Arenal Volcano National Park: Costa Rica's Fiery Giant
Explore Costa Rica's iconic Arenal Volcano National Park: Hike through lava fields, discover diverse wildlife, and witness the beauty of this natural wonder.
Arenal Volcano National Park, established in 1991, is a stunning protected area surrounding the Arenal Volcano, once believed to be dormant until its major eruption in 1968. The park offers diverse hiking trails through rainforests and lava fields, showcasing the region's rich biodiversity and the volcano's imposing presence.
A brief summary to Parque Nacional Volcán Arenal
- F76C+FPQ, El Castillo, La Fortuna, Alajuela Province, CR
- +50622004192
- Visit website
Local tips
- Bring comfortable hiking shoes, as the trails can be uneven and muddy, especially during the rainy season.
- Pack rain gear, as the weather in Arenal is unpredictable, and rain showers are common.
- Bring binoculars for wildlife viewing, as the park is home to a diverse array of birds and animals.
- Purchase park tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid long lines.
- Consider visiting both the Volcano and Peninsula sectors to experience the full range of the park's offerings.
Getting There
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Car
Driving is the most convenient way to reach Arenal Volcano National Park. From La Fortuna, head west on Route 142. 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 entrance ticket. Be aware that the road to the park isn't as well-maintained as some of Costa Rica's main roads. While a standard car is usually sufficient, a 4x4 may be preferable, especially during the rainy season. There are no additional tolls.
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Taxi
Taxis are available in La Fortuna and can take you to Arenal Volcano National Park. A one-way trip will cost approximately $15-$22 USD. Official taxis are red. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey. Ubers are less common in this area.
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Public Transport
While there is no direct bus to the park entrance, you can take a bus from La Fortuna that drops you off at the intersection of the main road and the entrance road. From there, it is a 1.2-mile (2 km) walk or hitchhike to the visitor center. The bus fare is around $2-$3 USD.
Discover more about Parque Nacional Volcán Arenal
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Arenal Volcano Vista Point
1.1 km
Experience breathtaking views of Arenal Volcano, hike through lush rainforests, and immerse yourself in Costa Rica's natural beauty.
Volcano Jungle Trails
2.8 km
Explore scenic jungle trails near Arenal Volcano. Perfect for families: hiking, picnics, and a playground in a natural Costa Rican setting.
Tabacon Hot Springs
3.1 km
Experience the ultimate relaxation in naturally heated thermal waters surrounded by the lush rainforest at the foot of the majestic Arenal Volcano.
Volcan Arenal Ecological Park
3.2 km
Discover the natural beauty of Costa Rica at Volcan Arenal Ecological Park, offering stunning views and diverse wildlife.
The Peninsula, Arenal Volcano National Park
3.4 km
Discover tranquil trails, stunning volcano views, and abundant wildlife at Arenal Volcano National Park's serene Peninsula Sector.
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.
Represa del lago Arenal
3.8 km
Discover Costa Rica's largest lake, a hub for green energy, water sports, and breathtaking views of the Arenal Volcano.
Catarata Danta
4.0 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.
Amor Arenal
5.3 km
Experience unparalleled luxury and immerse yourself in nature at Amor Arenal, an adults-only rainforest oasis near Arenal Volcano.
Hotel Montana De Fuego All inclusive
5.5 km
Experience Costa Rica's natural beauty at Hotel Montana De Fuego: Arenal Volcano views, hot springs, adventure, and all-inclusive comfort.
The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort
5.8 km
Experience luxurious relaxation at Arenal's Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort, with stunning views and natural hot springs.
Hotel Arenal Paraíso Resort & Spa
5.8 km
Experience Costa Rica's beauty at Arenal Paraíso Resort: Volcano views, hot springs, spa, and adventure await in La Fortuna.
Horseback Riding In Arenal By Don Tobias Horses
5.9 km
Discover Arenal's beauty on horseback with Don Tobias Horses. Explore rainforests, see the volcano, and enjoy authentic Costa Rican hospitality.
Kalambu Hot Springs
6.0 km
Experience thrilling water slides and relaxing thermal pools at Kalambu Hot Springs, with stunning views of Arenal Volcano.
Unmissable attractions to see
Arenal Volcano View and Lava Trails
1.1 km
Hike through historic lava fields with breathtaking views of Arenal Volcano and Lake Arenal. Experience Costa Rica's natural beauty and volcanic history.
