Butterfly Conservatory: A Rainforest Haven
Discover the enchanting world of butterflies and rainforest biodiversity at the Butterfly Conservatory near Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica.
The Butterfly Conservatory near El Castillo-Arenal is dedicated to preserving and studying rainforest ecosystems, with a focus on butterflies and other tropical species. Visitors can explore diverse exhibits showcasing the life cycle of butterflies, frogs, insects, and plants native to the Arenal region.
A brief summary to Butterfly Conservatory
- Upper El Castillo, El Castillo-Arenal, Alajuela Province, CR
- +50624791149
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the day when butterflies are most active and the weather is cooler.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning colors and unique butterfly species.
- Take advantage of the guided tours for in-depth knowledge about butterfly conservation.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the trails and through the gardens.
Getting There
-
Public Transport
From La Fortuna, take the local bus heading towards El Castillo. The bus journey takes approximately 45 minutes. Inform the driver that you want to stop at the Butterfly Conservatory. Once in El Castillo, walk along the road towards Upper El Castillo for about 10 minutes until you see the entrance to the conservatory. The bus fare is typically around 1,700 CRC.
-
Taxi
Hire a taxi from La Fortuna or any location within Arenal Volcano National Park. Inform the taxi driver that your destination is the Butterfly Conservatory in Upper El Castillo. The cost can vary, so negotiate the fare before starting the journey. Expect to pay around 8,000-12,000 CRC for a one-way trip.
-
Walking
If you are staying in El Castillo, the Butterfly Conservatory is about an 800-meter walk. From the center of El Castillo, head up the paved main road away from the lake towards the hills. The entrance will be on your right.
Discover more about Butterfly Conservatory
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Peninsula, Arenal Volcano National Park
3.5 km
Discover tranquil trails, stunning volcano views, and abundant wildlife at Arenal Volcano National Park's serene Peninsula Sector.
Volcano Jungle Trails
4.2 km
Explore scenic jungle trails near Arenal Volcano. Perfect for families: hiking, picnics, and a playground in a natural Costa Rican setting.
Catarata Danta
5.0 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 Volcano Vista Point
5.2 km
Experience breathtaking views of Arenal Volcano, hike through lush rainforests, and immerse yourself in Costa Rica's natural beauty.
Represa del lago Arenal
5.7 km
Discover Costa Rica's largest lake, a hub for green energy, water sports, and breathtaking views of the Arenal Volcano.
Tabacon Hot Springs
7.9 km
Experience the ultimate relaxation in naturally heated thermal waters surrounded by the lush rainforest at the foot of the majestic Arenal Volcano.
Volcan Arenal Ecological Park
8.2 km
Discover the natural beauty of Costa Rica at Volcan Arenal Ecological Park, offering stunning views and diverse wildlife.
Parque Ecologico Arenal
8.6 km
Discover adventure and nature at Arenal Volcano Ecological Park: Hike scenic trails, kayak on the lagoon, and witness stunning volcanic views.
Ecological Reserve Fortuna Waterfall
9.5 km
Discover the majestic La Fortuna Waterfall in Costa Rica: a stunning natural wonder offering breathtaking views, refreshing swims, and unforgettable experiences.
Unmissable attractions to see
Arenal Water Sports- La Fortuna
1.0 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
1.0 km
Discover the serene beauty and adventure of paddleboarding on Lake Arenal, a must-visit destination in Costa Rica's stunning landscape.
Sky Adventures
1.9 km
Discover the thrill of zip-lining and stunning views at Sky Adventures, a premier tourist attraction in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
The Hand
2.9 km
Explore The Hand in El Castillo, a stunning sculpture that merges art and nature amidst Costa Rica's breathtaking landscapes.
Point de vue volcan Arenal
3.0 km
Experience the stunning views of Arenal Volcano at this picturesque lookout, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Arenal Volcano National Park Visitor Center
4.5 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
4.5 km
Discover the beauty of Costa Rica at Arenal Wilberth Stable with horseback riding, ATV rentals, and breathtaking views of Arenal Volcano.
