The Arenal Volcano is undoubtedly the star of one of Costa Rica’s most iconic postcards. With its nearly perfect cone shape, it immediately captures the attention of anyone interested in visiting the most popular national parks in Costa Rica and one of the must-see attractions in La Fortuna.
Though it’s been dormant since 2010, Arenal has had some impressive eruptions in its time, and now you can hike its slopes to see hardened lava flows and discover the fascinating local plants and wildlife. Plus, there are plenty of things to do in Arenal, so you can easily fill your day with fun experiences that complement your visit to the volcano.
Arenal Volcano National Park, Costa Rica
If you’re without a car, I highly recommend this tour. Not only will you get to explore one of the best volcanoes in Costa Rica, but you can also cool off at La Fortuna Waterfall and relax in the famous hot springs of Arenal Volcano National Park. Alternatively, after your volcano visit, you could choose this excursion to stroll along the hanging bridges.
If you’re planning a trip to the must-visit destinations in Costa Rica and aren’t sure where to begin, I’ll share some highlights of what to see in Arenal Volcano National Park and recommend some cozy accommodations where you can recharge for more adventures ahead.
Best things to do at Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica
When you visit Arenal Volcano National Park, the first thing to know is that the park is split into two main sectors. In this section, I’ll cover the best activities in each area and highlight other fantastic places to visit around the volcano.
1. Volcano Sector, the best trails in Arenal Volcano National Park
In the Volcano Sector of the Arenal Volcano, you’ll find three of the most beautiful trails in the entire park. When you first arrive, I suggest heading straight to the viewpoint, which you can reach by car in just a few minutes. Then, head to the parking lot and start exploring the trails on foot.
Each of the trails is worth your time, but if you’re in a rush, you have to do the Sendero de las Coladas—it’s a must-see. Let me walk you through what each trail offers so you can choose what suits you best:
Viewpoint to the Volcanic Cone
As I mentioned, the viewpoint to the Volcanic Cone is the ideal place to kick off your visit to the Arenal Volcano. It’s just 1 mile from the park’s entrance and offers an amazing view from above. You can easily drive up to this spot, making it a perfect place to capture some memorable photos. So, don’t forget to bring your camera along!
Viewpoint to the Volcanic Cone
Heliconias Trail
The Heliconias Trail is a short and easy walk, stretching just 2,000 feet with no steep sections, which makes it perfect for visitors of all ages and fitness levels. As you stroll along, you’ll be surrounded by lush vegetation covering the slopes of the Arenal Volcano, and you might even spot some colorful Costa Rican birds living in this area.
Heliconias Trail
But what makes this trail special is that it traces the Arenal lava fields dating back to the 1968 eruption, giving you a firsthand look at the volcanic landscape that shaped this region.
Coladas Trail
The Coladas Trail to Arenal Volcano was definitely our favorite! You get to walk along the path carved out by a lava flow from the 1992 eruption, and the views at the end are absolutely stunning. You’ll get panoramic views of both the Arenal Volcano and Arenal Lake, with the Tilarán mountain range in the distance.
Coladas Trail
The trail itself is about 1 mile long and, while there’s a slight incline in some spots, it’s mostly flat, which makes it an easy, enjoyable walk.
The Ceibo Trail
As the name suggests, the El Ceibo Trail is home to one of the most impressive Ceibo trees you’ll ever see on the slopes of the Arenal Volcano. This majestic tree is estimated to be over 400 years old, and standing in front of its massive trunk is a truly humbling experience.
The Ceibo Trail
The trail to get here is 1.5 miles long and connects to the Las Coladas Trail. So, you can hike to the last viewpoint on that trail, then take the fork towards El Ceibo and loop back to where you started. By doing both trails, you’ll end up walking about 3 miles in total.
2. Peninsula Sector, the best place to see the Arenal Lagoon
Even though the Peninsula Sector sees fewer visitors than the Volcano Sector, it’s definitely worth your time. This area features two fantastic trails that not only provide stunning views of the Arenal Volcano but also allow you to explore the impressive Arenal Lagoon. One of the best parts of this sector is that all the trails are paved, which allows you to enjoy a relaxing stroll while soaking in the beautiful natural surroundings.
