Discover the Majestic Chato Volcano
Explore the breathtaking Chato Volcano in Costa Rica, a natural wonder with a stunning crater lake and diverse wildlife waiting for you.
Nestled in the heart of Costa Rica's Alajuela Province, Chato Volcano offers an exhilarating adventure for tourists. This dormant volcano is renowned for its stunning crater lake, lush surroundings, and diverse wildlife. Hiking trails cater to various skill levels, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike. Visitors will be captivated by the breathtaking views and the unique opportunity to explore one of Costa Rica's natural wonders.
A brief summary to Chato Volcano
- San Carlos, Alajuela Province, CR
Local tips
- Start your hike early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and enjoy cooler temperatures.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water for the trail, as it can be steep and challenging.
- Consider hiring a local guide to enhance your experience with insights about the flora and fauna.
- Don't forget your camera; the views from the summit are truly spectacular!
- Plan to visit the nearby hot springs after your hike for a relaxing treat.
Getting There
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Bus
From Monteverde, head to the nearest bus station located at the intersection of Ruta 606 and Ruta 1. You can either walk or take a taxi to get there. Once at the bus station, purchase a ticket to La Fortuna, which is the closest town to Chato Volcano. The buses typically leave in the morning and early afternoon, so check the schedule ahead of time. The journey to La Fortuna will take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Upon arrival in La Fortuna, you can take a taxi or a local shuttle to the base of Chato Volcano, which is about a 30-minute drive from the town.
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Shuttle Service
Look for shuttle services that operate between Monteverde and La Fortuna. Several companies offer this service, and it can be booked in advance through local travel agencies or your hotel. The shuttle will pick you up from your accommodation in Monteverde and take you directly to La Fortuna. From there, you can hire a taxi to take you to Chato Volcano, which is about a 30-minute drive away.
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Guided Tour
Consider joining a guided tour that includes transportation from Monteverde to Chato Volcano. Many tour operators in Monteverde offer packages that include the round trip, as well as a guided hike up the volcano. You can inquire at your hotel or local tour agencies for available options. This is a convenient way to visit the volcano without having to navigate transportation on your own.
Discover more about Chato Volcano
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Catarata Danta
2.2 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.
Ecological Reserve Fortuna Waterfall
2.5 km
Discover the majestic La Fortuna Waterfall in Costa Rica: a stunning natural wonder offering breathtaking views, refreshing swims, and unforgettable experiences.
Volcano Jungle Trails
3.0 km
Explore scenic jungle trails near Arenal Volcano. Perfect for families: hiking, picnics, and a playground in a natural Costa Rican setting.
Soda Tita Rosa
3.7 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Soda Tita Rosa in La Fortuna. Fresh, local ingredients and traditional flavors await!
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!
Soda Las Flores
4.1 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Soda Las Flores in San Carlos. Enjoy traditional flavors and warm hospitality in a cozy setting.
Arenal History Inn
4.1 km
Discover cozy comfort and volcano views at Arenal History Inn, your gateway to La Fortuna's natural wonders and thrilling adventures.
La Cava
4.1 km
Savor artisanal pizzas, grilled specialties, and Costa Rican flavors at La Cava, a San Carlos culinary destination near Arenal Volcano.
El Coloso Arenal
4.2 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at El Coloso Arenal, a local favorite in La Fortuna with a warm atmosphere and delicious traditional dishes.
Marisquería Delcarajo
4.3 km
Savor fresh seafood and authentic Costa Rican flavors at Marisquería Delcarajo in La Fortuna, a local favorite for a vibrant culinary experience.
La Fortuna Waterfall Bungalows
4.5 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of La Fortuna Waterfall, a natural wonder in the heart of Costa Rica's rainforest.
Termalitas del Arenal
4.6 km
Relax and rejuvenate in natural hot springs with stunning Arenal Volcano views, all without breaking the bank.
Kalambu Hot Springs
4.8 km
Experience thrilling water slides and relaxing thermal pools at Kalambu Hot Springs, with stunning views of Arenal Volcano.
The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort
4.9 km
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Yellow Bark
5.1 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Yellow Bark in La Fortuna, where fresh, local ingredients meet innovative flavors in a tropical setting.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cataratas Escondidas
2.1 km
Explore the breathtaking Cataratas Escondidas in San Ramón, Alajuela - a hidden waterfall paradise rich in natural beauty and adventure.
Frog Pond
2.1 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
2.3 km
Discover the Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails, a nature lover's paradise with stunning views, diverse wildlife, and eco-friendly experiences near Arenal Volcano.
Papa's Place
2.4 km
Explore the beauty of Costa Rica at Papa's Place, a perfect blend of bird watching, hiking, and farmstay experiences in Alajuela Province.
Fortuna Waterfall
2.5 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Fortuna Waterfall in La Fortuna, Costa Rica—a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Arenal Volcano
2.7 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.
Wood & Art Gallery
3.2 km
Explore unique handcrafted art and sculptures at Wood & Art Gallery in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, where creativity meets the beauty of nature.
Arenal River Tubing & Hiking
3.6 km
Experience Costa Rica's best river tubing and hiking adventure near Arenal Volcano. Explore rainforests and ride the rapids!
