Rainforest to the Pacific
Around 10 to 12 nightsArenalMonteverdeCentral Pacific
Volcano and hot springs, a few cool days in the cloud forest, then down to the coast where the forest meets the sea.
Northern lowlandsInclude in my trip
ArenalandtheNorthernPlains
Region
Northern lowlands
Landscapes
Volcanic cone and old lava flows, Foothill rainforest
Pairs well with
Monteverde, Guanacaste
WelcomeToArenal
- Volcanic cone and old lava flows
- Foothill rainforest
- Lake Arenal
- Rivers and waterfalls
Arenal is the picture many people carry of Costa Rica before they arrive: a steep, symmetrical cone rising out of farmland and forest, often wearing a collar of cloud. The volcano has been in a resting phase since 2010, and the country around La Fortuna has become one of the most varied places to spend a few days.
Alandscapethevolcanomade
Arenal's long eruptive period began in 1968, and the lava flows from those decades are still legible on its western flanks, now softened by young forest. Trails in and around the national park cross this ground, so a morning walk can take you from rainforest to open volcanic rock and back again. To the west lies Lake Arenal, the largest body of water in the country, framed by green hills that roll on towards Tilarán and the cloud forest beyond.
Heatfrombelow
Geothermal heat feeds a string of hot springs around the volcano, from carefully landscaped pools to simpler places where warm water runs through the forest. After a day on foot, an evening soak is the region's natural rhythm.
Beyondthecone
Plan a visit
Hanging bridges carry you through the canopy; La Fortuna's waterfall drops into a deep pool below the town; rivers nearby are run by rafting and kayaking outfitters of different levels. Further north, the wetlands of Caño Negro are known for waterbirds, and the pale blue Río Celeste in Tenorio Volcano National Park is within reach as a full day out.
DiscoverArenalYourWay
Start planningIsItRightForYou?
A volcano that holds the view, and warm rivers at its feet. A near-perfect volcanic cone, forest trails across old lava flows and hot springs fed by the heat below. One of the most versatile bases in the country.
- Who it suits
- First-time visitors who want a great deal within easy reach, families who need variety, and anyone who likes soft adventure balanced with time in thermal water.
- Fitting it in
- Arenal makes a natural first or second chapter. It pairs easily with Monteverde across the lake, or with the beaches of Guanacaste to the west.
- Weather + seasons
- Arenal sits on the wetter, Caribbean-influenced side of the mountains, so rain can fall in any month. A clear view of the summit is never guaranteed; early mornings often give the best chance.
- Things to do
- Volcano and rainforest walks · Hot springs · Hanging bridges · Rafting and kayaking · Birding in the wetlands to the north. Availability varies by season and conditions.
JourneysThroughHere
All journeys- JourneyBalanced
View - JourneyActive, with room to rest
Volcanoes and Cloud Forest
ViewAround 9 to 11 nightsGuanacasteArenalMonteverde
The volcanic north, from bubbling mud on Rincón de la Vieja to the pale blue Río Celeste, Arenal's cone and the cloud forest of Monteverde.
NearbyAndOftenCombined
All regions- RegionTilarán mountains
Monteverde and the Cloud Forest
ViewCloud forestRidges and wind-shaped elfin forestPastures and farmland on the lower slopes
Mist, moss and the cool air of the continental divide.
- RegionNorth Pacific
Guanacaste and the North Pacific
ViewTropical dry forestProtected Pacific baysVolcanic highlands around Rincón de la Vieja
Dry forest, broad bays and the country's sunniest coast.
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