About Arenal Observatory Lodge
The Arenal Observatory Lodge crowns a ridge overlooking Arenal Lake and the looming volcano only 1.7 miles away, all within the refreshing ambiance of a working 870 acres farm that includes 400 acres in reforestation and 270 acres of natural forest, all surrounded by the tropical splendor of the Arenal National Park. Arenal Lake is the largest in Costa Rica and offers excellent sport fishing.
The lodge actually grew out of several extremely humble buildings originally built for housing scientists and researchers from the Smithsonian Institute and Earthwatch.
The Arenal Observatory Lodge is the best place to experience the thrill and beauty of the Arenal volcano because of its location, its long history as a research center and the knowledge and the experience of its staff and guides.
| The Arenal Observatory Lodge sits in a private nature reserve in the heart of one of Costa Rica’s numerous natural areas. Rich volcanic soil supports primary and secondary rainforest. Waterfalls and crystalline rivers offer sparkling jungle refreshment for the soul. 7 miles of a well-marked, manicured trail system provides easy access to the property’s breathtaking natural beauty where a wide variety of plants, animals and 370 spices of birds can be observed. |
Activities Arenal Observatory Lodge:
Immerse yourself in natural surroundings of the Arenal Observatory Lodge
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Explore the lava flow trail. Learn about the Arenal Volcano history through the lava flow trail
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Horseback Riding. Ride horseback over varied terrain with great natural beauty
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Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge. Tour the Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge wetlands.
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Swimming Pool & Jacuzzi. Enjoy the comfort of the Arenal lodge’s swimming pool and Jacuzzi while viewing the volcano.
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Bird Watching Experience. Go birdwatching. Over 370 species of birds. Click here to see a completely bird list
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Hiking Tours. Hike through 7 miles over the Observatory Lodge’s lush rainforests.
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Hot Springs in Arenal Volcano. Soak in the nearby hot springs.
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Wildlife. Wake to the roars of howler monkeys.
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Arenal Lake. Go sportfishing or kayaking in Lake Arenal.
Status of Arenal Volcano
Arenal Volcano, which lay dormant for centuries, erupted in 1968 and has been active but in the last months the Arenal volcano is in a passive phase with very little activity as a part of its natural evolution. Arenal Observatory Lodge was originally built in 1987 as a Smithsonian Institute scientific research station. Unlike other La Fortuna hotels, this volcano lodge is the only Arenal Volcano observatory situated within Arenal National Park, protected from danger by the deep gorge of the Agua Caliente River.
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"The Arenal Observatory Lodge is a private paradise for hiking and truly submersing yourself in beautiful Costa Rican nature…Exceptional experience, the room had a beautiful view, pool was amazing and there was many fun activities and the service was great too. Keep up the good work. I would recommend this hotel. Thank you"
