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 views.
Arenal Volcano National Park, established in 1991, is a stunning protected area surrounding the iconic Arenal Volcano. Once thought to be dormant, the volcano dramatically erupted in 1968, reshaping the landscape and birthing a popular ecotourism destination. The park offers diverse hiking trails, abundant wildlife, and breathtaking views of the volcano and Lake Arenal.
A brief summary to Volcan Arenal National Park, Peninsula area
- F67X+G2H, Sector Peninsula, El Castillo, Alajuela Province, CR
- +50622004192
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes, as trails can be uneven and muddy, especially during the rainy season.
- Bring binoculars for optimal wildlife viewing, especially for spotting birds and monkeys.
- Visit early in the morning for the best chance of clear volcano views, as clouds often form later in the day.
- Purchase park tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid potential lines.
- Consider hiring a local guide to learn more about the park's history, geology, and wildlife.
Getting There
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Driving
Driving is the most convenient way to reach Arenal Volcano National Park, as there is no direct public bus. From La Fortuna, the main tourism hub, it's approximately a 30-minute drive to the main visitor center. Set your GPS to "Arenal Volcano National Park Visitor Center". Parking is free with your park entrance. Note that the Peninsula Sector requires a separate drive to "Volcan Arenal Sector Peninsula National Park". Taxis from La Fortuna are also readily available, costing around $25 USD.
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Public Transport
While there is no direct bus to the park entrance, you can take a local bus from La Fortuna towards the park. The closest the bus gets is at an intersection off the main road, requiring a further walk to the visitor center. Buses leave La Fortuna twice a day at 8 AM and 2 PM, costing around $5 USD. From San José, take a bus to La Fortuna (approx. $5 USD), then a taxi to Arenal. Alternatively, a shared shuttle from San José to Arenal costs $50-$60 USD.
Discover more about Volcan Arenal National Park, Peninsula area
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Represa del lago Arenal
1.5 km
Discover Costa Rica's largest lake, a hub for green energy, water sports, and breathtaking views of the Arenal Volcano.
Volcano Jungle Trails
4.8 km
Explore scenic jungle trails near Arenal Volcano. Perfect for families: hiking, picnics, and a playground in a natural Costa Rican setting.
Arenal Volcano
5.4 km
Discover the awe-inspiring beauty and geological wonders of Arenal Volcano, a symbol of Costa Rica's natural power and biodiversity.
Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails
5.4 km
Experience unparalleled views of Arenal Volcano from the heart of the National Park. Hike trails, spot wildlife, and relax in nature's embrace.
The Hand
5.7 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!
Los Lagos
5.9 km
Experience hot springs, volcano views, and family fun at Los Lagos, a water-filled wonderland near Arenal Volcano in Costa Rica.
Catarata Danta
6.1 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.
Arenal Park
6.6 km
Explore Costa Rica's iconic Arenal Volcano National Park: Hike through lava fields, discover rainforest wildlife, and witness breathtaking volcanic scenery.
Hotel Montana De Fuego All inclusive
7.0 km
Experience Costa Rica's natural beauty at Hotel Montana De Fuego: Arenal Volcano views, hot springs, adventure, and all-inclusive comfort.
Amor Arenal
7.1 km
Experience unparalleled luxury and immerse yourself in nature at Amor Arenal, an adults-only rainforest oasis near Arenal Volcano.
Chato Volcano
7.2 km
Hike to the summit of the dormant Chato Volcano, explore lush rainforest, and discover the emerald lagoon in its crater.
Hotel Arenal Paraíso Resort & Spa
7.6 km
Experience Costa Rica's beauty at Arenal Paraíso Resort: Volcano views, hot springs, spa, and adventure await in La Fortuna.
Horseback Riding In Arenal By Don Tobias Horses
7.9 km
Discover Arenal's beauty on horseback with Don Tobias Horses. Explore rainforests, see the volcano, and enjoy authentic Costa Rican hospitality.
Paradise Hot Springs
8.1 km
Unwind in the therapeutic mineral waters of Paradise Hot Springs, surrounded by lush gardens and stunning views of Arenal Volcano.
Arenal Natura Ecological Park
8.1 km
Discover Costa Rica's biodiversity at Arenal Natura Ecological Park: Explore rainforest trails, spot exotic wildlife, and support conservation efforts.
Unmissable attractions to see
Lago Arenal
1.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Lago Arenal, Costa Rica’s scenic treasure, offering adventure and tranquility amidst lush landscapes.
The Peninsula, Arenal Volcano National Park
1.3 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
1.3 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.
Original Arenal ATV
1.4 km
Explore Costa Rica's breathtaking landscapes with thrilling ATV tours at Original Arenal ATV in Alajuela Province.
Arenal Wilberth Stable
1.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Arenal Volcano through unforgettable horseback riding adventures at Arenal Wilberth Stable.
Arenal Volcano National Park Visitor Center
1.4 km
Explore the Arenal Volcano National Park Visitor Center for a memorable introduction to Costa Rica’s stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity.
Arenal Volcano View and Lava Trails
1.7 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
1.9 km
Experience stunning views and vibrant wildlife at Arenal Volcano Vista Point, a premier hiking area showcasing Costa Rica's natural beauty.
