El Choyin Hot Springs: Nature's Relaxing Retreat
Experience the natural warmth of Arenal at El Choyin, La Fortuna's free hot springs river, a relaxing and authentic Costa Rican escape.
El Choyin is a free, naturally heated river near La Fortuna, Costa Rica, offering a relaxing and authentic hot spring experience. Fed by the geothermal activity of Arenal Volcano, its warm waters and lush surroundings provide a tranquil escape for budget-conscious travelers and locals alike.
A brief summary to El Choyin
- F7QG+CH4, La Fortuna, Alajuela Province, CR
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
- Bring water shoes as the riverbed can be rocky and slippery.
- Be aware of your belongings, as petty theft can occur.
- Consider bringing candles or a flashlight if visiting at night for a unique and atmospheric experience.
- Combine your visit to El Choyin with a trip to nearby Arenal Volcano National Park or La Fortuna Waterfall for a full day of adventure.
Getting There
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Driving
From La Fortuna, head west on Route 142 towards Arenal Volcano. El Choyin is located approximately 13 kilometers (8 miles) outside of town, about a 15-20 minute drive. Look for signs for Tabacon Resort & Spa, as El Choyin is located nearby. There is no designated parking lot, but you can park on the side of the road. Be sure to lock your car and avoid leaving valuables in plain sight. Parking is free, but be aware of unofficial 'parking attendants' who may try to charge a fee.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in La Fortuna. A taxi ride to El Choyin from the town center will cost approximately 4,170 CRC to 9,000 CRC (about $8 to $18 USD), depending on the distance and time of day. Agree on the fare with the driver before starting your journey. The ride takes around 15-20 minutes. Ask the driver to drop you off near Tabacon Resort & Spa , as El Choyin is located a short walk away.
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Public Transport
While there isn't a direct bus to El Choyin, you can take a bus towards Arenal Volcano National Park and ask the driver to drop you off near Tabacon Resort & Spa. From there, it's a short walk to El Choyin. Bus fares from La Fortuna to nearby destinations typically cost between 2,500 CRC and 3,000 CRC (approximately $5 to $6 USD). Check the bus schedules at the La Fortuna Bus Terminal, as they can change without prior notice.
Discover more about El Choyin
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hotel Montana De Fuego All inclusive
2.8 km
Experience Costa Rica's natural beauty at Hotel Montana De Fuego: Arenal Volcano views, hot springs, adventure, and all-inclusive comfort.
Amor Arenal
3.1 km
Experience unparalleled luxury and immerse yourself in nature at Amor Arenal, an adults-only rainforest oasis near Arenal Volcano.
Hotel Arenal Paraíso Resort & Spa
3.5 km
Experience Costa Rica's beauty at Arenal Paraíso Resort: Volcano views, hot springs, spa, and adventure await in La Fortuna.
Nayara Springs
4.1 km
An exclusive adults-only rainforest escape in Costa Rica's Arenal Volcano National Park, featuring luxurious villas and private hot springs.
Arenal Natura Ecological Park
4.1 km
Discover Costa Rica's biodiversity at Arenal Natura Ecological Park: Explore rainforest trails, spot exotic wildlife, and support conservation efforts.
Arenal Volcano Park
4.3 km
Explore Costa Rica's iconic Arenal Volcano National Park: Hike through lava fields, discover rainforest wildlife, and witness breathtaking views.
Nayara Gardens
4.3 km
Experience luxury in the heart of Costa Rica's rainforest at Nayara Gardens, with stunning views, private plunge pools, and exceptional service.
Represa del lago Arenal
4.3 km
Discover Costa Rica's largest lake, a hub for green energy, water sports, and breathtaking views of the Arenal Volcano.
Mountain Paradise Hotel
4.4 km
Experience stunning volcano views and luxurious comfort at Mountain Paradise Hotel, your gateway to Arenal's natural wonders.
Paradise Hot Springs
4.6 km
Unwind in the therapeutic mineral waters of Paradise Hot Springs, surrounded by lush gardens and stunning views of Arenal Volcano.
