Arenal Volcano Expeditions Walk with Optional Hot Springs

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(40 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

We begin the tour by heading to the El Silencio Private Reserve, to get as close to the base of the volcano as possible. Next, we will walk approximately 1 kilometer along a volcanic stone path with a moderate degree of difficulty, until we reach the viewpoint, the closest point to volcano permitted to access. At the viewpoint, our guide will provide relevant information on the formation of the Arenal Volcano, its periods of activity, as well as unpublished details of its first eruption in 1968. Enjoy the excellent views of the Green Lagoon and Lake Arenal.

With a little luck, this 1.5 km trail will provide us with the opportunity to see a wide variety of plants and animals that inhabit the rainforest, like toucans, turkeys, orioles, peccaries, snakes, and monkeys. At the end of the tour our driver will be waiting for us with a delicious snack of tropical fruit before returning to your hotel.

Add a visit to the hot springs for additional cost and enjoy the thermal mineral waters.

Available options

Arenal Volcano Morning Tour

2 hours walking tour through the secondary forest, old lava flows of 1992, impressive view to Arenal Lake, Chato Hill, Tilaran mountain range and Arenal Volcano.

with Baldi Hot Springs AM

2 hours walking tour through the secondary forest, old lava flows of 1992, impressive view to Arenal Lake, Chato Hill, Tilaran mountain range and Arenal Volcano + Baldi Hot Springs

w/ Paradise HS + Lunch

2 hours walking tour through the secondary forest, old lava flows of 1992, impressive view to Arenal Lake, Chato Hill, Tilaran mountain range and Arenal Volcano + Paradise Hot Springs + Lunch

w/ Ecotermales + Dinner

2 hours walking tour through the secondary forest, old lava flows of 1992, impressive view to Arenal Lake, Chato Hill, Tilaran mountain range and Arenal Volcano + Ecotermales Hot Springs + Dinner

w/ Ecotermales + Lunch

2 hours walking tour through the secondary forest, old lava flows of 1992, impressive view to Arenal Lake, Chato Hill, Tilaran mountain range and Arenal Volcano + Ecotermales Hot Springs + Lunch

w/ Baldi Hot Springs + Dinner

2 hours walking tour through the secondary forest, old lava flows of 1992, impressive view to Arenal Lake, Chato Hill, Tilaran mountain range and Arenal Volcano + Baldi Hot Springs + Dinner

Arenal Volcano Hike

Arenal Volcano Evening Tour: 2 hours walking tour through the secondary forest, old lava flows of 1992, impressive view to Arenal Lake, Chato Hill, Tilaran mountain range and Arenal Volcano.

w/ Baldi Hot Springs + Lunch

2 hours walking tour through the secondary forest, old lava flows of 1992, impressive view to Arenal Lake, Chato Hill, Tilaran mountain range and Arenal Volcano + Baldi Hot Springs + Lunch

with Baldi Hot Springs PM

2 hours walking tour through the secondary forest, old lava flows of 1992, impressive view to Arenal Lake, Chato Hill, Tilaran mountain range and Arenal Volcano + Baldi Hot Springs

w/ Paradise HS + Dinner

2 hours walking tour through the secondary forest, old lava flows of 1992, impressive view to Arenal Lake, Chato Hill, Tilaran mountain range and Arenal Volcano + Paradise Hot Springs + Dinner

w/ Paradise Hot Springs AM

2 hours walking tour through the secondary forest, old lava flows of 1992, impressive view to Arenal Lake, Chato Hill, Tilaran mountain range and Arenal Volcano + Paradise Hot Springs

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Professional guide

Bottled water

National Park fees

Snacks

Transport by air-conditioned minivan with Wi-Fi

Detailed itinerary

The tour begins at 07:30am or 2:30pm from, in order to reach the Reserve, we will begin a 1 km walk along a trail of volcanic rock, to reach the observation point, which is the closest to the base of the volcano we can legally get. At the observation point, your guide will provide interesting information, as well as giving you the opportunity to enjoy the incredible views of the Arenal Volcano and the Arenal Lake. Afterwards, we will begin our return trip down the same trail to the starting point.

This trail is about 1.5 km, in length, and with a little luck, you will have the opportunity to discover a large variety of flora and fauna, including toucans, monkeys and more. After the trails, your driver will be waiting for you, with a snack of tropical fruit, before returning you to your hotel, If you prefer, you can visit the hot springs of your choice for an approximately 3 hours, for an additional cost, we will return to pick you up to take you to your hotel.

Stop 2

we will walk approximately 1 kilometer along a volcanic stonepath with a moderate degree of difficulty, until we reach the viewpoint, the closest point to volcano permitted to access

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.2

5 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

35 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Children must be accompanied by an adult

May be operated by a multilingual guide

Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required

Meeting point

Drive in to the parking area and ask the reception about Ecoterra Costa Rica Tours

Important notes

• What to bring: Hiking shoes or tennis shoes, comfortable clothing, raincoat or poncho, insect repellent, and optional money for snacks, tips, or souvenir
• Hotel pickups commence prior to this time, you must contact the local service provider to verify your exact pickup time.

Hotel pickups commence prior to this time, you must contact the local service provider to verify your exact pickup time.

About La Fortuna

La Fortuna is a charming town in Costa Rica known for its stunning natural beauty and proximity to the iconic Arenal Volcano. This destination offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and eco-tourism, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike.

Top Attractions

Arenal Volcano National Park

This national park is home to the iconic Arenal Volcano, offering stunning views, hiking trails, and wildlife spotting opportunities.

Nature Half day to full day Moderate

La Fortuna Waterfall

A breathtaking waterfall surrounded by lush rainforest, perfect for swimming and nature lovers.

Nature 2-3 hours Moderate

Mistico Hanging Bridges

A network of hanging bridges offering panoramic views of the rainforest canopy and Arenal Volcano.

Nature 2-3 hours Moderate

Must-Try Local Dishes

Gallo Pinto

A traditional Costa Rican breakfast dish made with rice and beans, often served with eggs, tortillas, and natilla (sour cream).

Breakfast Vegetarian

Caso de Res

A popular Costa Rican dish made with grilled beef, often served with rice, beans, and plantains.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat

Arroz con Leche

A traditional Costa Rican rice pudding made with rice, milk, sugar, and cinnamon.

Dessert Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking Zip-lining White-water rafting Volcano tours Hot springs Spa treatments Nature walks Cooking classes

Best Time to Visit

December to April

This is the dry season, offering sunny days and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

20-30°C 68-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Costa Rican Colón (CRC)

Time Zone

CST (UTC-6)

Electricity

110VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

La Fortuna is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, it is always important to take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Use licensed taxis or arrange transportation through your hotel.
• Be cautious of strangers offering services or tours.
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.

Getting there

By air

Juan Santamaría International Airport • 135 km

By bus

San José Terminal 7-10

Getting around

Public transport

Local buses are available but not very frequent. They are more suitable for short distances within the town.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber (limited availability), Local taxi apps

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown La Fortuna Arenal Volcano Area

Day trips

Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

120 km • Full day

A stunning cloud forest offering a unique ecosystem, hiking trails, and wildlife spotting opportunities.

Río Celeste

50 km • Half day to full day

A breathtaking turquoise river and waterfall, surrounded by lush rainforest.

Festivals

Fiestas de La Fortuna • July

Pro tips

Visit the Arenal Volcano National Park early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
Bring a rain jacket and waterproof gear, especially during the wet season.
Try the local coffee, as Costa Rica is famous for its high-quality coffee beans.
Be prepared for spontaneous rain showers, even during the dry season.
Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your interaction with locals.