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Our top choices for Upala hotels

Lake Arenal Hotel, Brewery & Farm

Lake Arenal Hotel, Brewery & Farm
3.0 star property
Santa Rosa
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (240 reviews)
"The farm was so charming—including the goats and pigs! It felt secluded, safe, and had an excellent view of the farm and lake. The staff were sweet and attentive and the food was amazingly tasty."
United States
Marian
The price is CA $117
CA $132 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 20 - Jul 21
Lake Arenal Hotel, Brewery & Farm

Santa Maria Volcano Lodge

Santa Maria Volcano Lodge
2.5 star property
Guayabo
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (96 reviews)
"Charming cabana, well cared for gardens full of birds, nice jungle walk from lodging, very helpful hosts. "
United States
Ryan
The price is CA $79
CA $90 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 16 - Jul 17
Santa Maria Volcano Lodge

Lucky Bug B & B

Lucky Bug B & B
3.0 star property
Arenal
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (81 reviews)
"We loved the ambience of this place. Driving in at night was whimsical with mushroom lights guiding the way. The room was artsy and fun. Breakfast was picture-worthy and the hosts were friendly and knowledgeable. This felt like a great starting point for our Costa Rica trip with a more authentic feel."
United States
Hart
The price is CA $96
CA $108 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 13 - Jul 14
Lucky Bug B & B

Finca Amistad Cacao Lodge

Finca Amistad Cacao Lodge
3.0 star property
Bijagua
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (5 reviews)
"Very friendly staff. Beautiful property. We absolutely loved that it was small and family owned. The food was absolutely delicious."
United States
Klementina
The price is CA $171
CA $193 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 18 - Jul 19
Finca Amistad Cacao Lodge

Malekus Mountain Lodge

Malekus Mountain Lodge
3.0 star property
Guayabo
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (38 reviews)
"Roger and Rosie were exceptional hosts. The property is beautful and the breakfasts are amazing. A wonderful escape - we will be back."
Canada
Jennifer
The price is CA $126
CA $143 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 30 - Jul 31
Malekus Mountain Lodge

Celeste Mountain Lodge

Celeste Mountain Lodge
3.0 star property
Bijagua
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (216 reviews)
"Truly a gem in this day and age. Perfectly located with amazing views. The common spaces are completely organic and gorgeous at the same time. Well done!"
United States
Gregory
The price is CA $181
CA $204 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 2 - Aug 3
Celeste Mountain Lodge

Hotel Sueño Real Rio Celeste

Hotel Sueño Real Rio Celeste
3.0 star property
Katira
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (67 reviews)
"Beautiful hotel clean and nice restaurant."
United States
Jeffry
The price is CA $137
CA $155 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 27 - Jul 28
Hotel Sueño Real Rio Celeste

Cataratas Bijagua Lodge

Cataratas Bijagua Lodge
2.5 star property
Bijagua
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (73 reviews)
"The room was very clean and the staff were very friendly. The property had a great restaurant and the trails led to an awesome waterfall."
Canada
Michael
The price is CA $123
CA $138 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 8 - Jul 9
Cataratas Bijagua Lodge

Bungalows Paraíso Celeste

Bungalows Paraíso Celeste
3.0 star property
Bijagua
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (19 reviews)
"A wonderful place to stay, excellent host and a very generous amount of his delicious breakfast. A beautiful place to stay!"
United States
Brian
The price is CA $155
CA $176 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 15 - Jul 16
Bungalows Paraíso Celeste

Vida Aventura Ranch

Vida Aventura Ranch
3.0 star property
Mogote de Bagaces
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (57 reviews)
"Great place to stay and enjoy the peacefulness. Incredible and thoughtful staff (Connie and her husband who are managing the property are the nicest people, who obviously love and enjoy what they do), unbelievable views, great like home-made food. "
United States
Svitlana
The price is CA $163
CA $184 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 1 - Aug 2
Vida Aventura Ranch

Cabañas Don Ramiro

Cabañas Don Ramiro
3.0 star property
Guayabo
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (3 reviews)
"Beautiful little property in the jungle. Clean and well equipped casitas with a delicious restaurant and a gorgeous pool. We stayed here the night before visiting Sensoria and the location and staff were perfect. My only complaint is that we didn’t stay here longer! "
United States
Grant
The price is CA $124
CA $162 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 12 - Jul 13
Cabañas Don Ramiro