Las Cabañitas de Sammy
2.6 km
Experience the tranquility and adventure of Las Cabañitas de Sammy, a charming cottage village in the heart of La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Místico Arenal Hanging Bridges
2.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Costa Rica at Místico Arenal Hanging Bridges, where nature meets adventure in a stunning rainforest setting.
Parque Nacional Volcán Arenal
2.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Parque Nacional Volcán Arenal, a paradise of biodiversity, adventure, and stunning volcanic landscapes in Costa Rica.
Wellness Park Eco Lodge & Trekking trails
2.7 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
2.7 km
Explore the serene beauty of Wellness Park Nature Reserve & Ecolodge in La Fortuna, where nature meets relaxation in an eco-friendly paradise.
Mirador el Silencio
3.4 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)
3.4 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.
Essential places to dine
Lava'68 Cafetería
1.9 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at Lava'68 Cafetería with stunning views and a commitment to local ingredients.
Restaurante La Roca Bistró
2.7 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante La Roca Bistró with stunning views of Arenal Lake in beautiful La Fortuna.
Fusion Arenal Mirador Restaurante, El Castillo Costa Rica.
3.8 km
Experience exquisite dining with breathtaking views at Fusion Arenal Mirador Restaurante in El Castillo, Costa Rica - where nature meets culinary art.
Ave del Paraiso Restaurant at Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa
4.4 km
Experience culinary excellence at Ave del Paraiso Restaurant amidst the breathtaking beauty of Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa.
La Ventanita
4.4 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at La Ventanita - an inviting restaurant in El Castillo known for its fresh ingredients and warm hospitality.
Tucanes Restaurant
4.4 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican cuisine amidst stunning landscapes at Tucanes Restaurant in Nuevo Arenal.
Chillout Restaurant
4.7 km
Experience local flavors amidst stunning views at Chillout Restaurant near Sky Trek in San Carlos.
Restaurante El Novillo del Arenal
5.2 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at Restaurante El Novillo del Arenal - where tradition meets taste in La Fortuna.
Heliconias Restaurant by Kioro
5.4 km
Experience exquisite Costa Rican cuisine with breathtaking views at Heliconias Restaurant by Kioro in Alajuela Province.
El Jilguero Restaurant
5.4 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at El Jilguero Restaurant in San Ramón—where every dish tells a story.
Soda La Palma
5.9 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Soda La Palma in La Fortuna – where delicious food meets warm hospitality.
Mirador Arenal Steakhouse
6.6 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Mirador Arenal Steakhouse - where every meal is accompanied by breathtaking views.
Benedictus
7.2 km
Experience mouthwatering steaks amidst the natural beauty of La Fortuna at Benedictus Steak House.
Oscar's
7.6 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
7.9 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
2.7 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
4.2 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
4.4 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
4.7 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
7.0 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
7.7 km
Discover SLOFFEE in La Fortuna for the finest Costa Rican coffee experience, blending quality brews with local farming insights.
Britt Shop Baldi
8.2 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
9.3 km
Explore the vibrant culture of Costa Rica through unique gifts and artisan crafts at Britt Shop The Springs Resort & Spa.
The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal
9.3 km
Experience unparalleled luxury and adventure at The Springs Resort & Spa, nestled in the heart of Arenal's breathtaking landscapes.
Souvenir store
9.4 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
9.6 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.
la fortuna, costa rica
9.7 km
Explore La Fortuna's vibrant shopping scene, where local crafts meet culinary delights in the heart of Costa Rica's stunning landscapes.
Original Grand Gallery
9.8 km
Explore authentic Costa Rican art and unique souvenirs at Original Grand Gallery in La Fortuna, a cultural haven for every visitor.
Biosfera Skincare (Experience Store)
9.8 km
Explore sustainable beauty at Biosfera Skincare, where Costa Rican nature meets skincare innovation for an eco-friendly experience.
Red Frog Coffee Roasters
9.8 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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Howlers Bar & Grill
4.0 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere at Howlers Bar & Grill in El Fosforo, Costa Rica's hidden culinary treasure.
Shangri La Gardens. Tabacon Resort Club área
4.2 km
Discover the serene escape of Shangri La Gardens, where exquisite drinks meet breathtaking natural beauty in Costa Rica's Alajuela Province.
Terra bar
7.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Terra Bar in La Fortuna, where exceptional drinks and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.
Lemnnos WetBar
7.6 km
Discover the vibrant Lemnnos WetBar in La Fortuna, where tropical drinks meet stunning views and unforgettable experiences.
Volcán Look Disco
8.3 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
8.4 km
Discover the enchanting Nostalgia Wine Bar, a serene oasis in Arenal, offering exquisite wines and a captivating atmosphere for relaxation.
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.
MAGIC SPORT BAR, Magic Mountain Hotel
9.5 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
11.0 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
11.1 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
11.1 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
11.2 km
Discover the vibrant Voodoo Bar & Cocktails in La Fortuna, where enchanting drinks and a lively atmosphere await every traveler.
La Fortuna Pub
11.3 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
11.6 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
11.6 km
Experience vibrant nightlife in La Fortuna at Voodoo Mixology, where innovative cocktails meet a tropical atmosphere for unforgettable evenings.