Arenal Oasis Eco Lodge & Wildlife Refuge
3.8 km
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Arenal Ecoglide Park
3.9 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.
Arenal Park
4.0 km
Experience the breathtaking Arenal Park, home to stunning volcano views, lush rainforests, and rejuvenating hot springs in Costa Rica.
Ecoterra Costa Rica - Tours & Transfers
4.1 km
Discover the wonders of Costa Rica with Ecoterra, your trusted partner for eco-friendly tours, transportation, and unforgettable adventures in La Fortuna.
Green Vacations Costa Rica
4.3 km
Discover the beauty of Costa Rica with Green Vacations, your eco-friendly tour agency in La Fortuna, offering unforgettable nature experiences.
Callidryas Tours - Costa Rica.
4.3 km
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La Fortuna Wellness
4.3 km
Experience holistic rejuvenation and serenity at La Fortuna Wellness, a premier yoga retreat center in Costa Rica's lush Alajuela Province.
Essential places to dine
El Jilguero Restaurant
2.3 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at El Jilguero Restaurant in San Ramón—where every dish tells a story.
Restaurante Hojarasca
2.6 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Restaurante Hojarasca amidst the breathtaking landscapes of La Fortuna.
Yellow Tree Restaurant
2.8 km
Experience exquisite local cuisine surrounded by nature's beauty at Yellow Tree Restaurant in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
SODA El Turnito
4.0 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at SODA El Turnito in La Fortuna - a must-visit eatery for every traveler.
La Tipica
4.1 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at La Tipica in La Fortuna – a must-visit restaurant for every traveler seeking local cuisine.
SAFFRON INDIAN FOOD BAR AND GRILL
4.2 km
Discover authentic Indian cuisine at Saffron Indian Food Bar and Grill in San Carlos—where every dish tells a flavorful story.
Cafetería y Restaurante Rain Forest Arenal
4.2 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Cafetería y Restaurante Rain Forest Arenal in La Fortuna amidst stunning rainforest views.
Rana Roja
4.3 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Rana Roja - where authentic cuisine meets warm hospitality in La Fortuna.
Sunny's Indian Restaurant
4.5 km
Discover authentic Indian flavors at Sunny's Indian Restaurant in La Fortuna – a culinary gem amidst Costa Rica's stunning landscapes.
Restaurante bongos
4.5 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Restaurante Bongos in La Fortuna - where every meal tells a story.
Soda Monkey's Place
4.6 km
Discover the authentic taste of Costa Rica at Soda Monkey's Place in La Fortuna, where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Restaurante Emperador
4.8 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante Emperador in Alajuela Province—where tradition meets modern dining.
Restaurant Garra Pata
4.9 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurant Garra Pata in La Fortuna - a must-visit for food lovers exploring beautiful landscapes.
El Chante Verde
4.9 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at El Chante Verde in La Fortuna - a must-visit restaurant for every traveler.
Restaurant El Perezoso
4.9 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Restaurant El Perezoso in La Fortuna - where local ingredients meet breathtaking views.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Neptune's House of Hammocks
3.1 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.
Biosfera Skincare (Experience Store)
3.4 km
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Manus cr tienda online
3.7 km
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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.
Arte Natura, Boutique Hotel in La Fortuna - Costa Rica Vacations, Book it Now
4.0 km
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Original Grand Gallery
4.1 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
4.2 km
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Arenal Bee Garden - Honey, Coffee & Chocolate Tour
4.3 km
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Howler Monkey Store
4.5 km
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Britt Shop Baldi
4.7 km
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Britt Shop Sky Trek La Fortuna
5.4 km
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Centro Comercial La Fortuna
5.5 km
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Malibú Clothes
5.6 km
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Artesanías Frans things happys
5.7 km
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Súper Rosvil La Fortuna
5.7 km
Experience the convenience of Súper Rosvil La Fortuna, your one-stop supermarket for groceries and local products in the heart of Costa Rica's adventure capital.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
MAGIC SPORT BAR, Magic Mountain Hotel
4.0 km
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Restaurante Relax
4.3 km
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Volcán Look Disco
4.6 km
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Terra bar
5.0 km
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Lemnnos WetBar
5.1 km
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Tamarindo Chill
5.1 km
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Cha
5.1 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
5.3 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
5.5 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
5.7 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
5.8 km
Experience vibrant nightlife in La Fortuna at Voodoo Mixology, where innovative cocktails meet a tropical atmosphere for unforgettable evenings.
Sander’s Bar & Restaurante
5.9 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Sander's Bar & Restaurante in La Fortuna, a must-visit for every traveler.
Balcón Arenal Restaurante y Sport Bar Lazy Twins
5.9 km
Experience vibrant dining and stunning views of Arenal Volcano at Balcón Arenal Restaurante y Sport Bar, La Fortuna's culinary gem.
The Pool Bar & Restaurant
6.0 km
Discover the vibrant flavors and relaxing atmosphere of The Pool Bar & Restaurant, a top destination for food and drinks in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
BEERLAND CR
6.0 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and diverse craft beers at Beerland CR, a premier gastropub in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
