The Hand: A Symbol of Art and Nature in El Castillo
Discover The Hand in El Castillo: Where art meets nature, offering breathtaking views and a tranquil escape in Costa Rica's stunning landscape.
The Hand is a striking sculpture located in El Castillo, Costa Rica, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding lush landscapes and Lake Arenal. This unique landmark symbolizes the connection between humanity and nature, inviting visitors to contemplate their place in the world while enjoying the tranquility of the Costa Rican countryside.
A brief summary to The Hand
- C79F+P9, El Castillo, Alajuela Province, CR
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best lighting and photo opportunities.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the area involves some walking.
- Bring sunscreen and water to stay protected and hydrated during your visit.
- Check the bus schedule in advance if using public transportation, as services may be infrequent.
Getting There
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Public Transport
To reach The Hand via public transport, take a bus from La Fortuna to El Castillo. Buses typically depart from the main terminal in La Fortuna, with a ride duration of approximately 30-45 minutes. The fare ranges from 500-1000 CRC (Costa Rican Colón). Upon arrival in El Castillo, you can walk or take a short taxi ride to The Hand, located at coordinates C79F+P9. Walking from the bus stop takes about 15-20 minutes.
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Car
If driving from La Fortuna, head west on Route 142 towards El Castillo for about 20 minutes. Look for signs to El Castillo and turn right onto the entrance road. Follow the road to C79F+P9, where The Hand is located. Parking is available nearby, though it may be limited. Parking fees, if applicable, are typically minimal.
Discover more about The Hand
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Volcano Jungle Trails
2.4 km
Explore scenic jungle trails near Arenal Volcano. Perfect for families: hiking, picnics, and a playground in a natural Costa Rican setting.
Catarata Danta
2.6 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 Peninsula, Arenal Volcano National Park
5.2 km
Discover tranquil trails, stunning volcano views, and abundant wildlife at Arenal Volcano National Park's serene Peninsula Sector.
Arenal Volcano Vista Point
5.4 km
Experience breathtaking views of Arenal Volcano, hike through lush rainforests, and immerse yourself in Costa Rica's natural beauty.
Ecological Reserve Fortuna Waterfall
7.0 km
Discover the majestic La Fortuna Waterfall in Costa Rica: a stunning natural wonder offering breathtaking views, refreshing swims, and unforgettable experiences.
Represa del lago Arenal
7.1 km
Discover Costa Rica's largest lake, a hub for green energy, water sports, and breathtaking views of the Arenal Volcano.
Volcan Arenal Ecological Park
7.7 km
Discover the natural beauty of Costa Rica at Volcan Arenal Ecological Park, offering stunning views and diverse wildlife.
Tabacon Hot Springs
7.7 km
Experience the ultimate relaxation in naturally heated thermal waters surrounded by the lush rainforest at the foot of the majestic Arenal Volcano.
Unmissable attractions to see
Sky Adventures
1.2 km
Discover the thrill of zip-lining and stunning views at Sky Adventures, a premier tourist attraction in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Point de vue volcan Arenal
2.2 km
Experience the stunning views of Arenal Volcano at this picturesque lookout, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails
2.7 km
Discover the Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails, a nature lover's paradise with stunning views, diverse wildlife, and eco-friendly experiences near Arenal Volcano.
Frog Pond
2.9 km
Explore the vibrant ecosystem of Frog Pond in La Fortuna, a captivating tourist attraction filled with Costa Rica's enchanting amphibian species.
Butterfly Conservatory
2.9 km
Discover Costa Rica's largest butterfly exhibit: a vibrant rainforest sanctuary near Arenal Volcano, dedicated to nature and education.
Arenal Water Sports- La Fortuna
3.7 km
Experience thrilling water sports at Arenal Water Sports in La Fortuna, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of Lake Arenal and volcanoes.
Paddleboarding La Fortuna- Lake Arenal
3.7 km
Discover the serene beauty and adventure of paddleboarding on Lake Arenal, a must-visit destination in Costa Rica's stunning landscape.
Parque Nacional Volcán Arenal
4.7 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of Parque Nacional Volcán Arenal, an iconic Costa Rican national park with thrilling adventures and serene hot springs.
Chato Volcano
4.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Chato Volcano in Alajuela Province, Costa Rica, with its stunning crater lake and vibrant biodiversity.
Arenal Volcano National Park Visitor Center
4.9 km
Discover Costa Rica's natural beauty at Arenal Volcano National Park, offering hiking, wildlife, and stunning views of the iconic volcano and Lake Arenal.
Arenal Wilberth Stable
4.9 km
Discover the beauty of Costa Rica at Arenal Wilberth Stable with horseback riding, ATV rentals, and breathtaking views of Arenal Volcano.
