Things to Do in Volcán Arenal
DESTINATION GUIDE

Things to Do in Volcán Arenal

12 curated spots from Volcán Arenal itineraries

Activities & Attractions

6 curated experiences

Arenal Volcano National Park (Sector Volcán)
Do
afternoon

Arenal Volcano National Park (Sector Volcán)

Hike well-marked trails over old lava flows and through secondary forest to viewpoints of Volcán Arenal and Lake Arenal; trails like Sendero Coladas and Sendero Mirador are popular.

2h 30m · $15-25
Bogarin Trail
Do
morning

Bogarin Trail

Private nature trail through regenerating forest just outside town, known for relatively easy sloth, bird, and frog spotting with or without a guide.

2h · $15-30
Kalambu Hot Springs Water Park
Do
evening

Kalambu Hot Springs Water Park

Family-friendly hot springs with slides, pools, and a more playful atmosphere than the spa-style resorts.

2h 30m · $30-45
La Fortuna Waterfall (Catarata Río Fortuna)
Do
morning

La Fortuna Waterfall (Catarata Río Fortuna)

Descend a long staircase through the forest to reach a powerful waterfall and swimming area in a rocky, jungle-lined pool.

2h · $18-20
Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park
Do
morning

Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park

Walk a network of forest trails and long hanging bridges with views over the canopy and to Volcán Arenal; great for birdwatching and spotting sloths and monkeys.

2h 30m · $30-45
North Fields Coffee & Chocolate Tour
Do
afternoon

North Fields Coffee & Chocolate Tour

Guided tour of a local farm explaining coffee and cacao production from plant to cup with tastings along the way.

2h 30m · $40-55

Restaurants & Food

6 local favorites

Don Rufino
Eat
evening

Don Rufino

Stylish bistro widely considered one of La Fortuna’s best restaurants, serving creative Costa Rican and international dishes; reserve ahead and try the pork belly or fresh fish specials.

1h 30m · $25-40 per person
Kappa Sushi
Eat
afternoon

Kappa Sushi

Small Japanese restaurant offering sushi rolls, poke-style bowls, and Asian-inspired dishes using fresh local ingredients.

1h · $15-25 per person
La Fortuna Café
Eat
morning

La Fortuna Café

Cozy café offering good coffee, smoothies, and light breakfasts like eggs, pastries, and fruit bowls.

45m · $7-14 per person
Nene's Restaurant
Eat
evening

Nene's Restaurant

Friendly local favorite with steaks, fresh fish, and Costa Rican specialties in a casual setting; ask for the grilled fish or lomito steak.

1h 15m · $18-30 per person
Soda La Hormiga
Eat
afternoon

Soda La Hormiga

Bustling local soda popular with residents, serving big portions of casados, soups, and juices; expect simple decor and quick service.

45m · $8-15 per person
Soda Viquez
Eat
morning

Soda Viquez

Casual local soda known for generous casados, gallo pinto, and fresh juices; order a traditional Costa Rican breakfast with plantains and coffee.

45m · $8-15 per person

More on Volcán Arenal

Volcán Arenal Travel GuideWhen to Visit Volcán Arenal

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