Arenal Volcano and the town of La Fortuna are consistently ranked among the top destinations in Central America — and for good reason. Whether you are an adrenaline seeker, a nature lover or simply looking to soak in a thermal pool with a volcano view, Arenal has something for everyone. Here are 15 unforgettable things to do.
1. 🌋 Hike Around Arenal Volcano
The Arenal Volcano National Park offers several trails through old lava fields and primary rainforest. The Heliconias Trail (2km loop) and the Los Tucanes Trail are perfect for spotting wildlife like coatis, monkeys and toucans with the volcano looming above.
💡 Tip: Go early in the morning for the best volcano views before clouds roll in.
2. ♨️ Soak in the Hot Springs
La Fortuna is famous for its volcanic hot springs. Options range from the upscale Tabacón Grand Thermal Resort to the more affordable Baldi Hot Springs. Some rivers near La Fortuna have free natural hot spring areas. Soaking under the stars with a volcano view is pure magic.
💡 Budget tip: The free hot springs area along the road is crowded but completely free.
3. 💧 La Paz Waterfall — On Your Way from SJO
If you are arriving from San José, make sure your shuttle includes a stop at La Paz Waterfall in Vara Blanca. This 37-meter cascade is one of Costa Rica's most spectacular — and it's right on the route. Eagles Shuttle includes this stop for FREE.
💡 This is included FREE with all Eagles Shuttle private transfers from SJO.
4. 🌊 La Fortuna Waterfall
The iconic La Fortuna Waterfall drops 75 meters into a crystal-clear pool. It's a steep 15-minute hike down (and up!) but completely worth it. Swimming is allowed and the water is surprisingly refreshing.
💡 Entrance fee: ~$18 USD. Best time: morning to avoid tour groups.
5. 🦅 Canopy Zip-lining
Ecoglide and Sky Adventures Arenal offer thrilling zip-line tours above the rainforest canopy with volcano views. Some tours include hanging bridges and Tarzan swings.
💡 Duration: 2–4 hours. Book in advance during high season.
6. 🐊 Crocodile Watching at Tárcoles Bridge
On your way from SJO via La Fortuna to Manuel Antonio, your Eagles Shuttle makes a FREE stop at Tárcoles Bridge — home to some of the largest American crocodiles in the world. You can see them sunbathing directly below the bridge.
💡 This stop is included FREE on the La Fortuna → Manuel Antonio route.
7. 🦋 Río Celeste — The Blue River
About 1.5 hours from La Fortuna, Río Celeste (Blue River) in Tenorio Volcano National Park is one of Costa Rica's most surreal natural wonders. The river turns a vivid sky-blue color due to volcanic minerals.
💡 Full-day excursion from La Fortuna. Book a tour from your hotel.
8. 🐟 Río Frío Boat Tour
A guided boat tour on the calm rivers around Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge lets you spot caimans, monkeys, sloths, herons and hundreds of bird species. One of the best wildlife experiences in the country.
💡 Departs from La Fortuna. 4–5 hours including transport.
9. 🏄 White Water Rafting
The Río Toro and Río Balsa near La Fortuna offer Class III–IV rapids through stunning jungle gorges. Great for adventure seekers of all levels.
💡 Duration: 3–5 hours. Most operators include lunch.
10. 🏡 Mistico Hanging Bridges
Walk through the rainforest canopy on hanging suspension bridges at Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park. 16 bridges (6 hanging) and 3km of trail through pristine jungle with volcano views.
💡 Self-guided or guided tours available. Morning = best for wildlife.
11. 🌿 Arenal Botanical Gardens
A peaceful self-guided walk through stunning tropical gardens with over 2,000 plant species, orchids, heliconia and a spectacular butterfly garden. Perfect for a relaxed half-day.
💡 Open daily. About 5km from La Fortuna town.
12. 🦜 Birdwatching
The Arenal area is a world-class birdwatching destination with over 850 species recorded in Costa Rica. Look for resplendent quetzals, keel-billed toucans and scarlet macaws. The Cerro Chato trail is excellent for birding.
💡 Early morning (5–8am) is the best time for birdwatching.
13. 🛶 Lake Arenal Kayaking
Rent a kayak on Lake Arenal — the largest lake in Costa Rica — for stunning views of the volcano reflected in the water. Wind surfers and kitesurfers also flock here.
💡 Multiple rental operators along the lake shore. About 30 min from La Fortuna.
14. 🍽️ Eat at the Choza de Laurel
Choza de Laurel is the most iconic restaurant in La Fortuna — huge portions of traditional Costa Rican casado, fresh fish and tropical fruit smoothies in an open-air rancho setting.
💡 Arrive before 12pm or after 2pm to avoid the lunch rush.
15. 🌅 Watch the Sunset Over the Volcano
End your day at any rooftop bar or hot spring with a view of the volcano. On clear evenings, the outline of Arenal Volcano against an orange sky is one of the most beautiful sights in Costa Rica.
💡 The best views are from the west side of La Fortuna town.
Get to Arenal in comfort
Private shuttle from SJO to La Fortuna with a FREE stop at La Paz Waterfall. From $170 USD for 1–4 passengers.
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