Taxi-Boat-Taxi Arenal to Monteverde

The Arenal to Monteverde taxi-boat-taxi service operates year round, making connections between Arenal and Monteverde twice per day, with great views of the Costa Rica highlands and the Arenal Volcano along the way.

The mountainous cloud forest of Monteverde and the town of La Fortuna are two of Costa Rica's favorite tourist destinations and are only 25 km apart. But, with a difference in altitude of 1,150 m, a steep drop and several roadblocks – namely, an active volcano, Costa Rica's largest lake, seven rivers and a rugged, densely forested mountain range –direct passage between the two towns is difficult, to say the least.

Making the trip by road entails a very bumpy 4 to 5 hour journey by car, or an 8 hour, 136 km bus journey, with a change-over in Tilaran. Two much more convenient routes are offered, taking hours off your travel time. The taxi-boat-taxi trip and the horseback-boat-taxi trip from Monteverde to La Fortuna, or vice versa, combine the thrill of an adventure tour with the convenience of a transportation service.

This is the quickest and most popular route between Monteverde and Arenal. It runs twice daily, every day of the year, rain or shine.

Across the tranquil Lake Arenal you will experience beautiful views of the majestic volcano and the forested Tilaran Mountain Range. You will also have the chance to see a variety of wetland birds such as king fishers, fly catchers, waders and other exotic species that abound on the lake shore.

You will be picked up from your hotel in Arenal in the morning or afternoon and be driven to the Lake Arenal dam. This is where the scenic 45 minute cruise across the lake begins. Next you will begin the impressive 1.5 hour journey up the mountainside on a steep road offering stunning views of the lush, green valley. You will be driven directly to your Monteverde area hotel.

Drivers and boat captains are experienced professionals and carry cell phones so that they can reach the main office or emergency contacts at any time.

The trip is also offered in reverse, from Monteverde to Arenal, departing from Monteverde area hotels in the morning or afternoon. It is possible to go round trip in one day, but this will leave you with only 3 hours in either destination. Travelers are advised against this, as at least two or three days should be planned in either location to fully appreciate the attractions.

IMPORTANT: Passengers should expect to carry their bags/luggage to and from the boat. Drivers will do their best to help if you have any problems with carrying heavy bags. Just let them know in advance.