Private Arenal Volcano & La Fortuna Waterfall Hike with Lunch, Arenal/La Fortuna

Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers, this full-day adventure takes you deep into the volcanic landscapes and lush cloud forests around Arenal. Your day starts at La Fortuna Waterfall, where you'll follow your guide down winding stairs and paths and dive into the cascade's pool for a refreshing swim. Break for lunch at a favorite local farm-to-table restaurant, then you're off on a longer hike to Arenal Volcano—following cooled lava flows and forest trails to reach a scenic viewpoint.

Embark on a guided adventure through Arenal Volcano 1968 Park, where you'll find Arenal Volcano. As you navigate the path around the volcano's base, you may be lucky enough to spot exotic birds, monkeys, and other creatures that your expert guide's keen eyes will try and find. You'll continue your hike through segments of the park that the lava flow affected during the volcanic eruption in 1968, leaving the landscape devoid of vegetation. This unique terrain offers beautiful vistas of the crystal-clear Lake Arenal and the dormant Cerro Chato.

Experience the natural beauty of Arenal Volcano from multiple perspectives on this hiking and boating experience. You'll start with an hourlong hike through Arenal Volcano National Park, taking in sweeping views of Lake Arenal and the surrounding mountains. Climb to an observation area for photo ops and learn about the volcano's history, then take a break for snacks and refreshments. The adventure continues with a boat ride on the lake. Look for exotic birds and wildlife before docking near Arenal Dam and heading back to La Fortuna.

Get up close with La Fortuna Waterfall on this guided excursion that leads you down an outdoor staircase with various viewpoints and rest areas en route. Your guide will point out rock formations and wildlife like toucans and sloths if they make an appearance. Then, once at the bottom, you can strike a pose and, if you're up for it, strip to go for a dip near the waterfall's base. Next, you'll transfer to La Finquita to learn about organic farming practices before you sit to a meal of traditional fare. This activity supports local community development, making it a rewarding experience for eco-conscious travelers.

Explore Arenal with a guide as you take on hanging bridges and hike to a waterfall. You'll start with the Arenal Hanging Bridges, where you'll navigate a trail system within a vast rainforest reserve that offers views of Arenal Volcano and the chance to spot diverse wildlife, including over 350 bird species. Next, trek down to La Fortuna Waterfall, where you can swim or relax amid the lush scenery. The day trip concludes with lunch at La Finquita. Ideal for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers, this excursion offers a vibrant glimpse into Costa Rica's rich biodiversity.

Ride high up into the mountains on this short excursion to the Hand of Arenal. Board the Sky Tram gondola with a guide for a 15-minute transfer to the monument and lookout point. From there, take in striking views of Arenal Volcano, Arenal Lake, and the surrounding scenery. This vantage point offers fantastic photo opportunities. You'll have the option to take a short hike around the Hand of Arenal, if you wish, on a 0.5-mile (800-meter) circuit. You'll then head back down to the base terminal on the Sky Tram.

Hike to one of the natural highlights of Costa Rica, the volcanic Hule Lagoon. The moderate trek begins in Juan Castro Blanco National Park. You'll hike 5 miles (8 km) through the plains bordering the volcanic crater before heading up into the rainforest toward the 136-acre (55-hectare) lagoon. Along the way, enjoy the rich biodiversity of the area. Keep your eyes open for tropical birds, monkeys, and even three-toed sloths! You'll also pass several other lagoons on your way before reaching the magnificent Hule, located at the base of the Cerro Congo Volcano. Enjoy a traditional Costa Rican lunch in the home of a local family before returning to La Fortuna.

Venture into Tenorio Volcano National Park for a hike through the lush tropical rainforest along the Río Celeste, one of Costa Rica's most striking rivers. Led by a guide, you'll stop to check out Los Teñideros, the visually striking point where two streams converge to create Celeste's iconic blue hue, see volcanic fumaroles, and observe the river's bubbling borbollones. As you descend, take in the spectacular views of Río Celeste waterfall before concluding the adventure with lunch. This trek is recommended for those in decent physical shape and is open to anyone keen on immersing themselves in nature.

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.

Get your thrills at Sky Trek, a zip line circuit and aerial amusement park. You'll start in an open-air gondola, rising up over the rainforest and enjoying sweeping views across the mountains. Arriving at the end of the line, the exhilarating adventure of whizzing down the mountain begins. Connect to a zip line cable stretching over rainforest treetops and clifftops. After traversing seven cables and reaching heights of 660 feet (201 meters), you'll arrive back at the starting point of the adrenaline-pumping adventure.