Agutipaca B&B

Agutipaca B&B
3.0 star property
Río Naranjo
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (57 reviews)
"Fantastic! Very clean, plenty of room, breakfast was delicious!"
United States
Deborah
The price is CA $161
CA $182 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 9 - Jul 10
Agutipaca B&B

Jardín entre Montañas

Jardín entre Montañas
3.0 star property
Bijagua
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (19 reviews)
"Accomodating hosts, prepared room, lovely garden"
United States
Ashley
The price is CA $116
CA $131 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 8 - Jul 9
Jardín entre Montañas

Cabinas Cascada Rio Celeste

Cabinas Cascada Rio Celeste
2.5 star property
Bijagua
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (60 reviews)
"Small but very clean property. Great breakfast. "
United States
Jill
The price is CA $58
CA $66 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 8 - Jul 9
Cabinas Cascada Rio Celeste

Hotel Mystica

Hotel Mystica
3.0 star property
Santa Rosa
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (118 reviews)
"Amazing stay! The staff is very friendly and the view is awesome! Very well located."
United States
Anne-Claire
The price is CA $192
CA $217 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 12 - Jul 13
Hotel Mystica

Posada Río Celeste La Amistad

Posada Río Celeste La Amistad
2.0 star property
Katira
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (122 reviews)
"great place"
Canada
Milad khataei
The price is CA $74
CA $84 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 8 - Jul 9
Posada Río Celeste La Amistad

Destino Hotel & Hot Spring

Destino Hotel & Hot Spring
2.0 star property
Fortuna
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (22 reviews)
"Love this place. The owner was very helpful and hospitable, which made the stay even more enjoyable. The property offers plenty of trails and activities, so there’s really no need to leave—you can fully enjoy your time right there. Also, the food at the restaurant is excellent. Highly recommend."
United States
Cesar
The price is CA $284
CA $321 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 8 - Jul 9
Destino Hotel & Hot Spring

Cabañas Los Laguitos

Cabañas Los Laguitos
3.0 star property
Katira
The price is CA $78
CA $89 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 8 - Jul 9
Cabañas Los Laguitos

Yarumo Lodge Río Celeste Black Chalets

Yarumo Lodge Río Celeste Black Chalets
3.0 star property
Bijagua
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (20 reviews)
"Beautiful designed unique property nestled in nature. Offers amazing views of greenery with modern amenities."
United States
Vikram
The price is CA $178
CA $201 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 25 - Jul 26
Yarumo Lodge Río Celeste Black Chalets

Kakao Lodge & Garden Río Celeste

Kakao Lodge & Garden Río Celeste
2.5 star property
Bijagua
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (34 reviews)
"Nice breakfast and garden"
Canada
Catalin
The price is CA $82
CA $93 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 12 - Jul 13
Kakao Lodge & Garden Río Celeste
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
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Stay near popular Upala attractions

Learn more about Upala

Lush rainforests surround this gateway town to Tenorio Volcano National Park, where you'll discover the stunning Rio Celeste waterfall. Explore local markets for handcrafted souvenirs, then ask rangers about guided tours to nearby Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge for exceptional wildlife viewing.

A toucan perched on a branch in a lush, green forest.

Top Upala Hotel Reviews

More cheap stays in Upala

Find out more about Upala

Top reasons to visit Upala

  • Outdoor Adventure: Upala is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with stunning waterfalls, scenic hiking trails, and majestic volcanoes to explore.
  • Hot Springs: Relax and rejuvenate in nearby hot springs, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and wellness.
  • Golfing Paradise: Golf lovers can enjoy excellent courses set against the backdrop of breathtaking landscapes.
  • Ecotourism: Experience vibrant wildlife and lush reserves, making Upala ideal for nature lovers.
  • Welcoming Locals: Immerse yourself in the warm atmosphere created by friendly locals, enhancing your travel experience.

Find great hotels near Upala

Discover the charm of Upala, Costa Rica, with a variety of hotel accommodations that cater to adventurers and families alike. Whether you're seeking pet-friendly lodges or budget-friendly hotels, Upala offers a range of options to make your stay enjoyable. Experience the beauty of the region while enjoying the comforts of a well-equipped hotel, perfect for creating lasting memories during your vacation.

