You can observe birds in the primary forest, secondary forest, and open areas. It is the only lodge within Arenal National Park and is protected by a deep gorge created by the Agua Caliente River. However, by waking up early and taking advantage of the available daylight, you are certain to leave feeling fulfilled and ready for the next stop on your Costa Rican adventure. 
The pool and jacuzzi area is the only area whose use is prohibited. There are 37 rooms spread across four buildings, with views either across Lake Arenal or the volcano and the stunning surrounding gardens. The birding should be good at the Observatory Lodge because after all, this site boasts the highest species count for not only all of the Ebird Hotspots in Costa Rica and Central America, but also for the entire ABA area!
The Entrance Pass includes access to all of the installations at the lodge and its surrounding nature reserve. All tours are guided and require a minimum of two persons. No.
Many other, less common but regular species are also possible including Bicolored Hawk, Rufous-winged Woodpecker, Band-backed Wren, and White-ringed Flycatcher. Public Arenal & La Fortuna ATV Tours For Everyone in the Family, ** All Public Arenal & La Fortuna ATV Tours For Everyone in the Family, Arenal ATV + Balsa River Rafting in Costa Rica, ** All Exclusive Private ATV Tours in Arenal, La Guaria Farm River & Waterfall ATV Tour, La Fortuna & Arenal Canopy, Canyoning & Rappel Tours, ** All La Fortuna & Arenal Canopy, Canyoning & Rappel Tours, San Lorenzo Adventure Park Arenal Canyoning Tours, Money Saving Arenal Canopy, Canyoning & Rappel Tour Combos, ** All Money Saving Arenal Canopy, Canyoning & Rappel Tour Combos, Arenal Canopy + Balsa River Rafting Combo Tour, Costa Rica Canyoning, Waterfall Rappelling + Balsa River Rafting Combo Tour, La Fortuna & Arenal Horseback Riding Tours, ** All La Fortuna & Arenal Horseback Riding Tours, Money Saving La Fortuna & Arenal Horseback Riding Tour Combos, ** All Money Saving La Fortuna & Arenal Horeseback Riding Tour Combos, Balsa River Paddle, Arenal Saddle & La Fortuna Waterfall Hike Super Combo, San Lorenzo Adventure Park Arenal Horseback Riding, La Fortuna & Arenal Eco Tours & Nature Tours on Land, ** All La Fortuna & Arenal Eco Tours & Nature Tours on Land, La Fortuna & Arenal Eco Tours & Nature Tours on Water, ** All La Fortuna & Arenal Eco Tours & Nature Tours on Water, Peas Blancas Nocturnal Safari Costa Rica, Arenal Super Combo: Hanging Bridges, Waterfall, Arenal Volcano & Hiking Tour, Balsa River Rafting + Arenal Hanging Bridges Combo Tour, ** All Cultural Tours in La Fortuna & Arenal, Costa Rica Chocolate Tour + Balsa River Rafting Class II/III Rapids, Pacuare River Rafting, Hike & Indigenous Visit 3 Day Tour, The Springs Resort and Spa at Arenal Day Pass, La Fortuna & Arenal Boat Tours & River Safari Floats, ** All La Fortuna & Arenal Boat Tours & River Safari Floats, ** All La Fortuna & Arenal Kayak & Canoe Tours, Arenal Rafting Full Day & Half Day Rafting Tours La Fortuna, ** All Arenal Rafting Full Day & Half Day Rafting Tours La Fortuna, Whitewater Rafting Pacuare River Class III-IV, White Water Rafting Balsa River Class II & III, White Water Rafting Sarapiqui River Class III / IV, Balsa River White Water River Tubing Costa Rica, Arenal Rafting Money Saving Combo Deals La Fortuna, ** All Arenal Rafting Money Saving Combo Deals La Fortuna, Costa Rica Rafting Overnight & Multi-Day Adventures La Fortuna, ** All Costa Rica Rafting Overnight & Multi-Day Adventures La Fortuna, Rafting Pacuare Class III/IV Overnight Rainforest Excursion, Liberia Guanacaste Shared Shuttle Transportation, Caribbean Shuttles - Costa Rica to Panama, Hotel + Shuttle Tranportation