Arenal Volcano: Costa Rica's Majestic Giant
Discover the awe-inspiring beauty and geological wonders of Arenal Volcano, a symbol of Costa Rica's natural power and biodiversity.
Arenal Volcano, located in the Alajuela Province of Costa Rica, is an iconic natural wonder. While currently in a resting phase since 2010, it was the country's most active volcano for over four decades. The surrounding national park offers hiking trails, stunning views, and a chance to witness the impact of volcanic activity on the landscape.
A brief summary to Arenal Volcano
- San Carlos, Alajuela Province, CR
Local tips
- Bring sturdy shoes suitable for uneven terrain, as trails can be slippery, especially when traversing lava flow areas.
- Visit between December and April for clearer skies and unforgettable views of the volcano.
- Purchase park tickets with a credit card, as cash payments are not accepted.
- Consider visiting both sectors of the park (the main visitor center and the Peninsula sector) on the same day with a single ticket.
- Pack essentials like mosquito repellent, sunscreen, and rain gear, as the weather in the rainforest can be unpredictable.
Getting There
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Driving
The most common way to reach Arenal Volcano National Park is by driving from La Fortuna, which is about a 30-minute drive. Set your GPS to "Arenal Volcano National Park Visitor Center" to reach the main entrance and parking lot. Parking is free once you pay the park entrance fee. Be aware that the road to the main visitor center is accessible without a 4x4 vehicle. There are no bathrooms in the parking lot, so use the facilities at the main entrance. Alternatively, to reach the Peninsula Sector, set your GPS to "Volcan Arenal Sector Peninsula National Park". This sector is an 11-minute drive from the main visitor center. Typical Costs: * Park entrance fee: $15 USD + tax for adult foreigners, $5 USD + tax for children.
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Public Transport
While there is no direct bus to the park entrance, you can take a bus from La Fortuna towards the park. The bus will drop you off at the intersection of the main road and the entrance road, about 1.2 miles (2 km) from the visitor center. From there, you will need to walk or hitchhike to the entrance. The same applies to the Peninsula Sector, but the walk is 2.7 miles (4.3 km) from the drop-off point. Typical Costs: * Bus fare: ₡1,500-2,000 (approximately $2-$3 USD).
Discover more about Arenal Volcano
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Volcano Jungle Trails
3.1 km
Explore scenic jungle trails near Arenal Volcano. Perfect for families: hiking, picnics, and a playground in a natural Costa Rican setting.
The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort
3.5 km
Experience luxurious relaxation at Arenal's Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort, with stunning views and natural hot springs.
Amor Arenal
3.9 km
Experience unparalleled luxury and immerse yourself in nature at Amor Arenal, an adults-only rainforest oasis near Arenal Volcano.
Arenal ATV Wheels
4.0 km
Experience thrilling ATV adventures through La Fortuna's stunning landscapes. Explore the Arenal Volcano region with Arenal ATV Wheels!
Arenal Volcano National Park Visitor Center
4.0 km
Discover the trails, lava fields, and panoramic views from the gateway to Arenal Volcano National Park in Costa Rica's Northern Zone.
Original Arenal ATV
4.0 km
Experience the thrill of Arenal: Guided ATV adventures through rainforests, rivers, and stunning volcanic landscapes.
Horseback Riding In Arenal By Don Tobias Horses
4.3 km
Discover Arenal's beauty on horseback with Don Tobias Horses. Explore rainforests, see the volcano, and enjoy authentic Costa Rican hospitality.
Arenal History Inn
4.4 km
Discover cozy comfort and volcano views at Arenal History Inn, your gateway to La Fortuna's natural wonders and thrilling adventures.
Volcano Lodge & Springs
4.4 km
Arenal Volcano views, exclusive hot springs, and tranquil gardens create a relaxing Costa Rican escape at Volcano Lodge & Springs.
Soda Las Flores
4.4 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Soda Las Flores in San Carlos. Enjoy traditional flavors and warm hospitality in a cozy setting.
La Cava
4.4 km
Savor artisanal pizzas, grilled specialties, and Costa Rican flavors at La Cava, a San Carlos culinary destination near Arenal Volcano.
Arenal Natura Ecological Park
4.5 km
Discover Costa Rica's biodiversity at Arenal Natura Ecological Park: Explore rainforest trails, spot exotic wildlife, and support conservation efforts.
