Arenal Observatory Lodge

Quick Facts on Arenal Observatory Lodge
- Type of Location
  Birding Lodge
- Habitat
  Gardens, Rainforest, Volcanic Landscape, Secondary Forest
- Commonly Seen Bird Species
  Black-crested Coquette, Thicket Antpitta, Great Curassow, Keel-billed Toucan, Broad-billed Motmot, Rufous Motmot, Ornate Hawk-Eagle, White Hawk, Scale-crested Pygmy-Tyrant, Ocellated Antbird, Spotted Antbird

What to Expect During Your Stay at the Arenal Observatory Lodge...

Rooms and Amenities

The lodge offers 48 rooms in several categories, including Standard Rooms, Smithsonian Rooms (with volcano views), and Junior Suites. Rooms are spread across landscaped grounds and connected by paved walkways. All rooms have private bathrooms, hot water, and Wi-Fi access. Meals are served in a restaurant with panoramic volcano and forest views. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available upon request.

Birding on the Property

Several miles of private trails through forest, gardens, and river areas
A bird feeding station adjacent to the restaurant
Observation decks and scenic viewpoints throughout the property
Excellent location for mammals, amphibians, and reptiles

Other Activities Available

Hiking to waterfalls and scenic viewpoints
Guided night walks
On-site museum and educational center
Spa services and massage available by appointment

Arenal Observatory Lodge

Travel & Logistics

Conservation Initiatives
Arenal Observatory Lodge protects over 850 acres of rainforest and reforested land. The property is managed with a strong conservation ethic, including trail maintenance to reduce erosion and habitat disturbance.
How to Get There
Located about 30 minutes from La Fortuna by paved and gravel roads, the lodge is remote but reachable. It borders Arenal Volcano National Park and is a convenient base for exploring the Arenal region.
Seasonal Notes
Although birding is productive year-round, March through July is ideal for vocal activity and breeding behaviors. The Caribbean foothills receive fairly consistent rainfall year-round, with a slightly drier period from August to November, and increased rain possible from December to April. Migratory species add diversity from October to March.
Best Times to Visit
Birding is excellent year-round. Visit from December to June for optimal bird activity and to see nesting behavior. July to November offers slightly drier weather conditions and fewer crowds.

A Few More Notes on Arenal Observatory Lodge

Considered one of the best birding lodges in Costa Rica and a great place to stay for nature lovers and birders in the Arenal area, the historic Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa offers 48 comfortable hotel rooms in various buildings spread over the property. Enjoy delicious meals in the lodge restaurant and enjoy the floor-to-ceiling windows for gazing at the Arenal Volcano and Lake Arenal. Be sure to take time to visit the huge observation deck located just outside the restaurant. The views are amazing, plus you will have front row seats to the many bird feeders located throughout the gardens. Bring your binoculars!

Arenal Observatory Lodge is a preferred destination for bird watching in Costa Rica, with more than 500 species of birds found on the grounds and surrounding forest.

Arenal Observatory is a sustainable eco-lodge with a rating of Four Leaves in the Certification for Sustainable Tourism Program (CST) by the Costa Rican Tourism Board. Additionally, Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa consistently wins TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence award every year and is a proud member of its Green Leaders program.

Your stay with us at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa includes daily complimentary walks in their gardens and the rainforest with a naturalist guide. On the 870-acre property, guests can explore 11 kilometers (7 miles) of well-maintained trails. An 800-meter (0.5 miles) paved trail allows universal access to explore the gardens and rainforest.