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Explore the ancient lava fields and lush rainforests of Arenal before relaxing in natural thermal rivers. These guided tours combine scenic hikes, wildlife spotting, and stunning waterfalls with rejuvenating hot springs experiences.
Free Cancellation Explore La Fortuna's waterfalls, lava fields, and hanging bridges before relaxing in natural hot springs.
Free Cancellation Visit La Fortuna Waterfall, hike Arenal's lava trails, and relax in hot springs on this full-day tour from Jaco.
Free Cancellation Hike to La Fortuna Waterfall and Arenal ecological park, then relax with a swim in a natural hot river.
Free Cancellation Hike the rainforest trails around Arenal Volcano followed by a traditional lunch and a soak in natural hot springs.
Free Cancellation Spend a full day ziplining and horseback riding before relaxing in volcanic mud baths and thermal hot springs.
Free Cancellation Hike through the rainforest at the base of Arenal Volcano followed by a soak in a natural hot springs river.
Free Cancellation Hike through a tropical rainforest, view a volcano, and relax in waterfall pools and natural volcanic hot springs.
Free Cancellation Visit Sarchí's artisan workshops and relax in Arenal's natural hot springs on this full-day trip from San José.
Free Cancellation Hike through forest canopies and volcanic lava fields before cooling off in the pools of La Fortuna Waterfall.
Drive a 500cc 4x4 through custom rainforest trails to reach secluded, natural hot springs.
Read what travelers share about their experience visiting Arenal Volcano — from practical tips to personal highlights.
Arenal Volcano tours offer an unforgettable mix of lush rainforest exploration, fascinating geological history, and pure relaxation. You can expect to hike through diverse ecosystems and ancient lava fields before unwinding in naturally heated geothermal pools.
Hike directly over the rugged basalt rocks left behind by the massive 1968 eruption. The trails offer completely unobstructed, postcard-perfect views of the volcano's steep conical peak.
Walk through dense secondary rainforests filled with giant Ceiba trees. Keep your eyes peeled for colorful toucans, sloths, and listen for the echoing calls of howler monkeys.
Soothe your muscles after a long hike in natural, volcanically heated pools. Local resorts offer beautifully landscaped thermal waters of varying temperatures nestled deep in the jungle.
Many combo tours include a stop at this roaring 75-meter cascade. You will descend 500 steps into the jungle canyon to swim in the crystal-clear, refreshing pool at the base.
Traverse elevated pathways suspended high above the rainforest canopy. It is a fantastic way to spot birds and monkeys while enjoying panoramic views of Lake Arenal.
Planning your Arenal adventure is straightforward, but knowing the logistics of the various combo tours will help you choose the right experience for your group.
Options range from efficient half-day hikes with a hot springs visit to massive 11-13 hour full-day combo tours. You can join small shared groups or book private excursions tailored to your own pace.
Most guided tours include the $15+tax national park entrance fee and hot springs resort passes. Always check your specific tour details, as some budget options might require paying entrance fees on-site.
While the hot springs are pure relaxation, the volcano hikes require moderate fitness. Trails over the old lava flows feature uneven, jagged rocks, and waterfall visits involve climbing hundreds of stairs.
Nearly all tours offer free hotel pickup and drop-off in the La Fortuna area, usually within a 6 to 7 km radius of downtown. Pickups from farther lodges or Airbnbs may require meeting at a central point or paying an extra fee.
Tours operate rain or shine, and the tropical weather changes rapidly. Even if the peak is clouded over, it can clear in minutes, so always bring a lightweight rain jacket.
You will need sturdy closed-toe shoes for hiking, plus a swimsuit and a change of clothes for the hot springs. Bring a reusable water bottle, as single-use plastics are banned in many Costa Rican reserves.
If you aren't staying in La Fortuna, you can still visit. Several full-day tours offer round-trip transportation from San José, Jacó, or Guanacaste, though you should expect several hours of driving.
| Half-Day Hike & Hot Springs | Full-Day Mega Combo | Private Volcano & Hot Springs Tour | Day Trip from San José/Coast | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tour Type | 6-8 hours | 10-11 hours | Flexible (approx 8 hours) | 12-13 hours |
| Duration | Nature lovers wanting a balanced day of activity and relaxation | Seeing all La Fortuna highlights (waterfall, bridges, volcano) in one day | Families or couples wanting a custom pace and private transport | Travelers not staying overnight in the La Fortuna area |
| Best For | $60 - $100 | $105 - $155 | $160 - $205 | $190 - $210 |
| Average Price |
If you are visiting Arenal Volcano National Park independently, the operating hours depend on which sector you plan to explore:
Keep in mind that guided combo tours often run much later into the evening, as the hot springs portions are typically enjoyed after the sun goes down.
