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Cavernas de Venado: An Underground Adventure

Discover Costa Rica's hidden underworld: Explore the Venado Caves for an unforgettable subterranean adventure near La Fortuna.

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Explore the fascinating Cavernas de Venado, a network of caves formed millions of years ago. Embark on a guided tour through underground rivers, admire unique rock formations, and discover the hidden wonders beneath the surface near La Fortuna, Costa Rica.

A brief summary to Cavernas de Venado

  • Monday 7 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 7 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 7 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 7 am-4 pm
  • Friday 7 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 7 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 7 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable clothing and shoes that you don't mind getting wet and dirty.
  • Bring a waterproof camera to capture the unique rock formations and underground scenery.
  • Be prepared to crawl and slide through some narrow passages.
  • Tours operate in various weather conditions, but may be postponed or canceled in extreme weather for safety reasons.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From La Fortuna, take a bus towards Venado. Buses typically depart from the La Fortuna bus terminal a couple times a day. The bus fare is approximately $4, and the journey takes a little over an hour. Upon arrival in Venado, a taxi will be needed to reach the caves, costing around $5. Confirm the fare before starting the taxi journey.

  • Taxi

    Taxis offer a direct and convenient route from La Fortuna to Cavernas de Venado. The taxi fare generally ranges from $40 to $60, depending on negotiation and time of day. The journey typically takes 30 to 40 minutes. Due to limited public transport options in the area, arranging a return taxi in advance is recommended.

  • Car

    If driving from the Arenal Volcano area, head west on Route 142 towards La Fortuna. Continue for about 12 kilometers until the intersection with Route 35. Turn right onto Route 35 and drive for approximately 25 kilometers. Follow the signs for San Carlos and continue for another 10 kilometers until reaching La Fortuna. From La Fortuna, take Route 4 for about 30 kilometers to the well-marked entrance of Cavernas de Venado. Parking is available at the site.

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Discover more about Cavernas de Venado

Venture into the depths of the Earth at Cavernas de Venado, a captivating cave system sculpted over millions of years. Located near La Fortuna in the Alajuela Province, these caves offer a unique and thrilling adventure for nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike. Formed an estimated 15 to 20 million years ago during the Miocene Epoch, the caverns began their creation when the area was submerged under the ocean. Over time, water erosion gradually carved through the limestone, creating a stunning network of tunnels, chambers, stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstones. Fossils of ancient marine creatures embedded in the cave walls serve as a testament to the region's underwater past. The caves were rediscovered in 1945 by local hunters, although the indigenous Maleku people had known of their existence for much longer, holding the site in reverence. Today, guided tours lead visitors through this subterranean world, showcasing its geological wonders and diverse ecosystem. During your 2-hour tour, prepare to get wet and possibly a little muddy as you navigate through the cave's interior. You'll have the opportunity to see impressive formations such as 'La Papaya,' 'El Altar,' 'La Ventana,' and 'El Parto'. Some passages require crawling or sliding, adding to the adventurous spirit of the experience. Keep an eye out for the cave's inhabitants, including bats, spiders, fish, and insects adapted to the darkness.

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