Hotel Arenal Paraíso Resort & Spa
4.5 km
Experience Costa Rica's beauty at Arenal Paraíso Resort: Volcano views, hot springs, spa, and adventure await in La Fortuna.
Ecological Reserve Fortuna Waterfall
4.5 km
Discover the majestic La Fortuna Waterfall in Costa Rica: a stunning natural wonder offering breathtaking views, refreshing swims, and unforgettable experiences.
El Coloso Arenal
4.5 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at El Coloso Arenal, a local favorite in La Fortuna with a warm atmosphere and delicious traditional dishes.
Unmissable attractions to see
Arenal Park
2.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and adventure at Arenal Park, home to the majestic Arenal Volcano and lush tropical rainforests in Costa Rica.
Los Lagos
2.6 km
Discover the enchanting beauty of Los Lagos in La Fortuna, a serene park with breathtaking views of lakes and volcanoes, perfect for nature lovers.
Chato Volcano
2.7 km
Discover the natural beauty of Chato Volcano, a serene crater lake surrounded by lush landscapes in the heart of Costa Rica's Alajuela Province.
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.
Frog Pond
2.8 km
Explore the vibrant ecosystem of Frog Pond in La Fortuna, a captivating tourist attraction filled with Costa Rica's enchanting amphibian species.
Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails
2.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails, where adventure meets tranquility in Costa Rica's lush rainforest.
Volcan Arenal Ecological Park
3.0 km
Explore Volcan Arenal Ecological Park, a breathtaking natural preserve in Costa Rica, rich with biodiversity, stunning landscapes, and thrilling outdoor activities.
Arenal Ecoglide Park
3.2 km
Discover the thrill of zip-lining and the beauty of nature at Arenal Ecoglide Park, a premier adventure destination in Costa Rica.
Baldi Hot Springs Resort Hotel & Spa
3.4 km
Experience the ultimate relaxation at Baldi Hot Springs Resort Hotel & Spa, where natural thermal springs meet luxurious spa treatments in Alajuela, Costa Rica.
Titokú Hot Springs
3.4 km
Discover the serene beauty of Titokú Hot Springs in Costa Rica, where relaxation meets nature in a stunning thermal pool experience.
Paradise Hot Springs
3.4 km
Experience ultimate relaxation at Paradise Hot Springs, your serene retreat with thermal baths, spa services, and breathtaking views in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Catarata Danta
3.4 km
Explore the enchanting Catarata Danta waterfall, a serene retreat in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, where nature's beauty awaits every traveler.
Tabacon Hot Springs
3.5 km
Experience the ultimate relaxation at Tabacon Hot Springs, where natural thermal waters meet tropical beauty in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Callidryas Tours - Costa Rica.
3.5 km
Explore the natural beauty of Costa Rica with Callidryas Tours in La Fortuna, offering thrilling adventures and intimate wildlife encounters.
Termalitas del Arenal
3.5 km
Discover the healing waters and lush landscapes of Termalitas del Arenal, a serene resort hotel in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Essential places to dine
El Jilguero Restaurant
2.9 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at El Jilguero Restaurant in San Ramón—where every dish tells a story.
Restaurante Hojarasca
3.2 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Restaurante Hojarasca amidst the breathtaking landscapes of La Fortuna.
Heliconias Restaurant by Kioro
3.3 km
Experience exquisite Costa Rican cuisine with breathtaking views at Heliconias Restaurant by Kioro in Alajuela Province.
Restaurante Emperador
3.4 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante Emperador in Alajuela Province—where tradition meets modern dining.
Arenal Bongos
3.5 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Arenal Bongos in La Fortuna – where every meal is a celebration of local cuisine and breathtaking views.
Restaurante bongos
3.5 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Restaurante Bongos in La Fortuna - where every meal tells a story.
Cafetería y Restaurante Rain Forest Arenal
3.6 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Cafetería y Restaurante Rain Forest Arenal in La Fortuna amidst stunning rainforest views.
Lava'68 Cafetería
3.6 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at Lava'68 Cafetería with stunning views and a commitment to local ingredients.
Restaurante El Novillo del Arenal
3.6 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at Restaurante El Novillo del Arenal - where tradition meets taste in La Fortuna.
Ave del Paraiso Restaurant at Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa
3.7 km
Experience culinary excellence at Ave del Paraiso Restaurant amidst the breathtaking beauty of Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa.
