La Fortuna: Arenal Volcano Hike & Hot Springs River with Pickup

Summary

Hike rainforest trails near Arenal then soak in wild hot springs

You’ll hike rainforest trails around Arenal Volcano with a local guide, spot wildlife along the way, and then soak in a natural hot springs river surrounded by jungle sounds. This afternoon tour includes hotel pickup in La Fortuna and finishes with time to unwind in warm mineral waters — perfect if you want both adventure and real relaxation.

What’s the experience like?

“If you listen, you can hear the volcano breathe,” our guide Luis said, pausing mid-trail with his hand cupped behind his ear. I probably grinned too wide — maybe it was the idea of a mountain breathing, or maybe just the sticky-sweet smell of wet leaves after that quick rain shower. The trail around Arenal Volcano isn’t hard but it’s not a stroll either; roots everywhere, and sometimes you catch a glimpse of the old lava flows through the trees. Luis pointed out a toucan (I missed it), and later some monkeys that were much easier to spot — one stared right back at us, chewing something I couldn’t see.

I didn’t expect to learn so much about the volcano itself. Luis told stories about eruptions and how people used to live here before things got busy with visitors. He stopped for ages explaining a plant that looked like nothing special but apparently cures fevers (I forgot the name already). There were these little birds making sharp calls overhead — not sure what they were, but it made everything feel alive. By the time we finished looping around, my shoes were muddy and I was honestly ready for that hot springs river everyone talks about on this day trip from La Fortuna.

The water felt warmer than I imagined — not scalding, just enough to make my legs tingle after walking. People laughed quietly upstream; someone had brought a pineapple and was sharing slices. The steam mixed with jungle smells, like earth and flowers together. I lay back against a smooth rock for a while and tried to let my brain empty out (not easy for me). It’s funny how quickly you forget about your phone or emails when you’re floating in mineral water under green leaves. I still think about that quiet moment when nobody said anything at all.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Arenal Volcano hike and hot springs

• Visit west side of Arenal Volcano
• Hike nature trails around volcano base
• Learn volcano history and spot wildlife
• Relax in natural hot springs river

Top questions

How long is the Arenal Volcano hike?

The guided hike takes place around the base of Arenal Volcano in the afternoon; exact duration depends on group pace but plan for several hours including stops.

Is hotel pickup included for this tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in La Fortuna.

Are there natural hot springs on this tour?

Yes, after hiking you’ll relax in a natural hot springs river surrounded by tropical scenery.

Will we see wildlife during the hike?

Your guide will help spot local wildlife such as birds and monkeys along the rainforest trails.

Is lunch provided on this tour?

No lunch is included; only hotel pickup/drop-off and guiding are mentioned as inclusions.

Is this day trip suitable for kids?

Children must be accompanied by an adult; moderate fitness is required due to uneven terrain.

What should I bring for the Arenal Volcano day trip?

Wear comfortable shoes for muddy trails and bring swimwear for the hot springs river.

What’s included

Your afternoon includes hotel pickup and drop-off in La Fortuna plus guiding from a professional local expert who’ll point out wildlife along rainforest trails before you finish up soaking in a natural hot springs river surrounded by jungle sounds.