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
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.
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.
The Hand
4.7 km
Discover The Hand in El Castillo: Where art meets nature in a breathtaking Costa Rican landscape. A must-see for art and nature lovers!
Chato Volcano
4.7 km
Hike to the summit of the dormant Chato Volcano, explore lush rainforest, and discover the emerald lagoon in its crater.
Arenal Water Sports- La Fortuna
4.8 km
Experience thrilling water adventures on Lake Arenal with stunning views of the Arenal Volcano. Jet ski, kayak, paddleboard, and more!
Butterfly Conservatory
5.0 km
Discover Costa Rica's vibrant butterfly world and rainforest regeneration efforts near Arenal Volcano.
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.
Paradise Hot Springs
5.7 km
Unwind in the therapeutic mineral waters of Paradise Hot Springs, surrounded by lush gardens and stunning views of Arenal Volcano.
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.
Arenal Ecoglide Park
5.8 km
Experience Costa Rica's rainforest like never before with thrilling ziplines and stunning views at Arenal Ecoglide Park near Arenal Volcano.
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 Vista Point
1.1 km
Experience stunning views and vibrant wildlife at Arenal Volcano Vista Point, a premier hiking area showcasing Costa Rica's natural beauty.
Arenal Volcano View and Lava Trails
1.1 km
Discover breathtaking views of Arenal Volcano and explore lush lava trails in this stunning nature preserve, a paradise for hikers and nature lovers in Costa Rica.
Arenal Volcano National Park Visitor Center
1.3 km
Explore the Arenal Volcano National Park Visitor Center for a memorable introduction to Costa Rica’s stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity.
Arenal Wilberth Stable
1.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Arenal Volcano through unforgettable horseback riding adventures at Arenal Wilberth Stable.
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
Discover the breathtaking views and serene trails of Mirador el Silencio, a nature preserve in Alajuela, where tranquility and biodiversity meet.
Volcan Arenal National Park, Peninsula area
2.7 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Volcan Arenal National Park, Costa Rica's iconic landscape of volcanoes, rainforests, and diverse wildlife.
Arenal Volcano
2.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Arenal Volcano, a natural wonder in Costa Rica surrounded by lush landscapes, hot springs, and thrilling adventures.
Arenal Canopy Adventure (Athica)
2.9 km
Soar through the canopy of Costa Rica's lush rainforest with Arenal Canopy Adventure, an exhilarating zip-line tour experience surrounded by breathtaking views.
Tabacon Hot Springs
3.1 km
Experience the ultimate relaxation at Tabacon Hot Springs, where natural thermal waters meet tropical beauty in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
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.
Volcan Arenal Ecological Park
3.2 km
Explore Volcan Arenal Ecological Park, a breathtaking natural preserve in Costa Rica, rich with biodiversity, stunning landscapes, and thrilling outdoor activities.
Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails
3.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails, where adventure meets tranquility in Costa Rica's lush rainforest.
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.
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.
Arenal Natura Ecological Park
6.2 km
Experience the rich biodiversity of Costa Rica at Arenal Natura Ecological Park, a perfect blend of adventure, education, and nature.
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.
Wood & Art Gallery
7.2 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.
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.
