Arenal Volcano: Costa Rica's Majestic Giant
Explore Costa Rica's iconic Arenal Volcano: Hike through lava fields, discover rainforest trails, and witness breathtaking natural beauty.
Arenal Volcano, located in the Alajuela Province of Costa Rica, is an iconic natural wonder and a major attraction within the Arenal Volcano National Park. Though currently in a resting phase since 2010, Arenal was once Costa Rica's most active volcano, drawing visitors with its near-constant displays of smoke and lava. The surrounding park offers diverse hiking trails, lush rainforest, and abundant wildlife, making it a must-see destination for nature enthusiasts.
A brief summary to Arenal Volcano
- San Carlos, Alajuela Province, CR
Local tips
- Visit between December and April for clearer skies and unforgettable views of the volcano.
- Wear sturdy shoes suitable for uneven terrain, especially if hiking the lava field trails.
- Bring essentials like insect repellent and rain gear, as the area is known for standing water and mosquitos.
- Purchase park tickets with a credit card, as cash payments are not accepted at the entrance.
- Consider visiting both the Volcano Sector and Peninsula Sector to experience the diverse landscapes and views the park offers.
Getting There
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Driving
Driving is a convenient way to reach Arenal Volcano National Park. From La Fortuna, the drive to the main visitor center takes approximately 30 minutes. Set your GPS to "Arenal Volcano National Park Visitor Center". Parking is free with your park entrance ticket. Be aware that the Vehicle Trail within the park requires a 4x4 vehicle. Taxis from La Fortuna to Arenal National Park cost around $25 USD.
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Public Transport
While direct public buses to Arenal Volcano National Park are limited, a local bus travels daily between La Fortuna and the park. Buses leave twice a day from La Fortuna bus station at 8 AM and 2 PM; tickets are about $5 USD. Be aware that the bus may not always be on schedule. Alternatively, you can take a bus from San José to La Fortuna. From there, take a taxi to the park or the local bus.
Discover more about Arenal Volcano
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Volcan Arenal Ecological Park
3.0 km
Discover the natural beauty of Costa Rica at Volcan Arenal Ecological Park, offering stunning views and diverse wildlife.
Volcano Jungle Trails
3.1 km
Explore scenic jungle trails near Arenal Volcano. Perfect for families: hiking, picnics, and a playground in a natural Costa Rican setting.
Catarata Danta
3.4 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.
The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort
3.5 km
Experience luxurious relaxation at Arenal's Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort, with stunning views and natural hot springs.
Tabacon Hot Springs
3.5 km
Experience the ultimate relaxation in naturally heated thermal waters surrounded by the lush rainforest at the foot of the majestic Arenal Volcano.
Termalitas del Arenal
3.5 km
Relax and rejuvenate in natural hot springs with stunning Arenal Volcano views, all without breaking the bank.
Arenal Volcano Vista Point
3.6 km
Experience breathtaking views of Arenal Volcano, hike through lush rainforests, and immerse yourself in Costa Rica's natural beauty.
Kalambu Hot Springs
3.6 km
Experience thrilling water slides and relaxing thermal pools at Kalambu Hot Springs, with stunning views of Arenal Volcano.
Parque Ecologico Arenal
3.7 km
Discover adventure and nature at Arenal Volcano Ecological Park: Hike scenic trails, kayak on the lagoon, and witness stunning volcanic views.
Amor Arenal
3.9 km
Experience unparalleled luxury and immerse yourself in nature at Amor Arenal, an adults-only rainforest oasis near Arenal Volcano.
Arenal ATV Wheels
4.0 km
Experience thrilling ATV adventures through La Fortuna's stunning landscapes. Explore the Arenal Volcano region with Arenal ATV Wheels!
Horseback Riding In Arenal By Don Tobias Horses
4.3 km
Discover Arenal's beauty on horseback with Don Tobias Horses. Explore rainforests, see the volcano, and enjoy authentic Costa Rican hospitality.
Arenal History Inn
4.4 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
4.4 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.
Unmissable attractions to see
Arenal Park
2.0 km
Experience the breathtaking Arenal Park, home to stunning volcano views, lush rainforests, and rejuvenating hot springs in Costa Rica.
Los Lagos
2.6 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.
Chato Volcano
2.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Chato Volcano in Alajuela Province, Costa Rica, with its stunning crater lake and vibrant biodiversity.
Parque Nacional Volcán Arenal
2.7 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
2.8 km
Explore the vibrant ecosystem of Frog Pond in La Fortuna, a captivating tourist attraction filled with Costa Rica's enchanting amphibian species.
Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails
2.9 km
Discover the Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails, a nature lover's paradise with stunning views, diverse wildlife, and eco-friendly experiences near Arenal Volcano.
Arenal Ecoglide Park
3.2 km
Experience the thrill of zip-lining through Costa Rica's lush rainforests at Arenal Ecoglide Park, a top destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
Baldi Hot Springs Resort Hotel & Spa
3.4 km
Discover the healing powers of nature at Baldi Hot Springs Resort, Hotel & Spa, where relaxation meets adventure in Costa Rica's stunning landscape.
Titokú Hot Springs
3.4 km
Discover the serene beauty of Titokú Hot Springs in Costa Rica, where relaxation meets nature in a stunning thermal pool experience.
Paradise Hot Springs
3.4 km
Experience ultimate relaxation at Paradise Hot Springs, where thermal baths meet stunning natural beauty in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Callidryas Tours - Costa Rica.
3.5 km
Explore the natural beauty of Costa Rica with Callidryas Tours in La Fortuna, offering thrilling adventures and intimate wildlife encounters.