Volcan Arenal National Park, Peninsula area
4.5 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.
Original Arenal ATV
4.5 km
Explore Costa Rica's breathtaking landscapes with thrilling ATV tours at Original Arenal ATV in Alajuela Province.
Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails
4.9 km
Discover the Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails, a nature lover's paradise with stunning views, diverse wildlife, and eco-friendly experiences near Arenal Volcano.
Parque Nacional Volcán Arenal
5.0 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.
Frog Pond
5.0 km
Explore the vibrant ecosystem of Frog Pond in La Fortuna, a captivating tourist attraction filled with Costa Rica's enchanting amphibian species.
Arenal Volcano View and Lava Trails
5.1 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
6.9 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.
Chato Volcano
7.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Chato Volcano in Alajuela Province, Costa Rica, with its stunning crater lake and vibrant biodiversity.
Essential places to dine
La Ventanita
0.1 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.
1.0 km
Experience exquisite dining with breathtaking views at Fusion Arenal Mirador Restaurante in El Castillo, Costa Rica - where nature meets culinary art.
Chillout Restaurant
1.8 km
Experience local flavors amidst stunning views at Chillout Restaurant near Sky Trek in San Carlos.
El Jilguero Restaurant
4.9 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at El Jilguero Restaurant in San Ramón—where every dish tells a story.
Lava'68 Cafetería
5.2 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at Lava'68 Cafetería with stunning views and a commitment to local ingredients.
Restaurante La Roca Bistró
7.2 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante La Roca Bistró with stunning views of Arenal Lake in beautiful La Fortuna.
Ave del Paraiso Restaurant at Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa
8.1 km
Experience culinary excellence at Ave del Paraiso Restaurant amidst the breathtaking beauty of Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa.
Tucanes Restaurant
8.2 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican cuisine amidst stunning landscapes at Tucanes Restaurant in Nuevo Arenal.
Heliconias Restaurant by Kioro
8.7 km
Experience exquisite Costa Rican cuisine with breathtaking views at Heliconias Restaurant by Kioro in Alajuela Province.
Restaurante El Novillo del Arenal
8.8 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at Restaurante El Novillo del Arenal - where tradition meets taste in La Fortuna.
Soda La Palma
9.4 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Soda La Palma in La Fortuna – where delicious food meets warm hospitality.
Restaurante Hojarasca
9.5 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Restaurante Hojarasca amidst the breathtaking landscapes of La Fortuna.
Yellow Tree Restaurant
9.9 km
Experience exquisite local cuisine surrounded by nature's beauty at Yellow Tree Restaurant in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Mirador Arenal Steakhouse
10.1 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Mirador Arenal Steakhouse - where every meal is accompanied by breathtaking views.
Benedictus
10.3 km
Experience mouthwatering steaks amidst the natural beauty of La Fortuna at Benedictus Steak House.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Britt Shop Sky Trek La Fortuna
1.8 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.
Britt Shop Místico Park Arenal
7.2 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
7.9 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
8.2 km
Discover the essence of Costa Rica at Britt Shop Tabacon, where local crafts, gourmet chocolates, and unique souvenirs await every traveler.
Neptune's House of Hammocks
10.3 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 Baldi
10.3 km
Discover the best of Costa Rica at Britt Shop Baldi, where unique souvenirs, artisanal chocolates, and local crafts await.
Biosfera Skincare (Experience Store)
10.5 km
Explore sustainable beauty at Biosfera Skincare, where Costa Rican nature meets skincare innovation for an eco-friendly experience.
Mini Market El Mirador
10.5 km
Explore local flavors and essentials at Mini Market El Mirador, your one-stop grocery store in scenic La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Souvenir store
10.7 km
Explore the vibrant culture of Costa Rica at this charming souvenir store in San Carlos, where unique treasures await every traveler.
SLOFFEE BEST COFFEE IN LA FORTUNA
10.8 km
Discover SLOFFEE in La Fortuna for the finest Costa Rican coffee experience, blending quality brews with local farming insights.
