Discover the Wonders of Volcan Arenal National Park
Explore the breathtaking beauty and adventure of Volcan Arenal National Park, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and thrill-seekers in Costa Rica.
Volcan Arenal National Park, nestled in the heart of Costa Rica, offers breathtaking views, diverse wildlife, and numerous outdoor adventures for tourists. Explore lush trails, relax in hot springs, and witness the majestic volcano.
A brief summary to Volcan Arenal National Park, Peninsula area
- Sector Peninsula, El Castillo, Alajuela Province, CR
- +50622004192
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-4 pm
- Thursday 8 am-4 pm
- Friday 8 am-4 pm
- Saturday 8 am-4 pm
- Sunday 8 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds along the hiking trails.
- Don’t forget to bring insect repellent and wear sturdy hiking shoes for your comfort.
- Consider visiting the hot springs after your hike for a relaxing experience.
- Pack water and snacks as there are limited facilities inside the park.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly.
Getting There
-
Car
If you are driving from La Fortuna, head west on Route 142 for approximately 14 kilometers until you reach the junction with Route 35. Turn left onto Route 35 and continue for about 5 kilometers. Look for signs directing you toward the Peninsula area. Follow the signs and local roads until you reach the entrance of Volcan Arenal National Park, Peninsula area, which is located near El Castillo. There is a parking fee of approximately $5 USD at the park entrance.
-
Public Transportation
Take a bus from La Fortuna to El Castillo. The bus departs from the main terminal and the fare is approximately $2 USD. Inform the driver that you are going to the Peninsula area. Once you arrive in El Castillo, you may need to walk approximately 2 kilometers to the park entrance. Alternatively, you can hire a local taxi for about $10 USD to take you directly to the entrance of Volcan Arenal National Park, Peninsula area.
-
Taxi
If you prefer a direct route without navigating public transport schedules, you can take a taxi from La Fortuna to the park. The ride will take about 30 minutes and cost approximately $20-30 USD, depending on your negotiation skills and the taxi service used. Ensure that the driver is familiar with the Peninsula area and the park entrance.
-
Guided Tour
Consider booking a guided tour that includes transportation. Many local companies offer packages that include pickup from your accommodation in La Fortuna, transportation to the park, and a guided experience within Volcan Arenal National Park. Prices vary, but expect to pay around $60-100 USD per person, which typically includes park entrance fees.
Discover more about Volcan Arenal National Park, Peninsula area
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Represa del lago Arenal
1.4 km
Discover the serene beauty and adventurous spirit of Represa del Lago Arenal, a stunning reservoir in Costa Rica's Alajuela Province.
Volcano Jungle Trails
4.8 km
Experience the thrill of the Volcano Jungle Trails in Alajuela, Costa Rica, where adventure, nature, and breathtaking views await every traveler.
Arenal Volcano
5.4 km
Explore Arenal Volcano, a majestic natural wonder in Costa Rica, offering breathtaking views, adventure activities, and relaxing hot springs in a stunning rainforest setting.
Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails
5.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails, where nature meets luxury in the heart of Costa Rica's stunning landscapes.
The Hand
5.7 km
Discover The Hand in Alajuela, Costa Rica - a stunning sculptural attraction harmonizing art and nature.
Los Lagos
5.9 km
Discover the natural beauty of Los Lagos Park in La Fortuna, where lush landscapes, thrilling activities, and serene hot springs await.
Catarata Danta
6.1 km
Discover the enchanting beauty of Catarata Danta, a stunning waterfall in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Arenal Park
6.6 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Arenal Park, featuring the iconic Arenal Volcano and rejuvenating hot springs in Costa Rica's lush rainforest.
Hotel Montana De Fuego All inclusive
7.0 km
Experience luxury and nature at Hotel Montana De Fuego, your all-inclusive retreat near Arenal Volcano in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Amor Arenal
7.1 km
Experience luxury and tranquility at Amor Arenal, your gateway to the breathtaking beauty of Costa Rica's Arenal Volcano and lush rainforests.
Chato Volcano
7.2 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Chato Volcano in Alajuela Province, where nature, adventure, and tranquility come together in perfect harmony.
Hotel Arenal Paraíso Resort & Spa
7.6 km
Discover the beauty of La Fortuna at Arenal Paraíso Resort & Spa, where luxury meets nature in a stunning tropical paradise.
Horseback Riding In Arenal By Don Tobias Horses
7.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Arenal, Costa Rica, on horseback with Don Tobias Horses, where adventure meets nature in perfect harmony.
Paradise Hot Springs
8.1 km
Experience the ultimate relaxation at Paradise Hot Springs in La Fortuna, where thermal baths meet stunning natural landscapes.
Arenal Natura Ecological Park
8.1 km
Discover the beauty of Costa Rica at Arenal Natura Ecological Park, where nature, wildlife, and education come together in a stunning tropical setting.
Unmissable attractions to see
Lago Arenal
1.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Lago Arenal, Costa Rica’s scenic treasure, offering adventure and tranquility amidst lush landscapes.
