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Lake Arenal

Lake Arenal: Our most recommended tours and activities

La Fortuna: Waterfall, Arenal Volcano and Hot Springs Tour

1. La Fortuna: Waterfall, Arenal Volcano and Hot Springs Tour

Escape into the nature of the La Fortuna on a guided hike. Walk by the river and follow a trail to a panoramic viewpoint. Have a delicious lunch at a Maluku Indian village and trek through forest, lava fields, and farmlands before relaxing at a natural hot spring resort with a drink. Be collected at your accommodation and be driven to the beginning of the forest walk. Trek on the easy track along the crystal clear La Fortuna river. En route, hop on a tractor cart uphill to a panoramic viewpoint. Spot the next location from a distance then begin the return walk down a jungle staircase. Halfway down is a high suspension bridge to cross. The trail leads further down the huge canyon, which was shaped by a volcanic mega-eruption. Encounter the spectacular La Fortuna waterfall. Be amazed by the lush vegetation on its 70-meter high walls, the huge volcanic rocks at its foot, and the water splashing down in its massive pool. Bask in its beauty or even take a refreshing dip. Return to the viewpoint then walk down to the little village of the Maluku Indians. Seated in their Palenke (main house), enjoy a rest while listening to an interesting story about their culture, art, and history.  After being active for a few hours, the time has come to relax and enjoy a typical hot lunch. Next to the restaurant is a butterfly garden and frog pond that you can explore until your food is served.  Reenergized, take a 15-minute ride to the park at the foot of the Arenal volcano. Being the trek through the primary forest where you can see huge trees with giant roots. Besides a variety of birds, the forest is host to monkeys, sloths, and coati. Leave the forest and each the highest viewpoint that exists around the volcano and absorb the most spectacular panoramic views of Lake Arenal, the jungle, the valley, the lava fields, and most of all the Arenal that towers over you.  Conclude your tour at the natural hot spring resort. Relax in its soothing warm water for about an hour and enjoy a volcanic mud facial and a complimentary cocktail. Afterward, you will be taken back to your accommodation.

From La Fortuna: Arenal Volcano & Hotsprings Afternoon Tour

2. From La Fortuna: Arenal Volcano & Hotsprings Afternoon Tour

On this nature adventure, you will see all the stunning beauty of the Arenal area. Right at the foot of the Arenal volcano, make your way into a beautiful park. Enjoy the most impressive primary rainforest where you can admire the huge trees and complex ecosystem that surrounds them. Leaving the forest, get to the lava fields. Here, follow a trail through the enormous black lava rocks that were deposited there by the massive 1968 eruption. The reward is definitely worth the effort. With the impressive Arenal looming over you, you really get an idea of the immensity of this now silent giant and the violent force with which it erupted. All along the way, your bilingual guide will tell you about the history, the ecosystem, and the wildlife you may encounter. After a coffee break, go on the way to get some well-deserved relaxation. End the tour at a small hot spring resort, here you can soak in the soothing hot water while enjoying a complimentary cocktail.

La Fortuna or Monteverde: One-Way Boat Transfer

3. La Fortuna or Monteverde: One-Way Boat Transfer

Add a little adventure to your transportation needs between Monteverde and La Fortuna and avail of a transfer that includes an informative boat tour across Lake Arenal. Get spectacular views of Arenal Volcano and the cloud forests of Monteverde as you travel by van and boat. Choose from a morning or afternoon departure in either direction to suit your schedule, and relax in the knowledge that your luggage will be taken care of on every step of the journey. Depart La Fortuna and travel to Lake Arenal by van. Then, take a 30-minute boat ride to the town of Río Chiquito before continuing to Monteverde by van. For departures from Monteverde, travel to Lake Arenal by van. Cross Lake Arenal on an enlightening 30-minute boat ride to the earthen dam, and then continue to La Fortuna by van for drop off at your hotel.

