Arenal: Costa Rica’s Adventure Paradise
Arenal Volcano, located in the Alajuela province near the charming town of La Fortuna, is one of the youngest and most active volcanoes in Costa Rica. This stunning natural wonder attracts both adventure seekers and nature lovers alike, offering a wide range of exciting activities.
Whether you’re seeking thrills or relaxation, Arenal has it all. Experience the rush of canopy tours, ride the aerial trams for breathtaking views of the jungle, or challenge yourself with white-water rafting, kayaking, and hiking. For those looking for a more leisurely experience, ATV tours, fishing, and rejuvenating visits to the hot springs resorts are available as well.
If you’re simply in the mood to unwind, take in the soothing sounds of the rumbling volcano beneath you and watch the plumes of smoke rise into the sky, offering a moment of awe and tranquility.
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Getting to Arenal
Arenal is located about 90 kilometers from San José, and the journey by car or bus usually takes a minimum of 3 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions. To make the most of your time, it’s advisable to leave early in the morning.
By Air
If you’re pressed for time, consider taking a flight from San José International Airport to the La Fortuna area. Flights typically cost around $120 each way or approx $200 roundtrip, not including additional transportation costs to and from the airports.
Public Bus
Though more affordable, traveling by public bus is not recommended if you have luggage or valuables, as it is less secure than shuttle services. Public buses also lack air conditioning, and they make frequent stops, resulting in a longer trip. For elderly passengers or those sensitive to the elements, the bus may not be the most comfortable option.
Shuttle Service
Shuttle services to and from Arenal are an efficient, safe, and comfortable choice. These routes operate daily with multiple departures, and unlike public buses, shuttles offer direct, secure, and air-conditioned rides with more personalized attention. Shuttles often require advance reservations, so be sure to book your seat early to ensure availability.
Shared Shuttle Service Routes and Rates
Arenal – Monteverde (Car, Boat, Car)
By Car
Driving to Arenal offers a scenic and direct route to La Fortuna, a small town located just a few kilometers east of Arenal Volcano National Park. Along the way, you’ll pass picturesque dairy farms, rolling hills, lush pastures, and rainforests, as well as various towns such as San Ramón, Bajos de Los Rodríguez, and Santa Clara. Here are detailed driving instructions from San José to La Fortuna:
Take Highway 1 (Pan-American Highway) towards Juan Santamaría International Airport.
Watch for signs indicating San Ramón as you pass the airport.
Continue on Highway 1 toward Guanacaste, passing towns like Atenas, Grecia, Naranjo, and Palmares. Do not exit the highway until you reach San Ramón (approximately 42 kilometers from the airport).
In San Ramón, turn right off Highway 1. You’ll pass a large commercial building (a mall) and continue for 1.7 kilometers until you reach a junction. Turn left, and then right at the next light, heading towards the San Ramón Hospital.
Leaving San Ramón, take a secondary road toward La Fortuna, passing towns like Los Angeles, Bajos de Los Rodríguez, and Santa Clara. When you reach Bajos de Los Rodríguez.
Continue to Santa Clara and look for a large soccer field on your left, followed by a giant soccer ball near the road. After Santa Clara, head straight at the crossroads in Javillos.
Continue on the road to La Fortuna, passing small towns like La Vega, La Perla, and El Tanque. Once you pass El Tanque, La Fortuna is about 7 kilometers away.
Expect a 3-hour scenic drive, but the route is worth the views.
For assistance, you can contact Expediciones Tropicales at (506) 257-4171/257-4133 for transportation, tours, and accommodations.
Getting Around Arenal
There are various transportation options in the Arenal area to explore nearby attractions like hot springs or La Fortuna town.
Public Bus
While bus service to La Fortuna is reliable, public buses in the La Fortuna area are infrequent, making them an unreliable option for sightseeing.
Car Rental
Car rental prices start at approximately $50 per day. Note that these prices do not include mandatory insurance.
Taxi
Taxis are widely available in and around La Fortuna but tend to be a more expensive option due to metered fares that can add up quickly.
Bikes
Renting a bike in the Arenal area typically, this can be a great way to get around, especially if you’re comfortable riding in areas with heavy traffic, such as the main road leading to Arenal Volcano National Park and the nearby hot springs.
Main Tours and Attractions
Arenal is a paradise for nature enthusiasts, offering scenic hiking trails, breathtaking waterfalls, and soothing thermal hot springs. Of course, the highlight is Arenal Volcano National Park, home to one of the most active volcanoes in the world, providing visitors with a truly unique natural experience.
