The area of Arenal and La Fortuna, Costa Rica, is among the prime locations within the nation. From 1968 till 2010, Arenal Volcano was one among Costa Rica’s most lively volcanoes, erupting each day and providing an unimaginable view of the purple lava pouring over the edges of its crater. The purple lava days at the moment are gone, and the volcano was formally declared dormant in December 2010.
Regardless of the dearth of volcanic actions, vacationers are nonetheless eager to go to Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica. Many vacationers add a visit to Arenal Volcano to the highest of their listing for scenic mountain climbing trails and entry to pure scorching springs. For many individuals, a visit to the Arenal space in northern Costa Rica is a part of their dream trip.
The sleepy city of La Fortuna, Costa Rica, serves because the gateway to Arenal. Downtown La Fortuna is residence to quite a few motels, eating places, and actions within the space. For those who’ve been contemplating a Costa Rica trip, this could possibly be the proper spot in your dream journey.
La Fortuna, Costa Rica
About Arenal and La Fortuna
Arenal is thought for its 1,633 meters (5,358 ft) tall volcano of the identical identify. Years in the past, Arenal Volcano in Costa Rica was utterly dormant. This all modified in 1968 when an surprising eruption famously destroyed the small city of Tabacón. The eruptions continued each day for years, turning the La Fortuna space right into a vacationer hotspot.
Up till 2010, Arenal was Costa Rica’s most lively volcano. And though it has since been dormant, scientists imagine it might in the future return to its lava-flowing state. That being stated, Arenal and La Fortuna are utterly secure to go to and welcome hundreds of vacationers yearly.
Arenal Volcano Nationwide Park is the second hottest park in Costa Rica. La Fortuna gives many excursions to see the volcano and discover the close by lake and scorching springs. Individuals contemplate Arenal one among Costa Rica’s greatest volcanoes to see as a result of it’s so tall and symmetrical in opposition to the encompassing pastures.
Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna, Costa Rica
Easy methods to Get to Arenal
Arenal Volcano is situated about 80 km northwest of San José airport within the province of Alajuela. It’s nestled in Costa Rica’s northern lowlands the place it stands tall amid low-lying forests and effervescent thermal swimming pools.
Hire a Automobile
One of the simplest ways to get to Arenal is by driving. Whether or not you need to go to La Fortuna or head straight to Arenal Volcano, you’ll want to move to make your strategy to La Fortuna, Costa Rica. In case you are coming from one of many different fashionable vacationer locations, a visit to Arenal will take roughly 3-5 hours.
Getting pleasant with pizotes on the facet of the street in Arenal
Driving Distance to Arenal
San Jose to Arenal: In case you are coming from San Jose, it ought to take you not more than 3-4 hours to get to La Fortuna, Costa Rica. Touring west on Route 1 will take you to San Ramon the place you’ll then take Route 702 to La Fortuna. The complete driving distance from La Fortuna/Arenal to San Jose is 139 km (86 miles). Though it doesn’t sound like an extended distance, the winding roads will gradual you down. So, remember to plan accordingly.
Tamarindo to Arenal Volcano: To journey from Tamarindo to La Fortuna, head to Liberia. From Liberia, you’ll make your approach round Lake Arenal to get to the doorway of the park. The space from Arenal to Tamarindo is 205 km (127 miles) and is a 3.5-4 hour drive.
Jaco to Arenal: Heading from Jaco to La Fortuna is a 157 km (97.5 miles) journey north. You’ll drive to San Ramon and observe the identical winding roads as you’ll from San Jose. The drive from La Fortuna to Jaco takes about 4 hours.
Manuel Antonio to Arenal: Manuel Antonio is situated about 5 hours away from Arenal space. The drive passes Jaco, Orotina and the outskirts of San Jose. It’s a windy however scenic drive.
Monteverde to Arenal: Though the 2 look shut on a map, the gap is deceiving. The drive from Arenal to Monteverde and vice versa takes 3-4 hours. It’s a 118 km (73 miles) journey that winds by mountainous terrain. The primary a part of the journey from Monteverde to Tilarán follows a really bumpy unpaved street. A 4×4 car is advisable, though you can also make it in a daily automotive in the event you take your time. However, throughout the wet season (October and November particularly), the street is impassable with out 4×4 and we don’t advocate taking your possibilities.
Liberia to Arenal: Route 1 from Liberia will get you to the city of Cañas. From right here, you’ll then make your approach round Lake Arenal to get to La Fortuna, Costa Rica. This route is 132 km (82 miles) and takes about 2.5 hours.