Monteverde: Transfer to La Fortuna via Lake Arenal

4. Monteverde: Transfer to La Fortuna via Lake Arenal

Travel easy, safe, and fun between Monteverde and La Fortuna De Arenal! Also known as the Taxi-Boat-Taxi or Jeep-Boat-Jeep, this is the fastest and most popular route between Monteverde and Arenal, combining the excitement of an adventure trip with the convenience of a transport service. Experience the beauty of the Arenal Volcano National Park, a boat ride on Lake Arenal, and incredible views of the mountains and villages. Travel easily between Monteverde and La Fortuna de Arenal. This service is provided daily from Monteverde to Arenal. We will gladly pick you up from the door of your hotel, then you will get transported by vehicle to the lake and then board a boat for approximately one hour to cross the lake. Once you reach the other side, one of our professional representatives will help you load the luggage, board the vehicle, and take you to the door of your hotel. The Shared Arenal Lake Crossing operates daily. However, shared shuttles are by no means public bus transportation. Another nice feature of our shared shuttle is that there is at least one stop along the way where passengers can stretch, pose for photographs, use the facilities, and get food. The Private Arenal Lake Crossing can be scheduled anytime you wish and from any airport, hotel, private home, or identifiable landmark in Costa Rica. Another nice feature of our private transport is that it allows one hour of free wait time for the journey, giving your group opportunities to coordinate a road adventure, pose for photographs, take bathroom breaks, or enjoy a meal. Enjoy your way with Wi-Fi inside the vehicles to share every adventure of your trip. Our local drivers and guides who are eager to help your group move safely around the country will show you our amazing country. Trust is earned. Give us the opportunity to earn yours. We will be happy to be part of your next trip!

Lake Arenal and Volcano Mountain Biking (Moderate)

5. Lake Arenal and Volcano Mountain Biking (Moderate)

Costa Rica has amazing natural features and the tranquil countryside is ideal for mountain biking in Costa Rica! You'll ride on trails that run through farmlands, close to the jungle and along the base of mountains and hills - this Arenal Volcano mountain bike tour helps you explore Costa Rica's diverse natural environment with the help of your knowledgeable Costa Rica bike guide. As you bike along Lake Arenal at the base of the Arenal Volcano, you'll pass rainforest, rural farmlands, and wildlife. You'll have the chance to see different kinds of monkeys, toucans, coatimundis and more! Make a stop along the way and have a nice snack while cooling off in a river or in Lake Arenal. You will bike on a gravel road connecting Lake Arenal to the Arenal Volcano National Park which stretches 8.3 miles each way. As you ride toward the Caño Negro river, in the small town of El Castillo, you'll be surrounded by lush rainforest. You'll be amazed by the friendliness of Costa Rican country folk, who are bound to smile and wave at you, as you pass by beautiful landscape. Then return to your hotel with unforgettable memories of this fun Arenal adventure tour!

Arenal Forest: Bird Observation & Photography Tour

6. Arenal Forest: Bird Observation & Photography Tour

If you are a lover of birdsong and enjoy the beautiful colors of these feathered creatures, this tour and outing amongst nature is for you. Enjoy a gentle walk through the forest with the purposes of observing and photographing these incredible animals. The areas around the Arenal Volcano and Lake Arenal are fantastic for bird watchers. An expert bilingual naturalist and birdwatcher guide will help you find a wide variety of species such as toucans, parrots, orioles, colorful tanagers, parakeets and many more. Birds are most active early in the morning and in the late afternoon as the day cools into evening. For more experienced birdwatchers, you can focus on seeing Royal Flycatchers, White-Fronted Nun birds, Cinnamon Woodpeckers and other less commonly seen species.

Lake Arenal: Mistico Hanging Bridges & Lake Arenal Kayaking

7. Lake Arenal: Mistico Hanging Bridges & Lake Arenal Kayaking

Kayak on the lake Arenal while you enjoy stunning views of the Arenal Volcano and the Cerro Chato. Lake Arenal is a lake which is situated in the northern highlands of Costa Rica. It is currently the largest lake in Costa Rica at 85-square-kilometre. Its depth varies between 30 and 60 meters seasonally. Admire the Arenal Volcano while paddling through the lake. Afterward, hike the slopes of the Arenal Volcano which is surrounded by beautiful gardens, where you can observe, howler monkeys, spider monkeys, lots of birds, and various species of trees. Explore the forest's stunning vegetation, 2 viewing points, and labyrinth. Enjoy the rainforest while walking through Mistico Park, with 16 bridges (6 hanging and 10 stable). This experience allows you to hike in the heart of the rainforest.

