Arenal Observatory Lodge & TrailsvsRancho Margot
Both properties are endorsed by expert writers. Overall, Rancho Margot ranks slightly higher than Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa. Rancho Margot has a TripExpert Score of 76 with recommendations from 1 publications such as Lonely Planet.
Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails
23 km west from La Fortuna town, Main road to Arenal National Park, La Fortuna de San Carlos, Arenal Volcano National Park, Costa Rica
From $147/night
- Bar/Lounge
- Hot Tub
- Free Internet
- Room Service
- Free Breakfast
- Shuttle Bus
Afar Magazine
"Within the grounds of the Arenal Observatory Lodge in Costa Rica, there are several paths of varying length that can be walked." Full review
Fodor's
"These cozy, comfortable, and simple rooms allow you to sleep as close as anyone should to a volcano—it's a mere 2¾ km (1¾ miles) away, and stellar views and outdoor activities are what the place is all about." Full review
Travel + Leisure
"Close enough to Arenal Volcano for visitors to hear and feel the nearly constant rumbling, this observatory (on a hillside just over a mile from the peak) gets excellent views of the eruptions." Full review
Lonely Planet
"Rooms range from La Casona’s rustic doubles with shared bathrooms and views from the porch, to plus junior suites, with king-size beds, local art and huge picture windows framing the volcano." Full review
Frommer's
"The views from the rooms, restaurant, and common areas are simply spectacular. The main dining room features a massive wall of glass, with a V-shaped peak that perfectly frames the volcano." Full review
Oyster
Mid-Range
"This all-inclusive, 864-acre, 48-room property on a mountain has some of the best views in the area of both the lake and the volcano, and allows guests to be immersed in the rainforest" Full review
Rancho Margot
3km beyond El Castillo, La Fortuna de San Carlos, El Castillo, Arenal Volcano National Park, Costa Rica
From $159/night
- Bar/Lounge
- Free Internet
- Free Breakfast
- Shuttle Bus
- Laundry Service
- Concierge
Travel + Leisure
"For a crunchier all-inclusive seeker, Rancho Margot is a rustic collection of cabinas tucked away from the world but still featuring prime views of Arenal Volcano." Full review
Lonely Planet
Top Choice
"Part resort lodge, part organic farm, Rancho Margot is 152 acres of cinematic loveliness, set along the rushing Río Caño Negro and surrounded by rainforested mountains." Full review
Travel + Leisure
"This “self-sufficient organic ranch ” is a totally off-the-grid resort with 18 beautifully appointed, terraced bungalows." Full review
Travel + Leisure
"A secluded getaway in the middle of a rainforest, Rancho Margot offers hostel-style accommodations and a deluxe bungalow for a small group"
15 Best All-inclusive Resorts in Costa Rica
May 11, 2022