Los Miradores Trail
The Los Miradores Trail is a delightful 0.7-mile path made up of wooden walkways that guide you to various lookout points with mesmerizing views. To top it off, this trail leads you right to the edge of Arenal Lagoon, where you can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere and a spectacular contrast of colors all around. For an even better perspective, you can climb the Arenal Volcano Observatory —which I highly recommend visiting at sunset!
Los Miradores Trail
The Tororoi Trail
The Tororoi Trail is the hidden gem of the park, running parallel to the Los Miradores Trail. It’s only 2,000 feet long and gives you the chance to really immerse yourself in the forest and appreciate the incredible plant life around you.
The Tororoi Trail
However, be aware that by choosing this route, you might miss out on two spectacular viewpoints that I think are absolutely worth seeing. A good option is to take the Tororoi Trail on your way back to enjoy both experiences.
3. Visit La Fortuna Waterfall
If you’ve still got some energy after exploring the Arenal Volcano, don’t miss the chance to visit La Fortuna Waterfall. This 230-foot-high cascade is one of the most iconic waterfalls in Costa Rica.
Not only is the waterfall itself stunning, but the lush surroundings will make you feel like you’re deep in nature. Keep your eyes peeled for some of the most entertaining animals in Costa Rica, like playful monkeys and colorful toucans that often hang around.
3. Visit La Fortuna Waterfall
Swimming here is one of the popular activities in Arenal, so don’t forget your swimsuit, though I’ll warn you—the water is pretty cold! To reach the base, you’ll need to descend 500 steps, but the effort is absolutely worth it once you’re standing at the foot of this magical fall.
Just a heads-up: there’s an entrance fee of $18 to visit the waterfall, separate from the Arenal Volcano National Park ticket. If you’re set on going, I recommend buying an early entry ticket to skip the lines. And if you’re not driving, this excursion is fantastic for making the most of your day in La Fortuna, as you can check out the waterfall, the volcano, and even relax in hot springs afterward!
4. Climb the Cerro Chato
If you’re up for a challenge or just love a good workout, I recommend hiking Cerro Chato near the Arenal Volcano. While it’s not as popular as some other spots in the area, it’s definitely worth a visit. At the top, you’ll find a stunning crater lake with green waters, perfect for a refreshing dip after your hike.
However, be prepared—the trail is quite tough and often muddy, so it’s best to be in good shape and, if possible, bring along a trained guide to help you navigate your way to the top. The journey will take you through beautiful forests, but the biggest challenge awaits you right before the end: a steep 3,300-foot-high climb that will definitely get your heart racing.
4. Climb the Cerro Chato
This adventure typically takes around six hours, so make sure to set aside a full day for it. Also, don’t forget to pack waterproof clothing and sturdy footwear, since it tends to rain quite a bit in this region.
If you’re brave enough to tackle Chato Volcano, make sure to register at the Paradise Mountain Lodge Hotel office and pay the $15 entrance fee.
5. Relax at the hot springs near the Arenal Volcano
Thanks to the volcanic activity in the region, you’ll find some of the best hot springs in Costa Rica around the Arenal Volcano, so don’t miss out on the chance to relax in their soothing waters!
One of the most popular Costa Rican hotels with hot springs is the Tabacón Grand Spa Thermal Resort. This luxurious resort is a paid thermal complex, and personally, I had a wonderful experience staying there. You can also purchase a day pass to enjoy the resort’s 20 pools without staying overnight.
5. Relax at the hot springs near the Arenal Volcano
Even if you’re traveling on a budget, you don’t have to skip out on some of the best hot springs in La Fortuna. You can visit the Chollín Hot Springs, a free alternative that offers a more rustic atmosphere. Just keep in mind that since they’re standalone springs and not part of any resort or facility, you won’t find any amenities, so be sure to bring everything you need for a comfortable visit.
These springs can get quite crowded, especially on weekends, so I recommend going early to enjoy a more peaceful experience, even if it’s just for a little while. And if you’re without a car, consider booking this full-day tour that includes a visit to the hot springs, Arenal Volcano, and La Fortuna Waterfall for a packed day with fun!
