Arenal Volcano National Park: Costa Rica's Fiery Giant
Explore Costa Rica's iconic Arenal Volcano National Park: Hike through lava fields, discover rainforest wildlife, and witness breathtaking views.
Arenal Volcano National Park, home to the iconic Arenal Volcano, offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and geological wonder. Established in 1991, the park protects diverse ecosystems, including rainforests and lava fields, providing visitors with hiking trails and panoramic views of the majestic volcano and Lake Arenal.
A brief summary to Arenal Volcano Park
- entrada a Arenal Springs, La Fortuna, La Palma, Alajuela Province, 21007, CR
- +50689065959
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear sturdy shoes suitable for uneven terrain, as trails can be slippery, especially on metal stairs and lava flow areas.
- Bring essentials like insect repellent, sunscreen, and rain gear, as the weather can change quickly.
- Purchase park tickets in advance to avoid queues, especially during peak season.
- Stay hydrated by bringing plenty of water, as the trails can be challenging, especially in the heat.
- Respect the wildlife by keeping a safe distance from animals and never feeding them.
Getting There
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Driving
Driving is the most convenient way to reach Arenal Volcano National Park. From La Fortuna, take Route 142 west for approximately 30 minutes. Follow signs for the park's visitor center. Parking is free with your park entrance fee. Set your GPS to “Arenal Volcano National Park Visitor Center”.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are available in La Fortuna. A taxi ride from La Fortuna to the park entrance costs approximately $10 USD. Be aware that cell service may be unreliable at the park entrance, so arrange your return trip in advance.
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Public Transport
Public buses do not go directly to the park entrances. The closest bus stop is at an intersection off the main road, about a 30-minute (2.1 km) walk to the main visitor center. Buses to this intersection depart from La Fortuna. Check local schedules for times. From the intersection, walk or hitch a ride to the visitor center.
Discover more about Arenal Volcano Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Arenal Natura Ecological Park
0.1 km
Discover Costa Rica's biodiversity at Arenal Natura Ecological Park: Explore rainforest trails, spot exotic wildlife, and support conservation efforts.
Nayara Springs
0.4 km
An exclusive adults-only rainforest escape in Costa Rica's Arenal Volcano National Park, featuring luxurious villas and private hot springs.
Mountain Paradise Hotel
0.6 km
Experience stunning volcano views and luxurious comfort at Mountain Paradise Hotel, your gateway to Arenal's natural wonders.
Arenal Manoa & Hot Springs
0.7 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 Arenal Paraíso Resort & Spa
0.9 km
Experience Costa Rica's beauty at Arenal Paraíso Resort: Volcano views, hot springs, spa, and adventure await in La Fortuna.
Amor Arenal
1.1 km
Experience unparalleled luxury and immerse yourself in nature at Amor Arenal, an adults-only rainforest oasis near Arenal Volcano.
The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort
1.8 km
Experience luxurious relaxation at Arenal's Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort, with stunning views and natural hot springs.
Hotel Montana De Fuego All inclusive
1.9 km
Experience Costa Rica's natural beauty at Hotel Montana De Fuego: Arenal Volcano views, hot springs, adventure, and all-inclusive comfort.
The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal
2.1 km
Experience luxury and adventure at The Springs Resort & Spa, with stunning volcano views and natural hot springs in Arenal, Costa Rica.
Jalapas restaurant
3.1 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine with breathtaking Arenal Volcano views at Jalapas Restaurant in La Fortuna.
Arenal History Inn
4.3 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
4.3 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.
El Coloso Arenal
4.4 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at El Coloso Arenal, a local favorite in La Fortuna with a warm atmosphere and delicious traditional dishes.
Marisquería Delcarajo
4.5 km
Savor fresh seafood and authentic Costa Rican flavors at Marisquería Delcarajo in La Fortuna, a local favorite for a vibrant culinary experience.