Arenal Volcano is located about 15 kilometers (9.3 miles) southwest of La Fortuna, and approximately 140 kilometers (87 miles) from San José (SJO Airport).
Note that there is no direct public bus to the national park gates; you will need a rental car, taxi, or a guided tour with included transport from La Fortuna.
Dry Season (December to April): This is generally the best time to visit for clear, unobstructed views of the volcano's peak. The sunny weather makes hiking the rugged lava trails much easier.
Rainy Season (May to November): The peak wet months of September, October, and November present challenging conditions. Heavy rainfall frequently cloaks the summit in thick clouds and turns dirt trails muddy.
Regardless of the season, try to arrive at the park gates right at 8:00 AM. Morning skies are usually the clearest before afternoon clouds build up, and wildlife is highly active.
Accessibility varies greatly depending on the specific trails and tours you choose:
The national park entrances are equipped with basic facilities including restrooms and a ranger station. Important: The park only accepts credit cards for the entrance fee ($15 + tax for adults, $5 + tax for children); cash is strictly not accepted.
When visiting the hot springs, whether it is Tabacon, Baldi, or The Springs, you will find full resort amenities. These include secure lockers, changing rooms, towel rentals, and on-site restaurants and bars where you can purchase cocktails and meals.
To protect the delicate ecosystem and ensure visitor safety, several strict rules apply in the Arenal area:
Yes, Arenal is still considered an active volcano, though it has been in a quiet, resting phase since October 2010. Prior to this, it experienced over 40 years of continuous eruptions starting in 1968.
No, hiking to the summit is strictly prohibited and highly illegal. The upper slopes are dangerous high-risk zones due to toxic volcanic gases, landslides, and falling boulders.
Most guided combo tours include the $15 USD national park entrance fee and the hot springs resort passes in their final price. However, you should always double-check your specific tour's inclusion list before booking.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe hiking boots or sneakers for the jagged lava trails, and lightweight, breathable clothing. Don't forget to pack a rain jacket, a swimsuit, and a change of clothes for the hot springs.
You need a moderate level of physical fitness for the hiking portions. Walking over the 1968 lava fields involves uneven terrain, and visiting La Fortuna Waterfall requires climbing 500 steps back up the canyon.
No, drones are strictly prohibited inside Arenal Volcano National Park and all other national parks in Costa Rica to protect the local wildlife.
Arenal Volcano National Park is located about 15 kilometers (9.3 miles) from the La Fortuna district. It usually takes about 20 to 30 minutes to drive there.
Yes, children are welcome on most tours, but parents should bring a baby carrier for infants as the jungle trails are not stroller-friendly. Some specific adventure tours, like ATVs or ziplining, may have a minimum age requirement of 5 years old.
Yes, there are specific full-day tours that offer round-trip transportation from San José hotels. These are long days (up to 13 hours) but are perfect if you aren't staying overnight in the Arenal area.
There is no guarantee. The weather in this tropical region changes rapidly, and heavy clouds frequently cloak the summit, especially during the rainy season from May to November.