6. Mistico Park
Místico Park is another fantastic option for exploring the Arenal Volcano area. This recreational park features breathtaking hanging bridges and a network of trails that make discovering the forest an enjoyable adventure.
6. Mistico Park
You’ll find a total of 16 bridges within the park, with the longest stretching 320 feet. The trail is designed to guide you through various viewpoints, gardens, and other unique spots in this natural wonder, taking about two hours to complete.
Admission is $26 per person, and if you’re curious about the wildlife, you can also add on a night tour to see another side of this incredible ecosystem. The park is open daily from 6:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., making it a great outing to share with friends or family. If you’d rather not drive, you can book this tour, which includes a visit to Místico Park, Arenal Volcano, and La Fortuna Waterfall.
7. Parque Arenal Mundo Aventura
Parque Arenal Mundo Aventura is the place to go if you want to experience thrilling ziplines in Costa Rica and feel the exhilaration of flying through the jungle among the lush, green canopies. This eco-park covers 1,380 acres and is home to seven famous Arenal Volcano ziplines. So, if you’re one of those people who loves the adrenaline rush, I am sure you’re going to have an absolute blast here.
7. Parque Arenal Mundo Aventura
For me, the highlight was climbing the cable ladder next to the Pino Blanco Waterfall and doing some rappelling. Honestly, it was terrifying, but it ended up being one of the most unforgettable moments of my trip.
This excursion is open to all ages and includes unlimited zipline rides, so you can go as many times as you want. The park provides all the gear you need, along with pickup from your hotel in La Fortuna. From up high, you’ll get breathtaking views of the waterfall, Cerro Chato, and of course, the Arenal Volcano. It’s an adventure you won’t want to miss!
8. Hike the Arenal 1968 Trail
The Arenal 1968 trail is a privately managed hiking area on the slopes of the Arenal Volcano, where you’ll find an incredible mix of solidified lava flows and almost untouched forest that will blow your mind. This peaceful area is located right next to Arenal Volcano National Park and offers two trail options depending on how much energy you’ve got.
The “Sendero Bosque 1968” is a 2.8-mile loop, which includes most of the 1.5-mile “Sendero Colada 1968” trail. Both are equally stunning, although the shorter doesn’t reach Lago los Patos.
8. Hike the Arenal 1968 Trail
As you hike, you’ll walk over ancient lava flows from the 1968 eruption, and catch glimpses of fumaroles rising from the earth, reminding you that Arenal is still very much alive, even if it looks calm!
One of the best things about this area is that it’s often less crowded than the Arenal Volcano National Park, so you can enjoy a more peaceful experience. The trails are open daily from 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with the last entry at 4:00 p.m. The entrance fee is $25 per person.
9. Mirador El Silencio
Mirador El Silencio, or The Silence Viewpoint is another must-visit private reserve on the slopes of Arenal Volcano. With six different trails covering 8.7 miles, this 555-acres forest is home to some incredible wildlife.
However, many visitors, including us, are drawn here for the postcard-perfect view of Arenal Volcano from El Silencio Viewpoint, which is the closest accessible spot at the volcano’s base.
To get there, we started on route 3 “Sendero el Tabacón,” then took route 5 “Mirador Lago Arenal,” and finished up on route 6 “Sendero Lava del 68,” making a loop that took us around 2.5 hours with plenty of photo stops.
9. Mirador El Silencio
Considering the entrance fee is just $10, it’s an absolute steal! In my opinion, the views of Arenal Volcano and Lake Arenal from here are the best. I do wish we had opted for a guided tour, though, as the forest is home to toucans, snakes, and even some Costa Rican monkeys, and we missed out on seeing lots of wildlife.
Plus, a guide could share fascinating insights about the volcano’s history, especially the major eruption of the Arenal Volcano in 1968. If you don’t have a car, don’t worry—this excursion includes transportation from La Fortuna along with a guided tour to Mirador El Silencio, making it super convenient!
