Top Experiences in Arenal/La Fortuna

Unique things to do, curated by kimkim specialists
Make the most of your time in Arenal and La Fortuna with our top activity picks. If you're unafraid of heights and would like to explore the canopy of the rainforest with clear views of Arenal Volcano, consider an experience similar to this guided walk on Arenal's treetop hanging bridges. For a thrilling water experience, you may enjoy something like this whitewater rafting on the Balsa River, where you can paddle through Class II and III rapids, spot tropical birds and monkeys, and even swim along the calmer stretches of the river. If you're interested in trying out canyoning, an excursion like this Lost Canyon adventure may be perfect for you, as you'll rappel down the side of three waterfalls in the rainforest and enjoy a refreshing dip in the largest waterfall's pool.
Rafting fun on the Balsa River
Whitewater Rafting on the Balsa River
4.9
(17)
5 hours
·
Small group
Embark on an adrenaline-pumping whitewater rafting adventure down the Río Balsa. You'll transfer from La Fortuna to the put-in spot on the river, where your guide will give you safety instructions and outfit you with a helmet and life vest. Then, push off into the current and start paddling...
Arenal Hanging Bridges
Arenal Hanging Bridges Guided Walk
4.9
(17)
4 hours
·
Small group
Explore the thrilling Arenal Hanging Bridges on this popular excursion. The trail system, located inside a rainforest reserve, features suspension bridges that take you high above the treetops before treating you to a once-in-a-lifetime view of Arenal Volcano. Venturing along these spectacular...
Zip Line Tour
Tram, Zipline and Hanging Bridges Combo
4.8
(27)
5 hours
·
Small group
Begin the day with a scenic ride up a mountain in an open-air gondola. When you reach the top observation platform, you'll take in panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, including Arenal Volcano. Next, you'll enjoy an adrenaline-pumping zipline ride from tree to tree and canyon to canyon...
Be prepared to get wet
Canyoning in the Lost Canyon
4.9
(12)
5 hours
·
Small group
Go waterfall rappelling, also known as canyoning, in the jungle. This activity is one of the most popular adventure sports in Costa Rica. In a canyon in the heart of the rainforest, your guide will provide brief safety instructions and outfit you with a harness. You'll then rappel down the side...
Safari float
Safari Float on the Peñas Blancas River
4.7
(26)
4 hours
·
Small group
Float slowly down the wildlife-rich Peñas Blancas River and experience the tranquility of the rainforest on a family-friendly boating excursion. This rafting trip is a golden opportunity to observe many species of wildlife, such as monkeys, sloths, iguanas, turtles, and alligators, as well as...
Hike to dreamlike waterfalls
Río Celeste & Tenorio Volcano National Park Guided Rainforest Hike
4.9
(7)
7 hours
·
Small group
Venture into Tenorio Volcano National Park for a refreshing hike along the Río Celeste, one of the most stunning natural attractions in Costa Rica. As the legend goes, after God finished painting the sky, he washed his brushes in this river, resulting in its famous electric-blue waters. There's...
Baby sloth
Sloth & Bird Hike
4.9
(7)
2 hours
·
Small group
Embark on a two-hour hiking excursion along the "sloth trail" with a bilingual guide. Discover the tropical forest while spotting sloths, birds, and reptiles in their natural habitat.
A hot spring near Arenal
Arenal Volcano Hike & Tabacon Hot Springs & Meal
4.8
(8)
7 hours
·
Small group
Enjoy a day of hiking and relaxation on this popular excursion to the Arenal Volcano 1968 Park and the Tabacon Hot Springs. You'll begin with a guided hike around the base of the famed Arenal Volcano, keeping your eyes open for exotic birds and monkeys and taking in magnificent views of the...
The center nurses three-toed sloths back to health
Proyecto Asis Wildlife Rehabilitation Center - Volunteer Experience
4.8
(6)
6 hours
·
Small group
Visit Proyecto Asis, a wildlife rehabilitation and rescue center. A naturalist guide will lead you on a tour, introducing you to the resident animals and sharing their stories. You'll likely see anteaters, monkeys, snakes, parrots, sloths, and more. (Because the center's goal is to release as...
The colorful yet lethal poison dart frog
Ecocentro Danaus Nighttime Rainforest Walk
5.0
(4)
3 hours
·
Small group
Experience the rainforest after dark on this unique guided excursion to Ecocentro Danaus, a private ecological reserve near La Fortuna. As the sun goes down, you'll venture into the jungle, exploring this haven for plants, insects, reptiles, and other nocturnal animals. Highlights your guide will...
Hiking trail in Arenal National Park
Arenal Volcano & 1968 Reserve Guided Hike
4.6
(18)
3.5 hours
·
Small group
Embark on a guided adventure through Arenal Volcano 1968 Park, where you'll find the Arenal Volcano. As you navigate the path around the volcano's base, your expert guide will point out exotic birds, monkeys, and other creatures. You'll continue your hike through segments of the park that the...
You might spot a sloth on the trail
Sloth Observation - Day or Night Walk
4.5
(25)
3 hours
·
Small group
See sloths in their natural habitat on this family-friendly excursion! During this two-hour tour in a private nature reserve just outside La Fortuna, you'll not only have the opportunity to view these slow-moving creatures hanging out in the trees, but you'll also learn all about the sloth's...
Arenal Volcano Hike & La Fortuna Waterfall
4.7
(9)
5 hours
·
Small group
First, you'll head towards the base of the volcano to hike Arenal 1968. This is a network of trails named after Arenal's last major eruption. The event was so catastrophic it transformed some of the region’s topography, and lava fields now dominate one side of the volcano. The trails wind through...
View of the La Fortuna Waterfall
La Fortuna Waterfall Guided Hike
4.8
(5)
2.5 hours
·
Small group
Located in the tropical rainforest, the towering La Fortuna Waterfall is an attraction you don't want to miss. Get up close with the cascades on this guided excursion that leads you down an outdoor staircase with various viewpoints and rest areas along the way. Your guide will point out rock...
