Arenal Volcano National Park: Costa Rica's Iconic Landmark
Explore Costa Rica's iconic Arenal Volcano National Park: Hike through lava fields, discover rainforest wildlife, and witness breathtaking views.
Arenal Volcano National Park, established in 1991, is a stunning protected area surrounding the majestic Arenal Volcano. Once thought dormant, the volcano dramatically erupted in 1968, reshaping the landscape and becoming a major attraction for scientists and tourists alike. Today, the park offers diverse hiking trails, lush rainforest, and abundant wildlife, making it a must-visit destination in Costa Rica.
A brief summary to Arenal Volcano Park
- entrada a Arenal Springs, La Fortuna, La Palma, Alajuela Province, 21007, CR
- +50689065959
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early to avoid crowds and increase your chances of seeing wildlife. The park opens at 8:00 AM and the trails are less busy in the morning.
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring plenty of water. The trails can be uneven, and the tropical climate can be hot and humid.
- Bring rain gear, as the weather in the rainforest can change quickly. A light rain jacket or poncho is recommended.
- Purchase tickets in advance to save time and guarantee entry, especially during peak season. Tickets can be bought at the ranger station.
- Consider hiring a local guide to enhance your experience. Guides can provide valuable insights into the park's history, flora, and fauna, and help you spot wildlife.
Getting There
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Driving
The most convenient way to reach Arenal Volcano National Park is by driving from La Fortuna, which is about a 30-minute drive. Set your GPS to "Arenal Volcano National Park Visitor Center" to reach the main entrance and parking lot. Parking is free with your park entrance fee. From La Fortuna, take Route 142 west, then follow the signs to the park entrance. Alternatively, to reach the Peninsula Sector, set your GPS to "Volcan Arenal Sector Peninsula National Park". This sector is a short drive from the main visitor center. There are no shuttles between the two sectors, but the drive is only about 11 minutes. There are no toll roads on the immediate approach to the park. Parking is free at both sectors with your entrance ticket.
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Public Transport
While there isn't a direct bus to the park entrances, you can take a public bus from La Fortuna towards the park. Ask the driver to drop you off at the intersection off the main road, which is the closest the bus gets to either park entrance. From there, it's approximately a 30-minute walk (2.1 km or 1.3 miles) to the main visitor center. Buses from La Fortuna to the intersection cost around ₡600- ₡1200 CRC (approximately $1 - $2.50 USD). Keep in mind that you'll need to walk back to the intersection to catch the bus back to La Fortuna.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are available in La Fortuna. A taxi from La Fortuna to Arenal Volcano National Park costs approximately $10 USD. The ride takes about 30 minutes. Uber availability can be limited, so it's advisable to confirm service and arrange your return trip in advance. Official red taxis are readily available in La Fortuna.
Discover more about Arenal Volcano Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Horseback Riding In Arenal By Don Tobias Horses
0.3 km
Discover Arenal's beauty on horseback with Don Tobias Horses. Explore rainforests, see the volcano, and enjoy authentic Costa Rican hospitality.
Nayara Gardens
0.4 km
Experience luxury in the heart of Costa Rica's rainforest at Nayara Gardens, with stunning views, private plunge pools, and exceptional service.
Nayara Springs
0.4 km
An exclusive adults-only rainforest escape in Costa Rica's Arenal Volcano National Park, featuring luxurious villas and private hot springs.
Mountain Paradise Hotel
0.6 km
Experience stunning volcano views and luxurious comfort at Mountain Paradise Hotel, your gateway to Arenal's natural wonders.
Arenal Manoa & Hot Springs
0.7 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.
Hotel Arenal Paraíso Resort & Spa
0.9 km
Experience Costa Rica's beauty at Arenal Paraíso Resort: Volcano views, hot springs, spa, and adventure await in La Fortuna.
Amor Arenal
1.1 km
Experience unparalleled luxury and immerse yourself in nature at Amor Arenal, an adults-only rainforest oasis near Arenal Volcano.
The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort
1.8 km
Experience luxurious relaxation at Arenal's Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort, with stunning views and natural hot springs.
Hotel Montana De Fuego All inclusive
1.9 km
Experience Costa Rica's natural beauty at Hotel Montana De Fuego: Arenal Volcano views, hot springs, adventure, and all-inclusive comfort.
Kalambu Hot Springs
1.9 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
2.1 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
2.4 km
Relax and rejuvenate in natural hot springs with stunning Arenal Volcano views, all without breaking the bank.
Jalapas restaurant
3.1 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine with breathtaking Arenal Volcano views at Jalapas Restaurant in La Fortuna.
Parque Ecologico Arenal
3.5 km
Discover adventure and nature at Arenal Volcano Ecological Park: Hike scenic trails, kayak on the lagoon, and witness stunning volcanic views.
Volcan Arenal Ecological Park
3.5 km
Discover the natural beauty of Costa Rica at Volcan Arenal Ecological Park, offering stunning views and diverse wildlife.
