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1 Sept - 2 Sept
Tomorrow
2 Sept - 3 Sept
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4 Sept - 6 Sept
Next weekend
11 Sept - 13 Sept

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Our top choices for Upala hotels

1. Finca Amistad Cacao Lodge

Finca Amistad Cacao Lodge
Bijagua
United States
Klementina
£81
includes taxes & fees
2 Oct - 3 Oct
Finca Amistad Cacao Lodge

2. Malekus Mountain Lodge

Malekus Mountain Lodge
Guayabo
Canada
Jennifer
£75
includes taxes & fees
1 Oct - 2 Oct
Malekus Mountain Lodge

3. Hotel Finca L’Étoile Celeste

Hotel Finca L’Étoile Celeste
Katira
United States
Joshua Jon
£98
includes taxes & fees
3 Oct - 4 Oct
Hotel Finca L’Étoile Celeste

4. Celeste Mountain Lodge

Celeste Mountain Lodge
Bijagua
United States
Louisa
£96
includes taxes & fees
3 Sept - 4 Sept
Celeste Mountain Lodge

5. Casitas Tenorio B&B

Casitas Tenorio B&B
Bijagua
Canada
Sandra
£131
includes taxes & fees
19 Sept - 20 Sept
Casitas Tenorio B&B

6. Cataratas Bijagua Lodge

Cataratas Bijagua Lodge
Bijagua
Canada
Michael
£72
includes taxes & fees
3 Sept - 4 Sept
Cataratas Bijagua Lodge

7. Hotel Sueño Real Rio Celeste

Hotel Sueño Real Rio Celeste
Katira
United States
Jeffry
£81
includes taxes & fees
5 Sept - 6 Sept
Hotel Sueño Real Rio Celeste

8. Mei Tai Cacao Lodge

Mei Tai Cacao Lodge
Bijagua
United States
Maribel
£146
includes taxes & fees
3 Sept - 4 Sept
Mei Tai Cacao Lodge

9. Yarumo Lodge Río Celeste Black Chalets

Yarumo Lodge Río Celeste Black Chalets
Bijagua
United States
Vikram
£111
includes taxes & fees
11 Sept - 12 Sept
Yarumo Lodge Río Celeste Black Chalets

10. Kakao Lodge & Garden Río Celeste

Kakao Lodge & Garden Río Celeste
Bijagua
Canada
Catalin
£35
includes taxes & fees
6 Sept - 7 Sept
Kakao Lodge & Garden Río Celeste

11. Cabinas Cascada Rio Celeste

Cabinas Cascada Rio Celeste
Bijagua
United States
Anonymous traveller
£34
includes taxes & fees
3 Sept - 4 Sept
Cabinas Cascada Rio Celeste

12. La Anita Rainforest Ranch

La Anita Rainforest Ranch
Guayabo
United States
Kathryn
£89
includes taxes & fees
3 Oct - 4 Oct
La Anita Rainforest Ranch

13. Bungalows Paraíso Celeste

Bungalows Paraíso Celeste
Bijagua
United States
Tim
£154
includes taxes & fees
3 Sept - 4 Sept
Bungalows Paraíso Celeste

14. Jardín entre Montañas

Jardín entre Montañas
Bijagua
United States
Kevin
£61
includes taxes & fees
7 Sept - 8 Sept
Jardín entre Montañas

15. Santa Maria Volcano Lodge

Santa Maria Volcano Lodge
Guayabo
United States
Ryan
£47
includes taxes & fees
3 Sept - 4 Sept
Santa Maria Volcano Lodge

16. Lake Arenal Hotel, Brewery & Farm

Lake Arenal Hotel, Brewery & Farm
Santa Rosa
United States
Marian
£62
includes taxes & fees
3 Sept - 4 Sept
Lake Arenal Hotel, Brewery & Farm

17. Hotel Mystica

Hotel Mystica
Santa Rosa
United States
Anne-Claire
£113
includes taxes & fees
3 Sept - 4 Sept
Hotel Mystica

18. Vida Aventura Ranch

Vida Aventura Ranch
Mogote de Bagaces
United States
Svitlana
£82
includes taxes & fees
19 Sept - 20 Sept
Vida Aventura Ranch

19. Thermomania

Thermomania
Fortuna
United States
Ani
£75
includes taxes & fees
3 Oct - 4 Oct
Thermomania

20. Rinconcito Lodge

Rinconcito Lodge
Mogote de Bagaces
United States
Michelle
£92
includes taxes & fees
17 Sept - 18 Sept
Rinconcito 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
A toucan perched on a branch in a lush, green forest.

