Arenal Volcano Hike & Night Walk: 1968 Lava Flow Tour

Walk across ancient lava and listen for the forest after dark

A volcano hike and night walk tour near La Fortuna combines a guided trek through Arenal's 1968 lava flow with an evening forest walk to spot nocturnal wildlife. Small groups travel with a local nature guide who explains the volcano's geology and points out animals; the tour includes round-trip transport, a spotting scope, water, and all fees. Children from age 2 are welcome, and the full experience runs about two and a half hours.

The Experience

The day starts at the Mirador El Silencio Reserve, where you walk into the lava field that erupted in 1968. The terrain is raw — broken rock, sparse vegetation pushing through — and your guide reads the landscape as you cross it, explaining how the volcano shaped what you're standing on. The hike itself takes about an hour through that field, moving at a pace that suits all fitness levels.

After the lava walk, the tour shifts to a night walk through the forest. This is when the animals emerge. Your guide carries a spotting scope and knows where to listen and look; you'll move slowly enough to actually see what moves. The guide speaks English or Spanish and calls out what's there — birds settling, insects, mammals active only after sunset. It's not a guarantee of sightings, but the forest is different at night, and you're there to notice it.

Round-trip transport from La Fortuna is included, along with water and all entry fees. Small groups mean you're not competing for the guide's attention or the scope, and the pace stays steady without rushing. Infants and small children can come in a stroller or car seat if you need that option.

What’s included

• Round-trip transport from La Fortuna.
• a local nature guide in English or Spanish.
• water throughout the tour.
• a spotting scope for the night walk.
• all park fees and taxes.

Good to know

Easy physical levelStroller friendlyInfant seats available

Operated by Arenal Expeditions-Tours and Transfers

Is this one for you?Book the shared tour for a guide's volcano and forest knowledge with included transport; choose private if your group wants a dedicated guide for the full hike and night walk.

Top questions

How difficult is the hike across the 1968 lava field?

The hike through the lava field suits all physical fitness levels and takes about an hour. The terrain is uneven rock, but the pace is steady and the guide adjusts for the group.

What animals might I see on the night walk?

The night walk is timed when nocturnal wildlife is active — birds, insects, and mammals that emerge after dark. Your guide uses a spotting scope and knows where to look, though sightings depend on what's moving that evening.

Is transport from La Fortuna included in the tour?

Yes, round-trip transport from La Fortuna is included. The tour also includes water, a spotting scope, and all park fees.

Can I bring young children on this tour?

Children from age 2 are welcome. Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller, and specialized infant car seats are available if you need one for transport.

What language does the guide speak?

The guide speaks English or Spanish, depending on which option you choose at checkout.