Travel Guide of Arenal Volcano in Costa Rica by Influencers and Travelers

Arenal Volcano is an active andesitic stratovolcano in north-western Costa Rica around 90 km northwest of San José, in the province of Alajuela, canton of San Carlos, and district of La Fortuna. The Arenal volcano measures at least 1,633 metres high. It is conically shaped with a crater 140 metres in diameter.

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Pictures and Stories of Arenal Volcano from Influencers

2 pictures of Arenal Volcano from trail, Tommy Krombacher, and other travelers

landscape photo of woman sitting on silver car looking at mountains during daytime in Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park Costa Rica

We were the last ones in the park and had all the time in the world to line this shot up. The sun was perfect, the road was leading, and the volcano ...click to read more

Experienced by @trail | ©Unsplash

pathway surrounded with coconut and green trees during daytime in Arenal Volcano Costa Rica

Jungle ...click to read more

Experienced by @Tommy Krombacher | ©Unsplash

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How to visit Arenal Volcano ?

Why Traveling There?

Arenal Volcano, located in the northern part of Costa Rica, is a must-visit destination for any adventurer. The place is famous for its active volcano, hot springs, and the stunning Arenal Lake. It offers a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, wildlife viewing, rafting, and horseback riding. The captivating landscape and rich biodiversity make it a nature lover's paradise.

How to Get There?

The most convenient way to reach Arenal Volcano is by flying into Juan Santamaría International Airport in San Jose, Costa Rica’s capital. From there, you can take a shuttle bus or rent a car to reach Arenal which is approximately a three-hour drive. Alternatively, there are domestic flights from San Jose to La Fortuna, the town closest to Arenal Volcano.

What to Book in Advance?

To ensure smooth travel, it is advisable to book your accommodation, guided volcano tours, and hot springs experiences in advance. If you plan to enjoy adventure activities like zip-lining or white water rafting, pre-booking is recommended to secure your spot.

What Are the Costs?

The cost of visiting Arenal Volcano can vary greatly depending on your activities and accommodation choices. A guided tour of the volcano can range from $50 to $100 per person. Dining out in local restaurants can cost around $10-20 per meal, while a stay in a mid-range hotel can cost around $100-200 per night.

What Are the Best Things to Do?

Apart from visiting the Arenal Volcano and bathing in the hot springs, you should consider exploring the Arenal Hanging Bridges for a walk through the rainforest canopy, or taking a boat tour on Arenal Lake. Adventurous travelers can also opt for white water rafting or zip-lining through the lush greenery.

Where to Eat?

Don Rufino in La Fortuna is a popular choice for its extensive menu featuring both local and international dishes. For a taste of traditional Costa Rican cuisine, visit Soda Viquez. If you are looking for a unique dining experience, consider Restaurante Tiquicia which offers a stunning view of the volcano.

Where to Stay?

For a luxurious stay, consider Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa, which offers private hot springs and stunning views of the volcano. Arenal Manoa & Hot Springs is another great option, featuring spacious rooms with volcano views. For budget travelers, Arenal Backpackers Resort offers affordable accommodation with a pool and restaurant.

Off the Beaten Path

For an unusual experience, take a night tour of the Arenal Volcano. It’s an incredible opportunity to see the volcano's glowing lava flows under the starry sky. Another offbeat experience is visiting the Venado Caves, an underground labyrinth located about an hour's drive from Arenal. Here, you can explore stunning stalactite and stalagmite formations while wading through subterranean rivers.