  • Hideaway Rio Celeste: Nestled in the heart of nature, Hideaway Rio Celeste is a 4-star resort located 20.9km from Upala, ideal for those seeking a blend of business and adventure. This property is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities such as horseback riding, hiking, mountain biking, and rafting. With well-equipped facilities for business travellers, you can seamlessly combine work and play. The serene surroundings and adventure sports make it a perfect escape for those looking to reconnect with nature while indulging in thrilling experiences.
  • Celeste Mountain Lodge: A charming 3-star lodge situated 20.9km from Upala, Celeste Mountain Lodge is perfect for the adventurous spirit. Surrounded by lush landscapes, it offers numerous activities such as kayaking, boat tours, and horseback riding nearby. Guests can rent bicycles to explore the stunning environment, making it a great base for outdoor exploration. The lodge embodies a rustic charm and provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Costa Rica's breathtaking natural beauty while enjoying an active vacation.
  • Paraiso Volcano Lodge: Located 24.1km from Upala, Paraiso Volcano Lodge is a welcoming hotel that offers a one-of-a-kind experience with its nature-themed ambiance and natural hot springs. This LGBTQIA-friendly property is affiliated with LGBTQI travel guides, ensuring an inclusive environment for all guests. The nearby hot springs provide a relaxing retreat after a day of exploring the beautiful surroundings. With its focus on nature and wellness, this lodge is a fantastic choice for those looking to rejuvenate while embracing the stunning landscapes of Costa Rica.

Where to stay near Upala

Upala, nestled in the Alajuela Province of Costa Rica, is a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and breathtaking scenery. This charming city offers a unique blend of ecotourism and relaxation, making it perfect for nature lovers. Nearby, explore lush landscapes and vibrant wildlife, while immersing yourself in the warm atmosphere of friendly locals. Whether you're hiking through scenic trails or enjoying the tranquil surroundings, Upala promises a memorable vacation experience.

  • Bijagua: Bijagua is a charming city located approximately 16.1km from Upala, offering an excellent blend of outdoor adventure and stunning scenery. This area experiences a steady stream of visitors, with peaks in March and the holiday season from December to January. Travellers flock here for activities like hiking through lush trails, relaxing at local resorts and spas, and exploring nearby national parks and volcanoes. The breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife make Bijagua a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
  • Canalete: Situated just 8.0km away from Upala, Canalete is a vibrant city that draws moderately seasonal visitors, particularly from December to February. Known for its outdoor activities and recreational centres, this area is perfect for those seeking adventure. Whether you're zip-lining through the canopy or hiking in the nearby national parks, Canalete's stunning natural beauty and thrilling experiences will leave you enchanted. The close proximity to volcanoes adds an extra layer of allure to your exploration.
  • Delicias: Also located 8.0km from Upala, Delicias is a delightful city that attracts visitors with its beautiful landscapes and outdoor offerings. The city's popularity peaks during the festive months of December to February, making it an ideal spot for those looking to connect with nature. Here, you can visit pristine beaches and explore the national parks that showcase Costa Rica's rich biodiversity. Delicias is the perfect getaway for those seeking a serene environment combined with exciting adventures.

Things to do near Upala

Upala, located in Alajuela Province, is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and stunning scenery. Visitors can enjoy nature and waterfall tours, explore nearby hot springs, and partake in exciting evening excursions. Golf lovers will find excellent golf courses and resorts in the area, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and recreation amidst Costa Rica's breathtaking landscapes.

Shopping

In Upala, you can enjoy local shops and markets for unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit El Pilon Station, located 20.9km away, which offers a vibrant shopping experience with local businesses and a family-friendly atmosphere.

Recreation

Experience the serene atmosphere at the Upala Wellness Retreat, where you can indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments and yoga sessions surrounded by nature. For outdoor enthusiasts, explore nearby hiking trails through lush landscapes, providing both adventure and tranquility.

Adventure

Experience the Miravalles Maze, located 20.9km from Upala, where family fun meets adventure as you navigate through its twists and turns. For a thrilling water experience, visit FlyZone Wakeboard School, 40.2km away, offering an exhilarating mix of sports and outdoor excitement on the water.