Arenal Volcano National Park Visitor Center
1.3 km
Discover Costa Rica's natural beauty at Arenal Volcano National Park, offering hiking, wildlife, and stunning views of the iconic volcano and Lake Arenal.
Arenal Wilberth Stable
1.3 km
Discover the beauty of Costa Rica at Arenal Wilberth Stable with horseback riding, ATV rentals, and breathtaking views of Arenal Volcano.
Original Arenal ATV
1.3 km
Explore Costa Rica's breathtaking landscapes with thrilling ATV tours at Original Arenal ATV in Alajuela Province.
Point de vue volcan Arenal
2.5 km
Experience the stunning views of Arenal Volcano at this picturesque lookout, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Mirador el Silencio
2.6 km
Experience the serene beauty of Costa Rica at Mirador el Silencio, a nature preserve offering breathtaking views and diverse wildlife.
Volcan Arenal National Park, Peninsula area
2.7 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty and adventure of Volcan Arenal National Park, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and thrill-seekers in Costa Rica.
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.
Arenal Canopy Adventure (Athica)
2.9 km
Soar through the stunning rainforest of Arenal with Arenal Canopy Adventure, where thrilling zip lines meet breathtaking views in Costa Rica's natural paradise.
El Choyin
3.1 km
Discover relaxation in the heart of La Fortuna at El Choyin, a public bath oasis surrounded by stunning tropical landscapes.
Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails
3.3 km
Discover the Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails, a nature lover's paradise with stunning views, diverse wildlife, and eco-friendly experiences near Arenal Volcano.
Frog Pond
3.3 km
Explore the vibrant ecosystem of Frog Pond in La Fortuna, a captivating tourist attraction filled with Costa Rica's enchanting amphibian species.
Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa
3.4 km
Experience Costa Rica's largest network of natural hot springs at the foot of the Arenal Volcano. A luxurious and sustainable rainforest retreat.
Wellness Park Nature Reserve & Ecolodge
3.8 km
Explore the serene beauty of Wellness Park Nature Reserve & Ecolodge in La Fortuna, where nature meets relaxation in an eco-friendly paradise.
Los Lagos
3.9 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.
Essential places to dine
Lava'68 Cafetería
1.1 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at Lava'68 Cafetería with stunning views and a commitment to local ingredients.
El Jilguero Restaurant
3.2 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at El Jilguero Restaurant in San Ramón—where every dish tells a story.
Ave del Paraiso Restaurant at Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa
3.2 km
Experience culinary excellence at Ave del Paraiso Restaurant amidst the breathtaking beauty of Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa.
Tucanes Restaurant
3.4 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican cuisine amidst stunning landscapes at Tucanes Restaurant in Nuevo Arenal.
Heliconias Restaurant by Kioro
3.8 km
Experience exquisite Costa Rican cuisine with breathtaking views at Heliconias Restaurant by Kioro in Alajuela Province.
Restaurante El Novillo del Arenal
3.8 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at Restaurante El Novillo del Arenal - where tradition meets taste in La Fortuna.
Restaurante La Roca Bistró
4.1 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante La Roca Bistró with stunning views of Arenal Lake in beautiful La Fortuna.
Chillout Restaurant
4.1 km
Experience local flavors amidst stunning views at Chillout Restaurant near Sky Trek in San Carlos.
Soda La Palma
4.5 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Soda La Palma in La Fortuna – where delicious food meets warm hospitality.
Fusion Arenal Mirador Restaurante, El Castillo Costa Rica.
4.8 km
Experience exquisite dining with breathtaking views at Fusion Arenal Mirador Restaurante in El Castillo, Costa Rica - where nature meets culinary art.
La Ventanita
4.9 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at La Ventanita - an inviting restaurant in El Castillo known for its fresh ingredients and warm hospitality.
Mirador Arenal Steakhouse
5.1 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Mirador Arenal Steakhouse - where every meal is accompanied by breathtaking views.
Benedictus
5.3 km
Experience mouthwatering steaks amidst the natural beauty of La Fortuna at Benedictus Steak House.
Restaurante Emperador
5.8 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante Emperador in Alajuela Province—where tradition meets modern dining.
Que Rico Arenal Restaurante
5.9 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors amidst breathtaking views at Que Rico Arenal Restaurante in La Fortuna.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Rumbo Shop Tabacon Las Fuentes
3.1 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
3.3 km
Discover the essence of Costa Rica at Britt Shop Tabacon, where local crafts, gourmet chocolates, and unique souvenirs await every traveler.