Stand-Up Paddle Boarding on Lake Arenal
5.0
(3)
5.5 hours
·
Small group
After a boat takes you to the center of Lake Arenal, you'll enjoy a 2.5-hour SUP session, complete with stunning views of Arenal Volcano, mountain vistas, and an island teeming with waterbirds.
The elusive resplendent quetzal
Birdwatching in Arenal Mundo Aventura Park
4.8
(4)
4 hours
·
Small group
Get an "early bird" start for this popular bird-watching excursion to Arenal Mundo Aventura Park. There's a good reason for the early wake-up time: the park is home to a stunning variety of birdlife, and most species are at their most active in the morning. Follow a naturalist guide through the...
Learn just how diverse Costa Rican cuisine can be
Traditional Cooking Class with Dinner
4.5
(10)
2.5 hours
·
Small group
Upon arrival, explore the gardens and farms where your fresh ingredients come from. Mix up a tropical cocktail or jungle juice, then learn how to prepare traditional Costa Rican dishes, including picadillos, tortillas, and guisados. Enjoy a sit-down meal with fellow travelers and skilled chef.
Backroad Mountain Biking Around Lake Arenal
4.7
(3)
4 hours
·
Small group
Embark on an exciting mountain biking adventure in Costa Rica, where you'll traverse farmlands and forests against the gorgeous backdrop of Arenal Volcano. Your journey begins at the quaint town of Fosforos on Lake Arenal, where a friendly guide will equip you with the necessary gear and safety...
Malekus Indigenous
Visit to Maleku Indigenous Reserve
4.7
(3)
6 hours
·
Small group
Learn about the region's cultural roots on this guided visit to Maleku Indigenous Reserve in northern Costa Rica. The reserve is home to three separate communities — Margarita, Tonjibe, and El Sol — and about 1,000 residents. You'll experience their traditions and lifestyle on a guided tour...
The exotic butterfly garden
Guided Nature Walk at Ecological Park & Butterfly Garden Danaus
4.3
(9)
3 hours
·
Small group
A bilingual guide will lead you on a nature walk through the Ecological Park & Butterfly Garden Danaus on this half-day tour. You'll have the chance to spot tree frogs, caimans, monkeys, sloths, and a wide variety of birds as you follow your guide on a nature trail. Stop at botanical gardens,...
Whitewater Rafting on the Sarapiquí River
5.0
(1)
8 hours
·
Small group
Embark on an adrenaline-fueled whitewater rafting adventure down the Sarapiqui River. Navigating a 14-mile stretch of over 40 Class III and IV rapids, you'll paddle hard under the guidance of an experienced leader, likely experiencing thrilling water plunges. Amidst the excitement, enjoy the...
Relax in volcanic hot springs
Arenal Hanging Bridges Guided Walk & Tabacon Hot Springs & Meal
5.0
(1)
8 hours
·
Small group
Enjoy a mix of active adventures and relaxation on this popular day trip to the Arenal Hanging Bridges and Tabacon Hot Springs. You'll start with a leisurely hike through the rainforest along a series of suspension bridges, learning about the jungle's unique ecosystem and spotting rare birds in...
Two red-eyed tree frogs
Nocturnal Frog Excursion & Traditional Costa Rican Dinner
4.5
(2)
4 hours
·
Small group
This evening tour offers a combination of nature and Costa Rican cuisine. Armed with flashlights, you'll follow your guide along a short trail, looking for nocturnal wildlife, including frogs, insects, bats, and more. One highlight along the walk is a visit to a frog sanctuary, where your guide...
Sky Adventures Hanging Bridges
4.5
(2)
2.5 hours
·
Small group
Explore the forest from an elevated perspective on this excursion to Sky Walk, one of the first hanging bridges in Costa Rica. Follow a naturalist guide along a series of nature trails and five suspension bridges (some as high as 230 feet or 70 meters), stopping to appreciate various flora and...
Boating in Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge
4.3
(3)
8 hours
·
Small group
Spot rare birds, sloths, monkeys, crocodiles, and more on a boat tour around the Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge. Located in the far north of the country, nearly a two-hour drive from La Fortuna, this ecologically diverse refuge is home to abundant wildlife. After a drive through the Costa Rican...
EcoTermales Hot Springs
EcoTermales Hot Springs & Meal
4.0
(5)
4.5 hours
·
Small group
Uncover the wonders of EcoTermales Hot Springs in Arenal, an idyllic and economical hideaway ideal for adults and couples. Nestled within lush forests, indulge in mineral-rich pools renowned for their various health advantages. Delight in additional conveniences including a restaurant on the...
Sky Tram at Arenal Volcano
Sky Adventures Tram & The Hand of Arenal
4.0
(1)
3 hours
·
Small group
Ride high up into the mountains on this short excursion to the Hand of Arenal. Board the Sky Tram gondola with a guide for a 15-minute transfer to the monument and lookout point. From there, take in striking views of Arenal Volcano, Arenal Lake, and the surrounding scenery. This vantage point...
Lake Arenal
Arenal Volcano National Park Boat & Hike
4.0
(1)
4 hours
·
Small group
Experience the natural beauty of Arenal Volcano from multiple perspectives on this hiking and boating experience. You'll start with an hourlong hike through Arenal Volcano National Park, taking in sweeping views of Lake Arenal and the surrounding mountains. Climb to an observation area for photo...
See the volcano from several vantage points
Horseback Riding at the Base of Arenal Volcano
3.8
(4)
3 hours
·
Small group
Explore the lush terrain of Arenal volcano on horseback during this 2-hour tour. With a seasoned guide, you'll journey through secondary forests, farmland, and primary forest. Enjoy stunning views of Arenal and the surrounding landscape from a high point on the trail.
Relax in volcanic hot springs
Tabacon Hot Springs with Lunch or Dinner
3.0
(2)
4 hours
·
Small group
Spend several hours at Tabacon Hot Springs, Costa Rica's most extensive network of naturally flowing thermal mineral springs, on this half-day excursion. Located inside a private rainforest reserve, the hot springs complex features cascading waterfalls, warm and cold pools, and a large main pool...