10. Water activities at Lake Arenal
As I mentioned earlier, Lake Arenal, named after the volcano, is right in the area. Interestingly, it’s an artificial lake created to support a hydroelectric power plant, built by damming the river that flowed through Arenal Valley. This project turned out to be so successful that it’s now the second-largest lake in Central America, providing energy to 40% of the country!
Not only is the lake stunning, but it’s also a hub for water activities that promise a great time while you enjoy the beautiful surroundings. For instance, this kayaking tour allows you to enjoy the scenery from the water and includes a thrilling bike ride through the forest for a bit of extra adrenaline.
10. Water activities at Lake Arenal
Alternatively, you might prefer this paddleboarding tour, which is an easier activity suitable for all ages and skill levels.
Fun fact: there are water taxis that can take you across the lake in about 30 minutes, connecting Monteverde and La Fortuna. This service also provides a van transfer from your hotel in La Fortuna to the lake and then on to Monteverde, and vice versa!
If you’re driving, you might want to take the scenic road that runs along the lake, stopping at the various viewpoints along the way. This route will take about 3 hours, but having your own car is a huge plus for visiting all the main tourist attractions in Monteverde.
Arenal Volcano operating hours and ticket prices
Arenal Volcano National Park is open every single day from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., without exception, so you can visit whenever you want throughout the year.
Arenal Volcano operating hours and ticket prices
Unlike some other national parks in Costa Rica, you can only buy tickets to Arenal Volcano National Park at the official ticket booths. The cost is $15 for international visitors.
Your ticket gives you access to both the Volcano Sector and the Peninsula Sector. However, it’s important to note that private reserves near the Arenal Volcano—like Arenal 1968, Mirador El Silencio, and La Fortuna Waterfall—are privately managed. That means they operate on different schedules and have their own entrance fees.
How to get to the Arenal Volcano
The best way to reach the Arenal Volcano is from the town of La Fortuna. It’s only about a 30-minute drive to the park entrance, and La Fortuna makes the perfect base for exploring everything around the volcano. On clear days, you can even spot Arenal’s majestic silhouette right from the central square, which is why La Fortuna is such a popular tourist destination among the cities in Costa Rica.
How to get to the Arenal Volcano
If you’re renting a car in Costa Rica, just hop on Highway 142—you really can’t miss it! However, there aren’t any direct buses to the volcano, and taxi fares can get quite steep, so if you don’t have a car, joining a tour might be your best bet.
The same goes for traveling to Arenal from the capital, San José. The drive takes about three hours one-way, so doing it as a day trip would mean a lot of driving—six hours total! To save yourself the hassle, consider joining a tour, where you can sit back and enjoy the ride instead of worrying about the drive.
Arenal Volcano tours
If you don’t have a car, you can still enjoy the beauty of Arenal Volcano National Park since many tours in Costa Rica include it in their itineraries.
This tour from La Fortuna allows you to visit three of the area’s main attractions all in one day: the Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna Waterfall, and the hot springs. It’s one of the most comprehensive excursions to the Arenal Volcano! If you’re staying at one of the hotels in La Fortuna with a spa or prefer something a little more adventurous, you might like this other excursion that takes you to the hanging bridges of Místico Park instead of the hot springs.
If you’re based in one of the hotels in San José, I recommend checking out this tour that offers a great mix of adventure, nature, and local culture. In addition to exploring the Arenal Volcano, you’ll stop by a coffee plantation for one of the best coffee tours in Costa Rica. Then, you’ll get to visit La Paz Waterfall and zipline through the lush canopy. To top it all off, you can unwind in the hot springs at the base of the volcano.
Best hotels near Arenal Volcano National Park
If you’re looking for a place to stay in Costa Rica near Arenal Volcano, here are a few great options for different budgets:
- Luxury: The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal is among the top luxury hotels in Costa Rica. The rooms are stylish, featuring plush mattresses and oversized pillows for maximum comfort. You’ll also find murals by local artists, private balconies, and outdoor showers.
