Arenal: Suspension Bridges, La Fortuna Falls & Hot Springs Day Trip

Swim at La Fortuna waterfall, walk Arenal bridges and relax in hot springs with volcano views

You’ll hike down jungle trails to swim beneath La Fortuna Waterfall, cross hanging bridges above the rainforest canopy with an expert guide spotting wildlife, then unwind in natural hot springs facing Arenal Volcano—all with transport from San Jose and lunch included. Expect laughter, new friends, and moments that stick with you long after you’ve dried off.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Waterfall, suspension bridges, and hot springs

• Travel from San Jose to La Fortuna
• Hike trail to La Fortuna Waterfall
• Swim in waterfall's clear waters
• Walk suspension bridges over rainforest
• Observe wildlife from treetops
• Relax in exclusive hot springs spa

The Experience

We’d barely left San Jose when our driver, Mario, started telling stories about growing up near Arenal. He laughed about how the volcano used to scare him as a kid—honestly, I could see why once we got close. The whole bus went quiet for a second when that perfect cone finally came into view through the mist. It’s hard to explain but you just feel small in the best way. Our guide, Sofía, handed out bottled water and pointed out some birds I’d never even heard of—motmots?—and I tried not to spill my drink when the road got bumpy. Classic me.

First stop: La Fortuna Waterfall. The air smelled like wet leaves and something sweet I couldn’t place (jungle flowers maybe?). There are a lot of stairs down but Sofía kept us distracted by pointing out tiny frogs and showing us how to spot sloths (I failed). When we reached the bottom, that waterfall was loud—like actually thundering—and cold spray hit my face before I even got close. Some people swam right away but I hesitated… then just went for it. The water was freezing at first but after a minute it felt amazing. My friend still laughs about my “waterfall face” in her photos.

After drying off (sort of), we drove over to Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park for the next part of this day trip to Arenal. The bridges really do swing a little bit—I wasn’t expecting that much movement, honestly—but you get these wild views over the canopy and sometimes you can see monkeys or toucans if you’re lucky. Sofía spotted a sloth curled up like a fuzzy ball high above us; I squinted forever before finally seeing it move (barely). There’s something about being up there with all those sounds—birdcalls, wind through leaves—that makes you forget your phone exists for a while.

Lunch was somewhere local (can’t remember the name) with casado plates and fresh juice—I tried everything except the pickled stuff because I’m still not that brave. Last stop: hot springs near Arenal Volcano itself. You can pick different pools depending on how hot you want it; I ended up in one with a little waterfall massaging my shoulders and honestly didn’t want to leave. The steam mixed with cool evening air and everyone went quiet for a bit, just soaking it all in—literally and figuratively. On the ride back to San Jose, Mario played old ranchera songs and someone fell asleep next to me. Even now, sometimes when I hear running water or smell wet earth after rain, I think about that day.

Top questions

How long is the drive from San Jose to Arenal?

The drive from San Jose to Arenal typically takes around 3 hours each way, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Is lunch included on this day trip?

Yes, lunch is included during the tour—it’s served at a local restaurant near Arenal.

Are entrance fees for La Fortuna Waterfall and Mistico Hanging Bridges included?

Yes, entry fees for both La Fortuna Waterfall and Mistico Hanging Bridges Park are included in your booking.

Can children or infants join this tour?

Yes, infants and small children can join—the tour is suitable for all fitness levels and strollers or prams are allowed.

Is hotel pickup available from San Jose?

Yes, pickup from your accommodation in San Jose is included as part of this day trip package.

What should I bring for swimming at La Fortuna Waterfall?

You should bring swimwear, a towel, comfortable shoes for walking down steps, and possibly a change of clothes.

Are there changing facilities at the waterfall or hot springs?

Changing facilities are available at both La Fortuna Waterfall area and at the hot springs resort near Arenal Volcano.

How long do we spend at each attraction?

You’ll have time for swimming at La Fortuna Waterfall, about two hours walking Mistico Hanging Bridges Park trails, plus ample relaxation time at the hot springs.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup in San Jose by air-conditioned vehicle; all entrance fees for La Fortuna Waterfall, Mistico Hanging Bridges Park, and exclusive hot spring pools; bottled water throughout; an expert local guide sharing stories along the way; plus an à la carte Costa Rican lunch before heading back in the evening.