Note: These are hikes that specifically allow you to hike up the volcano to the base of the old lava flow. Other hikes around La Fortuna are included in this list. Options for hiking up to the lava around Arenal Volcano:
Latest Posts
Arenal Volcano Peak
About: Hiking to the peak of Arenal Volcano is not available to the public. However, there are private guides that organize sunrise hikes. It is a long, strenuous and difficult hike. Province: Alajuela Starting from: La Fortuna Time to reach from starting location: Time needed for activity: 6 hours Kid friendly: No Wheelchair accessible: No…
Mirador El Silencio
About: There are several trails you can take starting from two different parking lots, a lower one and an upper one. The trails from the lower parking lot will reach the upper parking lot and are good options if you want longer hikes. If you just want to see the old lava, you can drive…
Arenal Volcano National Park
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…
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…
Top 10 in Monteverde
My top 10 picks for Monteverde, all kid-friendly: Honorable mentions: Restaurant picks:
All Monteverde Activities
A comprehensive list of all activities in Monteverde:
Pit Stops from Monteverde to La Fortuna
Options for pit stops from Monteverde to La Fortuna via Route 606 to Route 145 to Route 142:
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…