HotelArenal Observatory Lodge

welcome to Arenal Observatory Lodge

Hotel Type: Eco Turism

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There are actually several routes to the Arenal Observatory Lodge. They all take roughly 3 hours by car from San Jos?. The most popular route heads out of San Jos? along the Inter American Highway to the town of San Ram?n, where you head into the hills, passing through La Tigra, on the way to La Fortuna. An alternative route turns off the Inter American Highway at Naranjo and passes through Zarcero and Ciudad Quesada (San Carlos), before reaching La Fortuna. If you take this route, be sure to stop and walk around. You can drive north through Alajuela or Heredia, skirting the Po?s Volcano enroute to Varablanca and Aguas Zarcas. Beyond Aguas Zarcas, you will come to Ciudad Quesada and continue onwards to La Fortuna. If you have the time, this route permits a visit to the Po?s Volcano, as well as a stop to admire the impressive La Paz waterfall. Once you reach La Fortuna, continue through town towards Tabac?n and the Arenal National Park. Just before reaching Lake Arenal you will come to a marked turn-off for the National Park entrance. Take this left turn-off. From here it is 9 kilometers along a somewhat rough dirt road. Continue on past the park entrance following signs for the Arenal Observatory Lodge. A four-wheel drive vehicle is recommended in the rainy season, and high clearance is always useful. Due to extreme weather and heavy rains, road conditions can change rapidly in Costa Rica. It is always best to call the lodge to find out current conditions and what route is best for you.