Arenal Volcano hike and hot springs from San Jose

Hike an active volcano, then soak in its natural hot springs

A guided hike from San Jose takes you into the mountains near Arenal Volcano, one of Costa Rica's most continuously active volcanoes, where you'll hike close to its slopes and listen for the crackling and steam that signal its activity. After the hike, you'll have lunch and then move to natural hot springs fed by the volcano's geothermal heat. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included.

The experience

You'll be picked up at your hotel lobby in San Jose, Alajuela or Heredia and driven to Arenal Volcano. The hike takes you into the mountains very close to the volcano itself: close enough to hear the crackling noise and see smoke rising from its mouth if conditions are right. Arenal is the most active volcano in Costa Rica, and that continuous activity is what makes the experience distinct from a standard mountain hike.

After the hike, a typical Costa Rican lunch is served before you head to the natural hot springs. These springs are fed directly by geothermal water from the volcano, so the temperature and mineral content come from Arenal itself. The whole outing runs about four hours from start to finish, which means you can fit it into a morning or afternoon without losing the rest of your day in the Central Valley.

What’s included

• Hotel pickup and drop-off from your hotel in San Jose, Alajuela or Heredia.
• bottled water throughout the day.
• a typical Costa Rican lunch.
• access to the natural hot springs.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery day

Book up to12h before

AgesAdult (3 and older) · Under 3: can't be booked

GroupUp to 15

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup is optional; you can also go straight to the meeting point.You can choose from 2 pickup points.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.

ConfirmationConfirmation within 48 h

Prices and times updated yesterday

Good to know

Low physical effortInfant seats available

Operated by Costa Rica Itinerary

Is this one for you?At four hours total, this tour fits neatly into a morning or afternoon, leaving the rest of your day free to explore the Central Valley or rest at your hotel. If you're arriving in San Jose with limited time or want to combine Arenal with other activities, the compact schedule works in your favor.

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Top questions

How close do you actually get to Arenal Volcano on the hike?

The hike takes you into the mountains very close to the volcano's slopes. On active days you may hear crackling sounds and see smoke coming from the crater, though the exact visibility depends on weather and volcanic activity at the time.

What's included in the lunch during this tour?

A typical Costa Rican lunch is provided as part of the tour. Bottled water is also included throughout the day.

Does the four-hour duration include travel time from San Jose?

Yes, the four hours covers the entire experience from pickup at your hotel through the hike, lunch and hot springs, then drop-off back at your hotel.

Are the hot springs natural, or are they a developed pool?

The hot springs are natural thermal springs fed by geothermal water from Arenal Volcano itself, so the heat and mineral content come directly from the volcano's activity.

What's the fitness level required for the volcano hike?

The hike is suitable for all physical fitness levels, so you don't need to be an experienced hiker to join the tour.