costa Rica.
Cataratas Escondidas
4.1 km
Explore the breathtaking Cataratas Escondidas in San Ramón, Alajuela - a hidden waterfall paradise rich in natural beauty and adventure.
Arenal Volcano National Park Visitor Center
4.2 km
Explore the Arenal Volcano National Park Visitor Center for a memorable introduction to Costa Rica’s stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity.
Arenal Wilberth Stable
4.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Arenal Volcano through unforgettable horseback riding adventures at Arenal Wilberth Stable.
Original Arenal ATV
4.2 km
Explore Costa Rica's breathtaking landscapes with thrilling ATV tours at Original Arenal ATV in Alajuela Province.
Arenal Volcano View and Lava Trails
4.3 km
Discover breathtaking views of Arenal Volcano and explore lush lava trails in this stunning nature preserve, a paradise for hikers and nature lovers in Costa Rica.
Arenal Volcano Vista Point
4.3 km
Experience stunning views and vibrant wildlife at Arenal Volcano Vista Point, a premier hiking area showcasing Costa Rica's natural beauty.
Chato Volcano Trailhead
4.3 km
Experience the stunning natural beauty of Chato Volcano Trailhead, a must-visit hiking area in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Essential places to dine
El Jilguero Restaurant
0.0 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at El Jilguero Restaurant in San Ramón—where every dish tells a story.
Chillout Restaurant
3.2 km
Experience local flavors amidst stunning views at Chillout Restaurant near Sky Trek in San Carlos.
Lava'68 Cafetería
4.3 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at Lava'68 Cafetería with stunning views and a commitment to local ingredients.
Restaurante Hojarasca
4.6 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Restaurante Hojarasca amidst the breathtaking landscapes of La Fortuna.
La Ventanita
4.8 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at La Ventanita - an inviting restaurant in El Castillo known for its fresh ingredients and warm hospitality.
Yellow Tree Restaurant
5.1 km
Experience exquisite local cuisine surrounded by nature's beauty at Yellow Tree Restaurant in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Fusion Arenal Mirador Restaurante, El Castillo Costa Rica.
5.3 km
Experience exquisite dining with breathtaking views at Fusion Arenal Mirador Restaurante in El Castillo, Costa Rica - where nature meets culinary art.
Cafetería y Restaurante Rain Forest Arenal
5.9 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Cafetería y Restaurante Rain Forest Arenal in La Fortuna amidst stunning rainforest views.
Heliconias Restaurant by Kioro
5.9 km
Experience exquisite Costa Rican cuisine with breathtaking views at Heliconias Restaurant by Kioro in Alajuela Province.
Ave del Paraiso Restaurant at Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa
5.9 km
Experience culinary excellence at Ave del Paraiso Restaurant amidst the breathtaking beauty of Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa.
SODA El Turnito
6.0 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at SODA El Turnito in La Fortuna - a must-visit eatery for every traveler.
Arenal Bongos
6.0 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Arenal Bongos in La Fortuna – where every meal is a celebration of local cuisine and breathtaking views.
Restaurante bongos
6.0 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Restaurante Bongos in La Fortuna - where every meal tells a story.
Tucanes Restaurant
6.1 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican cuisine amidst stunning landscapes at Tucanes Restaurant in Nuevo Arenal.
Restaurante Emperador
6.1 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante Emperador in Alajuela Province—where tradition meets modern dining.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Britt Shop Sky Trek La Fortuna
3.2 km
Explore Britt Shop Sky Trek in La Fortuna for unique Costa Rican gifts, artisan crafts, and delicious local treats in a vibrant shopping experience.
Neptune's House of Hammocks
5.4 km
Explore the vibrant world of handcrafted hammocks at Neptune's House of Hammocks in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, and take home a piece of paradise.
Biosfera Skincare (Experience Store)
5.6 km
Explore sustainable beauty at Biosfera Skincare, where Costa Rican nature meets skincare innovation for an eco-friendly experience.
Rumbo Shop Tabacon Las Fuentes
5.9 km
Explore Rumbo Shop Tabacon Las Fuentes for the best selection of local crafts, chocolates, and souvenirs in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Manus cr tienda online
6.0 km
Explore Manus CR in La Fortuna for exquisite swimwear and custom clothing that embodies Costa Rican charm and style.
Souvenir store
6.0 km
Explore the vibrant culture of Costa Rica at this charming souvenir store in San Carlos, where unique treasures await every traveler.
