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Our top choices for Upala hotels

1. Finca Amistad Cacao Lodge

Finca Amistad Cacao Lodge
Bijagua
United States
Klementina
CA $138
CA $156 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 13 - Sep 14
Finca Amistad Cacao Lodge

2. Celeste Mountain Lodge

Celeste Mountain Lodge
Bijagua
United States
Louisa
CA $158
CA $178 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 23 - Aug 24
Celeste Mountain Lodge

3. Malekus Mountain Lodge

Malekus Mountain Lodge
Guayabo
Canada
Jennifer
CA $124
CA $141 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 31 - Sep 1
Malekus Mountain Lodge

4. Cataratas Bijagua Lodge

Cataratas Bijagua Lodge
Bijagua
Canada
Michael
CA $119
CA $134 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 27 - Aug 28
Cataratas Bijagua Lodge

5. Posada Río Celeste La Amistad

Posada Río Celeste La Amistad
Katira
Canada
Milad khataei
CA $70
CA $79 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 22 - Sep 23
Posada Río Celeste La Amistad

6. Jardín entre Montañas

Jardín entre Montañas
Bijagua
United States
Kevin
CA $100
CA $113 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 1 - Sep 2
Jardín entre Montañas

7. Hotel Sueño Real Rio Celeste

Hotel Sueño Real Rio Celeste
Katira
United States
Jeffry
CA $133
CA $150 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 4 - Sep 5
Hotel Sueño Real Rio Celeste

8. Mei Tai Cacao Lodge

Mei Tai Cacao Lodge
Bijagua
United States
Maribel
CA $218
CA $246 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 23 - Aug 24
Mei Tai Cacao Lodge

9. Bungalows Paraíso Celeste

Bungalows Paraíso Celeste
Bijagua
United States
Tim
CA $151
CA $170 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 25 - Aug 26
Bungalows Paraíso Celeste

10. Kakao Lodge & Garden Río Celeste

Kakao Lodge & Garden Río Celeste
Bijagua
Canada
Catalin
CA $62
CA $70 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 7 - Sep 8
Kakao Lodge & Garden Río Celeste

11. Cabinas Cascada Rio Celeste

Cabinas Cascada Rio Celeste
Bijagua
United States
Anonymous traveller
CA $56
CA $64 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 4 - Sep 5
Cabinas Cascada Rio Celeste

12. Agutipaca B&B

Agutipaca B&B
Río Naranjo
Canada
Lada
CA $139
CA $157 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 24 - Aug 25
Agutipaca B&B

13. Hotel Finca L’Étoile Celeste

Hotel Finca L’Étoile Celeste
Katira
United States
Joshua Jon
CA $170
CA $192 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 23 - Aug 24
Hotel Finca L’Étoile Celeste

14. Santa Maria Volcano Lodge

Santa Maria Volcano Lodge
Guayabo
United States
Ryan
CA $77
CA $87 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 8 - Sep 9
Santa Maria Volcano Lodge

15. Casitas Tenorio B&B

Casitas Tenorio B&B
Bijagua
Canada
Sandra
CA $216
CA $244 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 4 - Sep 5
Casitas Tenorio B&B

16. La Anita Rainforest Ranch

La Anita Rainforest Ranch
Guayabo
United States
Kathryn
CA $147
CA $166 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 21 - Sep 22
La Anita Rainforest Ranch

17. Yarumo Lodge Río Celeste Black Chalets

Yarumo Lodge Río Celeste Black Chalets
Bijagua
United States
Vikram
CA $172
CA $194 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 22 - Sep 23
Yarumo Lodge Río Celeste Black Chalets

18. Cabinas El Pilon Rio Celeste

Cabinas El Pilon Rio Celeste
Katira
Canada
Ozáir
CA $55
CA $62 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 4 - Sep 5
Cabinas El Pilon Rio Celeste

19. Thermomania

Thermomania
Fortuna
United States
Ani
CA $147
CA $166 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 23 - Aug 24
Thermomania

20. Rio Nino Lodge

Rio Nino Lodge
San José
CA $136
CA $154 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 28 - Aug 29
Rio Nino Lodge
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Stay near popular Upala attractions

Upala Central Park

10.0/10 (2 reviews)
Explore the great outdoors at Upala Central Park, a lovely green space in Upala. While you're in the area, wander around the natural setting.
See properties

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.

See all hotels in Upala
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Top Upala Hotel Reviews

Rio Celeste Jungle Glamping

Rio Celeste Jungle Glamping

10/10 Excellent
"What an awesome place! We were looking for a jungle setting off the beaten path. We were only there one night before heading to the beach and it was awesome! The dome was super cool (and provided some entertaining acoustics that sparked some fun) and the view was amazing. A very cool fog rolled in followed by a good rain storm which emphasized the jungle feel! Extremely friendly hosts and just a fun overall experience. 10/10"
Anna 1-night trip
Posted 8 hours ago
Rio Celeste Jungle Glamping
Bungalows Paraíso Celeste

Bungalows Paraíso Celeste

8/10 Good
"The view was great and the breakfast was awesome. The only issue was that the Dutch front door let in a lot of insects. Overall a great value."
Tim 1-night trip
Posted 6 days ago
Bungalows Paraíso Celeste
Blue River Resort & Hot Springs

Blue River Resort & Hot Springs

10/10 Excellent
"Beautifully maintained property and super clean. We loved our complimentary breakfast each morning. Staff was very kind. We felt very relaxed there and enjoyed our stay in the country."
Stephanie 4-night trip
Posted 7 days ago
Blue River Resort & Hot Springs
On Lake Arenal - Near La Fortuna - New Pool and Deck August 2024 - Bird Watching