The Peninsula, Arenal Volcano National Park
1.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of The Peninsula at Arenal Volcano National Park, where adventure awaits amidst stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife.
Mirador Lake Arenal
1.3 km
Discover breathtaking views and diverse wildlife at Mirador Lake Arenal, a gem in Costa Rica's national parks, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Original Arenal ATV
1.4 km
Explore Costa Rica's breathtaking landscapes with thrilling ATV tours at Original Arenal ATV in Alajuela Province.
Arenal Wilberth Stable
1.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Arenal Volcano through unforgettable horseback riding adventures at Arenal Wilberth Stable.
Arenal Volcano National Park Visitor Center
1.4 km
Explore the Arenal Volcano National Park Visitor Center for a memorable introduction to Costa Rica’s stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity.
Arenal Volcano View and Lava Trails
1.8 km
Discover breathtaking views of Arenal Volcano and explore lush lava trails in this stunning nature preserve, a paradise for hikers and nature lovers in Costa Rica.
Arenal Volcano Vista Point
1.9 km
Experience stunning views and vibrant wildlife at Arenal Volcano Vista Point, a premier hiking area showcasing Costa Rica's natural beauty.
Las Cabañitas de Sammy
2.6 km
Experience the tranquility and adventure of Las Cabañitas de Sammy, a charming cottage village in the heart of La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Místico Arenal Hanging Bridges
2.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Costa Rica at Místico Arenal Hanging Bridges, where nature meets adventure in a stunning rainforest setting.
Wellness Park Eco Lodge & Trekking trails
2.7 km
Discover serene accommodations, exquisite nature trails, and wellness experiences at Wellness Park Eco Lodge in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Wellness Park Nature Reserve & Ecolodge
2.7 km
Discover the beauty and tranquility at Wellness Park Nature Reserve & Ecolodge, a perfect blend of nature and luxury in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Parque Nacional Volcán Arenal
2.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Parque Nacional Volcán Arenal, a paradise of biodiversity, adventure, and stunning volcanic landscapes in Costa Rica.
Mirador el Silencio
3.4 km
Discover the breathtaking views and serene trails of Mirador el Silencio, a nature preserve in Alajuela, where tranquility and biodiversity meet.
Arenal Canopy Adventure (Athica)
3.4 km
Soar through the canopy of Costa Rica's lush rainforest with Arenal Canopy Adventure, an exhilarating zip-line tour experience surrounded by breathtaking views.
Essential places to dine
Lava'68 Cafetería
1.9 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at Lava'68 Cafetería with stunning views and a commitment to local ingredients.
Restaurante La Roca Bistró
2.7 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante La Roca Bistró with stunning views of Arenal Lake in beautiful La Fortuna.
Fusion Arenal Mirador Restaurante, El Castillo Costa Rica.
3.8 km
Experience exquisite dining with breathtaking views at Fusion Arenal Mirador Restaurante in El Castillo, Costa Rica - where nature meets culinary art.
Ave del Paraiso Restaurant at Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa
4.4 km
Experience culinary excellence at Ave del Paraiso Restaurant amidst the breathtaking beauty of Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa.
La Ventanita
4.4 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at La Ventanita - an inviting restaurant in El Castillo known for its fresh ingredients and warm hospitality.
Tucanes Restaurant
4.4 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican cuisine amidst stunning landscapes at Tucanes Restaurant in Nuevo Arenal.
Chillout Restaurant
4.7 km
Experience local flavors amidst stunning views at Chillout Restaurant near Sky Trek in San Carlos.
Restaurante El Novillo del Arenal
5.2 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at Restaurante El Novillo del Arenal - where tradition meets taste in La Fortuna.
Heliconias Restaurant by Kioro
5.4 km
Experience exquisite Costa Rican cuisine with breathtaking views at Heliconias Restaurant by Kioro in Alajuela Province.
El Jilguero Restaurant
5.4 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at El Jilguero Restaurant in San Ramón—where every dish tells a story.
Soda La Palma
5.9 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Soda La Palma in La Fortuna – where delicious food meets warm hospitality.
Mirador Arenal Steakhouse
6.6 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Mirador Arenal Steakhouse - where every meal is accompanied by breathtaking views.
Benedictus
7.2 km
Experience mouthwatering steaks amidst the natural beauty of La Fortuna at Benedictus Steak House.
Oscar's
7.6 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at Oscar's in La Fortuna—where every meal is a celebration of local ingredients and culinary creativity.
Que Rico Arenal Restaurante
7.9 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors amidst breathtaking views at Que Rico Arenal Restaurante in La Fortuna.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Britt Shop Místico Park Arenal
2.7 km
Explore Britt Shop Místico Park Arenal, where Costa Rican craftsmanship meets breathtaking nature, offering unique gifts and gourmet delights.
