Tabacón Hot Springs La Fortuna: Arenal Volcano Thermal Pools

Five Natural Hot Springs at the Foot of Arenal Volcano

You get all-day access to five naturally heated thermal springs, cascading waterfalls, and mineral pools set in Arenal's private rainforest, with entry fees and taxes included upfront. Move between pools at your own pace, choosing water temperature and seclusion level as you go. No guide, no schedule, no surprises. Just thermal water and jungle for as long as you want to stay.

Step-by-step itinerary

Visit Tabacón Hot Springs

• Arrive at Tabacón Hot Springs
• Explore naturally heated thermal pools
• Relax in mineral-rich waters
• Enjoy cascading waterfalls and pools
• Experience the rainforest surroundings

The experience

Hands slip into water that's already warm before you've waded in knee-deep. That's the first thing you notice at Tabacón Hot Springs in La Fortuna. The thermal pools feed directly from five natural springs, heated by magma beneath Arenal Volcano, and thousands of gallons flow through the property every minute. You're not soaking in a resort pool that's been heated. You're standing in water the earth itself warmed, which feels different the moment you step in.

The day pass gives you access to the entire network of pools and cascading waterfalls spread across the private rainforest reserve. There's no schedule to follow. You move between the springs at your own pace, choosing which temperature suits you, which waterfall you want to stand under, which quiet pool feels right for longer soaks. Some spots are more open and social. Others are tucked into the jungle where you're alone with the sound of water and the canopy above. The varying temperatures mean you can cool off in one pool and warm up in another without leaving the property.

La Fortuna sits at the base of Arenal, so the volcano's presence shapes everything here: the mineral content of the water, the lush vegetation that thrives on volcanic soil, even the way the landscape feels enclosed and alive. The rainforest around Tabacón is dense enough that you forget how many other visitors are on the property. The jungle absorbs sound and creates pockets of privacy. Paths wind between pools, past ferns and flowering plants, and the whole experience moves at the pace of someone who's decided to spend a day in warm water instead of rushing through a checklist.

Your day pass includes all entry fees and taxes, so there's no additional cost once you arrive. The property is wheelchair accessible, and the infrastructure is solid enough that families with young children, strollers, and varying fitness levels can navigate it comfortably. The only real constraint is that it's not recommended for pregnant travelers or anyone with cardiovascular concerns (the heat and exertion of moving between pools can be taxing), but for most people, the day unfolds at whatever intensity you choose. Bring a swimsuit, a towel, and sunscreen. The rest is just moving between pools and letting the thermal water do what it's designed to do.

What’s included

• Your day pass includes all-day access to the five natural thermal springs, cascading waterfalls, and mineral-rich pools across the private rainforest reserve.
• All entry fees and taxes are covered in the price.
• Changing facilities and secure storage for belongings are available on-site.
• You move between pools independently with no guided tour or scheduled activities.

Options for this experience

2 options

Option 120 departure times: the first at 10:00, the last at 19:30

Option 220 departure times: the first at 10:00, the last at 19:30

You see the exact price of each option when you check availability.See dates & prices

Before you book

Days and timesEvery day20 departure times: the first at 10:00, the last at 19:30

AgesAdult (12 to 75 years) · Child (5 to 11 years) · Infant (under 5): free

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup is optional; you can also go straight to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsNo refund if you cancel.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 2 days ago

Good to know

Easy physical levelWheelchair accessibleStroller friendlyPublic transport nearbyNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditions

Operated by Tico Paradise Costa Rica

Is this one for you?Book this if you want a full day of thermal pools without arranging transport, timing, or additional costs: the all-inclusive pass and private reserve setting mean you can soak and move between springs at your own rhythm, which is what makes a day of thermal water feel like rest instead of tourism.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (5 to 11 years); Infant (under 5): free.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. No refund if you cancel.

What's the difference between Tabacón and other hot springs near Arenal?

Tabacón operates five natural springs on a private rainforest reserve with varying temperatures and multiple waterfall pools. It's the largest network of naturally flowing thermal springs in the area.

Do I need to book in advance or can I just show up?

Booking online through the day pass guarantees entry and a smoother arrival. Walk-ups are possible but not guaranteed, especially during peak season.

How long should I plan to spend there?

Most visitors spend 3 to 5 hours. There's no time limit, so you can stay as long as you want within operating hours.

Are there lockers or changing facilities?

Yes, the property has changing facilities and secure storage for belongings, though specifics on locker availability should be confirmed at arrival.

Can I bring food and drinks?

Outside food policies vary. Check with the property directly. There are on-site dining options available.

What should I bring?

Swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and water shoes or sandals. The paths can be slippery, and the ground around pools gets hot.

Are there temperature differences between the pools?

Yes. Each spring has its own temperature, ranging from warm to hot, so you can choose based on preference or cool off as needed.