On Lake Arenal - Near La Fortuna - New Pool and Deck August 2024 - Bird Watching

10/10 Excellent
"The property was absolutely lovely. Very clean throughout, very spacious but still cosy, was easy to find and the views outside were just incredible. It’s also a great location for having a variety of great sightseeing and dining options to drive to, with some of the restaurants even within walking distance. If staying here, you have to do the short drive to Casa Italia for dinner - best Italian food we’ve ever had. Highly recommend!"
Jeffery P. 4-night trip
Posted 9 days ago
On Lake Arenal - Near La Fortuna - New Pool and Deck August 2024 - Bird Watching
Agutipaca B&B

Agutipaca B&B

10/10 Excellent
"We loved our stay at this property, we were shown around by Angie who seemed to be the animal whisperer. Wherever we went we saw all sorts of animals, monkeys, sloths, toucans, humming birds and so many more. It’s a beautiful paradise and we loved every minute we had here. We were sad to have to move on when we did. Thankyou so much for looking after us so well."
Kenneth 4-night trip
Posted 12 days ago
Agutipaca B&B
Simply the best, incredible views, pool, breakfast and a friend in the area!

Simply the best, incredible views, pool, breakfast and a friend in the area!

10/10 Excellent
"Great location and great host! We wanted to experience living in the middle of a rain forest and that's exactly what we got. The house is situated with a view of lake Arenal. Cicadas constant hum, winds, and the micro weather changes gave us a unique experience. Host Patrick, Elisa and their staff were kind and accommodating. Every morning, we were greeted with great coffee, tropical smoothie, and an array of delicious breakfast spread that gave us the energy to do all the stuff we wanted to do rest of the day. House is big enough for a large family or multiple families. Has a grande pool house with a lot of amenities. Patrick made reservations for our activities and helped us with our plans based on our interests."
Babu S. 4-night trip
Posted 3 weeks ago
Simply the best, incredible views, pool, breakfast and a friend in the area!
Thermomania

Thermomania

8/10 Good
"Un lugar amplio para disfrutar de diferentes piscinas "
Lidia 1-night trip
Posted 1 month ago
Thermomania
Destino Hotel & Hot Spring

Destino Hotel & Hot Spring

10/10 Excellent
"We had a fantastic time! Orlando (the owner), his family, and all of the staff were so kind and welcoming! We really enjoyed the thermal longevity circuit, plus we went tubing down the river which was a blast too! On day 2 we did the cultural coffee, chocolate, tortilla demonstration and we also went on a short hike through the trail where Orlando helped us spot a sloth! We had the pizza at the resort the first night, so then we wanted to try out some authentic Costa Rican and he was able to give us a fantastic recommendation for dinner, plus even spoke with the owner of the restaurant to let him know we were headed his way! Overall, all amazing experience, I could go on forever about how much we enjoyed ourselves, highly highly recommend!"
Savanna 2-night trip
Posted 1 month ago
Destino Hotel & Hot Spring
Vida Aventura Ranch

Vida Aventura Ranch

10/10 Excellent
"We really enjoyed our stay! Jorge made sure we had a pleasant stay and the staff was really nice. The unit we had was basic but clean, of a good size and well equipped. The breakfast was excellent (you can choose from 3 options) and we also had dinner there twice (there is nothing around), which was also good and well priced. We enjoyed the walking trails. It was a very relaxing stay. Note that the road to get to the ranch is bad so you need a 4x4. Even though it was remote, it was a great base to visit Rincon de la Vieja. We are very happy with our stay overall."
isabelle 2-night trip
Posted 1 month ago
Vida Aventura Ranch

More cheap stays in Upala

Cabinas Cascada Rio Celeste

Cabinas Cascada Rio Celeste

100mts de Ebaios Bijagua Alajuela
CA $56
CA $64 total
Sep 4 - Sep 5
includes taxes & fees
9.4/10 Exceptional! (61 reviews)
Cabinas Cascada Rio Celeste
Kakao Lodge & Garden Río Celeste

Kakao Lodge & Garden Río Celeste

300m North Palí Bijagua Alajuela
CA $62
CA $70 total
Sep 7 - Sep 8
includes taxes & fees
9.2/10 Wonderful! (34 reviews)
Kakao Lodge & Garden Río Celeste
Posada Río Celeste La Amistad

Posada Río Celeste La Amistad

1 mile from the entrance to the Katira Alajuela
CA $70
CA $79 total
Sep 22 - Sep 23
includes taxes & fees
9.2/10 Wonderful! (125 reviews)
Posada Río Celeste La Amistad
Santa Maria Volcano Lodge

Santa Maria Volcano Lodge

Colonia Blanca Guayabo
CA $77
CA $87 total
Sep 8 - Sep 9
includes taxes & fees
Santa Maria Volcano Lodge
Cataratas Bijagua Lodge

Cataratas Bijagua Lodge

Bijagua Bijagua Alajuela
CA $119
CA $134 total
Aug 27 - Aug 28
includes taxes & fees
8.8/10 Excellent! (73 reviews)
Cataratas Bijagua Lodge
Volcano Tenorio Glamping Ranch - 3 Tents

Volcano Tenorio Glamping Ranch - 3 Tents

600 Norte Antigua Empacadora San Rafael de Guatuso Alajuela Province
CA $136
CA $154 total
Sep 3 - Sep 4
includes taxes & fees
9/10 Wonderful! (8 reviews)
Volcano Tenorio Glamping Ranch - 3 Tents

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 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 $64 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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