Arenal: Full-Day Volcano, Waterfall & Hot Springs Tour

Summary

Explore Arenal’s rainforest trails, waterfalls, volcano views and thermal pools with a local guide

You’ll cross hanging bridges in the rainforest canopy with a local guide, swim beneath La Fortuna waterfall, hike volcanic trails as clouds drift over Arenal’s peak, then soak in Baldi’s hot springs before dinner. With hotel pickup and meals included, it’s a full day of Costa Rican sights and small surprises you’ll remember long after the drive back.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what it feels like to walk above the rainforest? I didn’t think much about it until we were actually on the Mistico Hanging Bridges near Arenal. The air was thick with that green smell — you know, wet leaves and something sweet I couldn’t name. Our guide, Diego, kept stopping to point out birds I’d never spot on my own. He had this way of making even a tiny frog feel like a big discovery. At one point he mimicked a toucan call (not bad honestly) and a couple of us tried too — let’s just say the birds weren’t fooled.

By late morning we were hiking down to La Fortuna Waterfall. The steps felt endless but then you hear the roar before you see anything. Cold spray on your face when you get close — I still remember how my legs wobbled after swimming in that pool. Lunch after that was simple but good; rice, beans, chicken, some kind of fresh juice that tasted like guava or maybe passionfruit? I should’ve asked.

The afternoon walk at the base of Arenal Volcano was quieter. Clouds kept drifting over the peak so we only got glimpses, but Diego told stories about old eruptions and how locals used to listen for rumbles at night. There was this moment where everyone just stood still listening to cicadas and distant thunder — not sure why but it stuck with me.

Hot springs at Baldi came last. Steam everywhere and people laughing in all these little pools — some hotter than others (I found out fast). Dinner was buffet style and honestly by then I was too relaxed to care what I ate. We left under a sky that smelled like rain again. If you’re thinking about a day trip to Arenal from La Fortuna or even from further out, just bring extra clothes — trust me.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Arenal Highlights and Hot Springs

• Rainforest Naturalist Hike at Mistico Hanging Bridges
• Swim at La Fortuna Waterfall base
• Hike at Arenal Volcano base
• Relax at Baldi Hot Springs and dinner

Top questions

How long is the full-day Arenal volcano tour?

The tour lasts about 14 hours from 7:30am to 9:30pm including all activities and transfers.

Is lunch included on the Arenal day trip?

Yes, both lunch and dinner are included in the tour price.

Does this tour include hotel pickup?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are provided for all guests.

What should I bring for the Arenal volcano & hot springs tour?

You should bring comfortable clothing, walking shoes, raincoat, swimsuit, towel, sandals, insect repellent, camera and extra clothes.

Are entrance fees covered in this Arenal day trip?

All entrance fees for attractions are included in your booking.

Is there a local guide during the tour?

A bilingual naturalist guide leads all parts of the tour.

Can children join this Arenal highlights tour?

Children can join if accompanied by an adult; child rates apply when sharing with two paying adults.

Are there any health restrictions for this tour?

The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or cardiovascular issues.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off by air-conditioned minivan; all entry fees; guided walks through Mistico Hanging Bridges Park and around Arenal Volcano; time at La Fortuna Waterfall; relaxing access to Baldi Hot Springs; bottled water throughout; plus both lunch and dinner before returning in the evening.