Arenal Volcano National Park: Costa Rica's Fiery Heart
Explore Costa Rica's iconic Arenal Volcano National Park: Hike through lava fields, discover rainforest wildlife, and witness breathtaking volcanic scenery.
Arenal Volcano National Park, established in 1991, is a stunning protected area in Costa Rica surrounding the active Arenal Volcano and the dormant Cerro Chato. The park offers diverse landscapes, from rainforests to lava fields, and is a haven for wildlife and adventure.
A brief summary to Arenal Park
- F8H4+8CF, La Fortuna, Alajuela Province, CR
- +50685970935
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking on uneven terrain, especially if exploring the lava fields.
- Bring rain gear, as the weather in Arenal is unpredictable, and rain showers are common, even during the dry season.
- Visit early in the morning for the best chance to see the volcano without cloud cover.
- Purchase park tickets with a credit card, as cash payments are not accepted.
- Combine a visit to the park with a soak in one of the nearby hot springs for a relaxing experience.
Getting There
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Car
Driving from La Fortuna is the most direct way to reach Arenal Volcano National Park. Set your GPS to "Arenal Volcano National Park Visitor Center" for the main entrance, a drive of approximately 30 minutes. Parking is free with your park entrance. Note that a 4x4 vehicle is not required to reach the visitor center parking lot.
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Taxi/Uber
Taxis and Ubers are available in La Fortuna and can take you to the park entrance. A taxi from La Fortuna to the national park may cost around $10 USD. However, cell service can be unreliable at the park entrance, so arrange a return trip in advance or be prepared to walk towards the main road to get service.
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Public Transport
There is no direct bus to the park entrance. The closest bus stop is at the intersection of the main road and the entrance road, about a 30-minute walk (2.1 km) to the visitor center. Buses to this intersection depart from La Fortuna. Check the bus schedule in advance. From the intersection, you can walk or try to hitch a ride to the entrance. A local bus travels daily between La Fortuna and the national park but know that it is rarely on time and inconvenient if you are short on time. Buses leave twice a day from La Fortuna bus station at 8 am and 2 pm, tickets are about $5 USD.
Discover more about Arenal Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort
1.6 km
Experience luxurious relaxation at Arenal's Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort, with stunning views and natural hot springs.
Amor Arenal
2.1 km
Experience unparalleled luxury and immerse yourself in nature at Amor Arenal, an adults-only rainforest oasis near Arenal Volcano.
Arenal Natura Ecological Park
2.5 km
Discover the beauty of Costa Rica's wildlife at Arenal Natura Ecological Park, an ecological gem in La Fortuna filled with adventure and nature's wonders.
Hotel Arenal Paraíso Resort & Spa
2.7 km
Experience Costa Rica's beauty at Arenal Paraíso Resort: Volcano views, hot springs, spa, and adventure await in La Fortuna.
Nayara Springs
2.8 km
Discover the perfect blend of luxury and nature at Nayara Springs, a five-star hotel in Costa Rica's stunning Alajuela Province.
Arenal Manoa & Hot Springs
2.9 km
Experience the beauty of Costa Rica at Arenal Manoa & Hot Springs, a luxurious resort hotel featuring hot springs, spa services, and stunning views of Arenal Volcano.
Hotel Montana De Fuego All inclusive
3.1 km
Experience luxury and nature at Hotel Montana De Fuego, your all-inclusive retreat near Arenal Volcano in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Mountain Paradise Hotel
3.1 km
Discover the natural beauty and luxurious comfort of Mountain Paradise Hotel, nestled near Arenal Volcano, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Arenal History Inn
3.5 km
Discover cozy comfort and volcano views at Arenal History Inn, your gateway to La Fortuna's natural wonders and thrilling adventures.
Soda Las Flores
3.5 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Soda Las Flores in San Carlos, where delicious cuisine meets warm local hospitality.
La Cava
3.6 km
Experience the delightful fusion of Costa Rican and international cuisine at La Cava, the perfect family-friendly restaurant in San Carlos.
El Coloso Arenal
3.6 km
Experience the flavors of Costa Rica at El Coloso Arenal, a top-rated restaurant in La Fortuna known for its delicious cuisine and welcoming atmosphere.
