About

This tropical hostel is located within a 5-minute drive of Turrialba Town Centre, has free on-site parking and is part of a little chain of awesome Spanish Schools in Costa Rica & Panama. With a hammock terrace, powerful free WIFI, world renowned coffee, soft music and an interesting crowd of people from all over the world.

Spanish by the River offers rooms with wooden interior, garden views and antiquated tile floors. The dorms that we offer are to be shared with 2 or 3 persons and the private rooms are with shared or private bathrooms. We also offer daily traditional breakfast for $6. There is a well-equipped spacious communal kitchen, and an outside charcoal grill. This is used for our Friday Potluck BBQ party but can also be rented throughout the week.

The tour desk at Spanish by the River can arrange activities like whitewater rafting, horse riding, nature outings, Aquiares coffee tour and a canyon tour. Guests will find restaurants in Turrialba Town Centre, many of which deliver to the hostel. Guests can reach Irazu Volcano in a 1-hour drive, while Juan Santamaria International Airport is 65 km from the property.

The Language school section organizes optional daily activities like yoga, salsa dancing, movie night and a Friday night potluck barbecue with some tropical drinks on the house!

This property is also rated for the best value in Turrialba! Guests are getting more for their money when compared to other properties in this city.

We speak your language!

check in: 1 pm till 8 pm
check out: 7 am till 11 am
breakfast not included
towels rented out at $2.50

all payments in cash
cancellation policy 72 hours
+9 pax group bookings not accepted

House Rules

Check In

0:00 - 23:00

Check Out

until

  • Taxes Not Included
View House Rules

Facilities

  • Free Parking
  • Free WiFi
  • Free Internet Access
  • Bicycle Parking
  • Parking
  • Housekeeping
  • Internet access
  • Board Games
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Reviews

9.9Superb(83)
  • Value for Money
    9.7
  • Security
    10.0
  • Atmosphere
    10.0
  • Cleanliness
    10.0
  • Staff
    10.0
  • Location
    9.7
  • Facilities
    9.7
Summary of traveller reviews

Spanish by the River in Turrialba is a beautiful and immaculate hostel, praised for its friendly and helpful staff. Guests love the stunning views from the decks and hammocks, the peaceful atmosphere, and the well-equipped kitchen. It's a great spot for solo travellers and those seeking a relaxing stay, though some mention it's a bit far to walk to town.

Stayed in May 2026
10
H
Hendrik
Male, 41+, England
What an amazing hostel! So far one of the best I have stayed in Central America. Kitchen, bathrooms lounge areas are immaculate. Just love the outdoor decks and hammocks with views into the forest and part of the city, with the sound of the river below. The manager and all the other staff are very friendly and helpful. I would highly recommend the place!
Stayed in Apr 2026
10
A
Allison
Female, 18-24, USA
Absolutely amazing! Beautiful place, great host, great list of activities, beautiful location! Perfect!
Stayed in Mar 2026
10
J
Jocelyn
Female, 18-24, USA
Safe, clean, beautifullllll!!!!, Ingrid was so so kind and helpful, all other guests were extremely friendly and made our stay the best!! Kitchen is well equipped, bathrooms are clean, warm showers, beautiful outdoor seating. 10/10!!
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Location

Barrio El Recreo, 50 metros después de la Entrada, Spanish by the River S.A., Aptdo 42, Turrialba, Costa Rica
2.5km from city centre