La Fortuna city, a getaway to Arenal Volcano
Use Native Transport
In case you are not renting a automotive in Costa Rica or desire a greener various, you may get to Arenal by taking native buses. They’re hassle-free, comfy, and well-connected.
There are a selection of direct buses from San José leaving at 6:15a.m, 8:40 a.m and 11:30 a.m most days. In addition to quite a lot of later buses connecting by Ciudad Quesada. The Bus Schedule is a superb useful resource for checking up-to-date bus schedules for locations nationwide. Nonetheless, tickets can solely be bought in individual on the bus station. You should purchase them a number of days forward or on the day of.
Take a Shuttle Bus
Quite a few shuttle buses additionally function alongside the San José-Arenal route, Liberia – Arenal route, and Tamarindo -Arenal route with one-way ticket prices beginning at $54/individual.
Interbus, Grey Line and some others provide non-public and shared shuttles that supply a extra comfy experience than a public bus. To seek out one of the best value and e-book a seat on-line, head to Bookaway.
Arrive by Air
If you wish to save time on transportation, contemplate flying. If booked forward of time, a one-way home flight with native airways Sansa could be as low-cost as $50-60 USD/individual. Sansa airways have direct flights to La Fortuna on most Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays. The flight from the San Jose airport could be very scenic and takes solely half-hour.
Map of La Fortuna and the encompassing space
Greatest Time to Go to Arenal Volcano
Arenal, Costa Rica is a superb vacation spot to go to any time of the yr, however much like the remainder of the nation, there are two distinct seasons in Arenal: dry season and inexperienced season.
Dry Season (Dec-Apr) is mostly the greatest time to go to Costa Rica, if you wish to keep away from the rain. Nonetheless, that’s additionally the busiest time of the yr, so anticipate larger costs and plenty of different vacationers. However, don’t be afraid to plan a visit to Arenal, Costa Rica, throughout the Inexperienced Season (Could-Nov).
We’ve got visited Arenal a few instances, in each the dry and wet seasons, and have loved our keep each instances. Within the wet season, it virtually all the time rained within the afternoon, leaving mornings sunny and clear, excellent for a swim within the pool or mountain climbing in Arenal Volcano Nationwide Park. The clouds parted greater than as soon as a day, giving us an opportunity to admire the cone-shaped volcano in all of its magnificence.
Wet day in La Fortuna, Costa Rica
Issues to do in La Fortuna, Costa Rica
1. Go to the Arenal Volcano Nationwide Park, Costa Rica
The nationwide park gives anybody visiting Arenal Volcano a likelihood to admire the Arenal volcano from up shut. Although it’s not potential to hike to the highest of the volcano, you’ll be able to observe one of many paths and stroll over the lava rocks to a mirador (viewpoint) that, on a transparent day, gives an incredible view of the Arenal area.
Entrance Charges & Park Hours
Park entry is $15 USD for adults and $5 for kids. As a part of the nation’s conservation efforts, 100% of park admission charges go on to Costa Rica’s Nationwide Park Fund. The park is open from 8 a.m to 4 p.m each day.
Mountaineering trails map at Arenal Volcano Nationwide Park in La Fortuna, Costa Rica
Benefit from the Mountaineering Trails
There are 3 mountain climbing trails in Arenal Nationwide Park, Costa Rica: Heliconias Path, Las Coladas Path and El Ceibo Path. They provide distinctive glimpses into the pathways of lava flows from Arenal’s previous. The paths kind a 4 km (2.5 miles) loop that may often be carried out in 2-3 hours.
Las Coladas Path (Sendero Las Coladas) is a flat and nice 1.7 km (1 mile) stretch that results in the hardened lava streams that shaped after an eruption in 1992. Most of this path is secondary progress as a result of volcanic eruptions worn out the vast majority of the first timber years in the past. Towards the tip of the path, you’ll go away the forest cover and are available to a lookout – a clearing that provides a gorgeous view of the Arenal Volcano on one facet and an unimaginable view of Lake Arenal on the opposite. Relating to views, La Coladas is one of the best Costa Rica volcano hike within the park.
El Ceibo Path: As soon as on the lookout, you’ll be able to observe the El Ceibo path again to the park entrance. Whereas most old-growth right here was destroyed in previous volcano eruptions, there are a number of mighty timber that managed to outlive. This 2.3 km (1.5 miles) flat path is known as after its resident large Ceiba tree that’s over 400 years outdated!
Heliconias Path: It is a flat 610 m (2,000 ft) path that winds by the secondary-growth forest. It’s the least attention-grabbing of the three trails however is thus a bit quieter and gives a better likelihood of recognizing wildlife, like howler monkeys or a Naked-necked Umbrellabird.
