La Fortuna in Costa Rica is a picturesque city situated at the base of Arenal Volcano. There are loads of cool things to do from here from lounging in natural hot springs to rafting and partying with locals. It is an awesome place for backpackers and holiday makers alike.
Fortunately, among all the resorts catering to rich holiday makers, there exits a resort perfect for the budget backpacker. It is affordable, luxurious, and perfect for those backpackers who need a vacation from their vacation.
This haven in tropical paradise is known as Arenal Backpackers Resort Hostel.
Overview
This hostel is unlike your typical hostel. As it’s name suggests it is a resort for backpackers. As a result it both a place to relax by it’s massive pool while still hanging out among like-minded travelers. It is perfect mix of a laid back resort with a backpackers hostel.
Accommodations
Backpackers Resort Hostel has a variety of accommodation options. The cheapest way to go if you’re traveling solo is a mixed dorm for 15$. The dorms are clean, the beds are comfortable, and there are only 8 beds to a large room.
The next option is a private tent for two for 35$/night. It has a clean double bed, electricity, jungle views and makes you feel as though you’re on a royal expedition to the rainforest commissioned by the queen.
Finally, if you’re looking to splurge and want a spacious private room with TV, AC, and shower, you can get one for 56$/night.
For more info on their rates and options, check out their website at Arenal Backpackers Resort.
My private tent in the jungle
Amenities
Backpackers Resort Hostel has all the amenities of a real resort. It has large pool, swim up bar, and restaurant. There are plenty of bathrooms and showers with hot water. The Wifi is fast and works from every dorm, tent, or private room, as well as on the pool deck and in the restaurant.
The swim up bar after an evening shower
The Food
Like most resorts there is a bar and restaurant. Although prices are understandably higher than the rest of the town, the food is exceptionally delicious. Perfectly cooked American style hamburgers, pastas, and even authentic fish and chips can be purchased for between 5 and 10$.
Incredible medium rare hamburger with cheese, mushrooms and onions
The Staff
The staff is laid back, helpful, and very accommodating. They will help you with just about anything, from booking a rafting adventure, finding the hidden hot springs without paying a fee, to cutting open a coconut for you. The manager Diego along with all the staff are totally fluent in English making life much easier for non Spanish speakers.
Allen from reception chopping open coconuts for me and my gang
Conclusion
If you’re a backpacker looking for a hostel vibe and don’t mind a bit of luxury now and again, Arenal Backpackers Resort Hostel is the place to be. It’s where you go when you need a vaction from your vacation. It is affordable, unique, and the perfect place to base your self while you explore the countless attractions La Fortuna has to offer. Click here to reserve a bungalow,Run Away!
Seems like a super chill place to stay. I’ve backpacked through La Fortuna once and took the trip up the dormant volcano. The entire vibe there was lovely and I’m definitely looking forward to going back sometime soon! Have you made it out to Montezuma yet?
It’s really relaxed which is a nice change. O nice! I never went to the volcano, after the hot springs I was too lazy. I’ve never been to Montezuma but I will this trip. And now that I have the go pro I’m totally going to bungee! Never done it before but I’m stoked!
Interesting. I saw this backpacker resort advertised all over Costa Rica and I wondered if its claims were legit. We never made it up to Arenal, but this is good to know for the future.
Yea, it’s a little pricey but it’s pretty nice if your looking for a quick respite from the old hostel.