Unmissable attractions to see
Pure Trek Canyoning (meeting point)
0.1 km
Embark on a thrilling canyoning adventure in La Fortuna with Pure Trek Canyoning, surrounded by stunning waterfalls and lush rainforests.
COCOON - Arenal Butterfly Garden and Wildlife Sanctuary
0.1 km
Explore the enchanting world of butterflies at COCOON - Arenal Butterfly Garden and Wildlife Sanctuary, a vibrant haven of nature in Costa Rica.
Natura Eco Park - Costa Rica
0.1 km
Explore the stunning biodiversity of Natura Eco Park in Costa Rica, a serene ecological oasis featuring lush landscapes and vibrant wildlife encounters.
Volcano Lodge & Springs
0.2 km
Experience the natural beauty of Costa Rica at Volcano Lodge & Springs, a serene retreat with stunning views of Arenal Volcano and rejuvenating thermal springs.
Horseback Riding In Arenal By Don Tobias Horses
0.3 km
Discover the captivating landscapes of Arenal, Costa Rica, on an unforgettable horseback riding adventure with Don Tobias Horses.
Nayara Gardens
0.4 km
Experience the ultimate tropical getaway at Nayara Gardens, where luxury meets nature in the heart of La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Arenal Springs Resort and Spa
0.4 km
Experience the perfect blend of luxury and nature at Arenal Springs Resort and Spa, nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of La Fortuna.
Arenal Volcano Inn
0.5 km
Discover the serenity and adventure at Arenal Volcano Inn, your gateway to Costa Rica's stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity.
Canopy The Ceiba Adventure.
0.9 km
Experience the thrill of nature at The Ceiba Adventure, a unique farmstay in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, where adventure meets tranquility.
Los Laureles
1.6 km
Explore the rejuvenating Los Laureles Hot Springs, a serene oasis in San Carlos, Costa Rica, nestled among lush landscapes and rich biodiversity.
Paradise Hot Springs
1.8 km
Experience ultimate relaxation at Paradise Hot Springs, your serene retreat with thermal baths, spa services, and breathtaking views in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Kalambu Hot Springs
1.9 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.
Go Adventure Arenal Park
1.9 km
Discover the thrill of adventure and the beauty of nature at Go Adventure Arenal Park in La Fortuna, Costa Rica – an unforgettable experience awaits.
Titokú Hot Springs
2.0 km
Discover the serene beauty of Titokú Hot Springs in Costa Rica, where relaxation meets nature in a stunning thermal pool experience.
Baldi Hot Springs Resort Hotel & Spa
2.0 km
Experience the ultimate relaxation at Baldi Hot Springs Resort Hotel & Spa, where natural thermal springs meet luxurious spa treatments in Alajuela, Costa Rica.
Essential places to dine
Arenal Koita
0.3 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Arenal Koita while enjoying breathtaking views of Arenal Volcano in La Fortuna.
Ave del Paraiso
0.5 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Ave del Paraiso in La Fortuna – where every dish tells a story.
Que Rico Arenal Restaurante
0.5 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors amidst breathtaking views at Que Rico Arenal Restaurante in La Fortuna.
Oscar's
1.0 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.
Benedictus
1.1 km
Experience mouthwatering steaks amidst the natural beauty of La Fortuna at Benedictus Steak House.
Restaurante Emperador
1.8 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante Emperador in Alajuela Province—where tradition meets modern dining.
Mirador Arenal Steakhouse
2.2 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Mirador Arenal Steakhouse - where every meal is accompanied by breathtaking views.
Arenal Bongos
2.4 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
2.5 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Restaurante Bongos in La Fortuna - where every meal tells a story.
Soda La Palma
2.7 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Soda La Palma in La Fortuna – where delicious food meets warm hospitality.
Cafetería y Restaurante Rain Forest Arenal
2.9 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Cafetería y Restaurante Rain Forest Arenal in La Fortuna amidst stunning rainforest views.