Stunning views of Arenal Volcano from the path in Arenal Volcano Nationwide Park
View of Arenal Lake from the path in Arenal Volcano Nationwide Park
Different Issues to Do in Arenal
Whereas the volcano itself is unquestionably the primary attraction, there are a number of different issues to do in Arenal, Costa Rica. Whether or not you’re in search of journey or rest, these actions and excursions are certain to make your journey a memorable one.
2. Go White Water Rafting
Arenal Volcano is conveniently situated in shut proximity to a few Grade 2-4 rivers in Costa Rica, together with Rio Balsa and Rio Sarapiqui.
Rio Balsa is Class 2-3 and is situated 40 min away from La Fortuna city. It’s excellent for rookies or these brief on time. The river gives gentler rapids and is situated a bit nearer to La Fortuna city. Rafting on Rio Balsa was one of many highlights of our time in Arenal. It was an exhilarating 2-3 hours experience that supplied simply sufficient enjoyable and adrenaline! The primary a part of the river journey was fairly full-on, whereas the second half was extra laid again, providing an opportunity to take a seat again and admire the attractive pure setting round us. Rafting packages with Desafio Journey Firm begin at $75 USD /individual.
Rio Sarapiqui is Class 3-4 and is situated 1 hour and 10 minutes from La Fortuna city. The guides will let you know that they like rafting on Rio Sarapiqui as a result of it permits for some wildlife viewing between the rapids. We haven’t had an opportunity to attempt Rio Sarapiqui ourselves but however heard that this can be a actually enjoyable adrenaline-filled journey, particularly in the event you visita on the finish of the inexperienced season in November, when the rivers are excessive.
There are a selection of tour suppliers on the town providing rafting on Rio Balsa and Rio Sarapiqui. We did our rafting tour with Desafio Journey Firm, a widely known actions supplier providing excursions round Costa Rica. They provide quite a lot of rafting excursions and different journey excursions in La Fortuna.
- Half-Day Rafting Tour on Rio Balsa: Desafio’s half-day rafting journey tour consists of all of the rafting gear, 2-3 hours of rafting alongside the Grade 2-3 rapids, and a scrumptious lunch served at a neighborhood Finca (farm) following the experience. Snacks and lunch are included!
- Rafting Class 3-4 “Jungle Run” on Río Sarapiquí: Be part of the staff at Desafio on a whitewater rafting journey on the Sarapiquí River. The journey consists of 30 thrilling rapids on the San Miguel Class 3-4 part by 10 kilometers of lush rainforest. Snacks and lunch are included!
Rio Balsa, Costa Rica
Whitewater Rafting on Rio Balsa close to La Fortuna, Costa Rica
Different White Water Rafting Excursions in Arenal
One other well-rated tour operator in Arenal is Arenal Rafting Firm. They provide excursions on Rio Balsa solely at a barely cheaper value.
- Arenal Rafting Balsa River Class 2 & 3 Rafting: An exciting rafting journey down the category II and III rapids of the attractive Balsa River. Navigate 10 km downstream, stopping alongside the way in which to relaxation, swim and luxuriate in some snacks. Consists of transportation, tools, snacks, beer and lunch.
- Arenal Rafting Higher Balsa Class 3 and 4 Rapids: An identical journey to the one above however this tour takes you alongside the higher Balsa River and gives a chance to undertake barely greater rapids, categorised as Class III and IV rapids, relying on the season.
3. Soak in Arenal Scorching Springs
Because of the geothermal exercise surrounding Arenal Volcano, the city of La Fortuna is called among the best spots in Costa Rica to soak in some pure scorching springs. It’s an exercise in Arenal you don’t want to overlook!
There are 3 giant scorching springs resorts in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, with admission costs starting from $34 USD to $105 USD/per day. Listed below are a number of of one of the best scorching springs in Arenal.
Greatest Scorching Springs in La Fortuna, Costa Rica
Tabacon Scorching Springs, Costa Rica is the primary, probably the most upscale scorching spring resort in La Fortuna. Tabacon Resort, Costa Rica gives guests entry to dozens of scorching spring swimming pools of their lush Backyard of Eden.
Half-day passes begin at $70 USD and embrace lunch or dinner; full-day passes with one meal are $85 USD and full-day passes with two meals are $105 USD. For those who can afford to splurge, we extremely advocate dedicating a complete day to soaking in Tabacon scorching springs. It’s a fantastic place and undoubtedly the most well-liked scorching springs in Costa Rica. So, take your time to discover and luxuriate in it to the fullest.
