Located approximately 150 kilometers (93 miles) from San José, which takes about a 3-hour drive, Arenal Volcano National Park stands out as a prime natural attraction in Costa Rica. Offering fantastic hiking, breathtaking vistas, diverse wildlife, lush foliage, and the country's most active volcano, the park covers roughly 12,000 hectares (30,000 acres) of protected terrain, including eight distinct ecological zones. Birdwatching here is exceptional, with nearly all of Costa Rica's 850 bird species, including the magnificent quetzal, inhabiting this area. Keep a keen eye out for monkeys, deer, coatis, snakes like the fer-de-lance, and occasionally even jaguars.
But the star of the show is unquestionably Arenal Volcano, which typically emits smoldering cinders and vibrant lava flows down its slopes. While it's generally safe to be around, park authorities prioritize visitor safety and may close the park if conditions become hazardous. The botanical diversity within the park is astounding, featuring various palm species, orchids, heliconias, ferns, strangler figs, bromeliads, and more. One of the park's most popular trails guides hikers through rainforests, across ancient lava beds, and up to nearby Cerro Chato, an extinct volcano with a lagoon in its crater. From its summit at 1,100 meters (3,609 feet) above sea level, you'll enjoy breathtaking views.
Moreover, the park boasts four trails covering over 8 kilometers (5 miles) in total:
- Heliconias Trail (0.9 kilometers/0.6 miles): This loop trail offers a great introduction to the park, passing through the 1968 lava flow site and leading to a viewpoint overlooking the volcano and Arenal Lake.
- Las Coladas Trail (2 kilometers/1.25 miles): Mostly flat, this trail winds around the base of Arenal, providing views of the 1993 lava flows. It connects to the Toucans Trail.
- Toucans Trail (2.9 kilometers/1.8 miles): Beginning at the end of Las Coladas Trail, this path ventures into dense jungle and is ideal for spotting wildlife, especially spider and howler monkeys. On the return journey, you'll enjoy stunning views of Arenal's summit.
- Lookout Trail: Accessible only from the park's headquarters, this trail leads down to Arenal Lake, offering views of the 1969 and 1993 lava flows, Cerro Chato, and the Arenal Basin.
Located around 150kms/93miles from San José (around a 3 hour drive), Arenal Volcano National Park is one of Costa Rica’s main natural attractions. The park seems to have it all: incredible hiking, panoramic views, abundant wildlife, lush vegetation, and the country’s most active volcano. It encompasses around 12000ha/30000acres of protected land, including 8 different life zones that boast a staggering biodiversity. The bird watching and wildlife spotting at this national park is superb. The park has four trails that offer great exploration opportunities and that cover more than 8kms/5miles in total: Heliconias Trail (0.9kms/0.6miles), Las Coladas Trail (2kms/1.25miles), Toucans Trail (2.9kms/1.8miles), and the Lookout Trail.
Opening hours: 8am to 4pm every day
