Tabacón Hot Springs Visit with Meal, Arenal/La Fortuna

Soak in the therapeutic benefits of volcanic hot springs at EcoTermales, an idyllic hideaway. Experience contrast therapy (alternating between cool water and hot), try aquatic stretching, or simply breathe deep and meditate in any of the various pools, all designed to harmonize and invigorate the body. Depending on your afternoon or evening visit, complement your stay with a buffet lunch or dinner at the on-site restaurant and a drink or two from the bar. This tranquil retreat, set amid lush rainforests and paved trails, is perfect for wellness seekers looking to connect with nature and enjoy moments of relaxation.

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.

Set out on a 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.

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.

Embark on an adrenaline-fueled whitewater rafting adventure down the Río Sarapiquí. Navigating a 14-mile stretch of over 40 Class III and IV rapids, you'll paddle hard under the guidance of an experienced leader, likely experiencing thrilling water plunges. Amid the excitement, you'll have plenty of chances to soak up your jungle surroundings, spotting wildlife and tropical birds and refueling with a snack during a mid-way break. The adventurous full-day experience concludes with a hearty late lunch of Costa Rican fare and a relaxed transfer back to your hotel.

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.

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.

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.

Enjoy a mix of active adventure and relaxation on this popular day trip to Arenal Hanging Bridges and Tabacón Hot Springs. You'll start with a leisurely hike through the rainforest along a series of fixed and suspended bridges, learning about the jungle's unique ecosystem and spotting rare birds in the wild. Then you'll head to Tabacón Hot Springs, Costa Rica's most extensive network of naturally flowing thermal mineral springs (there are 20!) to soak in waters heated underground by the nearby Arenal Volcano, taking a break for a meal of traditional fare at the resort's Ave Restaurant.

Embark on an adrenaline-pumping whitewater rafting adventure down the Río Balsa. You'll transfer from La Fortuna to the put-in spot on the river, where your guide will give you safety instructions and outfit you with a helmet and life vest. Then, push off into the current and start paddling through rolling Class II and III rapids with names like Morning Coffee and Rock around the Croc. Enjoy wildlife spotting along the way—you'll even have a chance to swim while passing through calmer stretches of the river.