Baldi Scorching Springs, Costa Rica is the second hottest alternative for decent springs on the town. The Baldi scorching springs are recognized to draw a youthful (extra budget-conscious) crowd and provide a extra upbeat setting. A each day cross prices solely $34 or $57 with lunch or dinner or $79 with each lunch and dinner.
Eco-Termales is the third scorching springs possibility out there on the town. This resort is way smaller in dimension than Tabacon and Baldi and gives one other various for a budget-conscious traveler. A day cross prices $40 or $62 with lunch or dinner.
Paradise Scorching Springs, Costa Rica is one other fashionable spot situated not removed from Baldi Scorching Springs. There are 5 thermal swimming pools and one chilly pool to plunge into and refresh. They’re the most suitable choice for vacationers on a finances, with day passes costing solely $28 or $45 with a meal.
Free Scorching Springs Choices in Arenal
For those who’re on the lookout for FREE Scorching Springs in La Fortuna, you want to try Rio Chollin. Coined as “Mini-Tabacon,” these La Fortuna, Costa Rica, scorching springs are a favourite for locals and backpackers.
They’re situated simply upstream from the new springs at Tabacon, La Fortuna, the place you’ll see a gravel path to the river. Comply with the trail down and luxuriate in a soak within the pure thermal swimming pools heated by the Arenal volcano. That is the place the locals hang around! Simply keep in mind that these scorching springs aren’t monitored like a resort or spa. So, watch out climbing the slippery rocks. This is among the solely free scorching springs Costa Rica has to supply so get pleasure from them to the fullest!
Apart from scorching springs resorts in La Fortuna, quite a lot of motels within the space have smaller non-public scorching springs on-site, permitting you to have the new springs expertise not too distant out of your room. We’ll share extra information on these resorts within the lodging part beneath.
Journey Tip: In case you are planning to spend a number of days in Arenal, we often advocate spending one full day at Tabacon, Baldi or Eco-Thermales in addition to decide to remain at a resort that provides non-public scorching springs on-site. Whereas it’s good to spend a whole day soaking within the swimming pools, it’s additionally good to have the choice to leap in for half-hour on the finish of every single day throughout your keep. It’s a very nice reprieve after a day of mountain climbing or whitewater rafting!
4. Admire the Views at Lake Arenal
Lake Arenal sits on the base of the Arenal Volcano and gives quite a lot of actions to the curious customer. It’s the largest lake in Costa Rica and among the best for fishing and water sports activities. The lake is a fantastic sight in its personal proper, particularly on a transparent day when the Arenal Volcano displays within the glassy waters of the lake beneath. The lake can also be a vacation spot for some journey actions in La Fortuna.
5. Go Stand-up Paddleboarding on Lake Arenal
This 2.5-hour Stand Up Paddleboarding Tour by Desafio Journey Firm is among the greatest methods to expertise the fantastic thing about Arenal Lake up shut. The tour begins with a ship experience to the center of the lake, the place you’ll hop on a SUP board, prepare, discover your steadiness, get up and start crossing the calm waters on the lake. About midway by the journey, you’ll make a brief cease on an island for superb scenic views.
For those who’re feeling a bit extra adventurous, then pedal boarding can also be an possibility. It’s the place you use a board with a gadget a bit like a stair-stepper constructed into it, together with a pair of handlebars. This 4-hour pedal boarding tour by Volcano Journey Costa Rica will train you concerning the historical past of Lake Arenal and also you’ll get an opportunity to identify wildlife and plantlife surrounding Arenal Volcano. There’s additionally a swim break midway by.
SUP on Lake Arenal. Photograph by way of Desafio Journey Firm
6. Go Kayaking on Lake Arenal
Run by Desafio Journey Firm, this kayaking tour on Lake Arenal lets you not solely expertise the fantastic thing about the lake but additionally benefit from the ample birds that may be noticed on the lake. Observe completely different species of birds, akin to flycatchers, kingfishers, nice blue herons, hummingbirds, woodpeckers, and toucans. This tour is right for any beginner or skilled birdwatcher hoping to find Lake Arenal.
For those who’re on the lookout for a bit extra selection, then Move Journeys Costa Rica runs a kayaking and biking combo tour at and across the lake. The tour begins with a 2-hour kayaking journey throughout the lake, after which it pauses for a lakeside break with a picnic. From there, it picks up as a motorbike experience by nature paths, conventional Costa Rican neighborhoods, and small rivers.