Britt Shop Místico Park Arenal
4.1 km
Explore Britt Shop Místico Park Arenal, where Costa Rican craftsmanship meets breathtaking nature, offering unique gifts and gourmet delights.
Britt Shop Sky Trek La Fortuna
4.2 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.
Mini Market El Mirador
5.5 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
5.8 km
Discover the best of Costa Rica at Britt Shop Baldi, where unique souvenirs, artisanal chocolates, and local crafts await.
SLOFFEE BEST COFFEE IN LA FORTUNA
5.9 km
Discover SLOFFEE in La Fortuna for the finest Costa Rican coffee experience, blending quality brews with local farming insights.
Souvenir store
6.8 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
7.0 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)
7.1 km
Explore sustainable beauty at Biosfera Skincare, where Costa Rican nature meets skincare innovation for an eco-friendly experience.
Original Grand Gallery
7.1 km
Explore authentic Costa Rican art and unique souvenirs at Original Grand Gallery in La Fortuna, a cultural haven for every visitor.
Neptune's House of Hammocks
7.2 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.
Red Frog Coffee Roasters
7.2 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
7.3 km
Experience the harmony of nature at Arenal Bee Garden, where honey, coffee, and chocolate come together in a delightful adventure.
Manus cr tienda online
7.7 km
Explore Manus CR in La Fortuna for exquisite swimwear and custom clothing that embodies Costa Rican charm and style.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Shangri La Gardens. Tabacon Resort Club área
2.9 km
Discover the serene escape of Shangri La Gardens, where exquisite drinks meet breathtaking natural beauty in Costa Rica's Alajuela Province.
Howlers Bar & Grill
4.8 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere at Howlers Bar & Grill in El Fosforo, Costa Rica's hidden culinary treasure.
Terra bar
5.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Terra Bar in La Fortuna, where exceptional drinks and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.
Lemnnos WetBar
5.4 km
Discover the vibrant Lemnnos WetBar in La Fortuna, where tropical drinks meet stunning views and unforgettable experiences.
Volcán Look Disco
5.8 km
Discover the lively nightlife at Volcán Look Disco – a vibrant bar in San Carlos, perfect for dancing and enjoying refreshing cocktails.
Restaurante Relax
6.2 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Restaurante Relax, a charming bar in La Fortuna offering local cuisine and stunning views.
Nostalgia Wine Bar
6.5 km
Discover the enchanting Nostalgia Wine Bar, a serene oasis in Arenal, offering exquisite wines and a captivating atmosphere for relaxation.
MAGIC SPORT BAR, Magic Mountain Hotel
6.9 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
8.4 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
8.5 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
8.5 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
8.6 km
Discover the vibrant Voodoo Bar & Cocktails in La Fortuna, where enchanting drinks and a lively atmosphere await every traveler.
La Fortuna Pub
8.7 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
9.0 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
9.0 km
Experience vibrant nightlife in La Fortuna at Voodoo Mixology, where innovative cocktails meet a tropical atmosphere for unforgettable evenings.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Magma Club
8.6 km
Magma Club: The heart of La Fortuna's nightlife, where vibrant beats and electrifying atmosphere create unforgettable nights.
Amsterdan The Club
8.8 km
Discover the dynamic nightlife of La Fortuna at Amsterdam The Club, where dining meets dancing in a vibrant atmosphere.
Glowy Nails
9.2 km
Discover tranquility and beauty at Glowy Nails Lounge in La Fortuna, Costa Rica - a perfect retreat after your adventures.
CHARLIES CR
9.3 km
Charlies CR: A vibrant night club in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, offering unforgettable music, dancing, and a lively atmosphere for tourists.
Lavacar PESETA
9.6 km
Discover Lavacar PESETA, where the nightlife of La Fortuna comes alive with music, dance, and vibrant energy in the heart of Costa Rica.
Night Walk Tour
18.0 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
18.3 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
18.4 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
18.7 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
18.9 km
Discover the nocturnal wonders of Monteverde at Kinkajou Night Walk, where adventure meets the enchanting beauty of nature's nightlife.
Beer Garden Monteverde
19.1 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
19.1 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
19.2 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
19.2 km
Experience the vibrant culinary scene of Monteverde at Gastroclub, where local flavors meet a lively atmosphere for an unforgettable dining experience.
Monteverde Night Tour Don Rodolfo
19.7 km
Discover the magic of the cloud forest at Monteverde Night Tour Don Rodolfo, where nocturnal wildlife and breathtaking views await.