Arenal Springs Resort and Spa
4.7 km
Experience luxury and adventure at Arenal Springs Resort, with stunning volcano views and exclusive hot spring access in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort
4.7 km
Experience luxurious relaxation at Arenal's Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort, with stunning views and natural hot springs.
Kalambu Hot Springs
4.9 km
Experience thrilling water slides and relaxing thermal pools at Kalambu Hot Springs, with stunning views of Arenal Volcano.
Arenal Manoa & Hot Springs
4.9 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.
The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal
5.2 km
Experience luxury and adventure at The Springs Resort & Spa, with stunning volcano views and natural hot springs in Arenal, Costa Rica.
Unmissable attractions to see
Tabacon Hot Springs
0.1 km
Experience the ultimate relaxation at Tabacon Hot Springs, where natural thermal waters meet tropical beauty in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa
0.4 km
Experience ultimate relaxation and natural beauty at Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa, where luxury meets the lush landscapes of Costa Rica.
Mirador el Silencio
0.8 km
Discover the breathtaking views and serene trails of Mirador el Silencio, a nature preserve in Alajuela, where tranquility and biodiversity meet.
Arenal Ecological Park
0.8 km
Discover Arenal Ecological Park, a premier hiking destination in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, renowned for its stunning trails and rich biodiversity.
Parque Ecologico Arenal
0.8 km
Immerse yourself in nature at Parque Ecologico Arenal, an ecological park in La Fortuna, offering breathtaking views and rich biodiversity.
Arenal Canopy Adventure (Athica)
0.9 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.
Volcan Arenal Ecological Park
0.9 km
Explore Volcan Arenal Ecological Park, a breathtaking natural preserve in Costa Rica, rich with biodiversity, stunning landscapes, and thrilling outdoor activities.
La Roca Canyoning
1.3 km
Experience the thrill of canyoning amidst the stunning landscapes of La Fortuna, Costa Rica, with La Roca Canyoning.
Los Lagos
2.2 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.
Arenal Volcano Vista Point
2.7 km
Experience stunning views and vibrant wildlife at Arenal Volcano Vista Point, a premier hiking area showcasing Costa Rica's natural beauty.
Go Adventure Arenal Park
2.7 km
Discover the thrill of adventure and the beauty of nature at Go Adventure Arenal Park in La Fortuna, Costa Rica – an unforgettable experience awaits.
Arenal Volcano View and Lava Trails
2.9 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.
Wellness Park Eco Lodge & Trekking trails
2.9 km
Discover serene accommodations, exquisite nature trails, and wellness experiences at Wellness Park Eco Lodge in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Wellness Park Nature Reserve & Ecolodge
2.9 km
Explore the serene beauty of Wellness Park Nature Reserve & Ecolodge in La Fortuna, where nature meets relaxation in an eco-friendly paradise.
Parque Nacional Volcán Arenal
3.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Parque Nacional Volcán Arenal, a paradise of biodiversity, adventure, and stunning volcanic landscapes in Costa Rica.
Essential places to dine
Ave del Paraiso Restaurant at Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa
0.2 km
Experience culinary excellence at Ave del Paraiso Restaurant amidst the breathtaking beauty of Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa.
Tucanes Restaurant
0.3 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican cuisine amidst stunning landscapes at Tucanes Restaurant in Nuevo Arenal.
Restaurante El Novillo del Arenal
1.1 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at Restaurante El Novillo del Arenal - where tradition meets taste in La Fortuna.
Heliconias Restaurant by Kioro
1.3 km
Experience exquisite Costa Rican cuisine with breathtaking views at Heliconias Restaurant by Kioro in Alajuela Province.
Soda La Palma
1.7 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Soda La Palma in La Fortuna – where delicious food meets warm hospitality.
Mirador Arenal Steakhouse
2.4 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Mirador Arenal Steakhouse - where every meal is accompanied by breathtaking views.
Lava'68 Cafetería
2.7 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at Lava'68 Cafetería with stunning views and a commitment to local ingredients.