Unmissable attractions to see
Pure Trek Canyoning (meeting point)
0.1 km
Embark on a thrilling canyoning adventure in La Fortuna with Pure Trek Canyoning, surrounded by stunning waterfalls and lush rainforests.
Natura Eco Park - Costa Rica
0.1 km
Discover the beauty of Costa Rica at Natura Eco Park—an ecological haven with breathtaking trails, diverse wildlife, and unforgettable experiences.
Volcano Lodge & Springs
0.2 km
Experience the natural beauty of Costa Rica at Volcano Lodge & Springs, a serene retreat with stunning views of Arenal Volcano and rejuvenating thermal springs.
Arenal Springs Resort and Spa
0.4 km
Experience the perfect blend of luxury and nature at Arenal Springs Resort and Spa, nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of La Fortuna.
Arenal Volcano Inn
0.5 km
Discover the serenity and adventure at Arenal Volcano Inn, your gateway to Costa Rica's stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity.
Paradise Hot Springs
1.8 km
Experience ultimate relaxation at Paradise Hot Springs, where thermal baths meet stunning natural beauty in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Go Adventure Arenal Park
1.9 km
Experience an unforgettable adventure at Go Adventure Arenal Park in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, where nature and excitement come together.
Titokú Hot Springs
2.0 km
Discover the serene beauty of Titokú Hot Springs in Costa Rica, where relaxation meets nature in a stunning thermal pool experience.
Baldi Hot Springs Resort Hotel & Spa
2.0 km
Discover the healing powers of nature at Baldi Hot Springs Resort, Hotel & Spa, where relaxation meets adventure in Costa Rica's stunning landscape.
Ecotermales Fortuna
2.2 km
Discover the blissful hot springs of Ecotermales Fortuna, a tranquil retreat in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Los Lagos
2.4 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.
Termales del Arenal
2.5 km
Discover the ultimate wellness retreat at Termales del Arenal, where natural hot springs meet breathtaking views of Arenal Volcano in Costa Rica.
Arenal Park
2.6 km
Experience the breathtaking Arenal Park, home to stunning volcano views, lush rainforests, and rejuvenating hot springs in Costa Rica.
Callidryas Tours - Costa Rica.
2.8 km
Explore the natural beauty of Costa Rica with Callidryas Tours in La Fortuna, offering thrilling adventures and intimate wildlife encounters.
Arenal Ecoglide Park
3.0 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.
Essential places to dine
Arenal Koita
0.3 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Arenal Koita while enjoying breathtaking views of Arenal Volcano in La Fortuna.
Ave del Paraiso
0.5 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Ave del Paraiso in La Fortuna – where every dish tells a story.
Que Rico Arenal Restaurante
0.5 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors amidst breathtaking views at Que Rico Arenal Restaurante in La Fortuna.
Oscar's
1.0 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.
Benedictus
1.1 km
Experience mouthwatering steaks amidst the natural beauty of La Fortuna at Benedictus Steak House.
Restaurante Emperador
1.8 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante Emperador in Alajuela Province—where tradition meets modern dining.
Mirador Arenal Steakhouse
2.2 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Mirador Arenal Steakhouse - where every meal is accompanied by breathtaking views.
Arenal Bongos
2.4 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Arenal Bongos in La Fortuna – where every meal is a celebration of local cuisine and breathtaking views.
Soda La Palma
2.7 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Soda La Palma in La Fortuna – where delicious food meets warm hospitality.
Cafetería y Restaurante Rain Forest Arenal
2.9 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Cafetería y Restaurante Rain Forest Arenal in La Fortuna amidst stunning rainforest views.
Heliconias Restaurant by Kioro
3.0 km
Experience exquisite Costa Rican cuisine with breathtaking views at Heliconias Restaurant by Kioro in Alajuela Province.
Restaurante El Novillo del Arenal
3.2 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
4.1 km
Experience culinary excellence at Ave del Paraiso Restaurant amidst the breathtaking beauty of Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa.
Tucanes Restaurant
4.1 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican cuisine amidst stunning landscapes at Tucanes Restaurant in Nuevo Arenal.
SODA El Turnito
4.2 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at SODA El Turnito in La Fortuna - a must-visit eatery for every traveler.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
SLOFFEE BEST COFFEE IN LA FORTUNA
0.8 km
Discover SLOFFEE in La Fortuna for the finest Costa Rican coffee experience, blending quality brews with local farming insights.
Mini Market El Mirador
1.9 km
Explore local flavors and essentials at Mini Market El Mirador, your one-stop grocery store in scenic La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Britt Shop Baldi
2.0 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
2.1 km
Explore the vibrant culture of Costa Rica through unique gifts and artisan crafts at Britt Shop The Springs Resort & Spa.
Souvenir store
4.0 km
Explore the vibrant culture of Costa Rica at this charming souvenir store in San Carlos, where unique treasures await every traveler.