Original Arenal ATV
5.0 km
Explore Costa Rica's breathtaking landscapes with thrilling ATV tours at Original Arenal ATV in Alajuela Province.
Arenal Volcano View and Lava Trails
5.3 km
Hike through historic lava fields with breathtaking views of Arenal Volcano and Lake Arenal. Experience Costa Rica's natural beauty and volcanic history.
Arenal Volcano
5.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and adventure of Arenal Volcano, a natural wonder in Costa Rica's Alajuela Province, perfect for nature lovers and thrill-seekers.
Volcan Arenal National Park, Peninsula area
5.7 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty and adventure of Volcan Arenal National Park, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and thrill-seekers in Costa Rica.
Essential places to dine
Chillout Restaurant
1.2 km
Experience local flavors amidst stunning views at Chillout Restaurant near Sky Trek in San Carlos.
El Jilguero Restaurant
2.7 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at El Jilguero Restaurant in San Ramón—where every dish tells a story.
La Ventanita
2.8 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at La Ventanita - an inviting restaurant in El Castillo known for its fresh ingredients and warm hospitality.
Fusion Arenal Mirador Restaurante, El Castillo Costa Rica.
3.7 km
Experience exquisite dining with breathtaking views at Fusion Arenal Mirador Restaurante in El Castillo, Costa Rica - where nature meets culinary art.
Lava'68 Cafetería
5.4 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at Lava'68 Cafetería with stunning views and a commitment to local ingredients.
Restaurante Hojarasca
7.3 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Restaurante Hojarasca amidst the breathtaking landscapes of La Fortuna.
Yellow Tree Restaurant
7.6 km
Experience exquisite local cuisine surrounded by nature's beauty at Yellow Tree Restaurant in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Ave del Paraiso Restaurant at Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa
7.9 km
Experience culinary excellence at Ave del Paraiso Restaurant amidst the breathtaking beauty of Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa.
Tucanes Restaurant
8.0 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican cuisine amidst stunning landscapes at Tucanes Restaurant in Nuevo Arenal.
Heliconias Restaurant by Kioro
8.1 km
Experience exquisite Costa Rican cuisine with breathtaking views at Heliconias Restaurant by Kioro in Alajuela Province.
Restaurante La Roca Bistró
8.2 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante La Roca Bistró with stunning views of Arenal Lake in beautiful La Fortuna.
Restaurante El Novillo del Arenal
8.3 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at Restaurante El Novillo del Arenal - where tradition meets taste in La Fortuna.
Cafetería y Restaurante Rain Forest Arenal
8.6 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Cafetería y Restaurante Rain Forest Arenal in La Fortuna amidst stunning rainforest views.
SODA El Turnito
8.7 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at SODA El Turnito in La Fortuna - a must-visit eatery for every traveler.
Arenal Bongos
8.7 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Arenal Bongos in La Fortuna – where every meal is a celebration of local cuisine and breathtaking views.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Britt Shop Sky Trek La Fortuna
1.2 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.
Rumbo Shop Tabacon Las Fuentes
7.7 km
Explore Rumbo Shop Tabacon Las Fuentes for the best selection of local crafts, chocolates, and souvenirs in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Neptune's House of Hammocks
7.8 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.
Britt Shop Tabacon
8.0 km
Discover the essence of Costa Rica at Britt Shop Tabacon, where local crafts, gourmet chocolates, and unique souvenirs await every traveler.
Biosfera Skincare (Experience Store)
8.1 km
Explore sustainable beauty at Biosfera Skincare, where Costa Rican nature meets skincare innovation for an eco-friendly experience.
Britt Shop Místico Park Arenal
8.2 km
Explore Britt Shop Místico Park Arenal, where Costa Rican craftsmanship meets breathtaking nature, offering unique gifts and gourmet delights.
Manus cr tienda online
8.4 km
Explore Manus CR in La Fortuna for exquisite swimwear and custom clothing that embodies Costa Rican charm and style.
Souvenir store
8.6 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
8.7 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.
Britt Shop Baldi
8.7 km
Discover the best of Costa Rica at Britt Shop Baldi, where unique souvenirs, artisanal chocolates, and local crafts await.
Original Grand Gallery
8.8 km
Explore authentic Costa Rican art and unique souvenirs at Original Grand Gallery in La Fortuna, a cultural haven for every visitor.
Red Frog Coffee Roasters
8.9 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.
Arenal Bee Garden - Honey, Coffee & Chocolate Tour
9.0 km
Experience the harmony of nature at Arenal Bee Garden, where honey, coffee, and chocolate come together in a delightful adventure.