Termales del Arenal
3.6 km
Discover the ultimate wellness retreat at Termales del Arenal, where natural hot springs meet breathtaking views of Arenal Volcano in Costa Rica.
El Choyin
3.6 km
Discover relaxation in the heart of La Fortuna at El Choyin, a public bath oasis surrounded by stunning tropical landscapes.
Arenal Volcano View and Lava Trails
3.7 km
Hike through historic lava fields with breathtaking views of Arenal Volcano and Lake Arenal. Experience Costa Rica's natural beauty and volcanic history.
Papa's Place
3.7 km
Explore the beauty of Costa Rica at Papa's Place, a perfect blend of bird watching, hiking, and farmstay experiences in Alajuela Province.
Essential places to dine
El Jilguero Restaurant
2.9 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at El Jilguero Restaurant in San Ramón—where every dish tells a story.
Restaurante Hojarasca
3.2 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Restaurante Hojarasca amidst the breathtaking landscapes of La Fortuna.
Heliconias Restaurant by Kioro
3.3 km
Experience exquisite Costa Rican cuisine with breathtaking views at Heliconias Restaurant by Kioro in Alajuela Province.
Restaurante Emperador
3.4 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante Emperador in Alajuela Province—where tradition meets modern dining.
Arenal Bongos
3.5 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
3.5 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Restaurante Bongos in La Fortuna - where every meal tells a story.
Cafetería y Restaurante Rain Forest Arenal
3.6 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Cafetería y Restaurante Rain Forest Arenal in La Fortuna amidst stunning rainforest views.
Lava'68 Cafetería
3.6 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at Lava'68 Cafetería with stunning views and a commitment to local ingredients.
Restaurante El Novillo del Arenal
3.6 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
3.7 km
Experience culinary excellence at Ave del Paraiso Restaurant amidst the breathtaking beauty of Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa.
Tucanes Restaurant
3.9 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican cuisine amidst stunning landscapes at Tucanes Restaurant in Nuevo Arenal.
Benedictus
3.9 km
Experience mouthwatering steaks amidst the natural beauty of La Fortuna at Benedictus Steak House.
Yellow Tree Restaurant
4.0 km
Experience exquisite local cuisine surrounded by nature's beauty at Yellow Tree Restaurant in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Soda La Palma
4.0 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Soda La Palma in La Fortuna – where delicious food meets warm hospitality.
Que Rico Arenal Restaurante
4.0 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors amidst breathtaking views at Que Rico Arenal Restaurante in La Fortuna.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Britt Shop Baldi
3.4 km
Discover the best of Costa Rica at Britt Shop Baldi, where unique souvenirs, artisanal chocolates, and local crafts await.
Rumbo Shop Tabacon Las Fuentes
3.7 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
3.8 km
Discover the essence of Costa Rica at Britt Shop Tabacon, where local crafts, gourmet chocolates, and unique souvenirs await every traveler.
Souvenir store
4.1 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
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.
Biosfera Skincare (Experience Store)
4.4 km
Explore sustainable beauty at Biosfera Skincare, where Costa Rican nature meets skincare innovation for an eco-friendly experience.
Original Grand Gallery
4.4 km
Explore authentic Costa Rican art and unique souvenirs at Original Grand Gallery in La Fortuna, a cultural haven for every visitor.
SLOFFEE BEST COFFEE IN LA FORTUNA
4.4 km
Discover SLOFFEE in La Fortuna for the finest Costa Rican coffee experience, blending quality brews with local farming insights.
Red Frog Coffee Roasters
4.5 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.
Neptune's House of Hammocks
4.6 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.
Arenal Bee Garden - Honey, Coffee & Chocolate Tour
4.6 km
Experience the harmony of nature at Arenal Bee Garden, where honey, coffee, and chocolate come together in a delightful adventure.
Mini Market El Mirador
4.6 km
Explore local flavors and essentials at Mini Market El Mirador, your one-stop grocery store in scenic La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Manus cr tienda online
5.0 km
Explore Manus CR in La Fortuna for exquisite swimwear and custom clothing that embodies Costa Rican charm and style.
Britt Shop Sky Trek La Fortuna
5.6 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.
Howler Monkey Store
5.7 km
Explore La Fortuna's Howler Monkey Store for unique custom t-shirts and stylish fashion accessories celebrating Costa Rican culture.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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.
Shangri La Gardens. Tabacon Resort Club área
3.4 km
Discover the serene escape of Shangri La Gardens, where exquisite drinks meet breathtaking natural beauty in Costa Rica's Alajuela Province.
Volcán Look Disco
3.4 km
Discover the lively nightlife at Volcán Look Disco – a vibrant bar in San Carlos, perfect for dancing and enjoying refreshing cocktails.
Restaurante Relax
3.6 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
4.1 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
4.9 km
Discover the enchanting Nostalgia Wine Bar, a serene oasis in Arenal, offering exquisite wines and a captivating atmosphere for relaxation.
Tamarindo Chill
5.7 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
5.7 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
5.8 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
5.9 km
Discover the vibrant Voodoo Bar & Cocktails in La Fortuna, where enchanting drinks and a lively atmosphere await every traveler.
La Fortuna Pub
6.0 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
6.3 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
6.3 km
Experience vibrant nightlife in La Fortuna at Voodoo Mixology, where innovative cocktails meet a tropical atmosphere for unforgettable evenings.
Soda la Hormiga
6.3 km
Discover the culinary delights of Soda la Hormiga in La Fortuna, where authentic Costa Rican flavors meet an inviting atmosphere.
