Arenal Volcano Hike and Paradise Hot Springs – La Fortuna

Arenal Volcano Hike and Paradise Hot Springs

Explore a landscape transformed by volcanic activity and end your experience by enjoying the hot springs at Paradise Hot Springs. This tour combines hiking, nature, and wellness in a day that lets you discover two different sides of La Fortuna.

The first part of the experience takes place on nature trails in the area surrounding Arenal Volcano, one of Costa Rica’s most iconic landscapes.

Accompanied by a naturalist guide, you’ll walk through an area where traces left by volcanic activity can still be seen. Arenal’s eruptive history, ancient volcanic formations, and the forest’s recovery help explain how this landscape has changed over time.

Along the way, you may also spot birds, reptiles, mammals, and other species that inhabit the tropical forest. Wildlife sightings depend entirely on nature and cannot be guaranteed.

When weather conditions allow, different points along the hike may offer views of Arenal Volcano and Arenal Lake, creating opportunities to pause, take in the scenery, and take photos.

After the trail, it’s time to completely change pace.

The experience continues at Paradise Hot Springs, where you can relax in its thermal pools surrounded by tropical gardens. After several hours of exploring, the warm water and serene setting offer a pleasant contrast to the physical activity of the first part of the day.

The essence of this experience lies precisely in that change: first, walk through terrain shaped by Arenal’s history, then leave the trail behind and enjoy the hot springs of La Fortuna.

 

 

 

Policies and Restrictions

Reservations: Booking in advance is recommended. The experience is subject to availability for both the hike and Paradise Hot Springs.

Punctuality: Participants must arrive at the time indicated in the confirmation. If transportation from your accommodation is included, the pickup time will depend on its location.

Physical Condition: The hike includes natural trails, elevation changes, and surfaces that may be wet, uneven, or slippery. An appropriate level of physical fitness is required for a moderately challenging activity.

Footwear: Closed-toe shoes with good traction are recommended for the hike.

Minors: Children must remain under adult supervision and meet the participation requirements established for each part of the experience.

Mobility: The hike may be challenging for people with reduced mobility due to the natural characteristics of the terrain. Prior consultation is recommended.

Authorized Trails: Participants must stay on the designated routes and follow the guide’s instructions. Entering restricted areas or attempting to climb toward the crater is not permitted.

Weather Conditions: Rain does not necessarily mean the hike will be canceled. However, thunderstorms, heavy rain, or other conditions that pose a risk may result in changes, delays, or cancellations.

Visibility: Cloud cover around Arenal Volcano is a natural phenomenon. Views of the volcano and Lake Arenal cannot be guaranteed.

Wildlife: Animals roam freely in their natural habitat. Sightings of any species are not guaranteed.

Conservation: Feeding or disturbing animals, removing plants, rocks, or other natural elements, and leaving waste on the trails are not permitted.

Paradise Hot Springs: During the visit, guests must comply with the schedules, safety rules, and regulations established by Paradise Hot Springs.

Health Conditions: People with certain cardiovascular conditions, blood pressure disorders, who are pregnant, or who have other medical conditions that may be affected by prolonged exposure to hot water should consult their doctor before using the thermal pools.

Photography: Photos and videos may be taken, provided the guide’s instructions and the regulations established at Paradise Hot Springs are followed.

Cancellations

Cancellation, modification, and no-show conditions are subject to the policies stated in the booking confirmation and the conditions of the providers involved.

Specifications

Destination: Arenal Volcano and Paradise Hot Springs, La Fortuna, San Carlos, Costa Rica.

Type of experience: Hiking, nature, volcanic interpretation, and hot springs.

Approximate total duration: 8 hours, depending on transfers, trail conditions, and the option booked.

Hiking difficulty level: Moderate.

Part One: Arenal Volcano Hike

Guided hike
A hike along natural trails in the area surrounding Arenal Volcano.

Volcanic landscape
During the hike, you can learn about different landscape features related to Arenal's eruptive history and the forest's subsequent recovery.

Naturalist guide
Guidance and interpretation of the volcano's history, geology, flora, fauna, and the characteristics of the region's ecosystem.

Nature watching
You may encounter birds and other wildlife during the hike. Sightings depend entirely on natural conditions.

Arenal scenery
When weather conditions permit, different areas may offer views of Arenal Volcano, Arenal Lake, and the surrounding landscape.

Part Two: Paradise Hot Springs

After completing the hike, the experience continues with admission to Paradise Hot Springs.

Thermal pools
Time to relax and enjoy the different pools available at the resort.

Tropical gardens
The vegetation and landscaping complement the hot springs experience and create different places to relax.

Free time
Time to enjoy the facilities at your own pace, while observing Paradise Hot Springs' hours and rules.

The tour includes

• A naturalist guide during the hike.
• Water during the hike.
• Lunch.
• Admission to Paradise Hot Springs.
• Time to enjoy the thermal pools.
• Transfers according to the option booked.

Important

The hike takes place on authorized trails in the area surrounding Arenal Volcano. The experience does not include climbing to the crater or entering restricted areas.

Views of Arenal Volcano and Arenal Lake depend on weather conditions and cannot be guaranteed.

 

What to Bring

This experience combines hiking with a visit to hot springs, so we recommend preparing for both activities.

For the Hike

• Comfortable, lightweight, breathable clothing.
• Closed-toe shoes with good grip, preferably athletic or hiking shoes.
• Lightweight waterproof jacket or poncho.
• Sunscreen.
• Insect repellent.
• Hat or cap.
• Reusable water bottle.
• Camera or phone.
• Binoculars if you are particularly interested in birdwatching.

For Paradise Hot Springs

• Swimsuit.
• Towel.
• Sandals.
• Dry clothes to change into.
• Bag for storing wet clothes.
• Personal items needed after using the pools.

During the rainy season, an extra change of clothes can be especially useful after the hike.

 

Amenities

Naturalist guide
Guidance during the hike and interpretation of Arenal's volcanic history and natural surroundings.

Trails and volcanic landscapes
The route offers the opportunity to discover an area transformed by the activity of Arenal Volcano and observe the forest's natural recovery.

Nature observation
The hike offers opportunities to discover the flora and fauna native to the region's tropical forest.

Paradise Hot Springs
Access to the hot spring pools to relax after the hike.

Tropical gardens
Vegetation and landscaped areas complement the relaxing atmosphere of the hot springs experience.

Lunch
A meal is included as part of the experience.

Transportation
Available depending on the package booked and the designated operating areas.

Schedule

The departure time will be confirmed at the time of booking and is subject to availability.

Approximate total duration: 8 hours.

When the service includes transportation from your accommodation, the pickup time will be provided in the confirmation and will depend on the hotel’s location.

The hike and entry to Paradise Hot Springs will be scheduled according to the available times for both activities.