Lake Arenal: Sunset Cruise with Moonshine

8. Lake Arenal: Sunset Cruise with Moonshine

Don't miss the opportunity to witness the sunset over Lake Arenal. After getting picked up from your hotel, head to the small town of El Fosforo. Here, board your cruise boat and cruise around the edges of the lake to spot kingfishers, egrets, herons and more. Discover quiet coves, amazing birdlife and great views of the Arenal Volcano, all while learning more about the area from your passionate guide. Then, sit back and admire the spectacular sunset over the lake and watch as the Arenal Volcano is illuminated by the night sky. Sip on some Costa Rican moonshine and munch on local snacks such as fresh chips and cheese as you witness this natural beauty. At the end of your tour, get dropped off back at your hotel.

La Fortuna: Pedal Board at Lake Arenal - 4 Hours tour

9. La Fortuna: Pedal Board at Lake Arenal - 4 Hours tour

Pedal across the water and discover the stunning nature of Lake Arenal. Pick up at La Fortuna and after a relaxing drive during 30 minute to the lake a guide will receive you and give a brief introduction and get you set up for the tour. Glide across the calm and peaceful waters at the foot of the breathtaking Arenal Volcano. The board is powered with your legs, the strongest part of your body, and allows you to hold the handlebars for balance, making this activity easy and fun for people of all ages. Your guide will lead you towards Arenal Volcano as they show you interesting wildlife. Halfway through the tour, you’ll pull up on shore and have a break for swimming, taking photos, and to enjoy some refreshments. After a rest, head you back to the start point and get dropped off back in La Fortuna.

La Fortuna: Pure Trek Canyoning, Hiking, and Biking Day Trip

10. La Fortuna: Pure Trek Canyoning, Hiking, and Biking Day Trip

We will pick you up and whisk you off to our canyon, about a 20 minute drive outside La Fortuna. Then transfer to 4×4 trucks for an exciting short drive to out ranch house to gear up. Then you are off for a morning of exciting and exhilarating waterfall rappelling, a canyon wall, Monkey drop (zip line & rappel) and rock climb all in our spectacular rainforest canyon. We then take you to our beautiful base offices and tropical gardens for a delicious Typical Costa Rican lunch that will to give you energy to continue your day of adventure. Your ride begins on the old road connecting Lake Arenal with the main entrance to Arenal Volcano National Park, about a 15 minute drive from Pure Trek. You will ride through the rainforest and along the shore of Lake Arenal to a small local village, El Castillo. This route is on a secluded narrow dirt road surrounded by dense rainforest, rolling pasture lands and views of the volcano everywhere you look. Along the ride we see may see howler monkeys, coatis, toucans, egrets and king fishers. We end the ride with a picnic on the shore of Lake Arenal, and a dip in the lake.

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Other Sightseeing Options in Lake Arenal

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What people are saying about Lake Arenal

Overall rating

4.7 / 5

based on 606 reviews

This is a great tour! If you don’t have a lot of time and want to see the highlights of the area, THIS is the tour to do. We saw sloths, monkeys, snakes, and birds. The waterfall is gorgeous (the hike down the stairs is very easy if you’re decently healthy), the volcano hike is also really easy and the guides are very nice and sweet. The food was pretty good and they gave us snacks throughout the day as well (pineapple and cookies). This tour really gives it all. Someone here mentioned it was a good idea to bring two swimsuits so you don’t put on a soggy swimsuit for the hot springs later and that was a good tip! Don’t forget your towel and while you should wear sneaker, bringing flip flops for the waterfalls and hot springs is a good idea too.

It was a very educational day with our guide Max who was extremely knowledgeable on the plants, animals, and history of the area. He treated it as a lesson on how to survive in the jungle which made it more interesting. There is a good bit of walking and the hike back up from the waterfall can be strenuous but well worth it! The soak in the hot springs was a perfect way to end the day.

Johnny was FANTASTIC. and our driver David was always ready to help. The scenery and wildlife was incredible but the guides made the trip fantastic. We saw so much wildlife and Johnny have us as much information as we wanted! This activity is a MUST DO in LA Fortuna

It’s was super nice!!! Very fun and enjoyable. Food was delicious too. Chris (guide tour) and Chacha (driver) were very kind. We really enjoyed this tour.

The tour was great! We got to see a lot but also didn't feel too rushed. Our guide gave us a lot of background information which was very interesting.