Arenal Volcano National Park Visitor Center
Discover the trails, lava fields, and panoramic views from the gateway to Arenal Volcano National Park in Costa Rica's Northern Zone.
The Arenal Volcano National Park Visitor Center serves as the gateway to exploring the iconic Arenal Volcano and its surrounding natural wonders. Offering information, facilities, and access to various trails, it's the perfect starting point for experiencing Costa Rica's stunning volcanic landscape and diverse ecosystem.
A brief summary to Arenal Volcano National Park Visitor Center
- Calle Real el Castillo, San Carlos, Alajuela Province, CR
- +50622005714
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking on uneven terrain, especially if you plan to explore the lava fields.
- Bring rain gear, as the weather in the rainforest can change quickly.
- Arrive early to avoid crowds and have the best chance of spotting wildlife.
- Bring water and snacks, as there are limited options for purchasing them within the park.
- Check with park rangers for up-to-date trail conditions and potential hazards.
Getting There
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Driving
The Arenal Volcano National Park Visitor Center is approximately a 30-minute drive from La Fortuna. Set your GPS to "Arenal Volcano National Park Visitor Center." A 4x4 is not required to reach the visitor center. Parking is free with your park entrance fee. From Tilarán, take Route 142 for 17 km to the visitor center. There are signs to guide you.
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Public Transport
A local bus travels from La Fortuna to near the national park. Buses depart from La Fortuna bus station at 8 AM and 2 PM; a ticket costs about $5 USD. The bus will drop you off at the intersection of the main road and the entrance road. From there, it is about a 1.2-mile (2 km) walk or hitchhike to the visitor center. From San José, take the bus to La Fortuna. From La Fortuna, take the local bus to the park.
Discover more about Arenal Volcano National Park Visitor Center
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Represa del lago Arenal
2.7 km
Discover Costa Rica's largest lake, a hub for green energy, water sports, and breathtaking views of the Arenal Volcano.
Volcano Jungle Trails
3.5 km
Explore scenic jungle trails near Arenal Volcano. Perfect for families: hiking, picnics, and a playground in a natural Costa Rican setting.
Parque Ecologico Arenal
4.3 km
Discover adventure and nature at Arenal Volcano Ecological Park: Hike scenic trails, kayak on the lagoon, and witness stunning volcanic views.
Butterfly Conservatory
4.5 km
Discover Costa Rica's vibrant butterfly world and rainforest regeneration efforts near Arenal Volcano.
Los Lagos
4.8 km
Experience hot springs, volcano views, and family fun at Los Lagos, a water-filled wonderland near Arenal Volcano in Costa Rica.
Catarata Danta
4.8 km
Discover the natural beauty of Catarata Danta in La Fortuna, Costa Rica – a hidden gem offering tranquility and adventure in a lush rainforest setting.
The Hand
4.9 km
Discover The Hand in El Castillo: Where art meets nature in a breathtaking Costa Rican landscape. A must-see for art and nature lovers!
Arenal Park
5.3 km
Explore Costa Rica's iconic Arenal Volcano National Park: Hike through lava fields, discover rainforest wildlife, and witness breathtaking volcanic scenery.
Chato Volcano
5.8 km
Hike to the summit of the dormant Chato Volcano, explore lush rainforest, and discover the emerald lagoon in its crater.
Amor Arenal
6.1 km
Experience unparalleled luxury and immerse yourself in nature at Amor Arenal, an adults-only rainforest oasis near Arenal Volcano.
Hotel Montana De Fuego All inclusive
6.2 km
Experience Costa Rica's natural beauty at Hotel Montana De Fuego: Arenal Volcano views, hot springs, adventure, and all-inclusive comfort.
Hotel Arenal Paraíso Resort & Spa
6.7 km
Experience Costa Rica's beauty at Arenal Paraíso Resort: Volcano views, hot springs, spa, and adventure await in La Fortuna.
Paradise Hot Springs
6.8 km
Unwind in the therapeutic mineral waters of Paradise Hot Springs, surrounded by lush gardens and stunning views of Arenal Volcano.
Horseback Riding In Arenal By Don Tobias Horses
6.9 km
Discover Arenal's beauty on horseback with Don Tobias Horses. Explore rainforests, see the volcano, and enjoy authentic Costa Rican hospitality.
The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort
7.0 km
Experience luxurious relaxation at Arenal's Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort, with stunning views and natural hot springs.
Unmissable attractions to see
Arenal Wilberth Stable
0.0 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Arenal Volcano through unforgettable horseback riding adventures at Arenal Wilberth Stable.
Original Arenal ATV
0.1 km
Explore Costa Rica's breathtaking landscapes with thrilling ATV tours at Original Arenal ATV in Alajuela Province.
Arenal Volcano View and Lava Trails
0.6 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
0.8 km
Experience stunning views and vibrant wildlife at Arenal Volcano Vista Point, a premier hiking area showcasing Costa Rica's natural beauty.