Package (Free Pass), Hotel to Hotel Shared Shuttle Transportation, Multi Destination Transportation (Flexipass), San Lorenzo Adventure Park (Lands in Love), Arenal Volcano Hike + Hot Springs Resorts, * Round-Trip Transportation From La Fortuna Hotels, * Entrance Fees at Arenal Observatory Lodge, * Cash for Tour Balance, Additional Food & Beverages, Souvenirs & Tips. As with any birding site in the tropics, we never know what might occur but regular species include a good selection of edge and forest birds such as Gray-capped Flycatcher, Fasciated Antshrike, Cinnamon Becard, Rufous-tailed Jacamar, Yellow-bellied Elaenia, Rufous-tailed, Violet-headed and Scaly-breasted Hummingbirds, Black-cowled Oriole, Crimson-collared and Golden-hooded Tanagers, and views of Brown-hooded, White-crowned and Red-lored Parrots in flight. The infinity swimming pool and Jacuzzi provide complete relaxation beneath a glass gazebo that frames the volcano's peak against a starry sky. We saw so many animals and learned so much! Get your feet off the ground and your head into the canopy with our guided bird tours at the nearby Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park. Dont be fooled and keep to the right until arriving at the entrance gate to the Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa. Your day will consist of birding on the property, birding in the wetland areas that surround Arenal Lake, and birding in the private El Silencio reserve. Our specialty is Custom Made Birding Tours to the best birding destinations in Costa Rica. Consider yourself lucky and snap plenty of photos! Bring your cameras and binoculars to check out what birds are arriving for their morning meal.
Payment can be made at the moment of your arrival at the front gate. The trip to the waterfall afterwards was fun do go into the waterfall!!! But the highlight was the hot thermal river at the end, with the provided drink. The air is fresh, the trails are quiet, but the forest that permeates the property is buzzing with life. Whatever you do, dont rush through the Arenal area.
Spend an afternoon exploring the vibrant wildlife, explosive history, and inspiring views of Arenal on this hiking and nature tour from La Fortuna.
This peaceful expedition combines, Paddle this peaceful section of the Peas Blancas River by canoe, and enjoy the rainforest at a relaxed pace. We saw plenty of monkeys, toucans and frogs.
The pool and jacuzzi area is the only area whose use is prohibited.
Your tour begins at 9:30am or 1:30pm when you are picked upfrom your hotel located in La Fortuna. Make sure to head to bed early to prepare for a full day of adventure tomorrow. Arrive at the Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa, a beautifully landscaped resort that was originally built as a scientific research station and offers commanding views of the nearby volcano and Arenal Lake. If early mornings just arent your thing or if the morning tour wasnt enough to satiate your hunger for birding, Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa also offers an afternoon birding tour. In that case, why not book a massage treatment at our Spa? In their reserve, you will see a great variety of bird species and have the opportunity to see the forest from an elevated perspective. We were lucky to have a clear view of the volcano.
Ending in hot springs was also fun, although crowded and a popular stop for tour groups.
The incredible abundance of flora and fauna at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa and the surrounding areas makes staying here truly abirdwatchers paradise. Enjoy a peaceful gondola ride above the Arenal rainforest and take in the breathtaking views of the volcano and the still, blue lake.
