Arenal Oasis Ecolodge & Wildlife Refuge

Arenal Oasis, a family run ecolodge between La Fortuna and the volcano

This is a small, rustic ecolodge owned and run by a local family, just outside La Fortuna on the way to the volcano. It is the place for travellers who would rather see frogs and birds than sit by a big pool: quiet cabins, ponds full of wildlife and guides who love to show it to you. It suits families and birders especially well.

Why we choose it

• Wildlife on the doorstep. The lodge has its own frog sanctuary, a butterfly garden and walking trails, so the nature starts outside your cabin.
• Guided walks by people who know the land. The lodge runs guided birdwatching and sloth tours, and the night walk to the frog ponds is the one children talk about afterwards.
• A real family option. The Villa has two bedrooms, and the bungalows suit couples or a small family.

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Rooms and views

You choose between the Bungalows and the Villa. The cabins are simple and natural inside, with a rustic, homely feel that matches the setting. Only some bungalows have a partial view of the volcano, so do not book this one for the view from bed: book it for what lives around it.

On the property

The frog sanctuary is the star. The ponds are fed by spring water and planted with native species, and the frogs are most active after dark, so the night tour along easy trails is the time to bring a camera. In the morning, breakfast in the restaurant looks onto bird feeders, and a guided birdwalk follows for anyone who wants it.

The family behind the lodge takes conservation seriously, with recycling, biodegradable products and environmental education in the local community, and the restaurant cooks Costa Rican food with organic produce.

Location and getting there

The lodge sits between La Fortuna and the volcano, so the town, the La Fortuna waterfall, the chocolate tours and the hot springs are all a short drive away. It is about 3 hours by road from Liberia or San José, and check-in is at 2:00 p.m. with check-out at noon.

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