- Mid-range: Tabacón Hot Springs is another hotel by the Arenal Volcano with hot springs. It has various room types, all featuring elegant decor. Some rooms even come with a terrace, a hot tub, and amazing views, so you can pick the one that suits your travel vibe best. Don’t miss out on the spa, which offers wellness and beauty treatments, or its two restaurants where you can try traditional Costa Rican cuisine as well as international dishes.
- Budget: For a less expensive stay, check out Selina La Fortuna. It’s one of the best hostels in Costa Rica with a range of room options, including dorms with 6, 8, or 10 beds, and private rooms for two people. The facilities are fantastic, with an outdoor pool, a shared kitchen, and a cozy garden area complete with sun loungers where you can relax after a day of exploring.
Best restaurants near the Arenal Volcano
After a long day of hiking and exploring the stunning trails of Arenal Volcano National Park, you’re probably ready to eat! Luckily, some of the best Costa Rican restaurants are located nearby where you can refuel. Here are a few of my top picks:
- Travesía Restaurant: Located in La Fortuna, this place has a cozy yet elegant vibe. If you’re a fan of grilled meats, you’ll love it here, but they also offer a variety of snacks, fish, pasta, and rice dishes. Plus, if you’re traveling with kids, they’ve got a menu designed just for them—so it’s a great option for the whole family.
- Que Rico Arenal Restaurant: Just a 10-minute drive from La Fortuna, this restaurant is perfectly situated on the way to the Arenal Volcano. The large windows provide stunning views of the volcano while you enjoy your meal, making it a feast for the eyes and the stomach! The menu has a wide range of options like meat, pasta, and fish, but trust me, the pizzas are the star of the show.
- El Novillo del Arenal: This spot specializes in mouth-watering steaks, though you’ll also find some delicious burgers on the menu. The restaurant is located along the same road leading to Arenal Volcano, surrounded by nature, so you can enjoy your meal with panoramic views.
Arenal Volcano map
To help you plan your trip, here’s a handy map of Arenal Volcano National Park. It’s great for planning your itinerary and making sure you don’t miss any of the must-see spots. Also, be sure to check out our detailed map of Costa Rica, which highlights all the top attractions in the country.
FAQs – Arenal Volcano National Park
Before wrapping up, here are some quick answers to the most common questions about visiting Arenal Volcano National Park:
Where is the entrance to Arenal Volcano National Park?
You’ll find the entrance to Arenal Volcano National Park in the Volcano Sector, which is about 9 miles from downtown La Fortuna.
How much is the Arenal Volcano Park entrance fee?
The entrance fee for Arenal Volcano National Park is $15 for foreign visitors, and this ticket gives you access to both the Volcano Sector and the Peninsula Sector.
How long does it take to visit the Arenal Volcano?
I recommend setting aside at least half a day to explore Arenal Volcano National Park. This should give you plenty of time to check out the Arenal Volcano lookout point and hike both trails at a comfortable pace. If you want to explore the area further, though, consider spending a full day.
What is the best time to visit the Arenal Volcano?
While any time is a good time to visit, summer typically brings mostly sunny days with very little rain, making it easier to spot the crater.
Do I need to book my ticket to Arenal Volcano National Park in advance?
No! You’ll need to purchase your ticket directly at the park’s ticket office. Arenal is one of the few national parks that doesn’t offer online ticket sales.
Is Arenal Volcano active?
Yes, Arenal Volcano is indeed active, but don’t worry—it’s not erupting at the moment!
Is Arenal Volcano safe to visit?
Absolutely! Visiting Arenal Volcano is completely safe. The area is monitored 24/7, 365 days a year, not just for the safety of visitors but also because there are several communities nearby.
Can you hike to the top of Arenal Volcano?
No, climbing to the top of Arenal Volcano is prohibited.
Is La Fortuna waterfall part of Arenal Volcano National Park?
Yes, La Fortuna Waterfall is located within the park, but keep in mind that you’ll need to purchase a separate ticket to visit it.
Do you need to be fit to hike the Arenal Volcano?
Not really! Hiking in Arenal Volcano National Park is pretty easy, with mostly flat terrain. Just a heads up: at the end of the Colada Trail, there’s a small uphill section that requires a bit more effort, but it’s manageable with a little patience!