Any meals purchased at the El Jilguero Restaurant, Cerro Chato Bar, or COATI Coffee & Smoothie Bar will be charged separately from the entrance fee. After your climb up the tower, you may be wishing you had more time to explore. I thought this experience was a perfect balance of easy hiking (1-2 hours) and relaxing in the natural hot springs. The hiking trails at Arenal Observatory Lodge are easy for all ages and physical conditions. Reservations for the Day Pass and Entrance Pass are not necessary. It's not that cold, but I'd recommend bringing a good towel and maybe a light sweater to wear afterwards. There are far too many exciting options to choose from, but a tour with the nearby Sky Adventures will not disappoint. Eric was brilliant at guiding us through the trails surround the Arenal Observatory. Take some time to enjoy its bountiful beauty and the many amazing adventures available to you. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experiences start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experiences start time.
For this reason, we have created this guide, think of it as a template for an unforgettable adventure. Weather can change rapidly, be sure to pack a light rain jacket and wear comfortable shoes for walking. Enjoy Bird Watching Tours at Costa Ricas Birding Hotpot, lovely cotinga, black-crested coquette, yellow-eared toucanet, bare-necked umbrellabird, emerald tanager, great curassow, thicket antpitta, ornate hawk-eagle and the fasciated tiger-heron.
The difficulty level is easy and total hiking time only 2 hours. Seller of Travel Ref. You can choose a self-, Cao Negro Wildlife Refuge is one of the richest sites for birding in Costa Rica. Not everyone gets the chance to see Arenal Volcano without its veil of clouds. The hot springs at the end was great for sure muscles.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund. Really great tour!
We just ask for your cooperation and consideration when collecting and carrying out your waste. Your tour begins by riding the open-air, Experience the thrill of zip lining in Costa Rica! This easy and manageable hike will allow you to enjoy the most extraordinary view of the Arenal Volcano as you walk along the base of this marvelous 'Mountain of Fire'. Each person will be entitled to an included lunch at the El Jilguero Restaurant. Book a morning birding tour with our resident guide. This 2-hour tour is the perfect way to get exposed to the wonderful world of birding. Total review count and overall rating based on Viator and Tripadvisor reviews. Crested Guans in the garden and mixed flocks of glittering tanagers hurrying through the trees! Not a birding expert? And if ever in doubt of what to do next, dont hesitate to ask the receptionists at the lodge. Half of the birds of Costa Rica, more than 500 species have been recorded in our property, such as the lovely cotinga, black-crested coquette, yellow-eared toucanet, bare-necked umbrellabird, emerald tanager, great curassow, thicket antpitta, ornate hawk-eagle and the fasciated tiger-heron. Happy hour anyone? Ranging from local flavors to international favorites. Il n tait press, on avait le temps de tout faire a notre aise !!! They have experience trying many of the tours that are offered and can help you find an option that best suits your interests. Bring swimsuit and towel as well.
On your drive down from the lodge, you may be able to see the red-eyed tree frog. After unpacking check out the gardens and trails that are near your room.
The Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa is known for offering some of the most spectacular scenery and wildlife viewing opportunities in all of Costa Rica. Here, you'll enjoy a picturesque panoramic view of the volcano and Arenal Lake. Hop on a horse with our guide for an hour-long tour of the lodge.
Easy hike on paved ground and very informative.
This way you wont have to worry about making it back to reception before noon. at the Casona can also be good for raptors and other uncommon species and if the right trees are fruiting, we may even get lucky with less common species like Yellow-eared Toucanet, White-throated Thrush, and with a lot of luck, maybe even Lovely Cotinga. You'll be taken back to your hotel by about 8:00pm depending on local traffic. This unique fitness test will take you out of the gym and put you into nature for the ultimate endurance run. Well done and beautiful! The afternoon adventure begins with pickup at your La Fortuna hotel and a 45-minute drive to Arenal Volcano National Park. Made the experience even better. If we get lucky with an antswarm, we have a good chance at Bicolored, Spotted, and Ocellated Antbirds, and theres also always a chance at connecting with one of the most wanted, rare species in Costa Rica, theBare-necked Umbrellabird. The Day Pass is ideal for those looking for a day package at the Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa with lunch included. After supper grab your swimsuits and pick up some pool towels from reception, booking your excursions for tomorrow in the process. From their viewpoint, you can enjoy the different flora and fauna this property has to offer. Staying in La Casona? As a part of the all-day tour you are certain to be exposed to many of the microhabitats that exist at the lodge, from old-growth rainforest to agricultural pastures, and each site offers a unique opportunity to see different bird species. Exploring some of the lesser visited trails on the property. Arenal Hanging Bridges Natural History Tour. Fresh fruit, the traditional gallo pinto, and hot coffee are all found here among several other offerings. Unfortunately for us the rain and the low cloud obscured the views of Mnt Arenal itself but it was an interesting trip none the less. Oftentimes the birds found in the afternoon are greatly different from the species present in the morning hours. Still want to explore our River Trail or the Los Cangrejos trail?
