Arenal Volcano National Park
The Arenal Volcano National Park packs all of Costa Rica's allure into one place: incredible hiking, magnificent views, abounding wildlife and the country's most active volcano. Hiking and horseback riding tours allow you to get up close and personal with this incredible area, which encompasses close to 30,000 acres (12,000 ha) and extends into eight different life zones. Overlooking everything is the imposing Arenal Volcano which sits right inside this wonderful park.
Of the 850 total species of birds identified in Costa Rica, close to all of them, including the endangered resplendent quetzal , can be found inhabiting the area. This provides an excellent stage for excited birders. Also keep your eyes open for moose, white-faced monkeys , jaguar , deer, coati , toucans, and snakes like the infamous fer-de-lance and parrot snake.
What distinguishes this park from all the rest, though, is the Arenal Volcano, which is among the world's 10 most active volcanoes. Not to worry though, the last major eruption was in 1968; since then, the majority of the volcanic activity consists of smoldering cinder-blocks and vibrant lava emissions flowing down its side. Park officials will not hesitate to close down the park if they feel conditions are too dangerous, as park visitor safety is the primary concern.
While exploring the park you will see plant life which includes guayabo de monte, laurel, cirri, various species of palms, orchids, heliconias, ferns, strangler figs, bromeliads, and many others. A popular hike is to pass through the park's tropical rainforest to old lava beds and then climb the Chato Volcano (Volcan Chato). Its extinct crater houses a water filled lagoon with a liberating view standing at 3,609 ft (1,100 m) on top of Arenal's little sibling.
Visitors can purchase maps and inquire for information at the park's ranger station which is 10 miles (16 km) west of Fortuna. The park is open from 8 am to 6 pm and there is an entrance fee of $7 USD. Any trip to the park requires a camera and a sense of adventure, as you will see a very active volcano like never before. After a long day, visit the soothing hot springs for some rehabilitating relaxation.
Arenal Volcano National Park itineraries from local insiders
Explore hand-picked Arenal Volcano National Park itineraries designed by local insiders who know every hidden corner. Each trip is completely flexible, customized to your pace, travel style, and budget.
Pura Vida Adventure Together
We both love nature and hiking so Costa Rica is ideal for both of those. We went during what’s considered the rainy season so you need to be aware of that going in. It rained at some point almost every day we were there but we still had a very enjoyable time. We visited La Fortuna and Manuel Antonio. We enjoyed La Fortuna more. La Fortuna was more jungle whereas Manuel Antonio was more coastal and felt more touristy.
Big Multi Family Group Adventure
Embark on a vibrant Costa Rican adventure that juxtaposes bustling urban energy with lush, untouched rainforests, delivering a dynamic escape from everyday routine. From San José’s lively streets you’ll head to Monteverde’s cloud‑forest canopy for sky tram rides and hikes, then dive into Rio Celeste’s turquoise waters and trek El Silencio’s volcanic paths. Friendly locals and knowledgeable guides will immerse you in coffee farms, rainforest sounds, and volcanic vistas, leaving you with lasting memories of Costa Rica’s spirited hospitality and natural wonder.
Matt and Fran’s Costa Rica holiday
Costa Rica has a diverse landscape and every area is unique and different. We easily rented a 4 wheel drive vehicle and drove from the Caribbean to the Pacific!
Costa Rica Family Adventure Quest
Embark on a vibrant Costa Rican family adventure that weaves together rainforest mist, volcanic fire, and Pacific surf, offering a dynamic contrast of nature’s extremes. Your journey moves from the sun‑kissed beaches of Manuel Antonio to Monteverde’s misty hanging bridges, then into Arenal’s volcano and waterfalls, ending with surf lessons in Tamarindo. Friendly local guides and coffee‑farm hosts will share traditions, flavors, and stories, leaving your family with lasting memories of Costa Rica’s warm hospitality and adventurous spirit.
Tropical Adventure with Friends
Costa Rica is a beautiful place - the biodiversity in terms of animals and plant life is spectacular. The beaches, the natural landscapes - all of it is stunning. The people are kind and welcoming, truly living the Pura Vida lifestyle.
