Lake Arenal Sunset Cruise with Wine & Cheese, Arenal/La Fortuna

5.0 (5 reviews)
Drink wine and eat cheese as you take in a sunset on Lake Arenal with views of the volcano, and a chance to spot wildlife.

Overview

Cruise Lake Arenal, Costa Rica's largest inland body of water, at sunset for unparalleled views of Arenal Volcano's west flank aglow from the setting sun. As you glide across the calm waters, enjoy your verdant surroundings and spot wildlife like herons, kingfishers, and occasionally sloths or monkeys. A knowledgeable guide will enrich your time with insights into the history of the lake and volcano, concluding the experience with a glass of wine and a cheese platter. Ideal for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts, this sunset cruise is a must-do when visiting the region.

Highlights

  • Cruise around the calm waters of Lake Arenal with a guide sharing insights into the area
  • Take in dazzling views of Arenal Volcano, illuminated by the sun's rays
  • Spot various birds, monkeys, and sloths in the wild
  • Enjoy wine and cheese onboard a boat with beautiful views

Know before you go

Duration
2.5 hours
Recommended for
4 years old & up
Group
Small group
Food & Drink
Wine and cheese

What you'll do

The adventure begins with a transfer from your hotel in La Fortuna to the shores of Lake Arenal. This body of water occupies 55 square miles (88 sq km) between the forest and the mountains at an elevation of 1,791 feet (546 m) above sea level and is the power source behind Arenal Dam, Costa Rica's largest hydroelectric project.

You'll board a boat in the late afternoon and start your excursion to the best points along the lake's coast, positioned between the volcano and the golden glow of the setting sun that perfectly highlights the crevices and canyons that scar Arenal's west side. As you motor along, you'll listen to your guide share commentary on the lake's history and the volcanic activity that's dramatically shaped the area's topography and its surroundings, including the nearby mountains topped with energy-producing wind turbines.

The approximately two-hour trip offers plenty of opportunities to observe local wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for herons, kingfishers, and anhingas. With some luck, you might also catch sight of sloths hanging from the trees, playful monkeys swinging through the branches, or curious coatis exploring the shoreline. And as the sun continues to set, it'll be time to indulge in a celebratory glass of wine paired with some cheese.

After the sun has dipped below the horizon, you'll return to dry land and head back to La Fortuna.

Start times

  • Daily
    4:00 pm

What's included

  • Round-trip transportation from/to hotel
  • Naturalist guide
  • Wine and cheese
  • Drinks, including beer

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Traveler reviews

5 total ratings, 4 with reviews
5.0
Feature ratings
Quality of Experience
4.8
Guides, Drivers and Staff
5.0
Transport
4.8
Karen
Karen K.
Borough Park, NY | Reviewed on Nov 25, 2024
Even though the weather was very threatening, we had a wonderful time. We had the whole boat to ourselves and our guide even serenaded us. He had a beautiful voice. And luckily, the rains didn't begin until we stepped off the boat. Read more

Even though the weather was very threatening, we had a wonderful time. We had the whole boat to ourselves and our guide even serenaded us. He had a beautiful voice. And luckily, the rains didn't begin until we stepped off the boat.

Quality of Experience
Lost one star due to weather - not the service.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Tracie
Tracie D.
San Jose, CA | Reviewed on Nov 20, 2023
Wow, this was a once in a lifetime opportunity to see the volcano up close and personal. Very relaxing, excellent views and opportunities to see the wildlife. An array of beverages to choose from and a lovely cheese platter. Read more

Wow, this was a once in a lifetime opportunity to see the volcano up close and personal. Very relaxing, excellent views and opportunities to see the wildlife. An array of beverages to choose from and a lovely cheese platter.

Tips for future travelers

Bring your camera!

Quality of Experience
Perfect sunset and views!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Super friendly and knowledgable!!
Transport
On time and helpful.
Alison
Alison C.
Canada | Reviewed on Mar 01, 2023
Lots of fun, and there were very few of us on the boat. I think that allowed for learning how to make some signature Costa Rican drinks and learn the merengue. We were lucky to have a full moon over the Arenal volcano. Read more

Lots of fun, and there were very few of us on the boat. I think that allowed for learning how to make some signature Costa Rican drinks and learn the merengue. We were lucky to have a full moon over the Arenal volcano.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Nicholas
Nicholas S.
Coney Island, NY | Reviewed on Jan 16, 2023
The Arenal Lake cruise was one of the most special events we experienced in Costa Rica. The scenery was beautiful and the view of the volcano was breathtaking. Our guides were so knowledgeable and friendly Read more

The Arenal Lake cruise was one of the most special events we experienced in Costa Rica. The scenery was beautiful and the view of the volcano was breathtaking. Our guides were so knowledgeable and friendly

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport

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