Britt Shop Baldi
6.0 km
Discover the best of Costa Rica at Britt Shop Baldi, where unique souvenirs, artisanal chocolates, and local crafts await.
Arte Natura, Boutique Hotel in La Fortuna - Costa Rica Vacations, Book it Now
6.0 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and nature at Arte Natura Boutique Hotel in La Fortuna, your gateway to Costa Rica's breathtaking landscapes.
Britt Shop Tabacon
6.1 km
Discover the essence of Costa Rica at Britt Shop Tabacon, where local crafts, gourmet chocolates, and unique souvenirs await every traveler.
Original Grand Gallery
6.2 km
Explore authentic Costa Rican art and unique souvenirs at Original Grand Gallery in La Fortuna, a cultural haven for every visitor.
Red Frog Coffee Roasters
6.2 km
Discover the rich flavors of Costa Rican coffee at Red Frog Coffee Roasters, a charming espresso bar in La Fortuna, perfect for every coffee lover.
Arenal Bee Garden - Honey, Coffee & Chocolate Tour
6.3 km
Experience the harmony of nature at Arenal Bee Garden, where honey, coffee, and chocolate come together in a delightful adventure.
Howler Monkey Store
6.8 km
Explore La Fortuna's Howler Monkey Store for unique custom t-shirts and stylish fashion accessories celebrating Costa Rican culture.
Wellness Park Eco Lodge & Trekking trails
7.0 km
Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure at Wellness Park Eco Lodge, a nature lover's paradise in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Sloth Watching Trail La Fortuna, Arenal Volcano Private Trail
7.1 km
Experience the enchanting Sloth Watching Trail in La Fortuna, a prime destination for nature lovers seeking to encounter Costa Rica's unique wildlife.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Howlers Bar & Grill
5.1 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere at Howlers Bar & Grill in El Fosforo, Costa Rica's hidden culinary treasure.
Shangri La Gardens. Tabacon Resort Club área
5.6 km
Discover the serene escape of Shangri La Gardens, where exquisite drinks meet breathtaking natural beauty in Costa Rica's Alajuela Province.
MAGIC SPORT BAR, Magic Mountain Hotel
6.0 km
Discover the lively Magic Sport Bar at Magic Mountain Hotel, where great drinks and vibrant atmosphere meet in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Restaurante Relax
6.0 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Restaurante Relax, a charming bar in La Fortuna offering local cuisine and stunning views.
Volcán Look Disco
6.0 km
Discover the lively nightlife at Volcán Look Disco – a vibrant bar in San Carlos, perfect for dancing and enjoying refreshing cocktails.
Terra bar
6.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Terra Bar in La Fortuna, where exceptional drinks and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.
Lemnnos WetBar
6.1 km
Discover the vibrant Lemnnos WetBar in La Fortuna, where tropical drinks meet stunning views and unforgettable experiences.
Tamarindo Chill
7.3 km
Discover the serene vibe of Tamarindo Chill in La Fortuna, offering refreshing cocktails and a perfect escape in Costa Rica's lush landscapes.
Cha
7.3 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and welcoming atmosphere at Cha, La Fortuna's beloved bar, perfect for unwinding after exploring Costa Rica's natural wonders.
Bar Patrón Costa Rica
7.4 km
Experience a vibrant cocktail bar in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, with exotic flavors, stunning views, and a lively atmosphere perfect for tourists.
Voodoo Bar & Cocktails
7.5 km
Discover the vibrant Voodoo Bar & Cocktails in La Fortuna, where enchanting drinks and a lively atmosphere await every traveler.
La Fortuna Pub
7.6 km
Discover La Fortuna Pub, a lively destination for delicious food, refreshing drinks, and an unforgettable atmosphere in the heart of Costa Rica.
Nostalgia Wine Bar
7.7 km
Discover the enchanting Nostalgia Wine Bar, a serene oasis in Arenal, offering exquisite wines and a captivating atmosphere for relaxation.
Soda la Hormiga
7.9 km
Discover the culinary delights of Soda la Hormiga in La Fortuna, where authentic Costa Rican flavors meet an inviting atmosphere.
Tropical Lounge Bar
7.9 km
Experience the flavors of Costa Rica at Tropical Lounge Bar, a vibrant grill bar in La Fortuna offering delicious food and refreshing tropical drinks.