Heliconias Restaurant by Kioro
3.0 km
Experience exquisite Costa Rican cuisine with breathtaking views at Heliconias Restaurant by Kioro in Alajuela Province.
Restaurante El Novillo del Arenal
3.2 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
4.1 km
Experience culinary excellence at Ave del Paraiso Restaurant amidst the breathtaking beauty of Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa.
Tucanes Restaurant
4.1 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican cuisine amidst stunning landscapes at Tucanes Restaurant in Nuevo Arenal.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
SLOFFEE BEST COFFEE IN LA FORTUNA
0.8 km
Discover SLOFFEE in La Fortuna for the finest Costa Rican coffee experience, blending quality brews with local farming insights.
Mini Market El Mirador
1.9 km
Explore local flavors and essentials at Mini Market El Mirador, your one-stop grocery store in scenic La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Britt Shop Baldi
2.0 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
2.1 km
Explore the vibrant culture of Costa Rica through unique gifts and artisan crafts at Britt Shop The Springs Resort & Spa.
Souvenir store
4.0 km
Explore the vibrant culture of Costa Rica at this charming souvenir store in San Carlos, where unique treasures await every traveler.
Britt Shop Tabacon
4.1 km
Discover the essence of Costa Rica at Britt Shop Tabacon, where local crafts, gourmet chocolates, and unique souvenirs await every traveler.
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.
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.
Original Grand Gallery
4.3 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
4.4 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.
Centro Comercial La Fortuna
5.3 km
Discover the lively Centro Comercial La Fortuna, a premier shopping destination in La Fortuna with diverse shops, dining, and entertainment experiences.
Malibú Clothes
5.3 km
Explore vintage fashion in La Fortuna at Malibú Clothes, where each piece tells a unique story amid Costa Rica's stunning landscapes.
Artesanías Frans things happys
5.3 km
Explore the vibrant world of handmade crafts at Artesanías Frans Things Happys in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Biosfera Skincare (Experience Store)
5.4 km
Explore sustainable beauty at Biosfera Skincare, where Costa Rican nature meets skincare innovation for an eco-friendly experience.
Cianikal
5.4 km
Explore unique Costa Rican handicrafts and support local artisans at Cianikal, the vibrant art studio in La Fortuna.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Nostalgia Wine Bar
0.4 km
Discover the enchanting Nostalgia Wine Bar, a serene oasis in Arenal, offering exquisite wines and a captivating atmosphere for relaxation.
Lemnnos WetBar
1.4 km
Discover the vibrant Lemnnos WetBar in La Fortuna, where tropical drinks meet stunning views and unforgettable experiences.
Terra bar
1.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Terra Bar in La Fortuna, where exceptional drinks and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.
Volcán Look Disco
2.1 km
Discover the lively nightlife at Volcán Look Disco – a vibrant bar in San Carlos, perfect for dancing and enjoying refreshing cocktails.
Restaurante Relax
2.9 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Restaurante Relax, a charming bar in La Fortuna offering local cuisine and stunning views.
Shangri La Gardens. Tabacon Resort Club área
4.1 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
4.2 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
5.1 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
5.2 km
Experience a vibrant cocktail bar in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, with exotic flavors, stunning views, and a lively atmosphere perfect for tourists.
La Fortuna Pub
5.2 km
Discover La Fortuna Pub, a lively destination for delicious food, refreshing drinks, and an unforgettable atmosphere in the heart of Costa Rica.
Cha
5.3 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.
BEERLAND CR
5.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and diverse craft beers at Beerland CR, a premier gastropub in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
BEERLAND
5.5 km
Experience the vibrant craft beer culture at Beerland, La Fortuna's top brewpub with exceptional local brews and lively atmosphere.
Tropical Lounge Bar
5.5 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.
Soda la Hormiga
5.6 km
Discover the culinary delights of Soda la Hormiga in La Fortuna, where authentic Costa Rican flavors meet an inviting atmosphere.