Top Upala Hotel Reviews

Blue River Resort & Hot Springs

Blue River Resort & Hot Springs

10/10 Excellent
"Loved everything about the property lush, tropical, sounds of birds and animals. Just what everyone needs to relax."
Joseph 5-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Blue River Resort & Hot Springs
Hideaway Rio Celeste

Hideaway Rio Celeste

10/10 Excellent
"Excellent stay at Hideaway. The fanciest hotel in this area with a 2025 Michelin Key. Going to Tenorio volano national park was only a 2 min drive. The grounds of the hotel are spectacular. The hotel is nestled in the rainforest and has 2 private trails to rio celeste. We got a free upgrade to a rainforest view room. We also enjoyed a complimentary yoga class with an excellent yoga teacher and a complimentary night tour with a knowledgeable guide. The staff was very friendly. The only negative point is that the restaurant is quite expensive (200-250 USD for 2 suppers depending if you get drinks/appetizers/desserts) and the food was just okay. The breakfast was quite tasty though. Thank you to all the staff that made our stay very memorable."
Tiffany 2-night trip
Posted 5 days ago
Hideaway Rio Celeste
Destino Hotel & Hot Spring

Destino Hotel & Hot Spring

10/10 Excellent
"Staff was very friendly and Jorge was the best guy to have around and show us the place even though we’ve checked in late in the evening. Also, the rooms and place was beautiful and great layout."
Lucas 1-night trip
Posted 8 days ago
Destino Hotel & Hot Spring
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 1 month 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 2 months ago
Thermomania
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 2 months ago
Vida Aventura Ranch
Finca Amistad Cacao Lodge

Finca Amistad Cacao Lodge

10/10 Excellent
"Great stay, great food, great chocolate, great staff. A MUST!!!! Great first night in Costa Rica, they really made it memorable. Definitely will be back."
Angel 1-night trip
Posted 2 months ago
Finca Amistad Cacao Lodge
Lake Arenal Hotel, Brewery & Farm

Lake Arenal Hotel, Brewery & Farm

10/10 Excellent
"My family and I had a great stay here! JP and his associates welcomed us and made us feel at home. Complimentary breakfast was great and the other meals were delicious. The room itself was great given you are in the jungle, so there was no a/c and typical sugar ants but nothing unexpected. The pool and the views were gorgeous. The hot tub was down while we were there but it wasn’t missed. We took advantage of the Lake Tour and La Tia’s massage services which were both worth the money. We traveled to La Fortuna and used a shuttle service that picked us up right from the hotel. Overall, we would definitely stay here again!"
Brandi 5-night trip
Posted 2 months ago
Lake Arenal Hotel, Brewery & Farm
Cataratas Bijagua Lodge

Cataratas Bijagua Lodge

10/10 Excellent
"The grounds were beautiful"
Melanie 2-night trip
Posted 3 months ago
Cataratas Bijagua Lodge

More cheap stays in Upala

Cabinas Cascada Rio Celeste

Cabinas Cascada Rio Celeste

100mts de Ebaios Bijagua Alajuela
£34
3 Sept - 4 Sept
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
£35
6 Sept - 7 Sept
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
£41
3 Sept - 4 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Posada Río Celeste La Amistad
Santa Maria Volcano Lodge

Santa Maria Volcano Lodge

Colonia Blanca Guayabo
£47
3 Sept - 4 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Santa Maria Volcano Lodge
Cataratas Bijagua Lodge

Cataratas Bijagua Lodge

Bijagua Bijagua Alajuela
£72
3 Sept - 4 Sept
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
£83
4 Sept - 5 Sept
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 Adventures: Upala is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities like hiking, birdwatching, and golf in stunning natural settings.
  • Scenic Waterfalls and Volcanoes: Explore breathtaking waterfalls and majestic volcanoes that provide ample opportunities for adventure and photography.
  • Ecotourism Experience: Embrace the region's ecotourism vibe, immersing yourself in the lush landscapes and rich biodiversity.
  • Charming Local Culture: Discover the warmth of Upala’s local culture and enjoy relaxing moments in quaint neighbourhoods.
  • Varied Accommodation Options: Choose from a range of lodgings, including charming lodges and family-friendly hotels, tailored for all travellers.