Kayaking on Lake Arenal. Photograph by way of Desafio Journey Firm
7. Take a Kitesurfing Lesson on Lake Arenal
Lake Arenal is among the few locations in Costa Rica the place you’ll be able to attempt kitesurfing or windsurfing. It’s essential to notice that kitesurfing and windsurfing are solely out there within the windy season (Jan-Mar), and classes are solely supplied by Tico Wind, the one operator in Costa Rica providing kite browsing and windsurfing actions. They provide one-off kitesurfing classes (3 hours for $245) and a whole newbie kitesurfing course (9 hours) for $650. Additionally they provide tools rental to these with current certifications.
8. Go for a Swim in Lake Arenal
Since most individuals concentrate on water actions, many marvel, is it secure to swim in Lake Arenal? And the reply is YES! Completely! The water is sweet and clear and makes for the excellent cool dip after a day of mountain climbing. Even in the event you’re not fascinated by any of the above actions, a drive to the lake continues to be definitely worth the journey. Because the lake gives a novel perspective on the realm surrounding Arenal Volcano and the volcano itself. Plus, visiting the lake is among the greatest free issues to do in La Fortuna.
9. Go to La Fortuna Waterfall
Situated simply 6 km (3.7 miles) outdoors of downtown La Fortuna, La Fortuna Waterfall is a well-liked attraction in La Fortuna city. La Fortuna waterfall hike runs by a lush tropical forest and is an straightforward hike with a fantastic waterfall and a enjoyable swimming gap on the finish. There’s a set of 400 steps resulting in the waterfall’s base, however the path isn’t very steep. Carry a showering swimsuit and luxuriate in a refreshing dip within the base of the falls or be a part of others for a picnic on the rocks.
The doorway price to La Fortuna Waterfall is $18 USD, all proceeds are reinvested into native conservation efforts. Hours are from 8:00 a.m to five:00 p.m each day. Lockers can be found at $2 USD with a $10 USD refundable deposit.
For those who don’t need to discover independently, then Volcano Journey Costa Rica gives a 3-hour guided waterfall hike. An knowledgeable information will aid you spot the native birds and wildlife and level out the various kinds of vegetation within the space. Simply ensure you have some waterproof footwear with you, because the hike tends to happen rain or shine. It doesn’t get canceled for damp climate.
Entrance on the La Fortuna Waterfall
La Fortuna Waterfall. Arenal, Costa Rica
10. Go to Cerro Chato Volcano
Cerro Chato volcano isn’t as properly often called its well-known brother, Arenal, nevertheless it does provide a novel alternative to hike as much as and contained in the crater. We didn’t find yourself doing it ourselves, however the hike is claimed to be steep and generally muddy and is thus solely advisable to these in good bodily situation.
The doorway price is $15 USD per individual.
11. Go to Mistico Hanging Bridges Park
Exploring the Costa Rican rainforest from excessive up within the timber is among the greatest methods to expertise the fantastic thing about its vastness. And a go to to Mistico Hanging Bridges lets you do exactly that. The park dates again to the early twentieth Century and sits on 600 acres of protected land that varieties a community of trails by the forest.
There are a few tour choices out there at Mistico Hanging Bridges Park, together with guided and self-guided excursions. Extra information and hyperlinks to prebook are beneath.
Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park: Guided Tour: This guided tour of Mistico Park is one of the simplest ways to discover hanging bridges. La Fortuna is bursting with distinctive natural world, and your native information will train you all about it. The tour lasts 2 hours and hits all of the park’s highlights, from the hummingbird backyard to the Blue Morpho Waterfall.
Mistico Hanging Bridges La Fortuna Tour: Self-Guided: For those who already know lots about Costa Rican natural world, a self-guided tour is one other strategy to expertise the hanging bridges in Costa Rica. Work your approach round 16 hanging bridges, 1 tunnel, and a spectacular 18-meter waterfall.
La Fortuna: Horseback Using at Mistico Park, Arenal Volcano: Spend 1.5 hours exploring the paths of Mistico Park within the gorgeous rainforest. Get pleasure from horseback driving within the park whereas soaking in views of the Arenal volcano and all of the peaceable nature alongside the way in which.
Admiring the views from the hanging bridges
12. Go Zip Lining
Soar throughout the La Fortuna zip line on an Arenal Volcano Cover Zipline Tour. From excessive above the timber, the view of Arenal volcano and its surrounding rainforest is spectacular. You’ll cross 9 completely different zip strains on an exhilarating sky trek on one of many longest zip strains in Costa Rica.
For those who can’t go zip lining, then a sky tram tour is a extra accessible possibility, and Sky Adventures has varied choices. A sky tram is a kind of cable automotive suspended within the air. Whereas zip lining is usually a bit tough, a sky tram tour can provide an analogous expertise and equally superb views for anybody disabled, very younger, or aged.