Solo Exclusive Trip
An incredible country which went beyond expectations. Absolutely amazing & so many memorable experiences. The welcome from all the people & the hospitality everywhere is fantastic. I always felt safe
Daughter's 12th Birthday Trip
Arenal especially was amazing - so much to do there and such a cool place to see. Overall the people were very kind - pura vita!
Deep Journey into the Heart of Costa Rica
From misty cloud forests to sun‑kissed Pacific beaches, this Costa Rican adventure weaves together vibrant wildlife, volcanic landscapes, and endless ocean horizons. You’ll trek Monteverde’s canopy bridges, soak in Arenal’s hot springs, kayak mangroves at Drake Bay, and snorkel coral reefs off Manuel Antonio. Friendly local guides and community hosts will share traditions, cuisine, and conservation stories, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Costa Rica’s pura vida spirit.
My Quick Getaway
This is my second trip using Anywhere to book a trip to Costa Rica. For the short time I was there, I had nothing but phenomenal service and helpful guides to make the trip amazing.
We Saw So Much of the Country
Everyone who helped us - especially Lester - was amazing and so kind! We loved our trip to CR, the ticos and all that the country had to offer. Highly recommended.
We Were in Paradise
The trip to Costa Rica was very memorable. My family and I enjoyed a lot. We did many things like rappelling, rafting for the first time. We saw lovely birds and animals. Anywhere team consisting of Leo Navarro did a great job of organizing and making the logistics part of travel as comfortable as possible. We did not have to worry about anything. Everything was taken care of. Costa Rica is beautiful place with great culture and very tourist friendly. Loved the place !
Wow We Had Fun!
This is our favourite family trip ever. We'll come back to visit or live.
The Ultimate Pura Vida Party
Costa Rica is an unforgettable paradise. 5% of the world's total bio diversity. We can't wait to go back and we'll definitely be booking our next adventures through Anywhere Costa and their networks of amazing companies, guides etc that they work with. Book with them and you'll be so happy that you did.
Caribbean, Cloud Forests, & Pacific Beaches
It was a beautiful holiday; we had a lot of fun and relaxation. There are a lot of things you can do in Costa Rica –– we never got tired. We saw amazing sights and animals, the 'Pura Vida' lifestyle is unforgettable!
Epic Journey With a Friend
At Monteverde Lodge, we really appreciated that they placed water jugs in each room and offered ice and fresh fruit for the water each evening. This would be a great idea for other accommodations - we would be less inclined to buy water in plastic bottles for the room, and it would indicate that the tap water was great to drink (if that was the case).
Experiences in Arenal Volcano National Park
Explore hand-picked Arenal Volcano National Park tours and experiences led by local insiders, from wildlife encounters to cultural deep-dives.
4 in 1 Tour - Safari Float, La Fortuna Waterfall, Volcano Hike and Tabacon Hot Springs
2 in 1 Volcano Hike and Baldi Hot Springs
3 in 1 Hanging Bridges, La Fortuna Waterfall and Volcano Hike
3 in 1 La Fortuna Waterfall, Volcano Hike and Baldi Hot Springs
2 in 1 Volcano Hike and Chocolate Tour
2 in 1 La Fortuna Waterfall and Volcano Hike
2 in 1 Volcano Hike and Sloth Territory
Arenal Volcano National Park Hike
2 in 1 Volcano Hike and Eco Termales Hot Springs
2 in 1 Volcano Hike and Tabacon Hot Springs
3 in 1 La Fortuna Waterfall, Volcano Hike and Choyin Thermal River
2 in 1 Volcano Hike and Paradise Hot Springs
2 in 1 Hanging Bridges and Volcano Hike
2 in 1 Volcano Hike and Safari Float
3 in 1 La Fortuna Waterfall, Volcano Hike and Tabacon Hot Springs
Where to stay in Arenal Volcano National Park
From boutique lodges to luxury resorts, every Arenal Volcano National Park accommodation is hand-picked by our local insiders for location, comfort, and character.
Los Lagos
Los Lagos is amodestly sized hotel situated on the southern shore of Lake Arenal, a short drive from the town of La Fortuna in the Arenal region of Costa Rica. The property occupies a gently sloping site that offers unobstructed views of the lake and the distant silhouette of Arenal Volcano, a landmark that dominates the surrounding landscape. Its location provides easy access to the main road that connects the area’s most frequented attractions while retaining a sense of seclusion that is typical of the region’s rural charm.