Marisquería Delcarajo
3.7 km
Discover the vibrant seafood culture of La Fortuna at Marisquería Delcarajo, where fresh ingredients meet authentic Costa Rican flavors.
Papa's Place
3.8 km
Discover Costa Rica's biodiversity at Papa's Place: bird watching, hiking, and farm life near San Carlos for an unforgettable nature escape.
Mirador el Silencio
4.0 km
Experience the natural beauty and serene hiking trails of Mirador el Silencio, a premier nature preserve in Alajuela Province, Costa Rica.
Unmissable attractions to see
Los Lagos
1.4 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.
Paradise Hot Springs
1.5 km
Experience ultimate relaxation at Paradise Hot Springs, your serene retreat with thermal baths, spa services, and breathtaking views in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Baldi Hot Springs Resort Hotel & Spa
1.6 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
1.6 km
Discover the serene beauty of Titokú Hot Springs in Costa Rica, where relaxation meets nature in a stunning thermal pool experience.
Kalambu Hot Springs
1.8 km
Experience relaxation and adventure at Kalambu Hot Springs, a top water park in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, surrounded by lush nature and stunning volcano views.
Termalitas del Arenal
1.9 km
Discover the healing waters and lush landscapes of Termalitas del Arenal, a serene resort hotel in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Arenal Ecoglide Park
1.9 km
Discover the thrill of zip-lining and the beauty of nature at Arenal Ecoglide Park, a premier adventure destination in Costa Rica.
Arenal Volcano
2.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Arenal Volcano, a natural wonder in Costa Rica surrounded by lush landscapes, hot springs, and thrilling adventures.
Arenal Volcano Inn
2.1 km
Discover the serenity and adventure at Arenal Volcano Inn, your gateway to Costa Rica's stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity.
Termales del Arenal
2.1 km
Experience the healing power of nature at Termales del Arenal's luxurious hot springs in Costa Rica, where relaxation meets adventure.
Callidryas Tours - Costa Rica.
2.1 km
Explore the natural beauty of Costa Rica with Callidryas Tours in La Fortuna, offering thrilling adventures and intimate wildlife encounters.
Ecotermales Fortuna
2.2 km
Discover tranquility at Ecotermales Fortuna, where natural hot springs meet lush landscapes in the heart of Costa Rica.
Los Laureles
2.2 km
Explore the rejuvenating Los Laureles Hot Springs, a serene oasis in San Carlos, Costa Rica, nestled among lush landscapes and rich biodiversity.
Relax Termalitas Hot Springs
2.2 km
Discover ultimate relaxation at Relax Termalitas Hot Springs, surrounded by nature and the soothing warmth of thermal waters near Arenal Volcano.
Horseback Riding In Arenal By Don Tobias Horses
2.3 km
Discover the captivating landscapes of Arenal, Costa Rica, on an unforgettable horseback riding adventure with Don Tobias Horses.
Essential places to dine
Restaurante Emperador
1.6 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante Emperador in Alajuela Province—where tradition meets modern dining.
Arenal Bongos
1.9 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
2.0 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Restaurante Bongos in La Fortuna - where every meal tells a story.
Que Rico Arenal Restaurante
2.0 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors amidst breathtaking views at Que Rico Arenal Restaurante in La Fortuna.
Benedictus
2.1 km
Experience mouthwatering steaks amidst the natural beauty of La Fortuna at Benedictus Steak House.
Cafetería y Restaurante Rain Forest Arenal
2.2 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Cafetería y Restaurante Rain Forest Arenal in La Fortuna amidst stunning rainforest views.
Heliconias Restaurant by Kioro
2.4 km
Experience exquisite Costa Rican cuisine with breathtaking views at Heliconias Restaurant by Kioro in Alajuela Province.
Oscar's
2.7 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.
Arenal Koita
2.8 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Arenal Koita while enjoying breathtaking views of Arenal Volcano in La Fortuna.
Restaurante El Novillo del Arenal
2.8 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at Restaurante El Novillo del Arenal - where tradition meets taste in La Fortuna.