13. Take a Cooking Class
Put in your chef’s hat and luxuriate in a 3-Hour Costa Rican Cooking Class with Dinner. You’ll study fashionable native delicacies and discover the flavours of typical Costa Rican meals from an knowledgeable chef. You’ll then get to attempt your hand at making ready your personal Gallo Pinto and different Tico dishes whereas sipping on a home made cocktails.
In order for you extra selection in your cooking courses, then Costa Rica Descents gives a mixture natural farm tour and a farm-to-table cooking class. You’ll stroll by the farm to assemble your personal components, and also you’ll use these components to arrange conventional Costa Rican dishes. The particular components and dishes will rely upon the season, after all. Totally different greens can be found at completely different instances of the yr.
Conventional Costa Rican meals – Gallo Pinto
14. Go on a Sloth Tour
La Fortuna is residence to a few of Costa Rica’s most beloved animals, sloths! A 2-hour Sloth Tour within the Wild is a tremendous strategy to see two and three-toed sloths of their pure habitat. This La Fortuna sloth tour is led by a neighborhood information who will take you to one of the best spots to view sloths. Preserve an eye fixed out for different wildlife, like toucans and frogs, whereas having fun with home made snacks and exquisite surroundings.
Sloth in Arenal, Costa Rica Arenal
15. Go on a Rainforest Chocolate Tour
Chocolate is among the many scrumptious exports of Costa Rica. So a Rainforest Chocolate Tour is the proper strategy to study extra concerning the course of of constructing chocolate. Expertise the historical past, tradition, and traditions of Costa Rican chocolate with a hands-on tour and tasting. Plus, chocolate on the tour is limitless, so if you’re a candy tooth (ahem, who isn’t?), undoubtedly add this to your listing of issues to do in Arenal, Costa Rica.
16. Go Canyoning
If you wish to go to La Fortuna and get your adrenaline repair, it’s important to be a part of an excessive canyoning tour. This Waterfall Leaping & Excessive Canyoning Tour explores Gravity Falls, and so they aren’t for the faint of coronary heart! Spend the day rappelling down tropical waterfalls and leaping from cliffs into deep canyon swimming pools. Thrill-seekers received’t need to miss this exhilarating expertise!
17. Go on a Rainforest Horseback Journey
One of many prime issues to do in La Fortuna is to see Arenal Volcano up shut. For those who’re not into mountain climbing, taking a horseback experience to the volcano’s base is a enjoyable various.
This Rainforest Horseback Journey to the Arenal Volcano is a peaceable journey into nature. You’ll see rivers, birds, and even monkeys as you go to the volcano.
18. Take a Day Journey to Tenorio Volcano Nationwide Park
A go to to Tenorio Volcano Nationwide Park must be reserved for these with quite a lot of time to spare within the area, as attending to Tenorio from Arenal takes 2 hours. Tenorio is a real Costa Rican rainforest famend for the attractive aqua-colored Rio Celeste Waterfall.
We advocate taking a day journey to Tenorio to expertise the magic of Rio Celeste absolutely. This Rio Celeste Full-Day Tour From La Fortuna is the final word day tour full of mountain climbing and spectacular views. A neighborhood information will level out the various vegetation that make the realm so distinctive, take you to a couple lookout factors, and aid you navigate your strategy to the Rio Celeste waterfall.
19. Take a Cave Tour at Venado Caves
Venado is a village about 45 minutes from La Fortuna, and it’s the place you’ll find the Venado Caves. The cave system consists of rock formations which are over 6 million years outdated, together with stalagmites, stalactites, and waterfalls. The caves are historical and interesting, and a tour of them is a should in the event you don’t thoughts getting a bit soiled. Water nonetheless runs by them, so that you’re going to get muddy.
Ecoterra Costa Rica gives a 4-hour non-public tour, the place an knowledgeable information will lead you thru the caves, lit by lanterns and headlamps. The entire essential tools can be offered for you. There can be a contemporary fruit buffet afterward, and transport is offered.
Rio Celeste Waterfall at Tenorio Nationwide Park
Issues to do in La Fortuna at Evening
Evening time isn’t recognized to be excellent for wildlife viewing, however in Costa Rica, that is when the rainforest actually comes alive! Listed below are 2 enjoyable evening excursions to get you out into nature after nightfall.
20. Go on a Mistico Evening Stroll
Mistico Evening Stroll is our favourite La Fortuna evening excursions to see the various nocturnal creatures. With a naturalist information, you’ll take a brief hike by lush vegetation and hanging bridges trying to find eyes glowing within the bushes. Your information will assist level out quite a lot of animals, together with frogs, snakes, lizards, owls, and tons of nocturnal bugs.
