Note: This national park has two sectors, the volcano sector and the peninsula sector. Here we will focus on the volcano sector. Check out this post on the peninsula sector. Your ticket to the park will grant you access to both sectors for the same day. You cannot do one sector one day and the…
Category: Alajuela
Arenal Volcano Ecological Park
About: There are various trail loops going up the volcano to the old lava flow measuring distances from 2 kilometers to 6 kilometers. There is also a small lake where you can kayak, canoe, stand up paddle, swim, and jump off the tarzan swing into the lake. Camping is possible here. Province: Alajuela Starting from:…
Arenal 1968
About: There are two trail loops, one shorter and one longer that goes by a small lagoon. Both go through the old lava flow. They end up at a large viewpoint area with a cafe that sells food and drinks. There are guides available. Province: Alajuela Starting from: La Fortuna Time to reach from starting…
Viento Fresco Waterfall
About: This is a short but steep and technical trail down to 3 waterfalls and then back up to get out. There is a 4th waterfall that is visible but may or may not be accessible. The 3rd waterfall is probably where you want to spend most of your time. Hike all the way down…
Nuevo Arenal Lake Park
About: This is a great pit stop if you are driving from La Fortuna to Monteverde, or vice versa. It provides a place to stretch your legs, walk around and take in a breath of nature as you enjoy the views of the lake. Province: Guanacaste Starting from: La Fortuna / Monteverde Time to reach…
Mirador Tilaran
About: The perfect pit stop on the highway where you can take pictures of Lake Arenal. On a clear day you can see all the way across to Arenal Volcano. There is parking available, and there are some small kiosks selling local handicrafts. Province: Guanacaste Starting from: La Fortuna / Monteverde Time to reach from…
Mirador Bahia Lago
About: While it is a few minutes off the main road, it is still a nice pit stop from Monteverde to La Fortuna, or vice versa. You can stretch your legs and take in views of the lake. Province: Guanacaste Starting from: La Fortuna / Monteverde Time to reach from starting location: 1 hour 43…
La Piedra del Indio Waterfalls
About: This is a hike on private property to 4 waterfalls and the “indian rock.” You can choose to do it self-guided or with a guide. You’ll likely see monkeys and other wildlife. They have a restaurant and bathrooms to change in. They also offer a horseback riding tour. Province: Guanacaste Starting from: La Fortuna…
Eolico Tilawind Park
About: There isn’t much here other than a stop to closely observe the wind turbines. It is also a few minutes out of the way if you’re going from La Fortuna to Monteverde or vice versa, but if you’ve never seen them before and have the time, it’s worth making the short detour, especially if…
Efoil Costa Rica Paradise
About: Since this activity is on the road from La Fortuna to Monteverde, it can be a great pit stop. However you can also make the drive out for the day from La Fortuna. If you’re a watersport lover, this is the perfect activity for you. While not the cheapest activity you can find, the…