Arenal Volcano Experience Full-Day Tour from San Jose

Alajuela, CR
91% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (1343 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    Transport by air-conditioned vehicle
  • inclusion
    Lunch
  • inclusion
    Professional bilingual guide
  • inclusion
    Dinner
  • inclusion
    Hotel pickup and drop-off (most San Jose area hotels)
  • inclusion
    Coffee or Tea with local snacks
  • inclusion
    Entrance Fees

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Services not specified
  • exclusion
    Gratuities

Meeting Point

Centrally located San Jose hotels. The default tour time is 6:30 a.m., but the tour operator will confirm the exact pickup time & meeting point after booking. Automated booking platform emails may mention the default time, but the operator’s confirmation will be the official schedule.

Meeting point

business center, Bv. de Rohrmoser, San José, Sabana, 10109 , Costa Rica

End point

End Point

Centrally located San Jose hotels. The default tour time is 6:30 a.m., but the tour operator will confirm the exact pickup time & meeting point after booking. Automated booking platform emails may mention the default time, but the operator’s confirmation will be the official schedule.

Meeting point

business center, Bv. de Rohrmoser, San José, Sabana, 10109 , Costa Rica

End point

Pickup

Check if pick-up is available from your location, you will select during checkout (providers may allow other pickup locations)

Pickup Location
Adventure Inn
Aloft San Jose Hotel, Costa Rica
Apartotel Obelisco
Autentico Hotel
Boutique Hotel Jade
Casa Aldea
Costa Rica Backpackers
Costa Rica Guesthouse
Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belen
Costa Rica Tennis Club & Hotel
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, San Jose Aeropuerto, Costa Rica
Courtyard San Jose Airport Alajuela
Courtyard San Jose Escazu
Crowne Plaza San Jose La Sabana, an IHG hotel
Delta Hotels By Marriott San Jose Aurola
Doubletree By Hilton Hotel Cariari San Jose - Costa Rica
Four Points by Sheraton San Jose Costa Rica
Four Points By Sheraton San Jose Costa Rica
Gran Hotel Centroamericano
Gran Hotel Costa Rica, Curio Collection by Hilton
Hampton by Hilton San Jose Airport
Hilton Garden Inn San Jose La Sabana
Hilton San Jose La Sabana
Holiday Inn Express San Jose Costa Rica Airport, an IHG hotel
Holiday Inn Express San Jose Forum, an IHG hotel
Hostel Casa Colon
Hotel 1492
Hotel Ambassador
Hotel Balmoral
Hotel Barcelo San Jose
Hotel Cacts
Hotel Casa 69
Hotel Cultura Plaza
Hotel Dunn Inn
Hotel Fleur de Lys
Hotel Grano de Oro
Hotel Inca Real
Hotel Kekoldi Garden
Hotel La Amistad
Hotel Novo
Hotel Plaza Real Suites & Apartments
Hotel Posada Del Museo
Hotel Presidente
Hotel Talamanca SJ
Hotel Villa Tournon
Hyatt Centric San Jose Escazu
InterContinental Costa Rica at Multiplaza Mall, an IHG hotel
Irazu Hotel & Studios
KC Hotel San Jose
La Sabana Hotel Suites Apartments
Morazan Hotel & Casino
Palma Real Hotel & Casino
Park Inn by Radisson San Jose, Costa Rica
Radisson San Jose-Costa Rica
Residence Inn by Marriott San Jose Escazu
Rincon del Valle Hotel & Suites
San Jose Backpackers
Santo Tomas Hotel & Wellness Center
Selina San Jose
Sheraton San Jose Hotel, Costa Rica
Sleep Inn Paseo Las Damas
Soluxe El Sesteo
Sportsmens Lodge
Stray Cat Hostel
Studio Hotel Boutique
Suites Cristina
Taormina Hotel and Casino
Taranova-Villas Palmas
The Palm House Inn
Tryp by Wyndham San Jose Sabana
Wyndham Garden San Jose Escazu
Wyndham San Jose Herradura Hotel & Convention Center
Drop off at the Arenal-La Fortuna centrally located hotels are available. Please note that if you choose this option, dinner will not be included in your tour because it’s done in a restaurant on the way back. Also, there is an extra charge for drop-offs with luggage, but in the case of this tour, it doesn’t apply because the cost of the dinner will cover the drop-off charge. If you wish to take this option, you must let us know at the time of booking.

What to expect

1

La Casa del Café Doka

Travel to the Arenal Volcano area, the most popular touristic region of Costa Rica, and enjoy many of the beauties of the country on this full-day trip. Your tour starts in the morning when you are picked up from your hotel in the San Jose area in an air-conditioned vehicle and you will then travel to Arenal on an alternative route that is more scenic than the regular highway to this popular destination. On the way to Arenal, you will stop in a plantation where you will learn about coffee of Costa Rica, here you will be able to observe the coffee plants and see the workers picking the ripe cherries during the harvest season. Your guide will share information on this important product to the local economy and other important facts (coffee degustation will be provided later in a rustic coffee shop).

Duration 20 minutes
2

La Paz Waterfall

Continue your tour with a visit to the famous La Paz Waterfall, where you will stop on the side of the road for a few minutes to take pictures of this popular attraction surrounded by lush tropical rainforest.

Duration 15 minutes
3

Cinchona

Later on, you will stop at the San Fernando Waterfall look-out point, where you will also have the chance to take pictures of this beautiful attraction and observe many exotic birds of Costa Rica at the birds’ gallery; it is very common to see toucans, hummingbirds and many other colorful tropical species. Taste a freshly brewed cup of some of the best coffee in the world while admiring the beautiful waterfall, definitely a great place to drink your coffee! This degustation will be accompanied by traditional snacks that local Costa Ricans normally eat with their coffee.