21. Do a Guided Twighlight Safari
Guided Twilight Safari on Peñas Blancas River is one other unbelievable evening tour. You’ll set sail on a raft by the peaceable river surrounded by the sounds of nature. The boat’s low lights are the proper strategy to see the nocturnal animals with out disturbing them. It is a a lot extra stress-free strategy to expertise the river than La Fortuna rafting!
Nighttime could be one of the best time to see some elusive Costa Rica creatures!
Greatest La Fortuna Excursions
In case you are brief on time however need to squeeze as a lot as potential into your few days in La Fortuna, contemplate becoming a member of one among these advisable combo La Fortuna excursions.
Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna Waterfall, and Scorching Springs Tour – That is one of the best Arenal, Costa Rica volcano tour to see all of it. You’ll spend a whole day exploring the realm round Arenal Volcan, do a waterfall hike, and finish the day in scorching springs. Conventional Costa Rican lunch is included.
Arenal: 4 Actions Tour with Optionally available Scorching Springs – Cross the entire Arenal highlights off your listing on this 4 actions tour. You’ll go to Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna Waterfall, the Arenal Hanging Bridges, and a calming scorching spring of your selecting.
La Fortuna: 6-Hour Arenal Volcano Observatory & Lake Tour – Hike by lush gardens to see the lively volcano from a unique perspective. You’ll go to the Arenal Observatory to study concerning the volcano earlier than basking within the sundown over the lake. End the day with a cocktail whereas stress-free within the soothing Arenal scorching springs.
From La Fortuna: Zip-Line and Rafting Journey – For a dose of journey, spend your day doing two of La Fortuna’s hottest actions: ziplining and rafting. Soar by the forest cover on a zipline earlier than hitting the water on Río Balsa’s class 2-3 rapids.
La Fortuna Waterfall, Volcano, and Hanging Bridges Combo – This is among the greatest combo excursions as a result of it consists of 3 of one of the best La Fortuna issues to do. Go to the La Fortuna Waterfall, hike the lava flows round Arenal Volcano, and cross the well-known hanging bridges.
La Fortuna Waterfall is a should see whereas in Arenal
Greatest Inns in La Fortuna, Costa Rica
Not like different locations in Costa Rica, the realm round Arenal is sort of unfold out with motels, eating places, and actions spanning properly past the city of La Fortuna.
When trying to find one of the best Arenal motels, you’ll have two choices: keep on the town or outdoors of city.
Inns in Downtown La Fortuna are usually cheaper and extra backpacker/budget-focused. There are a number of condominium leases, hostels, and visitor homes. The most important advantage of staying within the city middle is that you would be able to stroll to eating places and be a part of actions with out driving. So, if you’re touring with out a automotive or are on a finances, that is the way in which to go!
Inns outdoors of La Fortuna city are costlier and are usually extra luxurious. You’ll discover these motels to supply resort-style lodging with eating places, swimming pools, and different services on web site. A few of them even have non-public scorching springs on web site. In our opinion, one of many largest perks of staying in a resort outdoors of city is that a lot of them provide unobstructed views of the Arenal Volcano. We all the time go for lodging within the Arenal Volcano space and would undoubtedly advocate this to others visiting Arenal and La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Greatest Inns in La Fortuna City, Costa Rica
For those who decide to remain on the town, listed here are a number of sustainably-minded motels we advocate:
La Fortuna Lodge is a conveniently situated mattress & breakfast steps from downtown La Fortuna. The resort options 16 suites which are easy however comfy, with air con, free WiFi, and reminiscence foam mattresses. There’s a restaurant on-site. The B&B is situated on a 25-minute drive from the doorway to Arenal Volcano Park. Rooms begin at USD $69 per evening.
Selina La Fortuna is a superb decide for budget-conscious vacationers visiting the Arenal space. It’s proper within the middle of city and has a restaurant, bar, and pool onsite. There are dorm-style rooms, non-public rooms, and suites to select from, beginning at simply USD $20 per evening. For the worth, it’s simply one of many nicest locations to remain in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
La Secreto La Fortuna is situated on the sting of city, simply quarter-hour from Arenal Volcano. The garden-like setting gives lovely views and a lush place to soak within the solar. La Secreto has a pool, outside patio, and shut entry to nice eating places. It’s a pleasant steadiness between city and nature in Arenal, Costa Rica, with rooms beginning at USD $68 per evening.
Downtown La Fortuna, Costa Rica
For these seeking to keep outdoors of city, beneath is an inventory of one of the best motels that supply scorching springs on-site!
