Arenal Volcano & 1968 Reserve Hike, Arenal/La Fortuna

Name: Arenal Volcano & 1968 Reserve Hike, Arenal/La Fortuna
Rating: 4.4 (23 reviews)

4.4 (23 reviews)

Hike a jungle trail skirting Arenal Volcano and see the stark effects of the 1968 eruption on the landscape

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Anand K.

Jan 04, 2025
This was an amazing hike up the volcano to see the impact the of the lava flow. We got to see multiple types of ecosystems and... Read more

Greg W.

May 20, 2024
It was a great introduction to the area. Our guide was great.

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Overview

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.

Highlights

Hike around the base of Arenal Volcano
Explore trails crossing the lava flow from the volcano's 1968 eruption
Take in gorgeous views of Lake Arenal and Cerro Chato
Learn about the park's history, forest formation, and volcanology

Know before you go

Duration
3.5 hours

Recommended for
5 years old & up

Group
Small group

What you'll do

Start your adventure with a transfer from your hotel in La Fortuna to the entrance of the 1968 Trail. When you arrive, you'll have the chance to read about the area's history before hitting the trails around the base of the Arenal Volcano and Lake Arenal. Once you set out on the 1.5-hour route, keep your eyes peeled for colorful birds, monkeys, and other wildlife.

While the hike is relatively easy, one section of the trail is steep and rocky, which can be challenging for children and travelers who don't hike frequently. The standard excursion takes you on a 1.9-mile (3 km) trail, but another option for travelers with reduced mobility is 1.1 miles (1.8 km) long. Discuss your options when booking the adventure and with your guide.

In addition to the park's forested areas, you'll also walk through areas of the park that the 1968 volcano eruption affected. You'll discover landscapes where the lava flow obliterated much of the natural vegetation. Your guide may explain the park's history before and after the eruption, share a bit about forest formation and volcanology, point out flora and fauna that managed to grow in the area, and answer questions.

During the hike, you'll have ample photo opportunities. Have your camera ready for sweeping views of the massive Arenal Volcano, beautiful Lake Arenal, and the extinct volcano Cerro Chato. Once you finish the hike, you'll head back to La Fortuna to end the adventure.

Read more about unique experiences in Arenal/La Fortuna.

Start times

Daily

8:00 am, 3:00 pm

What's included

Round-trip transportation from/to hotel
Guide
Park admission
Fruit
Water

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