Howler Monkey Store
9.2 km
Explore La Fortuna's Howler Monkey Store for unique custom t-shirts and stylish fashion accessories celebrating Costa Rican culture.
Mini Market El Mirador
9.8 km
Explore local flavors and essentials at Mini Market El Mirador, your one-stop grocery store in scenic La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Howlers Bar & Grill
3.4 km
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Shangri La Gardens. Tabacon Resort Club área
7.5 km
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MAGIC SPORT BAR, Magic Mountain Hotel
8.6 km
Discover the lively Magic Sport Bar at Magic Mountain Hotel, where great drinks and vibrant atmosphere meet in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Terra bar
8.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Terra Bar in La Fortuna, where exceptional drinks and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.
Restaurante Relax
8.7 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Restaurante Relax, a charming bar in La Fortuna offering local cuisine and stunning views.
Volcán Look Disco
8.7 km
Discover the lively nightlife at Volcán Look Disco – a vibrant bar in San Carlos, perfect for dancing and enjoying refreshing cocktails.
Lemnnos WetBar
8.7 km
Discover the vibrant Lemnnos WetBar in La Fortuna, where tropical drinks meet stunning views and unforgettable experiences.
Tamarindo Chill
9.9 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
9.9 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
10.0 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
10.0 km
Discover the vibrant Voodoo Bar & Cocktails in La Fortuna, where enchanting drinks and a lively atmosphere await every traveler.
La Fortuna Pub
10.2 km
Discover La Fortuna Pub, a lively destination for delicious food, refreshing drinks, and an unforgettable atmosphere in the heart of Costa Rica.
Nostalgia Wine Bar
10.3 km
Discover the enchanting Nostalgia Wine Bar, a serene oasis in Arenal, offering exquisite wines and a captivating atmosphere for relaxation.
Chicha's Restaurant & Lounge Bar
10.3 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Chicha's Restaurant & Lounge Bar in La Fortuna, where vibrant cuisine meets stunning views.
Soda la Hormiga
10.5 km
Discover the culinary delights of Soda la Hormiga in La Fortuna, where authentic Costa Rican flavors meet an inviting atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Magma Club
10.1 km
Magma Club: The heart of La Fortuna's nightlife, where vibrant beats and electrifying atmosphere create unforgettable nights.
Amsterdan The Club
10.3 km
Discover the dynamic nightlife of La Fortuna at Amsterdam The Club, where dining meets dancing in a vibrant atmosphere.
CHARLIES CR
10.5 km
Charlies CR: A vibrant night club in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, offering unforgettable music, dancing, and a lively atmosphere for tourists.
Glowy Nails
10.6 km
Discover tranquility and beauty at Glowy Nails Lounge in La Fortuna, Costa Rica - a perfect retreat after your adventures.
Lavacar PESETA
11.1 km
Discover Lavacar PESETA, where the nightlife of La Fortuna comes alive with music, dance, and vibrant energy in the heart of Costa Rica.
Night Walk Tour
14.2 km
Discover the magic of the cloud forest at night with the Monteverde Night Walk Tour - a must-do for nature lovers and adventurers!
Ficus Trails Night Tour Monteverde
14.8 km
Explore the magical realm of the Monteverde rainforest at night with Ficus Trails, uncovering the vibrant life that thrives after sunset.
Monteverde Night Tour
15.0 km
Discover the magical nocturnal world of Monteverde's cloud forest on an unforgettable night tour filled with wildlife and enchanting sights.
Night Walk Santamaria´s
15.3 km
Experience the enchantment of nocturnal wildlife at Night Walk Santamaria's, a premier nature preserve and campground in Monteverde, Costa Rica.
Kinkajou Night Walk
15.5 km
Discover the nocturnal wonders of Monteverde at Kinkajou Night Walk, where adventure meets the enchanting beauty of nature's nightlife.
Beer Garden Monteverde
15.5 km
Discover the charm of Beer Garden Monteverde, a vibrant bar where local brews meet the lush ambiance of Costa Rica's stunning landscape.
Bar Amigos
15.6 km
Experience the best of Costa Rican nightlife at Bar Amigos, where delicious grill fare meets live music in a vibrant atmosphere in Santa Elena.
Monteverde Gastroclub
15.6 km
Experience the vibrant culinary scene of Monteverde at Gastroclub, where local flavors meet a lively atmosphere for an unforgettable dining experience.
Tree House Restaurante
15.6 km
Experience the unique blend of nature and gastronomy at Tree House Restaurante, a culinary gem in the heart of Monteverde, Costa Rica.
The Lodge Bar&Restaurant
15.8 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Monteverde at The Lodge Bar & Restaurant, where culinary delights meet the beauty of Costa Rica's cloud forests.