Arenal Volcano: Full-Day Combo Tour with Zipline & Hot Springs

Summary

Rainforest waterfalls, coffee aromas & hot springs near Arenal

You’ll sip fresh Costa Rican coffee on a plantation stop, walk misty paths by roaring waterfalls, zipline through rainforest with views of Arenal Volcano, meet local guides and learn about indigenous culture before soaking in natural hot springs. Lunch and dinner are included — you’ll end the day feeling both exhilarated and oddly peaceful.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what real Costa Rican coffee tastes like right where it grows? I didn’t expect to care that much — but standing in the cool morning air outside San Jose, our guide Luis handed me a tiny cup and grinned. The smell was earthy and sharp, almost smoky. We’d only just started the Arenal Volcano full-day combo tour and already I felt like I was waking up for the first time in weeks. The drive itself wasn’t just “getting there” either; we passed waterfalls that roared louder than traffic back home, and at La Paz Waterfall I got sprayed on my glasses (I still found water spots hours later). Luis pointed out hummingbirds darting around the San Fernando lookout — he knew all their names, but I forgot every single one except the green one that hovered right by my ear.

After some fried plantains and cheese with more coffee (Costa Ricans really know how to snack), we stopped at this bridge where iguanas lazed in the sun like they owned the place. There was a sloth too — or at least a brownish lump that Luis swore was a sloth. Lunch came just before the clouds broke over Arenal Volcano itself. Rice, beans, chicken — nothing fancy but it tasted so good after all that fresh air. Then came ziplining: seven cables through rainforest so thick you could barely see your own feet sometimes. My hands were shaking (not sure if from nerves or excitement) when I tried rappelling over the river. Someone from our group yelled “Pura vida!” and honestly it fit.

The Maleku tribe presentation surprised me — I thought it would be short but ended up wanting to ask more questions about their language (Li laughed when I tried to say “thank you” in Maleku). By late afternoon my legs were jelly but soaking in Paradise Hot Springs felt surreal: steam curling up into palm leaves, warm water on tired muscles, sky turning pink behind the volcano. Dinner was somewhere on the road back toward San Jose — simple food again but everyone seemed quieter now, maybe just tired or maybe letting it all sink in. Even now when I catch a whiff of strong coffee or hear running water, part of me is right back there.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Arenal Volcano and Rainforest Adventure

• Pickup from San Jose hotel
• Drive scenic route to Arenal
• Visit coffee plantation and learn about coffee
• Stop at La Paz Waterfall for photos
• Visit San Fernando Waterfall lookout
• Enjoy coffee and local snacks
• See iguanas and sloths at Iguanas Center
• Lunch of authentic Costa Rican cuisine
• Zip lining and rappelling adventure
• Indigenous tribe cultural presentation
• Relax at Paradise Hot Springs
• Dinner at Costa Rican restaurant en route
• Return to San Jose hotel

Top questions

How long does the Arenal Volcano full-day combo tour take?

The tour lasts a full day with early morning pickup from San Jose hotels and return in the evening after dinner.

Is lunch included on this day trip from San Jose to Arenal?

Yes, a traditional Costa Rican lunch is included near Arenal Volcano as well as dinner on the way back.

What activities are part of this Arenal Volcano combo tour?

You’ll visit waterfalls, enjoy a coffee tasting, see wildlife like iguanas and sloths, go ziplining and rappelling, experience an indigenous culture presentation, and relax in thermal hot springs.

Are hotel pickups available for this tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included for most San Jose area hotels.

Is this tour suitable for kids?

The minimum age is 5 years old; children must be accompanied by an adult.

Are there vegetarian options for meals?

Yes, vegetarian options are available if requested at booking.

What should I wear for this day trip to Arenal?

Dress casual smart with comfortable walking shoes; bring swimwear for hot springs and prepare for changing weather conditions.

Does the tour operate if it rains?

Yes, it operates in all weather conditions—just dress appropriately for rain or shine.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from most San Jose hotels, all entry fees to attractions along the way like waterfalls and hot springs pools filled with natural mineral water. You’ll get fresh Costa Rican coffee with local snacks during stops, plus a hearty lunch near Arenal Volcano and dinner on your return journey. All activities—ziplining, rappelling over the river, indigenous culture presentation—are guided by bilingual professionals throughout.