Benedictus
3.2 km
Experience mouthwatering steaks amidst the natural beauty of La Fortuna at Benedictus Steak House.
Restaurante La Roca Bistró
3.3 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante La Roca Bistró with stunning views of Arenal Lake in beautiful La Fortuna.
Oscar's
3.5 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.
Que Rico Arenal Restaurante
4.0 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors amidst breathtaking views at Que Rico Arenal Restaurante in La Fortuna.
Arenal Koita
4.3 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Arenal Koita while enjoying breathtaking views of Arenal Volcano in La Fortuna.
Ave del Paraiso
4.4 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Ave del Paraiso in La Fortuna – where every dish tells a story.
Restaurante Emperador
4.7 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante Emperador in Alajuela Province—where tradition meets modern dining.
Arenal Bongos
5.2 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Arenal Bongos in La Fortuna – where every meal is a celebration of local cuisine and breathtaking views.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Rumbo Shop Tabacon Las Fuentes
0.0 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
0.3 km
Discover the essence of Costa Rica at Britt Shop Tabacon, where local crafts, gourmet chocolates, and unique souvenirs await every traveler.
Mini Market El Mirador
2.8 km
Explore local flavors and essentials at Mini Market El Mirador, your one-stop grocery store in scenic La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Britt Shop Místico Park Arenal
3.4 km
Explore Britt Shop Místico Park Arenal, where Costa Rican craftsmanship meets breathtaking nature, offering unique gifts and gourmet delights.
SLOFFEE BEST COFFEE IN LA FORTUNA
3.6 km
Discover SLOFFEE in La Fortuna for the finest Costa Rican coffee experience, blending quality brews with local farming insights.
Britt Shop Baldi
4.8 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
5.2 km
Explore the vibrant culture of Costa Rica through unique gifts and artisan crafts at Britt Shop The Springs Resort & Spa.
Souvenir store
6.5 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
6.8 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
6.9 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
7.0 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
7.1 km
Experience the harmony of nature at Arenal Bee Garden, where honey, coffee, and chocolate come together in a delightful adventure.
Britt Shop Sky Trek La Fortuna
7.3 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.
Biosfera Skincare (Experience Store)
7.4 km
Explore sustainable beauty at Biosfera Skincare, where Costa Rican nature meets skincare innovation for an eco-friendly experience.
Wood & Art Gallery
7.8 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
0.3 km
Discover the serene escape of Shangri La Gardens, where exquisite drinks meet breathtaking natural beauty in Costa Rica's Alajuela Province.
Terra bar
3.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Terra Bar in La Fortuna, where exceptional drinks and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.
Lemnnos WetBar
4.0 km
Discover the vibrant Lemnnos WetBar in La Fortuna, where tropical drinks meet stunning views and unforgettable experiences.
Nostalgia Wine Bar
4.3 km
Discover the enchanting Nostalgia Wine Bar, a serene oasis in Arenal, offering exquisite wines and a captivating atmosphere for relaxation.
Volcán Look Disco
4.9 km
Discover the lively nightlife at Volcán Look Disco – a vibrant bar in San Carlos, perfect for dancing and enjoying refreshing cocktails.
Restaurante Relax
5.6 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
6.7 km
Discover the lively Magic Sport Bar at Magic Mountain Hotel, where great drinks and vibrant atmosphere meet in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Howlers Bar & Grill
7.6 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere at Howlers Bar & Grill in El Fosforo, Costa Rica's hidden culinary treasure.
Tamarindo Chill
8.1 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
8.2 km
Experience a vibrant cocktail bar in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, with exotic flavors, stunning views, and a lively atmosphere perfect for tourists.
Cha
8.3 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.
Voodoo Bar & Cocktails
8.3 km
Discover the vibrant Voodoo Bar & Cocktails in La Fortuna, where enchanting drinks and a lively atmosphere await every traveler.
La Fortuna Pub
8.4 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
8.7 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
8.7 km
Experience vibrant nightlife in La Fortuna at Voodoo Mixology, where innovative cocktails meet a tropical atmosphere for unforgettable evenings.
