Arenal Volcano Ecological Park: Nature's Playground
Discover adventure and nature at Arenal Volcano Ecological Park: Hike scenic trails, kayak on the lagoon, and witness stunning volcanic views.
The Arenal Volcano Ecological Park, near La Fortuna, Costa Rica, offers immersive experiences in the shadow of the Arenal Volcano. Hike through diverse trails, encounter wildlife, and enjoy activities on the Tabacón Lagoon. It's a blend of adventure and natural beauty.
A brief summary to Parque Ecologico Arenal
- La Fortuna, Alajuela Province, CR
- +50685271893
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking on uneven terrain.
- Bring insect repellent, sunscreen, and rain gear, as the weather can change quickly.
- Pack snacks and water, although there are picnic areas within the park.
- Consider visiting early in the morning for the best chance to spot wildlife.
- Check the park's website for updated trail conditions and activity availability.
Getting There
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Taxi
From La Fortuna, taxis are readily available and can take you to Parque Ecologico Arenal, approximately 10 km northwest of town on Ruta 142. The ride typically costs around 6,000 CRC (about $12 USD). Confirm the fare with the driver before starting the journey.
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Public Transport
To reach the park by public transport from La Fortuna, catch the bus to Tilaran and ask the driver to drop you off at Parque Ecologico Arenal. There are limited buses per day between La Fortuna and Tilaran. The bus fare should be around 500 CRC (approximately $1 USD) each way. Make sure to confirm the return bus schedule to La Fortuna.
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Driving
If driving from La Fortuna, take Ruta 142 northwest for about 10 km. The park will be on your left. There is parking available at the entrance. Parking is free.
Discover more about Parque Ecologico Arenal
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hotel Montana De Fuego All inclusive
2.0 km
Experience Costa Rica's natural beauty at Hotel Montana De Fuego: Arenal Volcano views, hot springs, adventure, and all-inclusive comfort.
Amor Arenal
2.3 km
Experience unparalleled luxury and immerse yourself in nature at Amor Arenal, an adults-only rainforest oasis near Arenal Volcano.
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
3.3 km
An exclusive adults-only rainforest escape in Costa Rica's Arenal Volcano National Park, featuring luxurious villas and private hot springs.
Arenal Natura Ecological Park
3.3 km
Discover Costa Rica's biodiversity at Arenal Natura Ecological Park: Explore rainforest trails, spot exotic wildlife, and support conservation efforts.
Mountain Paradise Hotel
3.6 km
Experience stunning volcano views and luxurious comfort at Mountain Paradise Hotel, your gateway to Arenal's natural wonders.
The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort
4.1 km
Experience luxurious relaxation at Arenal's Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort, with stunning views and natural hot springs.
Arenal Manoa & Hot Springs
4.1 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.
Original Arenal ATV
4.2 km
Experience the thrill of Arenal: Guided ATV adventures through rainforests, rivers, and stunning volcanic landscapes.
Arenal Volcano National Park Visitor Center
4.3 km
Discover the trails, lava fields, and panoramic views from the gateway to Arenal Volcano National Park in Costa Rica's Northern Zone.
Kalambu Hot Springs
4.3 km
Experience thrilling water slides and relaxing thermal pools at Kalambu Hot Springs, with stunning views of Arenal Volcano.
The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal
4.3 km
Experience luxury and adventure at The Springs Resort & Spa, with stunning volcano views and natural hot springs in Arenal, Costa Rica.
Termalitas del Arenal
4.6 km
Relax and rejuvenate in natural hot springs with stunning Arenal Volcano views, all without breaking the bank.
Ecotermales Fortuna
4.7 km
Experience tranquility at Ecotermales Fortuna, a family-owned hot spring resort in Arenal, Costa Rica, with naturally heated pools and lush rainforest surroundings.
Jalapas restaurant
4.9 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine with breathtaking Arenal Volcano views at Jalapas Restaurant in La Fortuna.
Unmissable attractions to see
Arenal Ecological Park
0.0 km
Discover Arenal Ecological Park, a premier hiking destination in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, renowned for its stunning trails and rich biodiversity.
Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa
0.5 km
Experience ultimate relaxation and natural beauty at Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa, where luxury meets the lush landscapes of Costa Rica.
Volcan Arenal Ecological Park
0.7 km
Explore Volcan Arenal Ecological Park, a breathtaking natural preserve in Costa Rica, rich with biodiversity, stunning landscapes, and thrilling outdoor activities.
Tabacon Hot Springs
0.8 km
Experience the ultimate relaxation at Tabacon Hot Springs, where natural thermal waters meet tropical beauty in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
El Choyin
0.8 km
Discover relaxation in the heart of La Fortuna at El Choyin, a public bath oasis surrounded by stunning tropical landscapes.
Mirador el Silencio
1.6 km
Discover the breathtaking views and serene trails of Mirador el Silencio, a nature preserve in Alajuela, where tranquility and biodiversity meet.
Los Lagos
1.7 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.
Arenal Canopy Adventure (Athica)
1.7 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.
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.
La Roca Canyoning
1.9 km
Experience the thrill of canyoning amidst the stunning landscapes of La Fortuna, Costa Rica, with La Roca Canyoning.
Canopy The Ceiba Adventure.