This is also a good opportunity to cross the Spider Bridge and check out the museum. Each lunch included a main course and dessert, as well as a natural juice and coffee. Have reception store your belongings until your room is ready and go grab some lunch at El Jilguero, the restaurant. This is the perfect activity for your first morning at the lodge. Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa is one of the best hotspots for birdwatching in Costa Rica. Each room has something different to offer. Restrictions: This Arenal Volcano hike is open to everyone. After lunch head out to the deck and take in the surroundings. Call one of our experts or arrange a video appointment for ideas and advice. Please do bear in mind that this is a remote hotel and the road is often in bad repair making it a bumpy ride to and from the hotel. At 7:00 head into the restaurant for the breakfast buffet. Interested in a career in travel? Danny was the best tour guide ever. The brilliant green of the, This popular one day whitewater rafting trip in class 2 and 3 rapids on the Balsa River is great for families and beginners looking for, The Northern Zones most popular river offers explosive class 3 4 whitewater, This fun tour is a combination of horseback riding and hiking in the beautiful scenery by Arenal Volcano on the way , This tour is designed for everyone, whether or not you have experience riding ATVs. Breakfast at El Jilguero doesnt start until 7:00, but the action at the birdfeeder has already begun.
Excellent tour. Choose to return back to your starting point the same way or via the Canopy Tour; an exhilarating zip-line through the forest canopy. Although a birder could be happy spending most of the day in the gardens, there are yet more species to see on the trails and we will walk them to look for forest species like Broad-billed Motmot, Collared and Black-throated Trogons,Dull-mantled Antbird, Black-headed Nightingale-Thrush,Buff-rumped Warbler,Nightingale and Song Wrens, White-collared and White-ruffed Manakins, and a number of range-restricted and uncommon species including Rufous-winged Woodpecker, Yellow-eared Toucanet,Streak-crowned Antvireo, Thicket Antpitta, Stripe-breasted Wren, Carmiols Tanager, White-throated Shrike-Tanager and Tawny-crowned Euphonia. The best part, you dont have to be a hotel guest to experience the awe-inspiring 350-hectare (865-acre) nature reserve at the Arenal Observatory. You'll be taken to the Observatory lodge. The guides were very friendly and knowledgeable of the surrounding of the park and wildlife.
Highly recommend this experience, especially with William. He showed us many plant and animals species. Help us keep it clean! The 11 kilometers (7 miles) of trails, two observation towers, and two hanging bridges all provide unique avenues for you to bathe yourself in the raw nature of Arenal Volcano National Park. NOTE: Just before arriving at the entrance to the property there may be people trying to confuse unsuspecting visitors by selling entrances to their trails using our name. Exact meeting instructions will be provided on your confirmation voucher.
In either case, feel free to check out early and store your belongings at the reception. Head to the jacuzzi and let the warm water wash away the sore muscles from a day of travel.