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This full-day tour covers the most significant natural landmarks around La Fortuna and the Arenal Volcano. You will hike through mountain trails and jungle staircases, cross high hanging bridges, and visit the La Fortuna waterfall. The itinerary includes walks through giant tree forests and across historic lava rock fields to reach the area's highest scenic viewpoint, with additional stops at El Lago Verde and a butterfly garden. Beyond the landscape, the experience includes a visit to a Maleku Indian village to learn about local indigenous culture and dedicated time for wildlife spotting with an expert guide. The day concludes at a hot spring resort where you can soak in natural mineral waters. All entrance fees are covered, and the tour includes a traditional warm lunch, fruit and coffee breaks, and a local Cacique cocktail.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish
This day trip from Jaco covers the primary landmarks of the Arenal region. The tour begins at La Fortuna Waterfall, where you can swim in the natural pool at the base of the falls and walk through the surrounding rainforest. After visiting the waterfall, you will head to the base of the Arenal Volcano for a hike along the historic lava trails. These paths offer a close look at the volcanic terrain and provide clear views of the mountain's cone on cloudless days. The trip concludes at Paradise Hot Springs and Gardens, where you can spend time soaking in the thermal mineral pools before returning to Jaco.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish
This tour visits three primary locations: La Fortuna Waterfall, the Arenal ecological park, and a natural hot river. The experience features steady, manageable hikes that prioritize views of the landscape and local wildlife over physical intensity. Our guides lead the way, providing context on the area's history and natural environment while helping you spot animals along the trails. You will have opportunities to swim in both the waterfall basin and the warm waters of a local river, offering a direct way to experience the region's unique geography.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish
This tour begins with a guided hike through the secondary forest and ancient lava fields surrounding Arenal Volcano. As you walk the trails, your guide will point out local wildlife like howler monkeys and toucans while explaining the geological history of the 1968 eruption. The route follows established paths that offer clear views of the volcano and the surrounding La Fortuna valley. After the hike, the group stops for a traditional Costa Rican lunch at a local restaurant. The day concludes at a natural hot springs river, where you can soak in mineral-rich waters heated by the volcano's geothermal activity. This experience takes place in a natural river setting rather than a man-made pool, allowing you to relax directly in the forest environment.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish
This full-day tour begins with an active morning in the rainforest, featuring a zipline circuit, hanging bridges, and a jungle waterslide. You will also watch a cultural performance and take a guided horseback ride through the surrounding landscape. Following a buffet lunch, the afternoon focuses on the volcano's natural features. You'll visit a waterfall and then head to the spa area to use the volcanic rock sauna, apply a heated mud mask, and soak in several thermal hot springs.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish
This afternoon tour begins with a guided walk along the trails at the base of Arenal Volcano. As you navigate the rainforest, your guide will provide context on the volcano’s history and help identify local wildlife, including monkeys and various tropical bird species. The hike offers a chance to see how the landscape has changed over decades of volcanic activity. Following the hike, the group moves to a natural hot springs river. You can spend the rest of the afternoon soaking in the warm, mineral-rich waters heated by the volcano. It is a simple, effective way to experience La Fortuna’s most famous natural features in a single outing.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish
This private tour balances rainforest exploration with relaxation. You will hike through the tropical forest to observe volcanic activity from a safe distance, followed by a swim in a natural pool at the base of a waterfall. The experience concludes with a visit to volcanic mineral hot springs. Private transportation and a personal guide are included for every group to ensure a flexible and comfortable pace. For those who prefer a shorter walk, we offer a 'Lite' version of the tour. This alternative replaces the standard two-hour hike with a half-mile forest trail that passes four additional small waterfalls. To request this option, simply book the tour and send us a message specifying the Lite version.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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The day begins in Sarchí, a town famous for its woodworking and handcrafted furniture. You will visit family-run workshops to see artisans paint traditional Costa Rican oxcarts, a craft passed down through generations. Afterward, the route passes through rural landscapes filled with pineapple, mango, and banana farms on the way to the northern lowlands. In La Fortuna, you will stop for lunch at a restaurant with direct views of the 1,633-meter Arenal Volcano. The afternoon is dedicated to relaxing in natural hot springs heated by the volcano's geothermal activity. These thermal facilities feature various pools connected by waterfalls and slides. The tour ends with dinner before the drive back to San José.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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The day begins at Mistico Park, where you will walk across a series of hanging bridges and forest trails. A guide accompanies the group to point out local wildlife and explain the surrounding ecosystem. From these elevated paths, you can see the Arenal Volcano, Lake Arenal, and the dense rainforest canopy. Afterward, a short drive leads to the base of the volcano for a hike across the massive lava rocks left by the 1968 eruption, ending at a viewpoint overlooking the northern valley. Following a lunch of local dishes at a nearby restaurant, the tour continues to La Fortuna Waterfall. Reaching the base requires a 20-minute descent down a jungle staircase into a deep canyon. Once there, you can swim in the natural pool beneath the falls or rest on the rocks. The day concludes with an optional visit to a local hot springs resort, where typical cocktails are served to help you unwind.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish
Our private ATV tours are led by bilingual guides and customized to fit your skill level. We use 500cc 4x4 machines featuring power steering and automatic transmissions, which are heavier and more stable than typical rental quads. We offer technical routes for experienced riders and gentler back roads for families. Each ATV is for one person, but you can add an adult or child as a passenger for an additional fee. The tour ends at a set of natural hot springs located deep in the rainforest. These are not the large commercial pools found in La Fortuna; they are simple, rustic, and quiet. It is a natural spot to relax in clean water after your time on the trails.
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
English, Spanish