Rumbo Shop Tabacon Las Fuentes
4.2 km
Explore Rumbo Shop Tabacon Las Fuentes for the best selection of local crafts, chocolates, and souvenirs in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Britt Shop Tabacon
4.4 km
Discover the essence of Costa Rica at Britt Shop Tabacon, where local crafts, gourmet chocolates, and unique souvenirs await every traveler.
Britt Shop Sky Trek La Fortuna
4.7 km
Explore Britt Shop Sky Trek in La Fortuna for unique Costa Rican gifts, artisan crafts, and delicious local treats in a vibrant shopping experience.
Mini Market El Mirador
7.0 km
Explore local flavors and essentials at Mini Market El Mirador, your one-stop grocery store in scenic La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
SLOFFEE BEST COFFEE IN LA FORTUNA
7.7 km
Discover SLOFFEE in La Fortuna for the finest Costa Rican coffee experience, blending quality brews with local farming insights.
Britt Shop Baldi
8.2 km
Discover the best of Costa Rica at Britt Shop Baldi, where unique souvenirs, artisanal chocolates, and local crafts await.
Britt Shop The Springs Resort & Spa
9.3 km
Explore the vibrant culture of Costa Rica through unique gifts and artisan crafts at Britt Shop The Springs Resort & Spa.
The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal
9.3 km
Experience unparalleled luxury and adventure at The Springs Resort & Spa, nestled in the heart of Arenal's breathtaking landscapes.
Souvenir store
9.4 km
Explore the vibrant culture of Costa Rica at this charming souvenir store in San Carlos, where unique treasures await every traveler.
Arte Natura, Boutique Hotel in La Fortuna - Costa Rica Vacations, Book it Now
9.6 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and nature at Arte Natura Boutique Hotel in La Fortuna, your gateway to Costa Rica's breathtaking landscapes.
la fortuna, costa rica
9.7 km
Explore La Fortuna's vibrant shopping scene, where local crafts meet culinary delights in the heart of Costa Rica's stunning landscapes.
Original Grand Gallery
9.8 km
Explore authentic Costa Rican art and unique souvenirs at Original Grand Gallery in La Fortuna, a cultural haven for every visitor.
Biosfera Skincare (Experience Store)
9.8 km
Explore sustainable beauty at Biosfera Skincare, where Costa Rican nature meets skincare innovation for an eco-friendly experience.
Red Frog Coffee Roasters
9.8 km
Discover the rich flavors of Costa Rican coffee at Red Frog Coffee Roasters, a charming espresso bar in La Fortuna, perfect for every coffee lover.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Howlers Bar & Grill
4.0 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere at Howlers Bar & Grill in El Fosforo, Costa Rica's hidden culinary treasure.
Shangri La Gardens. Tabacon Resort Club área
4.2 km
Discover the serene escape of Shangri La Gardens, where exquisite drinks meet breathtaking natural beauty in Costa Rica's Alajuela Province.
Terra bar
7.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Terra Bar in La Fortuna, where exceptional drinks and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.
Lemnnos WetBar
7.6 km
Discover the vibrant Lemnnos WetBar in La Fortuna, where tropical drinks meet stunning views and unforgettable experiences.
Volcán Look Disco
8.3 km
Discover the lively nightlife at Volcán Look Disco – a vibrant bar in San Carlos, perfect for dancing and enjoying refreshing cocktails.
Nostalgia Wine Bar
8.4 km
Discover the enchanting Nostalgia Wine Bar, a serene oasis in Arenal, offering exquisite wines and a captivating atmosphere for relaxation.
Restaurante Relax
8.8 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Restaurante Relax, a charming bar in La Fortuna offering local cuisine and stunning views.
MAGIC SPORT BAR, Magic Mountain Hotel
9.5 km
Discover the lively Magic Sport Bar at Magic Mountain Hotel, where great drinks and vibrant atmosphere meet in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Tamarindo Chill
11.0 km
Discover the serene vibe of Tamarindo Chill in La Fortuna, offering refreshing cocktails and a perfect escape in Costa Rica's lush landscapes.
Cha
11.1 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and welcoming atmosphere at Cha, La Fortuna's beloved bar, perfect for unwinding after exploring Costa Rica's natural wonders.
Bar Patrón Costa Rica
11.1 km
Experience a vibrant cocktail bar in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, with exotic flavors, stunning views, and a lively atmosphere perfect for tourists.
Voodoo Bar & Cocktails
11.2 km
Discover the vibrant Voodoo Bar & Cocktails in La Fortuna, where enchanting drinks and a lively atmosphere await every traveler.
La Fortuna Pub
11.3 km
Discover La Fortuna Pub, a lively destination for delicious food, refreshing drinks, and an unforgettable atmosphere in the heart of Costa Rica.
Tropical Lounge Bar
11.6 km
Experience the flavors of Costa Rica at Tropical Lounge Bar, a vibrant grill bar in La Fortuna offering delicious food and refreshing tropical drinks.
Voodoo Mixology
11.6 km
Experience vibrant nightlife in La Fortuna at Voodoo Mixology, where innovative cocktails meet a tropical atmosphere for unforgettable evenings.