Experiences in Arenal/La Fortuna, Costa Rica

Wildlife of Arenal
Top Wildlife Experiences in Arenal/La Fortuna

Packed with dense rainforests, national parks, nature preserves, rivers, and rehabilitation centers, Arenal/La Fortuna is an excellent choice for wildlife experiences in Costa Rica. Take advantage of the forests with wildlife hikes and birding excursions—some by day and some by night—plus visit butterfly gardens and wildlife refuges and learn more about local conservation efforts. Enjoy animals on the water, too, with boat and kayaking experiences.

San José from above
Top Cultural Experiences in Costa Rica

From vibrant cities to humble artisanal villages, protected jungles to stretches of farmland, and sweet chocolate to rich rum, Costa Rica is a country full of cultural experiences. You can enjoy cooking classes to discover traditional recipes; learn how farmers grow and process important exports like coffee, chocolate, and sugar cane; visit hamlets known for artisan crafts; or tour museums and beloved neighborhoods in the heart of San José.

The beauty of Arenal
Best Things to Do in Arenal/La Fortuna

Explore La Fortuna, a small town in Costa Rica's Arenal area, set at the base of the country's most popular volcano. Its surrounding region offers some of the best hiking, zip-lining, canyoneering, and wildlife spotting in the country. You can hike atop lava fields and through rainforests, discover electric-blue waterfalls, and spot critters like sloths and monkeys. Get your adrenaline pumping with white-water rafting or walking the Arenal Hanging Bridges. Then, dive into the area's culture with a visit to an organic coffee farm or soak in a hot spring.

Hiking in the Rainforest
Top Active Experiences in Costa Rica

Sporty travelers, adventure seekers, and outdoor enthusiasts will find endless active experiences in Costa Rica, a country filled with rainforests, beaches, coral reefs, volcanoes, national parks, waterfalls, rivers, and more—all waiting to be discovered. In Costa Rica, you can rappel into canyons, raft through whitewater rapids, mountain bike near active volcanoes, hike through national parks, surf at world-renowned beaches, snorkel above reefs, zipline through the rainforest, and more!

Hiking in Costa Rica
Top Family Experiences in Costa Rica

Costa Rica offers adventures suitable for all ages, making it an excellent choice for a family vacation. Kids and adults alike love spotting wildlife, ziplining through cloud forests, learning how to surf, touring organic farms, and much more. The unique experiences you can enjoy in Costa Rica—a country leading the world in eco-tourism and wildlife conservation—will leave a lasting impression on the entire family for years to come.

Arenal/La Fortuna
Top Active Experiences in Arenal/La Fortuna

Thanks to its array of recreational opportunities, outdoor enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and those who prefer active vacations all make their way to Costa Rica's Arenal/La Fortuna region. Enjoy lively excursions with unique twists, such as trekking to aquamarine lagoons, rappelling down waterfalls, hiking along hanging bridges suspended in the air, or standup paddleboarding, biking, and horseback riding at the base of a volcano.

Learn more about Arenal/La Fortuna : Best of Arenal/La Fortuna · Top Hotels in Arenal/La Fortuna
Top experiences in Costa Rica