Arenal Observatory Lodge sits on 870 acres of land adjacent to the Arenal Volcano National Park. The site contains 270 acres of primary rain forest with well-marked trails, 400 acres of reforestation projects, and 200 acres of working farm lands. The lodge is located just 1.8 kilometers from the active crater of Arenal Volcano, and is separated from it by a deep river valley. The location was specifically chosen by scientists from the Smithsonian Institute, who needed a close but safe vantage point from which to study the volcano. Meals are served in our large main dining room, which features walls of windows opening onto views of the volcano and Lake Arenal.
Our chefs prepare a variety of continental and Costa Rican dishes, with an emphasis on fresh, local fruits and vegetables, as well as locally raised beef and poultry, and fish from Lake Arenal. We also have a comfortable bar open from 10:00am to 12:00 midnight everyday. This is a wonderful spot to gather with other guests. And of course, it’s a good place to be for any volcanic eruptions...... Like Nowhere Else On Earth.