Chocolate Farm Visit and Workshop, Arenal/La Fortuna

You'll have the opportunity to visit an organic coffee plantation located in the village of Naranjo, Costa Rica. This small family-run farm uses sustainable and eco-friendly cultivation methods to produce 100% organic coffee beans. You'll learn about the traditional Costa Rican methods used to cultivate coffee and participate in every step of the process, from harvesting to roasting and grinding. At the end of the tour, you'll get to savor a hot cup of freshly ground coffee along with a light snack. Many visitors have claimed that this is the best cup of coffee they've ever tasted, thanks to their newfound appreciation for the time and care that goes into producing the perfect cup of coffee.

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 lava flow affected during the volcanic eruption in 1968 that left the landscape devoid of vegetation. This unique terrain offers beautiful vistas of the crystal-clear Lake Arenal and the dormant Cerro Chato Volcano.

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 elevated walkways, up to 180 feet (55 meters) above the rainforest floor, you'll have a chance to appreciate this area's incredible biodiversity, including some of the 350 avian species that live here.

Enjoy a two-hour boat ride on Costa Rica's largest inland body of water, Lake Arenal. Sip wine and sample a selection of cheeses while taking in striking sunset views across the lake to lush hills and mountains rising in the distance. You'll also enjoy spectacular views of Arenal Volcano, its crevices beautifully illuminated by the late afternoon rays. A naturalist guide will point out various birds, from flycatchers and kingfishers, and you might spot monkeys, coatis, and sloths near the lake's shores.

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 offers fantastic photo opportunities. You'll have the option to take a short hike around the Hand of Arenal, if you wish, on a 0.5-mile (800-meter) circuit. You'll then head back down to the base terminal on the Sky Tram.

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 vibrant jungle fauna, watch for tropical birds, and refuel with a snack during a mid-way break. The day concludes with a relaxing and satisfying lunch.

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.

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 through rolling Class II and III rapids with names like Morning Coffee and Rock around the Croc. Enjoy wildlife spotting along the way—you'll even have a chance to swim while passing through calmer stretches of the river. 

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 formations and geological features during the tour. The trail ends right in front of the imposing waterfall, the ideal spot for photographs. If you wish, you can go for a dip near the base of the waterfall to finish the adventure.

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 ops and learn about the volcano's history, then take a break for snacks and refreshments. The adventure continues with a boat ride on the lake. Look for exotic birds and wildlife before docking near Arenal Dam and heading back to La Fortuna.