Private Arenal Hanging Bridges Walk, Arenal/La Fortuna

4.5 (4 reviews)
Explore a rainforest reserve on suspension bridges that lead you above the canopy for great views of Arenal Volcano.

Overview

Set out on a privately guided walk of the Arenal Hanging Bridges, set within a 600-acre tropical forest reserve. The trail system features a mix of fixed and suspension bridges offering unique perspectives of the forest's undergrowth, sub-canopy, and canopy levels—the latter treating you to impressive views of Arenal Volcano. With an expert guide, learn about the local wildlife and enjoy spotting species like capuchin, howler, and spider monkeys, as well as diverse birdlife and frogs. Ideal for nature lovers and families, the non-slip concrete trail with gentle slopes ensures a safe and accessible adventure for all.

Highlights

  • Traverse suspended or fixed bridges to discover different levels of the tropical forest
  • Appreciate the area's incredible biodiversity, including some of the 340 avian species that live here
  • Take in scenic views of Arenal Volcano from a unique perspective
  • Benefit from expert insights as your guide leads you to the best spots to observe wildlife

Know before you go

Duration
3 hours
Recommended for
5 years old & up
Group
Private
Food & Drink
Tropical fruit snack, bottled water

What you'll do

The excursion begins with a transfer from La Fortuna to the starting point of the Arenal Hanging Bridges walk. The 600-acre (243 ha) reserve features a 2-mile (3 km) trail that weaves through 16 bridges—10 fixed and six hanging. With lengths stretching between 16 and 328 feet ( 5 to 100 m) and heights reaching up to 180 feet (55 m), these bridges offer unparalleled perspectives of the forest canopy, sub-canopy, and undergrowth, enabling you to explore various layers of the lush ecosystem. 

After hearing a short overview of the reserve and the hanging bridges, you'll make your way along the trail, following your guide, who'll bring the forest to life with stories and insights about the area's diverse plant and animal life. You can expect frequent stops as your guide points out birds, insects, and plants that travelers may otherwise not notice. The bird-watching is superb! As you continue along the path, take note of the different levels of forest around you, including undergrowth, sub-canopy, and canopy, and the various animals that inhabit them.

Note that though the trail has a gentle 7-degree slope at times, there are no steps, and design details—including protection rails and a non-slip concrete surface—make the walk safe and more accessible. 

Following the fun, you'll be transported back to La Fortuna.

Start times

  • Daily
    9:00 am, 2:00 pm

What's included

  • Private round-trip transportation from/to hotel
  • Naturalist guide
  • Entrance fees

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Traveler reviews

4 total ratings, 2 with reviews
4.5
Feature ratings
Quality of Experience
4.5
Guides, Drivers and Staff
4.8
Transport
4.7
Giulia
Giulia T.
South Africa | Reviewed on Mar 04, 2025
The setting is beautiful and you get some really striking views from the hanging bridges. Read more

The setting is beautiful and you get some really striking views from the hanging bridges.

Tips for future travelers

The experience was really good and I recommend it highly, however be prepared for many, many other tourists too.

Quality of Experience
The experience was excellent, however, as noted, there were many crowds of tourists.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
The guide was interesting and knew the right areas to stop to look for specific birds and frogs.
Transport
Judy
Judy J.
Los Angeles, CA | Reviewed on Feb 03, 2025
We had a fantastic guide, Bernardo, who could spot a monkey high up in the treetops! He was great at answering our many questions about the area and wildlife. We were fortunate to see not only Capuchin but also howler and spider monkeys. Read more

We had a fantastic guide, Bernardo, who could spot a monkey high up in the treetops! He was great at answering our many questions about the area and wildlife. We were fortunate to see not only Capuchin but also howler and spider monkeys.

Tips for future travelers

Don't hesitate to take this tour but go with a guide. They know where the wildlife can be found and use a telescope for you to not only see the animals, but to also take photos!!

Quality of Experience
The hanging bridges were a not to be missed experience!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guide Bernardo was outstanding. Personable and very knowledgeable about the park and wildlife.

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