Find great hotels near Upala

In Upala, Costa Rica, you'll discover a diverse selection of accommodation options, including charming lodges and hotels perfect for adventurous travellers. Whether you're seeking a pet-friendly retreat or a family-friendly experience, Upala offers a variety of lodging choices tailored to your needs. Explore the best hotels in the region, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty and thrilling activities this enchanting destination has to offer.

  • Hideaway Rio Celeste: Nestled 8.1km from Upala, Hideaway Rio Celeste is a charming 4-star resort that embodies romance and nature. This idyllic property is perfect for families and couples seeking an intimate getaway amidst lush landscapes. Guests can indulge in a plethora of amenities, including 24-hour room service and rejuvenating spa treatments such as hot tubs and couples' massage. Families will appreciate the dedicated children's facilities, including a games room and free cribs. Whether you’re enjoying a candlelit dinner or relaxing in the hot tub, this resort promises a memorable experience.
  • Celeste Mountain Lodge: Located a short 8.1km from Upala, Celeste Mountain Lodge is a delightful 3-star lodge tailored for adventure enthusiasts. Surrounded by stunning natural beauty, this lodge offers an array of outdoor activities such as rafting, kayaking, and horseback riding, ensuring an exhilarating experience for all guests. Whether you’re exploring the local trails or renting bicycles for a scenic ride, the lodge serves as an excellent base for adventure seekers. With its welcoming atmosphere and proximity to thrilling activities, Celeste Mountain Lodge is a fantastic choice for those looking to embrace the great outdoors.
  • Paraiso Volcano Lodge: Situated 9.3km from Upala, Paraiso Volcano Lodge offers a unique hot spring experience in an LGBTQIA-friendly setting. This welcoming hotel is perfect for travellers looking to unwind in nature while enjoying the therapeutic benefits of natural hot springs nearby. The lodge’s commitment to inclusivity makes it a comfortable haven for all guests. Relax in the tranquil surroundings and take advantage of the rejuvenating hot spring facilities to enrich your stay. With a focus on nature and relaxation, Paraiso Volcano Lodge is an excellent option for a harmonious escape.

Where to stay near Upala

Upala, nestled in the Alajuela Province, offers a delightful escape for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts. Explore the stunning landscapes and embrace the ecotourism vibe in this friendly city. Nearby, Playa Arenilla beckons with its serene beauty, perfect for relaxation. Experience the charm of secluded neighbourhoods where you can unwind and connect with the local culture. Upala promises a memorable vacation filled with scenic adventures and warm hospitality.

  • Bijagua: Nestled approximately 6.2km from Upala, Bijagua is a charming city that offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. This area is particularly popular among travellers seeking an exhilarating experience, with peak visitor numbers from December to February. Outdoor enthusiasts can indulge in various activities including hiking along scenic trails, visiting local resorts, and unwinding at spas. The proximity to magnificent natural landmarks such as the national state park and volcanoes makes Bijagua a must-visit for nature lovers looking to immerse themselves in Costa Rica's rich biodiversity.
  • Delicias: Just 3.1km from Upala, Delicias is a delightful city known for its captivating landscapes and outdoor activities. The town experiences seasonal visitor fluctuations, with peak times occurring from January to March. Delicias attracts those eager to explore its picturesque surroundings, including nearby national parks and beaches. Whether you’re hiking through lush greenery or relaxing by the sea, the area provides ample opportunities for adventure and tranquillity alike, making it an ideal spot for travellers seeking both excitement and relaxation.
  • Canalete: Located a mere 3.1km from Upala, Canalete is a vibrant city that boasts a plethora of outdoor activities and scenic views. With moderate seasonal visitor patterns peaking between January and March, Canalete is perfect for adventure seekers. The area features a recreation centre and offers various adventure activities. Nearby landmarks include national parks and volcanoes, making it an excellent base for exploring Costa Rica’s natural wonders. Whether you’re trekking through the wilderness or enjoying the local attractions, Canalete promises an unforgettable experience.

