Set high on a ridge facing Costa Rica's most active and spectacular volcano, the Arenal Observatory Lodge offers the adventurous traveler a unique, once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Arenal Observatory Lodge is situated on a ridge 120 meters above Lake Arenal. The ridge rises between the Agua Caliente and Quebrada Danta rivers. This topographical feature is important, so as any possible lava flow will not affect the Lodge. The lodge is within ZONE "D" Low Danger Area, near the volcano. Moreover, as prevailing winds are from the East, the lodge would seldom be affected by ash or other fallout from a major eruption, as the lodge is located to the southeast of the volcano.

After having lain dormant for over 400 years, Arenal Volcano erupted violently on July 29, 1968, wreaking havoc with the local population and creating a 'lava landscape' for miles around its base.

At the Arenal Observatory Lodge, you can enjoy the sound & fury of Arenal Volcano's constant eruptions from the comfort of your room, or from one of the many perfect volcano viewing sites around the lodge.

Other attractions include a waterfall, just a short hike away, which cascades into the cool forest depths. A well maintained path leads guests to this magical spot.

The Arenal Observatory Lodge features 43 spacious rooms. All are comfortable and most have volcano views from the privacy of your own bedroom. Five rooms are fully equipped for disabled travelers, with rooms, bathrooms, hallways, parking areas and even the new swimming pool designed accordingly.

At the Arenal Observatory Lodge Restaurant, their 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 fresh-caught Lake Arenal fish.

You can also:

• Hike through the rich rain forests.
• Clamber on top of recent lava flows.
• Soak in the nearby hot springs.
• Wake to the roar of howler monkeys.
• Watch toucans fly by.
• Wade in the waters beneath a jungle waterfall.
• And much more!

RATES 2014

NOTES:

• Rates for Lodging in US$
• Rates include Full breakfast buffet.
• Rates include local taxes (13%)
• Rates include free guided morning hike along the property trails.
• Children up to 6 years: free meals and lodging (sharing room with parents).
• Children from 7 to 11 years old: free lodging, children menu (sharing room with parents).
• Rates are subject to change without previous notice.

TRANSPORTATION OPERATED BY RAIN FOREST TOURS

Transfers from San Jose area hotels or San Jose's Juan Santamaría International Airport to hotels in the Arenal area are $160.00 each way, for a minivan with a capacity of up to 9 passengers. Approximate time from San José to the Arenal area is approx 2 hours and 45 minutes.

Transfer from Juan Santamaría International Airport to any hotel in San José $35, including airport assistance, for a minivan with a capacity of up to 9 passengers.