The diversity of habitats, ranging from primary and secondary forests to agricultural pastures, creates various niches for birds and other animals to inhabit. The thermal springs were fine but maybe aimed to an older audience if you have kids. Low key tour for learning about rain forest and Arenal. Notre guide Waler etait excellent, expliquait bien et lentement, il parlait avec tout le monde. Also, the hot springs river here is natural and so is the volcanic mud. You can enjoy a volcanic mud facial and a complimentary cocktail. A nice restaurant that also features good birding from the viewing deck. Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa is strategically located in the heart of Costa Ricas center for adventure tours and eco-tourism.
A good variety of forest habitats, flowering bushes, and fruiting trees that host an astonishing array of species. He was quite knowledgeable and loved to educate. Not tired yet? Dinner at El Jilguero starts at 6:00, enjoy a meal from a selection of offerings. 70% of Costa Ricas wildlife comes out at night. Enjoyed the day! Designed to ensure three exciting and fulfilling days at the Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa. Stop by El Jilguero from 5:00 to 6:00 for a selection of two-for-one specials. It therefore comes as no surprise that the Arenal Observatory Lodge is a favorite place for birders as the lodge itself sits at 740 meters (2,428 feet) above sea level and the entire property spans an elevation gradient from 600 to 1100 meters (1,969 3,609 feet).
If its canceled due to poor weather, youll be offered a different date or a full refund. You'll then hike through gardens and forests, passing two hanging bridges.
However, if you want the hot springs resort experience, we suggest you choose the Arenal Volcano Hike + Hot Springs Resorts visit.
With a complimentary morning walk, two observation towers, a pool and jacuzzi, a variety of spa treatments, a historical museum, horseback riding tours, some of the best birding in the country, 7 miles (11 kilometers) of trails to explore across 870 acres (352 hectares) of property, and much more to offer, finding time for it all can seem an impossible task. There are over a dozen to choose from, but most guests either prefer the waterpark Baldi Hot Springs or the much smaller, more intimate EcoTermales. See recent lava flows and rock formations and learn about the big eruption of 1968. This is not one of the hot springs resorts that many of the other tour providers bring you to.
The fruiting trees in the gardens can also attractScarlet-thighed Dacnis, Bay-headed Tanager, Collared Aracari, and Yellow-crowned and Yellow-throated Euphoniasto mention a few. We can make arrangements for lodging, transportation, activities, car rental and all the fun you want to have while in Costa Rica. For those wishing to visit the Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa for hiking, mountain biking, trail running, wildlife viewing, birding, photography, ecotherapy, or any other outdoor activity, the lodge has a couple of options for day-passes available: The Entrance Pass is the cheapest option for those wishing to visit the Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa for the day.
Eric, is an excellent and extremely fun and knowledgeable guide and provided an excellent tour..I highly recommend going. I usually like more physical activities but it was worth taking time to learn details of the rain forest. Use this time before check-out to tick off any remaining boxes on your vacation checklist. Upon your return from the morning walk, prepare to head out on your first excursion outside of the property.
As the saying goes, the early bird gets the worm. With so much to do at the Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa and in the surrounding areas, a two-night visit can feel like too short of a stay.
You will depart from Arenal Observatory Lodge to. In this area, more than 350 species of birds have been observed, including migratory and resident species. Try to get up as early as possible and take advantage of the incredible bird watching opportunities at the lodge. *Contact us to make a reservation, all tours are subject to availability*, Birdwatchers know that the more different habitats you explore, the more bird species youre likely to see. Grab breakfast and then head to The Nest, the taller of our two observation towers. Q:What is the social distancing policy during Afternoon Tour to Arenal Observatory Lodge and Hot Springs? Can you think of any better place to take in the breathtaking views of the Arenal Volcano than sipping cocktails on the deck of the ONLY hotel in Costa Rica located in the Arenal Volcano National Park?
Visitors can also partake in our Arenal Crossfit Challenge.
Had the best time with our tour guide Carlos!! The all-day tour allows our guide more time to show you around the property and the surrounding areas so that no stone is left unturned.