Things to do near Upala

Upala, located in the Alajuela Province of Costa Rica, is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including golf at local courses and relaxation at nearby resorts, all while taking in the stunning scenery that the region has to offer. Whether you're looking for an active holiday or a peaceful retreat, Upala provides a perfect blend of both.

Shopping

In Upala, explore local shops for unique gifts. If you're up for a drive, visit El Pilon Station, located 8.1km away, where you can enjoy a mix of family-friendly businesses and vibrant city vibes for a delightful shopping experience.

Recreation

In Upala, the Eco-Lodge offers rejuvenating yoga sessions amidst lush landscapes, complemented by organic farm-to-table meals. Nearby, the Rio Celeste Spa provides soothing massages infused with local ingredients, allowing guests to unwind in harmony with nature while enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding rainforest.

Adventure

The Miravalles Maze, situated 8.1km from Upala, offers a fun-filled family adventure as you navigate its challenging paths. At FlyZone Wakeboard School, located 15.5km away, thrill-seekers can enjoy exhilarating water sports amid a vibrant outdoor atmosphere.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Upala is vibrant and welcoming. Enjoy live music at the local bar, La Esquina, or dance the night away at Discoteca El Cielo. For a more relaxed evening, unwind with a drink at Café de la Plaza, where the atmosphere is friendly and warm.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Upala

To save money on your trip to Upala, consider visiting between August and October, when accommodation prices are lower. Booking about a month in advance or exploring last-minute deals on Expedia can lead to significant savings. Aim to stay on a Saturday for the best rates, while Mondays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter by budget and preferred location, and consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities for extra discounts. Don't forget to look for free activities to enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

  • 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: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. To uncover the most economical prices and offers, simply organise the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially cut costs by combining your hotel reservation in Upala with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Upala

Upala, nestled in Alajuela Province, offers a delightful mix of outdoor adventures and stunning scenery, making it an ideal destination for those seeking excitement. Popular attractions include waterfalls, volcanoes, and nature reserves, providing ample opportunities for exploration. Don’t miss a visit to Upala Central Park, where you can relax and soak in the local atmosphere. Whether you're an adventure seeker or a nature lover, Upala has something to suit every traveller's taste.

  • Miravalles Volcano: Located approximately 8.7km from Upala, Miravalles Volcano offers stunning outdoor scenery and exhilarating adventure opportunities. Explore the lush surroundings, indulge in hot springs, and witness the geothermal activity that makes this area unique.
  • Rio Celeste Waterfall: Also about 8.7km from Upala, the enchanting Rio Celeste Waterfall is renowned for its striking turquoise waters. This picturesque spot is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and couples seeking romance amidst nature's beauty, with hiking trails leading to breathtaking views.
  • Tapir Valley Nature Reserve: Situated 7.5km from Upala, Tapir Valley Nature Reserve is a haven for wildlife lovers. Explore diverse ecosystems and spot various species in their natural habitat, all while enjoying the tranquillity of this protected area.

Best time to go to Upala

The best time to visit Upala is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. May is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with no rain (dry).

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January75.7°F (24.3°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverageAverage
February76.6°F (24.8°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
March78.1°F (25.6°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
April80.4°F (26.9°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
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 CloudyAverageSlightly High
August78.8°F (26.0°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
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 CloudyAverageSlightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Upala

For a visit to Upala in Alajuela Province, Costa Rica, you can fly into two major airports. Liberia (LIR-Daniel Oduber International) is situated 25.5km away, with nearby hotels such as the luxurious Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo, 6.2km from the airport, and the all-inclusive Planet Hollywood Costa Rica, 5.6km away. Alternatively, La Fortuna (FON-Arenal) is 35.6km from Upala, featuring excellent accommodation options like the 5-star Springs Resort and Spa, just 2.5km from the airport. Both locations offer various transportation services, including airport shuttles and transfers for added convenience.

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 £34 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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