Tifakara Boutique Hotel, Arenal/La Fortuna

Pros

• The hotel grounds are undoubtedly a highlight, lush with jungle foliage attracting wildlife and making the property an excellent place for bird watching.
• Guests can enjoy a complimentary night tour searching for different frog species and other animals. 
• Most of the rooms are independent cottages offering a bit more privacy and come with outdoor showers.
• The location is prime if you want to be in the jungle yet close to some attractions (La Fortuna Waterfall is just a 5-minute uphill walk). 
• All rooms feature a balcony and complimentary drinking water replenished daily.

Cons

• The on-site restaurant only serves breakfast and dinner, so you need to plan ahead for lunchtime.
• Though the waterfall is just down the street, you'll need a car or a taxi to get into downtown La Fortuna and all other sites.
• The small property doesn't have a gym or spa, though you can receive some spa services directly in your room. 

Additional Notes From Brittany

Despite being away from the town center, Tifakara Boutique Hotel is far from quiet, thanks to the property's wildlife residents. I couldn't get over how many chirping frogs, buzzing insects, singing birds, and chattering geckos I could hear—the perfect accommodation for someone like me, who likes to avoid crowds and reconnect with nature. Though I didn't stay here, if I did, I'd definitely take part in the complimentary nature night walks.

Authenticity

If you're visiting Costa Rica for the wildlife, Tifakara Boutique Hotel is an excellent hotel option, tucked away in the jungle like its sister property (Noah's Forest). The hotel strives to maintain a quiet and charming atmosphere, offering just 18 rooms. And as a bonus, the free wildlife night tour definitely gives off those authentic Costa Rican vibes.

Location

The hotel's location is ideal if you have a rental car and want to stay in the middle of the forest. Still, you'll be within driving distance of all the major sites, including Arenal Volcano National Park and Tabacon Hot Springs, plus a quick walk to La Fortuna Waterfall. The dense foliage surrounding the property means plenty of opportunities to see local critters.  

Rooms and Bathrooms

Though a bit smaller than other options, we recommend booking one of the slightly more modern bungalows, which feature air conditioning, outdoor showers, private balconies, and minifridges. In terms of decor and vibes, they're a slight upgrade from the dated basic rooms, though those still provide everything you might need. The bathrooms are simple and clean. 

Wildlife

The dense jungle surroundings give you ample opportunities to spot wildlife, especially near the pool area, with previous travelers spotting sloths, toucans, and geckos hanging around the property. An on-site frog sanctuary is a great place to learn more about Costa Rica's amphibious world, and the complimentary night tour offers more opportunities for wildlife viewing, with your guides happy to help you spot the harder-to-notice critters. 

Amenities

After a long day of hiking and exploration, unwind in the hotel's small pool and two adjacent hot tubs, with a drink or snack from the bar. While there's no dedicated spa, you can receive treatments in the privacy of your own rooms. Travelers with limited mobility can easily get around the small property, but will want to book a room on the ground floor as there are no elevators. 

Family-Friendliness

While the amenities offered to families are somewhat barebones - there are no cots, childcare services, or kid's menus available - the property has been a hit with previous travelers with children, in large part due to the easy wildlife viewing and idyllic setting. Most rooms at the hotel only sleep two, so families will want to snag one of the quadruple rooms that can fit up to four people. 

Other Highlights

The main highlight of Tifakara Boutique Hotel is the atmosphere—quiet, calming, and surrounded by thick forests full of wildlife. You could easily spend all day here, listening to the birds from your room balcony, relaxing by the outdoor pool, soaking in the hot tubs, and joining the nightly nature walk. In the morning, you'll find a decent breakfast selection with traditional cuisine, and the restaurant also serves dinner with a pretty impressive menu.