Nightlife

Experience Upala's vibrant nightlife at El Bosque, where you can enjoy local cocktails and a lively atmosphere. For a more relaxed vibe, visit Bar La Calle for tasty tapas and live music, perfect for mingling with locals and fellow travellers alike.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Upala

To save money on your trip to Upala, visit during the off-peak months of August to October for lower accommodation prices. Booking your hotel about a month in advance can yield significant savings, particularly on Saturdays. Use Expedia’s search tool to compare prices, filter for Eco-certified hotels, and explore package deals that combine flights and activities. Keep an eye out for last-minute deals, and always check for the green banner indicating special offers. Embrace free activities like hiking in the stunning local nature to stretch your budget even further.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Upala are August to October, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March to April and June, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel in Upala about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Upala is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Upala is Monday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your travel preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly accommodations currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Upala with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in and around Upala

Upala, nestled in Alajuela Province, Costa Rica, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. With its stunning waterfalls, majestic volcanoes, and lush reserves, the area offers a romantic and scenic getaway. Explore the captivating attractions that cater to your adventurous spirit, ensuring an unforgettable experience in this enchanting region of Costa Rica.

  • Rio Celeste Waterfall: Located 22.5km from Upala, this stunning waterfall enchants visitors with its vibrant turquoise waters. Surrounded by lush rainforest, it's perfect for adventure seekers and couples looking for a romantic escape.
  • Upala Central Park: Situated within the heart of Upala, this urban park offers a family-friendly atmosphere with expansive green spaces, playgrounds, and walking paths. It's a great spot to relax and enjoy the lively local culture.
  • Llanos de Cortez Waterfall: Also 22.5km away, this picturesque waterfall features a serene swimming area and beautiful natural surroundings. Its tranquil setting makes it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a romantic day out.

Best time to go to Upala

The best time to visit Upala can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Upala falls in May, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain. The coolest average temperature in Upala falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with no rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January75.7°F (24.3°C)No RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
February76.6°F (24.8°C)No RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
March78.1°F (25.6°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
April80.4°F (26.9°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
May80.6°F (27.0°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
June79.3°F (26.3°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
July78.3°F (25.7°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
August78.8°F (26.0°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
September79.3°F (26.3°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
October78.4°F (25.8°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
November77.0°F (25.0°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
December75.9°F (24.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage

The nearest major airports for your trip to Upala

For your visit to Upala, Alajuela Province, Costa Rica, you can fly into two major airports. Liberia (LIR-Daniel Oduber Intl.) is approximately 66.0km away, with excellent hotel options like the 5-star Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo, located 16.1km from the airport, and the 4.5-star Secrets Papagayo, situated 11.3km away. Additionally, La Fortuna (FON-Arenal), located around 62.8km from Upala, offers luxurious stays such as The Springs Resort and Spa, just 6.4km from the airport. These hotels provide various transportation services, including airport shuttles and transfers, ensuring a smooth journey to your destination.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best area to stay in Upala?
The best area to stay in Upala is near the town centre, particularly along Route 4, for convenience and access to local amenities.

This area is the main hub of Upala, offering a practical base for exploring the region. You'll find a selection of local eateries, shops, and essential services along this main thoroughfare. It's a functional area, designed for easy navigation and access to the surrounding natural attractions.

For families, staying in or very close to the town centre is a sensible choice. You'll have convenient access to grocery stores, medical facilities, and a variety of dining options, which can be particularly helpful with children. It also serves as a good launchpad for day trips to nearby natural parks and wildlife refuges, reducing travel time to and from your accommodation.

Couples looking for a comfortable and well-located base will also appreciate the town centre. It provides a straightforward starting point for exploring the Upala region's natural beauty, such as the Tenorio Volcano National Park, without being isolated.
When is the best time to go to Upala?
The best time to visit Upala is during the dry season, which runs from December to April.

During these months, you'll experience more sunshine and less rain, making it ideal for exploring the region's natural attractions. The weather is generally warm and pleasant, great for outdoor activities like hiking and wildlife spotting.

While the dry season is popular, the shoulder months of May and November can also be a good option. You might encounter some rain, but it's typically not constant, and you'll often find fewer crowds and potentially better value on accommodation.

The rainy season, from May to November, sees heavier and more frequent rainfall. While the landscapes are lush and green, some roads might be less accessible, and outdoor plans could be disrupted by showers.
Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?
You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, though it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if canceled within 24-48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to "My Trips", and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by "Fully refundable property" for hotels in Upala.
How can I save on a Upala hotel booking with Expedia?
Members always get our best prices. Find our best Upala hotel deals by joining Expedia's free travel rewards program today. As a member, you can unlock instant savings and member perks when you're logged in to your account. Another tip is to book your hotel and flights together on Expedia, where bundling can result in significant savings.
How much is the nightly rate at a Upala hotel?
Prices for hotels in Upala often vary, but you can find a great deal from CA $56 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by "Price: low to high" for the cheapest rate.

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