2.7 km
Experience the thrill of nature at The Ceiba Adventure, a unique farmstay in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, where adventure meets tranquility.
Arenal Park
3.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and adventure at Arenal Park, home to the majestic Arenal Volcano and lush tropical rainforests in Costa Rica.
Horseback Riding In Arenal By Don Tobias Horses
3.1 km
Discover the captivating landscapes of Arenal, Costa Rica, on an unforgettable horseback riding adventure with Don Tobias Horses.
Arenal Volcano Inn
3.2 km
Discover the serenity and adventure at Arenal Volcano Inn, your gateway to Costa Rica's stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity.
Natura Eco Park - Costa Rica
3.3 km
Explore the stunning biodiversity of Natura Eco Park in Costa Rica, a serene ecological oasis featuring lush landscapes and vibrant wildlife encounters.
Essential places to dine
Restaurante El Novillo del Arenal
0.2 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at Restaurante El Novillo del Arenal - where tradition meets taste in La Fortuna.
Heliconias Restaurant by Kioro
0.6 km
Experience exquisite Costa Rican cuisine with breathtaking views at Heliconias Restaurant by Kioro in Alajuela Province.
Ave del Paraiso Restaurant at Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa
0.7 km
Experience culinary excellence at Ave del Paraiso Restaurant amidst the breathtaking beauty of Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa.
Tucanes Restaurant
0.7 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican cuisine amidst stunning landscapes at Tucanes Restaurant in Nuevo Arenal.
Soda La Palma
0.9 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Soda La Palma in La Fortuna – where delicious food meets warm hospitality.
Mirador Arenal Steakhouse
1.6 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Mirador Arenal Steakhouse - where every meal is accompanied by breathtaking views.
Benedictus
2.4 km
Experience mouthwatering steaks amidst the natural beauty of La Fortuna at Benedictus Steak House.
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.
Que Rico Arenal Restaurante
3.3 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors amidst breathtaking views at Que Rico Arenal Restaurante in La Fortuna.
Lava'68 Cafetería
3.5 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at Lava'68 Cafetería with stunning views and a commitment to local ingredients.
Arenal Koita
3.5 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Arenal Koita while enjoying breathtaking views of Arenal Volcano in La Fortuna.
Ave del Paraiso
3.6 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Ave del Paraiso in La Fortuna – where every dish tells a story.
Restaurante La Roca Bistró
4.0 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante La Roca Bistró with stunning views of Arenal Lake in beautiful La Fortuna.
Restaurante Emperador
4.1 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante Emperador in Alajuela Province—where tradition meets modern dining.
Arenal Bongos
4.6 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 Tabacon
0.7 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
0.8 km
Explore Rumbo Shop Tabacon Las Fuentes for the best selection of local crafts, chocolates, and souvenirs in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Mini Market El Mirador
2.0 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
2.8 km
Discover SLOFFEE in La Fortuna for the finest Costa Rican coffee experience, blending quality brews with local farming insights.
Britt Shop Místico Park Arenal
4.1 km
Explore Britt Shop Místico Park Arenal, where Costa Rican craftsmanship meets breathtaking nature, offering unique gifts and gourmet delights.
Britt Shop Baldi
4.2 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
4.3 km
Explore the vibrant culture of Costa Rica through unique gifts and artisan crafts at Britt Shop The Springs Resort & Spa.
Souvenir store
6.1 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
6.3 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
6.5 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
6.6 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
6.6 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)
7.1 km
Explore sustainable beauty at Biosfera Skincare, where Costa Rican nature meets skincare innovation for an eco-friendly experience.
Wood & Art Gallery
7.5 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
7.5 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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Shangri La Gardens. Tabacon Resort Club área
0.8 km
Discover the serene escape of Shangri La Gardens, where exquisite drinks meet breathtaking natural beauty in Costa Rica's Alajuela Province.
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.
Nostalgia Wine Bar
3.5 km
Discover the enchanting Nostalgia Wine Bar, a serene oasis in Arenal, offering exquisite wines and a captivating atmosphere for relaxation.
Volcán Look Disco
4.3 km
Discover the lively nightlife at Volcán Look Disco – a vibrant bar in San Carlos, perfect for dancing and enjoying refreshing cocktails.
Restaurante Relax
5.1 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
6.2 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
7.6 km
Discover the serene vibe of Tamarindo Chill in La Fortuna, offering refreshing cocktails and a perfect escape in Costa Rica's lush landscapes.
Bar Patrón Costa Rica
7.7 km
Experience a vibrant cocktail bar in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, with exotic flavors, stunning views, and a lively atmosphere perfect for tourists.
Cha
7.8 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
7.8 km
Discover the vibrant Voodoo Bar & Cocktails in La Fortuna, where enchanting drinks and a lively atmosphere await every traveler.
La Fortuna Pub
7.9 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
8.1 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
8.1 km
Experience vibrant nightlife in La Fortuna at Voodoo Mixology, where innovative cocktails meet a tropical atmosphere for unforgettable evenings.
The Open Kitchen - La Fortuna
8.2 km
Explore culinary artistry at The Open Kitchen in La Fortuna, offering a delightful mix of Mediterranean dishes, local coffee, and irresistible desserts.