Lomas del Volcan
Lomas del Volcan is located in the northern region of the country, near the town of La Fortuna.
Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails
The Arenal Observatory Lodge is situated just outside of La Fortuna, at the foot of the Arenal Volcano. Drawing excited tourists from around the world, this majestic volcano, surrounded on all sides by tropical rainforest, puts on an outstanding view. La Fortuna is a quaint, yet bustling town offering an assortment of restaurants, shops and attractions.
The Baldi Resort and Spa
The Baldi Resort and Spa is the newest addition to the sprawling Baldi Hot Spring facilities. The Baldi hotel and hot springs are located in the Arenal Volcano area about 5 km from the town of La Fortuna and 15 km from the Arenal Volcano National Park.
Arenal Kioro Suites and Spa
Arenal Kioro Suites and Spa is located in the northern lowland region of Costa Rica, near the majestic Arenal Volcano. Nature lovers will find themselves surrounded by unparalleled beauty that includes tropical rainforests, rolling green pastures, volcano views, and the grand Arenal Lake. The quaint, yet bustling town of La Fortuna is a great location to find tasty restaurants, do some shopping and marvel at the spectacular views.
Hotel Silencio del Campo
Hotel Silencio del Campo is located in majestic Arenal, near the quaint town of La Fortuna. This cozy accommodation is located at the foot of the world-famous Arenal Volcano. Breathe in the fresh mountain air and take in the sights of Lake Arenal, verdant mountainsides and the abundant bird and animal species. La Fortuna is a wonderful town with unforgettable views, shops and a variety of great restaurants.
Hotel Royal Corin
The hotel Royal Corin is a luxury resort in La Fortuna Arenal, with views of the majestic Arenal volcano. This large and modern hotel is a perfect place to stay at whilst you explore this area. With its comfortable accommodations, the hotel Royal Corin provides ample opportunity to relax after a long day of discovering Arenal.
Magic Mountain Hotel
Nestled on the foothills of the Arenal Volcano in the province of Alajuela, Magic Mountain Hotel offers a convenient base for travelers who wish to explore the natural beauty of Costa Rica’s northern region. The property is situated a short walk from the small town of La Fortuna, allowing easy access to restaurants, shops, and the main thoroughfare that leads to the volcano’s national park.
Hotel Lavas Tacotal
Hotel Lavas Tacotal is situated near the town of La Fortuna, in the northern lowland region of Costa Rica, this region is home to the cone shaped Arenal Volcano. La Fortuna is frequented by eco-travelers and those who want to spend a memorable vacation cloaked in natural beauty. Rolling countryside, green mountains, lush rainforest and endless outdoor activities await you.
Arenal Volcano Inn
Escape to the tranquil beauty of Arenal Volcano Inn, a family‑friendly haven nestled in the heart of La Fortuna. Unwind in one of our 25 luxurious air‑conditioned guestrooms, featuring plush pillowtop beds, private balconies, and modern amenities including complimentary wireless internet and cable television.
Hotel La Pradera del Arenal
Hotel La Pradera del Arenal is situated in the northern lowland region of Costa Rica, near the town of La Fortuna. This region is surrounded by a tropical humid forest, lush flora and fauna and is blessed by the natural wonder of the Arenal Volcano. This is a fantastic place for avid nature lovers, bird watchers and eco-travelers. La Fortuna is a wonderful hub to venture out and see the many splendors of the area.
Tabacon Thermal Resort and Spa
At Tabacon Resort, you can enjoy the natural heat of the Tabacon Hot Springs, the purity of the surrounding rainforest, and rooms decorated with locally crafted furnishings. Treat yourself to a divine combination of amenities and simple luxury located outside of La Fortuna and Arenal Volcano National Park.
Flora & fauna in Arenal Volcano National Park
The wildlife and plant life you might encounter in Arenal Volcano National Park, from iconic species to the rare finds our local insiders know where to look for.
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Insider-led Costa Rica Design & Concierge
Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.
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