Duration 30 minutes
4

Centro Turístico Las Iguanas

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Following you will stop at the iguana’s center, a place where you will see lots of iguanas at eye level, resting on the top of numerous trees. As part of this stop, you will also go to a place nearby where sloths are normally observed in their natural habitat.

Duration 15 minutes
5

Go Adventure Arenal Park

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Continue on to the Town of La Fortuna, where you will savor a delicious Costa Rican lunch in a restaurant located near the famous Arenal Volcano. After lunch, participate in an indigenous presentation performed by native people from the local “Maleku Tribe”, where you will learn about the traditions and culture of this ethnic group.

Duration 15 minutes
Admission Admission Included
6
Paradise Hot Springs

Afterward, you will visit various points around the volcano to take pictures of this amazing mountain on clear days, and you will then travel to the beautiful Paradise Hot Springs Resort, a place where you will be able to relax for a few hours in the multiple hot springs pools surrounded by lush tropical gardens. This hot springs facility is one of the best in the Arenal area and provides the perfect environment to relax in thermal mineral water pools, jacuzzis, and cascading waterfalls. After enjoying the relaxing hot springs you will go to a local typical restaurant to have a delicious Costa Rican dinner and then will be taken back to your hotel in the San Jose area.

Duration 120 minutes
Admission Admission Included

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Children must be accompanied by an adult
  • Additional information
    Drop off in the La Fortuna area hotels is available (dinner will not be included if choosing this option)
  • Additional information
    If you are bringing children on the tour (ages 5 to 12), you must inform us in advance so we can prepare the required safety equipment for them.
  • Additional information
    May be operated by a multi-lingual guide
  • Additional information
    Minimum age to participate is 5 years
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Additional information
    Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Additional information
    The total tour duration includes the travel time, lunch and dinner
  • Additional information
    This tour does not include ziplining/rappelling activities (The stop at Go Adventure Park is for the Indigenous presentation only)
  • Additional information
    This tour has been designed for those people who wish to do a lot of sightseeing in the morning without much effort, have lunch, and then relax in the hot springs for most of the afternoon
  • Additional information
    This tour includes man-made hot springs pools, filled with natural thermal water
  • Additional information
    Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required
Provided by Go Tours Costa Rica

What our experts say

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    Try the local casado for lunch.
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    Bring a swimsuit for the hot springs.
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    Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
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    Don’t miss the coffee plantation stop!
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    Look out for wildlife near waterfalls.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Escape to the mesmerizing beauty of the Arenal Volcano region with the Arenal Volcano Experience Full-Day Tour from San Jose. This exceptional tour takes you on a scenic journey through farms, rainforests, and charming towns, offering an immersive and enlightening experience of Costa Rica.

What to expect?

Embark on an adventure of a lifetime as you delve into the wonders of the Arenal Volcano area. This full-day tour promises a plethora of memorable experiences. You'll stop at a coffee plantation and indulge in the rich flavors of Costa Rican coffee, paired with traditional snacks. Explore the breathtaking La Paz Waterfall and witness the ethereal beauty of the San Fernando Waterfall, surrounded by tropical rainforests. Immerse yourself in the vibrant wildlife, marveling at exotic birds and observing sloths in their natural habitat. Indulge in a mouth-watering Costa Rican lunch and delve into the traditions and culture of the indigenous Maleku Tribe. End your day with a rejuvenating soak in the Paradise Hot Springs, nestled amidst lush gardens.

Who is this for?

This extraordinary tour is designed for all adventure seekers, nature lovers, and culture enthusiasts. Whether you're a solo traveler, a family, or a group of friends, the Arenal Volcano Experience welcomes everyone. With activities for all ages, it's perfect for those seeking an immersive cultural experience, stunning natural landscapes, and relaxation in rejuvenating hot springs.

Why book this?

With the Arenal Volcano Experience, you'll enjoy a truly unique journey that combines breathtaking scenery, cultural immersion, and relaxation. Explore the off-the-beaten-path with a scenic drive to Arenal and discover the secrets behind Costa Rican coffee production. Immerse yourself in nature at the mesmerizing waterfalls and encounter diverse wildlife. Unveil the rich traditions and customs of the Maleku Tribe. Finally, unwind and recharge in Paradise Hot Springs, surrounded by tropical gardens. This unforgettable tour offers the perfect blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation.

Good to know

During this full-day tour, you'll have the opportunity to taste freshly brewed coffee and indulge in traditional snacks. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the awe-inspiring beauty of the waterfalls and Arenal Volcano. Comfortable clothing, swimsuits, and sunscreen are recommended for a pleasant experience. Lunch, dinner, and coffee tasting are included, ensuring you have a delightful culinary experience.

Reviews

Customers who have embarked on the Arenal Volcano Experience rave about the breathtaking scenery, the unique cultural immersion, and the exceptional knowledge of the guides. They praise the coffee plantation visit and the opportunity to taste world-renowned Costa Rican coffee. The waterfalls and wildlife encounters receive high praise, with visitors expressing their awe at the natural beauty of Costa Rica. The Paradise Hot Springs offer the perfect end to the day, with guests enjoying a relaxing soak in thermal mineral water pools, surrounded by lush tropical gardens. Overall, travelers highly recommend this tour for an unforgettable experience in the Arenal Volcano region.

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