La Fortuna Inns with Scorching Springs
Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa is a superb place to spend the day on the scorching springs, however it’s also an incredible place to put your head for the evening. They’ve a variety of rooms and suites to select from which begin at $310/evening, in addition to some nice sustainability practices in place. Lodge Tabacon, Costa Rica, is by far among the best choices if you wish to spend a number of time soaking in lovely scorching springs.
The Springs Resort & Spa is a five-star property that has been voted as one of many resorts with probably the most spectacular views worldwide. There’s a huge vary of rooms and suites on the resort, and the property is residence to the Membership Rio Out of doors Middle, providing river tubing, kayaking, horseback driving, mountain climbing, scorching springs, and an Animal Sanctuary.
Volcano Lodge is a spa resort constructed on scorching springs. The resort’s rooms boast lovely volcano views and a pair of outside thermal swimming pools to soak in. There may be additionally a spa on-site for a full “thermal expertise.” Commonplace rooms are $239 USD per evening, whereas a thermal room with non-public scorching springs is $350 USD/evening. It’s among the best La Fortuna, Costa Rica motels with scorching springs!
Having fun with non-public scorching springs at Volcano Lodge in Arenal
Nayara Springs is an opulent adult-only retreat nestled on a tropical hillside. A top-rated resort on the planet, this luxurious resort is owned by Nayara Resorts, a resort group centered on the conservation of Costa Rica’s treasured ecosystems. Nayara Springs, Costa Rica, is a superb launch level to discover the realm because it’s near La Fortuna and Arenal Volcano. The rooms at Nayara Springs are brilliant and ethereal, with non-public swimming pools, an onsite restaurant, and free yoga courses. Villas are a premium-priced at USD $885 per evening, however sister resort Nayara Gardens gives rooms for USD $425.
Nayara Tented Camp is the final word slice of paradise. In truth, Nayara Tented Camp, Costa Rica, is rated as among the best resorts in all of Central America. This resort and Nayara Springs are each a part of Nayara Resorts, an environmentally aware group of luxurious properties. This tented camp was created to embody the Pura Vida philosophy that Costa Rica is thought for. You’ll be able to get pleasure from spectacular views from your personal non-public plunge pool with a backdrop of pristine rainforest. Nayara Tented Camp additionally has a restaurant, health room, and sauna, with luxurious tents for USD $1,200 per evening.
Arenal Spring Lodge Resort & Spa, is a pleasant and fairly priced resort with nice views of the volcano, on-site scorching springs, 3 eating places, and a health ce,nter with charges beginning at $150/evening.
The grounds on the Arenal Springs Resort & Spa
Greatest La Fortuna Eating places
Most eating places within the space are situated within the city of La Fortuna. So, until you’re consuming at your resort, be ready to enterprise into city. There are many issues to do in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, so you’ll be able to finish a day of journey at a pleasant restaurant.
Lava Lounge Bar & Grill – nice environment, good drinks, scrumptious native and worldwide meals. Strive their ceviche and mango cheesecake.
Life Home Natural Restaurant – Plant base farm to fork dishes that cater to these on the lookout for a more healthy lunch/dinner possibility. Strive their cucumber juice and mango pico de gallo.
Pollo Fortuneno – budget-friendly grill with the best-grilled hen and rib dishes. Good spot for typical Costa Rican meals.
Kappa Sushi Fortuna – if you’re bored with rice and beans, this can be a nice various. Scrumptious sushi at a really reasonably priced value.
Organico Fortuna – a comfortable little spot providing vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free choices in a brilliant, cheery setting.
Yellow Bark – good number of home made native consolation meals like sandwiches, quesadillas, wraps, and burgers. Vegan choices on the menu.
Restaurante SelvaRustica – an incredible spot for open-air eating with basic Costa Rican dishes. It’s a bit out of Downtown La Fortuna, however completely definitely worth the trek.
Don Rufino – on the lookout for tremendous eating in Arenal, Costa Rica? That is your spot. Get pleasure from modern dishes with Costa Rican aptitude produced from domestically grown components.
Ceviche, guacamole, and a steak salad at Lava Lounge, La Fortuna
Wholesome eats at Life Home Cafe, La Fortuna
Meat platter at Pollo Fortuneno, La Fortuna
What number of days do you want in Arenal?
If you wish to get probably the most out of your go to to Arenal, plan to spend at the least 5 days within the space.
There’s no scarcity of enjoyable issues to do and methods to calm down close to Arenal and La Fortuna. Vacationers can get the better of each worlds with journey and serenity in Arenal Volcano’s lovely pure setting.