Tucanes Restaurant
3.9 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican cuisine amidst stunning landscapes at Tucanes Restaurant in Nuevo Arenal.
Benedictus
3.9 km
Experience mouthwatering steaks amidst the natural beauty of La Fortuna at Benedictus Steak House.
Yellow Tree Restaurant
4.0 km
Experience exquisite local cuisine surrounded by nature's beauty at Yellow Tree Restaurant in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Soda La Palma
4.0 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Soda La Palma in La Fortuna – where delicious food meets warm hospitality.
Que Rico Arenal Restaurante
4.0 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors amidst breathtaking views at Que Rico Arenal Restaurante in La Fortuna.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Britt Shop Baldi
3.4 km
Discover the best of Costa Rica at Britt Shop Baldi, where unique souvenirs, artisanal chocolates, and local crafts await.
Rumbo Shop Tabacon Las Fuentes
3.7 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
3.8 km
Discover the essence of Costa Rica at Britt Shop Tabacon, where local crafts, gourmet chocolates, and unique souvenirs await every traveler.
Souvenir store
4.1 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
4.2 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.
Biosfera Skincare (Experience Store)
4.4 km
Explore sustainable beauty at Biosfera Skincare, where Costa Rican nature meets skincare innovation for an eco-friendly experience.
Original Grand Gallery
4.4 km
Explore authentic Costa Rican art and unique souvenirs at Original Grand Gallery in La Fortuna, a cultural haven for every visitor.
SLOFFEE BEST COFFEE IN LA FORTUNA
4.4 km
Discover SLOFFEE in La Fortuna for the finest Costa Rican coffee experience, blending quality brews with local farming insights.
Red Frog Coffee Roasters
4.5 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.
Neptune's House of Hammocks
4.6 km
Explore the vibrant world of handcrafted hammocks at Neptune's House of Hammocks in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, and take home a piece of paradise.
Arenal Bee Garden - Honey, Coffee & Chocolate Tour
4.6 km
Experience the harmony of nature at Arenal Bee Garden, where honey, coffee, and chocolate come together in a delightful adventure.
Wood & Art Gallery
4.6 km
Explore the vibrant artistry of Costa Rica at the Wood & Art Gallery in La Fortuna, a must-visit for art lovers and cultural enthusiasts.
Mini Market El Mirador
4.6 km
Explore local flavors and essentials at Mini Market El Mirador, your one-stop grocery store in scenic La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Manus cr tienda online
5.0 km
Explore Manus CR in La Fortuna for exquisite swimwear and custom clothing that embodies Costa Rican charm and style.
Sloth Watching Trail La Fortuna, Arenal Volcano Private Trail
5.5 km
Experience the enchanting Sloth Watching Trail in La Fortuna, a prime destination for nature lovers seeking to encounter Costa Rica's unique wildlife.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Terra bar
3.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Terra Bar in La Fortuna, where exceptional drinks and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.
Lemnnos WetBar
3.3 km
Discover the vibrant Lemnnos WetBar in La Fortuna, where tropical drinks meet stunning views and unforgettable experiences.
Shangri La Gardens. Tabacon Resort Club área
3.4 km
Discover the serene escape of Shangri La Gardens, where exquisite drinks meet breathtaking natural beauty in Costa Rica's Alajuela Province.
Volcán Look Disco
3.4 km
Discover the lively nightlife at Volcán Look Disco – a vibrant bar in San Carlos, perfect for dancing and enjoying refreshing cocktails.
Restaurante Relax
3.6 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
4.1 km
Discover the lively Magic Sport Bar at Magic Mountain Hotel, where great drinks and vibrant atmosphere meet in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Nostalgia Wine Bar
4.9 km
Discover the enchanting Nostalgia Wine Bar, a serene oasis in Arenal, offering exquisite wines and a captivating atmosphere for relaxation.
Tamarindo Chill
5.7 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
5.7 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
5.8 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
5.9 km
Discover the vibrant Voodoo Bar & Cocktails in La Fortuna, where enchanting drinks and a lively atmosphere await every traveler.
La Fortuna Pub
6.0 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
6.3 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
6.3 km
Experience vibrant nightlife in La Fortuna at Voodoo Mixology, where innovative cocktails meet a tropical atmosphere for unforgettable evenings.
Soda la Hormiga
6.3 km
Discover the culinary delights of Soda la Hormiga in La Fortuna, where authentic Costa Rican flavors meet an inviting atmosphere.
