Arenal: Hanging Bridges, Volcano Hike & Hot Springs Day Trip

Walk misty bridges hear jungle calls hike lava fields soak in thermal pools

You’ll cross hanging bridges above the rainforest floor near Arenal Volcano, hike historic lava fields with a local guide sharing stories along the way, then unwind in natural hot springs after a hearty Costa Rican lunch. Expect laughter on the bridges, bird calls echoing through the trees—and a few quiet moments you’ll want to keep for yourself.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Arenal Hanging Bridges and Volcano Hike

• Drive to Mistico Hanging Bridges
• Hike across six hanging bridges
• Enjoy panoramic views of Arenal Lake
• Drive to Arenal Volcano lava fields
• Hike through historic lava fields
• Have lunch at rainforest cafe
• Relax in thermal hot spring pools

The Experience

First thing I remember is how our guide, Marta, handed me a chunk of pineapple right out of her backpack while we waited at the Mistico Hanging Bridges entrance. She called it “the best energy for the trail” and honestly, she was right. The air up there near Lake Arenal was thick and sweet—like wet leaves after a night rain. We’d barely started when Marta stopped us to point out a sloth curled into itself above one of the bridges. I squinted forever before I saw it move. The bridges themselves felt a bit wobbly (in a good way?) and every time someone laughed or gasped you could feel it ripple underfoot.

I didn’t expect the sound—so many birds going off at once it was almost dizzying. There’s this one spot where you look out over the canopy and catch both Arenal Volcano and Lake Arenal in the same sweep. It’s not silent, but it’s that kind of noise that makes you feel small in a nice way. Marta told us about the 1968 eruption as we drove to El Silencio Park; her uncle remembered ash falling for days. Walking over those old lava fields is rough under your shoes, all black rock and little tufts of green poking through. Someone in our group tried to pronounce “colada de lava” and Marta just grinned—she didn’t correct him.

Lunch came after that—rice, beans, chicken with some sauce I still can’t name (I should’ve asked). The restaurant sat right next to these steamy pools—the Relax Termalitas Hot Springs—which looked almost too perfect but felt real enough once you slid in. You could hear people trading stories in Spanish and English, steam rising around everyone’s faces. My skin smelled faintly mineral afterwards; I kind of liked it. Didn’t want to get out, honestly.

Top questions

How long does the Arenal Hanging Bridges & Volcano tour last?

The day trip lasts around 8 hours including all activities and transfers from your hotel.

Is lunch included on this Arenal day trip?

Yes, a traditional Costa Rican lunch with drinks is included after the volcano hike.

Are hotel pickups available for this tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in La Fortuna/Arenal area.

What languages do guides speak on this tour?

Guides speak English and Spanish during the entire experience.

How difficult is the volcano hike portion?

The hike is moderate; suitable for most fitness levels but not recommended for those with poor cardiovascular health.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated for lunch?

Yes, dietary accommodations are available if requested in advance.

Do I need to bring swimwear for the hot springs?

Yes, bring swimwear if you plan to enjoy the Relax Termalitas Hot Springs at the end of the tour.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off by air-conditioned vehicle, all entry fees for Mistico Hanging Bridges Park and El Silencio Park, fruit snacks after hiking, an English or Spanish-speaking local guide throughout, plus a traditional Costa Rican lunch with drinks before relaxing in several natural thermal pools at Relax Termalitas Hot Springs.