Soda La Palma
2.9 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Soda La Palma in La Fortuna – where delicious food meets warm hospitality.
Restaurante Hojarasca
3.0 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Restaurante Hojarasca amidst the breathtaking landscapes of La Fortuna.
Mirador Arenal Steakhouse
3.0 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Mirador Arenal Steakhouse - where every meal is accompanied by breathtaking views.
Ave del Paraiso
3.0 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Ave del Paraiso in La Fortuna – where every dish tells a story.
SODA El Turnito
3.3 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at SODA El Turnito in La Fortuna - a must-visit eatery for every traveler.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Britt Shop Baldi
1.6 km
Discover the best of Costa Rica at Britt Shop Baldi, where unique souvenirs, artisanal chocolates, and local crafts await.
SLOFFEE BEST COFFEE IN LA FORTUNA
2.6 km
Discover SLOFFEE in La Fortuna for the finest Costa Rican coffee experience, blending quality brews with local farming insights.
Mini Market El Mirador
3.0 km
Explore local flavors and essentials at Mini Market El Mirador, your one-stop grocery store in scenic La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Souvenir store
3.1 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
3.4 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.
Rumbo Shop Tabacon Las Fuentes
3.4 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
3.5 km
Discover the essence of Costa Rica at Britt Shop Tabacon, where local crafts, gourmet chocolates, and unique souvenirs await every traveler.
Original Grand Gallery
3.5 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
3.6 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
3.7 km
Experience the harmony of nature at Arenal Bee Garden, where honey, coffee, and chocolate come together in a delightful adventure.
Biosfera Skincare (Experience Store)
4.1 km
Explore sustainable beauty at Biosfera Skincare, where Costa Rican nature meets skincare innovation for an eco-friendly experience.
Wood & Art Gallery
4.5 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.
Neptune's House of Hammocks
4.5 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 The Springs Resort & Spa
4.6 km
Explore the vibrant culture of Costa Rica through unique gifts and artisan crafts at Britt Shop The Springs Resort & Spa.
Manus cr tienda online
4.7 km
Explore Manus CR in La Fortuna for exquisite swimwear and custom clothing that embodies Costa Rican charm and style.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Terra bar
1.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Terra Bar in La Fortuna, where exceptional drinks and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.
Lemnnos WetBar
1.3 km
Discover the vibrant Lemnnos WetBar in La Fortuna, where tropical drinks meet stunning views and unforgettable experiences.
Volcán Look Disco
1.7 km
Discover the lively nightlife at Volcán Look Disco – a vibrant bar in San Carlos, perfect for dancing and enjoying refreshing cocktails.
Restaurante Relax
2.2 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Restaurante Relax, a charming bar in La Fortuna offering local cuisine and stunning views.
Nostalgia Wine Bar
2.9 km
Discover the enchanting Nostalgia Wine Bar, a serene oasis in Arenal, offering exquisite wines and a captivating atmosphere for relaxation.
Shangri La Gardens. Tabacon Resort Club área
3.2 km
Discover the serene escape of Shangri La Gardens, where exquisite drinks meet breathtaking natural beauty in Costa Rica's Alajuela Province.
MAGIC SPORT BAR, Magic Mountain Hotel
3.3 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
4.7 km
Discover the serene vibe of Tamarindo Chill in La Fortuna, offering refreshing cocktails and a perfect escape in Costa Rica's lush landscapes.
Bar Patrón Costa Rica
4.8 km
Experience a vibrant cocktail bar in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, with exotic flavors, stunning views, and a lively atmosphere perfect for tourists.
Cha
4.8 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.
Voodoo Bar & Cocktails
4.9 km
Discover the vibrant Voodoo Bar & Cocktails in La Fortuna, where enchanting drinks and a lively atmosphere await every traveler.
La Fortuna Pub
5.0 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
5.3 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
5.3 km
Experience vibrant nightlife in La Fortuna at Voodoo Mixology, where innovative cocktails meet a tropical atmosphere for unforgettable evenings.
Soda la Hormiga
5.3 km
Discover the culinary delights of Soda la Hormiga in La Fortuna, where authentic Costa Rican flavors meet an inviting atmosphere.