Britt Shop Tabacon
4.1 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
4.2 km
Explore Rumbo Shop Tabacon Las Fuentes for the best selection of local crafts, chocolates, and souvenirs in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
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.
Original Grand Gallery
4.3 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
4.4 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
4.4 km
Experience the harmony of nature at Arenal Bee Garden, where honey, coffee, and chocolate come together in a delightful adventure.
Centro Comercial La Fortuna
5.3 km
Discover the lively Centro Comercial La Fortuna, a premier shopping destination in La Fortuna with diverse shops, dining, and entertainment experiences.
Malibú Clothes
5.3 km
Explore vintage fashion in La Fortuna at Malibú Clothes, where each piece tells a unique story amid Costa Rica's stunning landscapes.
Artesanías Frans things happys
5.3 km
Explore the vibrant world of handmade crafts at Artesanías Frans Things Happys in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Biosfera Skincare (Experience Store)
5.4 km
Explore sustainable beauty at Biosfera Skincare, where Costa Rican nature meets skincare innovation for an eco-friendly experience.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Nostalgia Wine Bar
0.4 km
Discover the enchanting Nostalgia Wine Bar, a serene oasis in Arenal, offering exquisite wines and a captivating atmosphere for relaxation.
Lemnnos WetBar
1.4 km
Discover the vibrant Lemnnos WetBar in La Fortuna, where tropical drinks meet stunning views and unforgettable experiences.
Terra bar
1.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Terra Bar in La Fortuna, where exceptional drinks and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.
Volcán Look Disco
2.1 km
Discover the lively nightlife at Volcán Look Disco – a vibrant bar in San Carlos, perfect for dancing and enjoying refreshing cocktails.
Restaurante Relax
2.9 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Restaurante Relax, a charming bar in La Fortuna offering local cuisine and stunning views.
Shangri La Gardens. Tabacon Resort Club área
4.1 km
Discover the serene escape of Shangri La Gardens, where exquisite drinks meet breathtaking natural beauty in Costa Rica's Alajuela Province.
MAGIC SPORT BAR, Magic Mountain Hotel
4.2 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
5.1 km
Discover the serene vibe of Tamarindo Chill in La Fortuna, offering refreshing cocktails and a perfect escape in Costa Rica's lush landscapes.
Bar Patrón Costa Rica
5.2 km
Experience a vibrant cocktail bar in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, with exotic flavors, stunning views, and a lively atmosphere perfect for tourists.
La Fortuna Pub
5.2 km
Discover La Fortuna Pub, a lively destination for delicious food, refreshing drinks, and an unforgettable atmosphere in the heart of Costa Rica.
Cha
5.3 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.
BEERLAND CR
5.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and diverse craft beers at Beerland CR, a premier gastropub in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Tropical Lounge Bar
5.5 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.
Soda Sabores Lulu
5.6 km
Experience the authentic taste of Costa Rica at Soda Sabores Lulu, a beloved restaurant in the heart of La Fortuna, known for its local flavors.
Balcón Arenal Restaurante y Sport Bar Lazy Twins
5.6 km
Experience vibrant dining and stunning views of Arenal Volcano at Balcón Arenal Restaurante y Sport Bar, La Fortuna's culinary gem.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Magma Club
5.2 km
Magma Club: The heart of La Fortuna's nightlife, where vibrant beats and electrifying atmosphere create unforgettable nights.
Amsterdan The Club
5.3 km
Discover the dynamic nightlife of La Fortuna at Amsterdam The Club, where dining meets dancing in a vibrant atmosphere.
Glowy Nails
5.5 km
Discover tranquility and beauty at Glowy Nails Lounge in La Fortuna, Costa Rica - a perfect retreat after your adventures.
Lavacar PESETA
5.8 km
Discover Lavacar PESETA, where the nightlife of La Fortuna comes alive with music, dance, and vibrant energy in the heart of Costa Rica.
CHARLIES CR
6.1 km
Charlies CR: A vibrant night club in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, offering unforgettable music, dancing, and a lively atmosphere for tourists.
Night Walk Tour
24.1 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
24.4 km
Explore the magical realm of the Monteverde rainforest at night with Ficus Trails, uncovering the vibrant life that thrives after sunset.
Monteverde Night Tour
24.6 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
24.9 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
25.1 km
Discover the nocturnal wonders of Monteverde at Kinkajou Night Walk, where adventure meets the enchanting beauty of nature's nightlife.
Beer Garden Monteverde
25.2 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
25.3 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
25.3 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
25.3 km
Experience the vibrant culinary scene of Monteverde at Gastroclub, where local flavors meet a lively atmosphere for an unforgettable dining experience.
The Lodge Bar&Restaurant
25.8 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Monteverde at The Lodge Bar & Restaurant, where culinary delights meet the beauty of Costa Rica's cloud forests.