Parque Nacional Volcán Arenal
1.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Parque Nacional Volcán Arenal, a paradise of biodiversity, adventure, and stunning volcanic landscapes in Costa Rica.
Volcan Arenal National Park, Peninsula area
1.4 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Volcan Arenal National Park, Costa Rica's iconic landscape of volcanoes, rainforests, and diverse wildlife.
The Peninsula, Arenal Volcano National Park
2.2 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
2.3 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.
Lago Arenal
2.5 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Lago Arenal, Costa Rica’s scenic treasure, offering adventure and tranquility amidst lush landscapes.
Point de vue volcan Arenal
2.8 km
Experience the stunning views of Arenal Volcano at this picturesque lookout, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Mirador el Silencio
2.8 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)
2.9 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.
Wellness Park Eco Lodge & Trekking trails
3.1 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
3.1 km
Explore the serene beauty of Wellness Park Nature Reserve & Ecolodge in La Fortuna, where nature meets relaxation in an eco-friendly paradise.
Las Cabañitas de Sammy
3.2 km
Experience the tranquility and adventure of Las Cabañitas de Sammy, a charming cottage village in the heart of La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Essential places to dine
Lava'68 Cafetería
0.8 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at Lava'68 Cafetería with stunning views and a commitment to local ingredients.
Restaurante La Roca Bistró
3.3 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante La Roca Bistró with stunning views of Arenal Lake in beautiful 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
3.7 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican cuisine amidst stunning landscapes at Tucanes Restaurant in Nuevo Arenal.
Fusion Arenal Mirador Restaurante, El Castillo Costa Rica.
4.0 km
Experience exquisite dining with breathtaking views at Fusion Arenal Mirador Restaurante in El Castillo, Costa Rica - where nature meets culinary art.
Chillout Restaurant
4.1 km
Experience local flavors amidst stunning views at Chillout Restaurant near Sky Trek in San Carlos.
El Jilguero Restaurant
4.1 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at El Jilguero Restaurant in San Ramón—where every dish tells a story.
La Ventanita
4.3 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at La Ventanita - an inviting restaurant in El Castillo known for its fresh ingredients and warm hospitality.
Restaurante El Novillo del Arenal
4.4 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at Restaurante El Novillo del Arenal - where tradition meets taste in La Fortuna.
Heliconias Restaurant by Kioro
4.5 km
Experience exquisite Costa Rican cuisine with breathtaking views at Heliconias Restaurant by Kioro in Alajuela Province.
Soda La Palma
5.1 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Soda La Palma in La Fortuna – where delicious food meets warm hospitality.
Mirador Arenal Steakhouse
5.8 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Mirador Arenal Steakhouse - where every meal is accompanied by breathtaking views.
Benedictus
6.2 km
Experience mouthwatering steaks amidst the natural beauty of La Fortuna at Benedictus Steak House.
Oscar's
6.7 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
6.8 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
3.3 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
3.5 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
3.7 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
4.1 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
6.2 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
6.7 km
Discover SLOFFEE in La Fortuna for the finest Costa Rican coffee experience, blending quality brews with local farming insights.
Britt Shop Baldi
6.9 km
Discover the best of Costa Rica at Britt Shop Baldi, where unique souvenirs, artisanal chocolates, and local crafts await.
Arenal Natura Ecological Park
7.1 km
Experience the rich biodiversity of Costa Rica at Arenal Natura Ecological Park, a perfect blend of adventure, education, and nature.
Souvenir store
8.0 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
8.2 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)
8.4 km
Explore sustainable beauty at Biosfera Skincare, where Costa Rican nature meets skincare innovation for an eco-friendly experience.
Original Grand Gallery
8.4 km
Explore authentic Costa Rican art and unique souvenirs at Original Grand Gallery in La Fortuna, a cultural haven for every visitor.
Neptune's House of Hammocks
8.4 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.
Red Frog Coffee Roasters
8.5 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.
Wood & Art Gallery
8.5 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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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.
Howlers Bar & Grill
4.1 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere at Howlers Bar & Grill in El Fosforo, Costa Rica's hidden culinary treasure.
Terra bar
6.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Terra Bar in La Fortuna, where exceptional drinks and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.
Lemnnos WetBar
6.4 km
Discover the vibrant Lemnnos WetBar in La Fortuna, where tropical drinks meet stunning views and unforgettable experiences.
Volcán Look Disco
7.0 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
7.4 km
Discover the enchanting Nostalgia Wine Bar, a serene oasis in Arenal, offering exquisite wines and a captivating atmosphere for relaxation.
Restaurante Relax
7.4 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
8.1 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
9.6 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
9.7 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
9.8 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
9.8 km
Discover the vibrant Voodoo Bar & Cocktails in La Fortuna, where enchanting drinks and a lively atmosphere await every traveler.
La Fortuna Pub
9.9 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
10.3 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
10.3 km
Experience vibrant nightlife in La Fortuna at Voodoo Mixology, where innovative cocktails meet a tropical atmosphere for unforgettable evenings.
