Lost Iguana Resort

Rainforest at your doorstep, Arenal beyond the balcony

The rainforest is part of daily life at Lost Iguana Resort. Set on 120 acres of preserved forest near Lake Arenal, the resort gives every room an outlook toward Arenal Volcano and places the jungle close at hand. A balcony, a trail beside the river and a meal with the volcano in view can make the quieter hours here as appealing as the excursions.

A reserve worth spending time in

Natural frog and bird sanctuaries add interest to the grounds. Two hiking trails follow the river through the private reserve, which connects with the Rio Arenal biological corridor. Howler monkeys are common sights and sloths are often spotted in the trees, though wildlife appearances follow their own rhythm. Birdwatchers can look for toucans, aracari, motmots and hummingbirds among the greenery. Capuchin and spider monkeys are occasional visitors. Mountain lions and ocelots are known to pass through, but sightings are rare—enjoy the possibility of discovery without expecting a particular encounter.

A freshwater pool and a heated pool give you different ways to unwind, and the double-pool Palapa swim-up bar adds tropical cocktails to the setting. Golden Gecko Spa sits in the jungle beside the river, with forest and flowing-water sounds around a massage by the fireplace. Spa discounts and special surprises from hotel management are included in the stay; mention a celebration or significant date when planning your visit.

Space for a longer pause

Blue Hibiscus Restaurant has indoor and outdoor dining framed by nature and volcano views, serving Costa Rican and international dishes. In the accommodation, Tempurpedic beds, air conditioning, cable television, ceiling fans, a minibar, coffee-making facilities, a telephone and Wi-Fi bring comforts into the forest setting. Villas Junior Suites, Villas Superior Suites and Las Casitas have private Jacuzzis. The Villas Junior Suite has two bedrooms and an eating area with a refrigerator, microwave and coffee maker; the Villas Superior Suite has two bedrooms, a living room and kitchenette, while Las Casitas also has two bedrooms and a kitchenette.

A hot-springs outing can take different forms: Tabacon has multiple streams and pools in a larger setting with more visitors, while the family-run Ecotermales limits guest numbers for a more intimate experience. Either can complement a volcano-base walk. Nearby hanging bridges move between forest-floor trails and canopy perspectives, while rafting on the Rio Balsa or Rio Sarapiqui, a Rio Penas Blancas safari float and a Cano Negro boat safari give other days a different shape. Explore La Fortuna when you want time in town, then return to the forest, pools and outlook that give Lost Iguana its character.