Arte Natura, Boutique Hotel in La Fortuna - Costa Rica Vacations, Book it Now
10.8 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.
Manus cr tienda online
10.8 km
Explore Manus CR in La Fortuna for exquisite swimwear and custom clothing that embodies Costa Rican charm and style.
Original Grand Gallery
11.0 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
11.0 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
11.1 km
Experience the harmony of nature at Arenal Bee Garden, where honey, coffee, and chocolate come together in a delightful adventure.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Howlers Bar & Grill
0.7 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
7.8 km
Discover the serene escape of Shangri La Gardens, where exquisite drinks meet breathtaking natural beauty in Costa Rica's Alajuela Province.
Terra bar
10.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Terra Bar in La Fortuna, where exceptional drinks and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.
Lemnnos WetBar
10.1 km
Discover the vibrant Lemnnos WetBar in La Fortuna, where tropical drinks meet stunning views and unforgettable experiences.
Volcán Look Disco
10.3 km
Discover the lively nightlife at Volcán Look Disco – a vibrant bar in San Carlos, perfect for dancing and enjoying refreshing cocktails.
Restaurante Relax
10.5 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
10.7 km
Discover the lively Magic Sport Bar at Magic Mountain Hotel, where great drinks and vibrant atmosphere meet in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Nostalgia Wine Bar
11.4 km
Discover the enchanting Nostalgia Wine Bar, a serene oasis in Arenal, offering exquisite wines and a captivating atmosphere for relaxation.
Tamarindo Chill
12.1 km
Discover the serene vibe of Tamarindo Chill in La Fortuna, offering refreshing cocktails and a perfect escape in Costa Rica's lush landscapes.
Cha
12.2 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
12.2 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
12.3 km
Discover the vibrant Voodoo Bar & Cocktails in La Fortuna, where enchanting drinks and a lively atmosphere await every traveler.
La Fortuna Pub
12.4 km
Discover La Fortuna Pub, a lively destination for delicious food, refreshing drinks, and an unforgettable atmosphere in the heart of Costa Rica.
Soda la Hormiga
12.8 km
Discover the culinary delights of Soda la Hormiga in La Fortuna, where authentic Costa Rican flavors meet an inviting atmosphere.
Tropical Lounge Bar
12.8 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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Magma Club
12.3 km
Magma Club: The heart of La Fortuna's nightlife, where vibrant beats and electrifying atmosphere create unforgettable nights.
Amsterdan The Club
12.5 km
Discover the dynamic nightlife of La Fortuna at Amsterdam The Club, where dining meets dancing in a vibrant atmosphere.
CHARLIES CR
12.8 km
Charlies CR: A vibrant night club in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, offering unforgettable music, dancing, and a lively atmosphere for tourists.
Glowy Nails
12.9 km
Discover tranquility and beauty at Glowy Nails Lounge in La Fortuna, Costa Rica - a perfect retreat after your adventures.
Night Walk Tour
13.0 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
13.3 km
Explore the magical realm of the Monteverde rainforest at night with Ficus Trails, uncovering the vibrant life that thrives after sunset.
Lavacar PESETA
13.4 km
Discover Lavacar PESETA, where the nightlife of La Fortuna comes alive with music, dance, and vibrant energy in the heart of Costa Rica.
Monteverde Night Tour
13.4 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
13.7 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
13.9 km
Discover the nocturnal wonders of Monteverde at Kinkajou Night Walk, where adventure meets the enchanting beauty of nature's nightlife.
Beer Garden Monteverde
14.1 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
14.2 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.
Tree House Restaurante
14.2 km
Experience the unique blend of nature and gastronomy at Tree House Restaurante, a culinary gem in the heart of Monteverde, Costa Rica.
Monteverde Gastroclub
14.2 km
Experience the vibrant culinary scene of Monteverde at Gastroclub, where local flavors meet a lively atmosphere for an unforgettable dining experience.
Monteverde Night Tour Don Rodolfo
14.8 km
Discover the magic of the cloud forest at Monteverde Night Tour Don Rodolfo, where nocturnal wildlife and breathtaking views await.
