Majestic Arenal Volcano: A Natural Wonder
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Arenal Volcano, an active wonder in Costa Rica's lush landscape, perfect for adventure and relaxation.
Arenal Volcano, located in the heart of Costa Rica’s Alajuela Province, is a spectacular sight that captivates tourists with its perfect conical shape and lush surroundings. This active volcano stands tall at 1,670 meters and is part of the Arenal Volcano National Park, which offers a rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes. Visitors can explore hiking trails, soak in natural hot springs, or enjoy the breathtaking views from various lookout points, making it a must-see destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
A brief summary to Arenal Volcano
- San Carlos, Alajuela Province, CR
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for the best chance to see the volcano without clouds.
- Consider booking a guided tour to learn more about the geology and biodiversity of the area.
- Pack plenty of water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike the trails.
- Don't forget your camera; the views are stunning and perfect for photos!
- Check the weather forecast ahead of time, as conditions can change rapidly.
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car from La Fortuna, head southwest on Route 142, which is well-marked. Continue on this route for approximately 15 minutes until you reach a junction. At the junction, stay to the left to remain on Route 142. You will start seeing signs for Arenal Volcano National Park. Follow the signs for another 10 minutes until you reach the entrance of the park. Parking is available, and there is a nominal fee for entry.
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Public Transportation
To reach Arenal Volcano from La Fortuna using public transportation, head to the main bus station in La Fortuna. Look for buses heading to Arenal Volcano National Park. The buses typically run every hour and the fare is around 600-1000 CRC (Costa Rican colones). The ride takes about 30 minutes. Once you arrive at the park entrance, you can pay the entry fee and access the trails to view the volcano.
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Taxi
If you prefer a more direct and private route, you can take a taxi from La Fortuna to Arenal Volcano. The taxi ride will take about 20 minutes and typically costs between 5000 to 8000 CRC. Make sure to agree on the fare before getting in, as taxi meters may not be used in rural areas.
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Guided Tours
Consider booking a guided tour from La Fortuna to Arenal Volcano. Many local tour operators offer packages that include transportation, a guide, and entrance fees to the national park. Prices vary but generally start around $50 per person. This option provides insightful information about the area and may include additional activities such as hiking or hot springs visits.
Discover more about Arenal Volcano
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Volcano Jungle Trails
3.1 km
Experience the thrill of the Volcano Jungle Trails in Alajuela, Costa Rica, where adventure, nature, and breathtaking views await every traveler.
The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort
3.5 km
Experience the ultimate relaxation at The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort, where luxurious comfort meets the healing powers of nature.
Amor Arenal
3.9 km
Experience luxury and tranquility at Amor Arenal, your gateway to the breathtaking beauty of Costa Rica's Arenal Volcano and lush rainforests.
Arenal ATV Wheels
4.0 km
Experience the thrill of adventure at Arenal ATV Wheels, where the beauty of Costa Rica meets exhilarating ATV rides through stunning landscapes.
Arenal Volcano National Park Visitor Center
4.0 km
Explore the Arenal Volcano National Park Visitor Center for insights into nature, adventure, and the iconic Arenal Volcano in Costa Rica.
Original Arenal ATV
4.0 km
Discover the thrill of ATV adventures in Costa Rica's breathtaking landscapes with Original Arenal ATV - an unforgettable sightseeing tour experience.
Horseback Riding In Arenal By Don Tobias Horses
4.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Arenal, Costa Rica, on horseback with Don Tobias Horses, where adventure meets nature in perfect harmony.
Arenal History Inn
4.4 km
Discover the essence of Costa Rica at Arenal History Inn, where comfort meets cultural immersion near the spectacular Arenal Volcano.
Volcano Lodge & Springs
4.4 km
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Soda Las Flores
4.4 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Soda Las Flores in San Carlos, where delicious cuisine meets warm local hospitality.
La Cava
4.4 km
Experience the delightful fusion of Costa Rican and international cuisine at La Cava, the perfect family-friendly restaurant in San Carlos.
Arenal Natura Ecological Park
4.5 km
Discover the beauty of Costa Rica at Arenal Natura Ecological Park, where nature, wildlife, and education come together in a stunning tropical setting.
Hotel Arenal Paraíso Resort & Spa
4.5 km
Discover the beauty of La Fortuna at Arenal Paraíso Resort & Spa, where luxury meets nature in a stunning tropical paradise.
Ecological Reserve Fortuna Waterfall
4.5 km
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El Coloso Arenal
4.5 km
Experience the flavors of Costa Rica at El Coloso Arenal, a top-rated restaurant in La Fortuna known for its delicious cuisine and welcoming atmosphere.
Unmissable attractions to see
Arenal Park
2.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and adventure at Arenal Park, home to the majestic Arenal Volcano and lush tropical rainforests 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 natural beauty of Chato Volcano, a serene crater lake surrounded by lush landscapes in the heart of Costa Rica's Alajuela Province.
Parque Nacional Volcán Arenal
2.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Parque Nacional Volcán Arenal, a paradise of biodiversity, adventure, and stunning volcanic landscapes in Costa Rica.
Frog Pond
2.8 km
Explore the enchanting Frog Pond in La Fortuna, a serene tropical oasis filled with vibrant wildlife and stunning natural beauty.
Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails
2.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails, where adventure meets tranquility in Costa Rica's lush rainforest.
Volcan Arenal Ecological Park
3.0 km
Explore Volcan Arenal Ecological Park, a breathtaking natural preserve in Costa Rica, rich with biodiversity, stunning landscapes, and thrilling outdoor activities.
Arenal Ecoglide Park
3.2 km
Discover the thrill of zip-lining and the beauty of nature at Arenal Ecoglide Park, a premier adventure destination in Costa Rica.
Baldi Hot Springs Resort Hotel & Spa
3.4 km
Experience the ultimate relaxation at Baldi Hot Springs Resort Hotel & Spa, where natural thermal springs meet luxurious spa treatments in Alajuela, Costa Rica.
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, your serene retreat with thermal baths, spa services, and breathtaking views in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Catarata Danta
3.4 km
Explore the enchanting Catarata Danta waterfall, a serene retreat in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, where nature's beauty awaits every traveler.
Tabacon Hot Springs
3.5 km
Experience the ultimate relaxation at Tabacon Hot Springs, where natural thermal waters meet tropical beauty in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Callidryas Tours - Costa Rica.
3.5 km
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Termalitas del Arenal
3.5 km
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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
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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
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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
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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.
Wood & Art Gallery
4.6 km
Explore the vibrant artistry of Costa Rica at the Wood & Art Gallery in La Fortuna, a must-visit for art lovers and cultural enthusiasts.
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
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Sloth Watching Trail La Fortuna, Arenal Volcano Private Trail
5.5 km
Experience the enchanting Sloth Watching Trail in La Fortuna, a prime destination for nature lovers seeking to encounter Costa Rica's unique wildlife.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Terra bar
3.2 km
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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.
