1. Connect with nature
During your stay, listen to the morning concert of the birds and the howls of the howler monkeys when they wake up. Delight in the mid-afternoon with the sounds of the birds, insects and the croaking of the frogs when they go to bed.
2. Enjoy from the comfort of your room
A majestic view of the Arenal volcano, in harmony with nature, a unique experience feeling the presence of the volcano.
3. Explore for yourself
The 11 km of well-defined and well-maintained trails within our 350-hectare nature reserve that includes a visit to the charming DANTA waterfall; crossing gardens, primary and secondary forests, hanging bridges, rivers and streams, while breathing fresh air invigorating and enjoying the different views of the Arenal volcano, and the biodiversity of the tropics, where a great variety of flora and fauna can be observed: crested guans, hummingbirds, parrots, toucans, migratory birds, monkeys, agoutis, coatis, etc.
4. Take a birding tour during the day
Through the primary and secondary forests and open areas of our property, a unique opportunity for bird lovers. Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails is a favorite birdwatching destination; our geographical location and the great variety of habitats allow the existence of a large number and variety of birds, approximately 500 species of birds have been recorded in our nature reserve. We currently rank first in the ebird database in Costa Rica.
At night, participate in a night tour to discover nightlife in the tropics, and visit our frog pond to find and identify amphibians and frogs such as the famous red-eyed frog of Costa Rica among others.
5. Share your experiences with family or friends
While enjoying a HAPPY HOUR on our terrace appreciating the impressive view of the Arenal volcano and a spectacular sunset over Lake Arenal.
6. Visit “THE NEST” an observation tower
To explore the tropical forest from above, identifying birds, monkeys, etc. From this height you can also see the Cerro Chato volcano, and the central volcanic mountain range with the volcanoes: Rincón de la Vieja, Tenorio and Miravalles.
7. Visit our OBSERVATORY museum
To learn more about the natural history of Costa Rica, the flora and fauna of the region, the Arenal Volcano National Park, the Arenal Volcano and Lake Arenal. A timeline of the Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails allowing you to see our growth, our incipient beginning to the creation of the hotel in the decade of the 70s and 80s, as a research center for scientists from the Smithsonian Institute who used our property as a base to monitor the activity of the Arenal volcano, to the natural reserve we own today.
8. Exercise
Participating in our 8 km Arenal Crossfit Challenge multisport circuit, breathing fresh air and in contact with nature, a challenge for athletes of all levels. The circuit consists of six stages with an exercise station at each stage where you can perform exercises according to your goals. The circuit begins and ends at our Visitor Center and covers a variety of habitats within our nature reserve. After demanding activity, there is nothing better than recovering with a nutritious smoothies fruit at our COATI Coffee & Smoothie Bar located in our Visitor Center. Quite an adventure!
9. The Tours
To opt for the tours we offer to explore the areas surrounding the hotel with options that range from a relaxing and quiet tour to one full of adventures and emotions, such as learning about the natural history of the Arenal volcano, immersing yourself in hot springs among the tropical forest, experience peace by boat or kayak on Lake Arenal, float in the waters of the Peñas Blancas River, enjoying its calm waters or experiencing the adrenaline of its rapids, “walk or slide” through the treetops, or opt for outdoor activities such as rappelling, ATV etc. Everything at your fingertips to enjoy an unforgettable vacation.
10. Relax after a day of adventures
With a massage at our OBSERVATORY SPA, inspired by the natural environment of the tropical forest. Close your eyes, relax and let yourself be carried away by the sounds of nature, an unforgettable experience in a unique environment.
