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Trails Arenal Observatory Lodge

Alajuela  >  Costa Rica

Scenic hiking trails through rainforest near the Arenal Volcano. The trails can be very rich in birds, much depending on how busy it is and how early you start.

Added* by Josh Tanner
Most recent update 12 June 2025

Description

Located on the slopes of the Arenal Volcano and surrounded by lush tropical rainforest, the trails around Arenal Observatory Lodge are great for birdwatching. The trails take you through rainforest. Note that you have to pay an entry fee to walk the trails. You can observe many species of toucans, hummingbirds, motmots, flycatchers, honeycreepers and tanagers. Also Great Curassow, Crested Guan, Swallow-tailed Kite, Collared Aracari, Black-cheeked Woodpecker and many more. See the birdlist below.

Details

Access

Arenal Observatory Lodge is located west of the town of La Fortuna, about a 20 km drive. Press a P on the map for directions to a parking. Around the lodge there are many trails you can follow. Most trails are open from 5:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Sturdy footwear is recommended due to the uneven terrain. The trails can also be muddy. An entrance pass for the 11 km of private trails of Arenal Observatory Lodge is $20 (2025). This includes viewing platforms and a 28 meter high observation tower. A Day Pass is $40, including lunch.

Terrain and Habitat

Forest

Conditions

Hilly

Circular trail

Yes

Is a telescope useful?

No

Good birding season

All year round

Route

Narrow trail

Difficulty walking trail

Average walk

Accessible by

Foot

Birdwatching hide / platform

Yes

Links

View other birding spots in the area that are published on Birdingplaces

Map

Top 5 birds

Keel-billed Toucan
1. Keel-billed Toucan
(Ramphastos sulfuratus)
Great Curassow
2. Great Curassow
(Crax rubra)
Collared Aracari
3. Collared Aracari
(Pteroglossus torquatus)
Violet-headed Hummingbird
4. Violet-headed Hummingbird
(Klais guimeti)
Yellow-throated Toucan
5. Yellow-throated Toucan
(Ramphastos ambiguus)

Other birds you can see here

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Comments & Tips

Recommended

Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails – A Paradise for Birdwatchers in Costa Rica

Arenal  >  Costa Rica

Located on the slopes of the majestic Arenal Volcano and surrounded by lush tropical rainforest, Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails is an iconic destination for bird enthusiasts. Owing to its privileged location within Arenal Volcano National Park and its proximity to Monteverde National Park, the lodge is in an ecological transition zone, fostering remarkable biodiversity. More than 500 bird species have been recorded in the surrounding areas - a figure that can be verified on the eBird platform, where Arenal Observatory Lodge ranks as the number one site in the Province of Alajuela.

The expansive gardens, primary and secondary forests, and over 11 kilometers of private trails offer exceptional conditions for birdwatching, suitable for both beginners and experts. It is common to observe toucans, tanagers, hummingbirds, owls, trogons, Three-wattled Bellbirds, and the iconic Resplendent Quetzal during certain times of the year. Furthermore, there are observation platforms and strategically located viewpoints to maximize the birdwatching experience.

The lodge provides guided tours led by professional naturalist guides specializing in birds and activities designed specifically for photographers and ornithologists. The location and strong commitment to conservation make Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails one of the most distinguished birdwatching destinations in Costa Rica.

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Website Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails
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