
Arenal Hot Springs Full Day Trip from San José
Traveler rating
4.2/5
Based on 31 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Arenal Hot Springs Full Day Trip from San José worth booking?
Arenal Hot Springs Full Day Trip from San José is a 11-hour experience in Alajuela, Costa Rica, from $197 per person. It scores 60 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 4.2/5 rating across 31 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 60 / 100
- Rating
- 4.2/5 (31)
- Duration
- 11 hours
- From
- $197 per person
Discover Costa Rica on an unforgettable Arenal Volcano and hot springs day trip! Visit Sarchí, a charming artisan town famous for its colorful crafts and traditional culture, before traveling through scenic countryside to La Fortuna. Enjoy breathtaking views of Arenal Volcano, surrounded by lush rainforest and spectacular mountain landscapes. Then unwind in natural hot springs, soaking in warm, mineral-rich thermal pools amid tropical gardens and cascading waterfalls. This full-day Costa Rica tour combines volcano sightseeing, cultural discovery, and pure relaxation in one incredible experience. Perfect for couples, families, and nature lovers, it’s the ideal way to explore La Fortuna’s natural wonders and embrace the Pura Vida lifestyle. Book your Arenal Volcano and hot springs adventure today!
What you get
About this experience
Discover Costa Rica on an unforgettable Arenal Volcano and hot springs day trip! Visit Sarchí, a charming artisan town famous for its colorful crafts and traditional culture, before traveling through scenic countryside to La Fortuna. Enjoy breathtaking views of Arenal Volcano, surrounded by lush rainforest and spectacular mountain landscapes. Then unwind in natural hot springs, soaking in warm, mineral-rich thermal pools amid tropical gardens and cascading waterfalls. This full-day Costa Rica tour combines volcano sightseeing, cultural discovery, and pure relaxation in one incredible experience. Perfect for couples, families, and nature lovers, it’s the ideal way to explore La Fortuna’s natural wonders and embrace the Pura Vida lifestyle. Book your Arenal Volcano and hot springs adventure today!
What's included
Included
- Traditional Costa Rican lunch and dinner
- Air-conditioned vehicle transport
- Professional bilingual tour guide (English and Spanish)
- Hotel pickup and drop-off from select San Jose locations
- Use of lockers and towels at hot springs
Not included
- Tour guide and driver gratuities
- Bottled Water
- Personal expenses and souvenirs
What you'll see and do
Sarchi
In Sarchi, you will be able to appreciate many of the art crafts and souvenirs that Costa Rica has to offer. Also you will see the world’s largest ox cart according to the Guinness Book. The cart is 2 stories high, nearly 45 feet long (14 meters) and weighs 4400 lbs. (2 tons), and took 70 days to complete.
45 minutes here
La Fortuna
The impressive Arenal Volcano is a magnificent natural wonder that is situated in La Fortuna (The Fortune) of San Carlos, previously assumed to be dormant, until in 1968, when it experienced a major eruption. Now is visited by tourist from all around the world hoping for the opportunity to witness volcanic activity, such as the white plumes of smoke that emanate from the conical shaped behemoth.
45 minutes here
La Fortuna de San Carlos
As the perfect end to the day, we will relax in a true thermal paradise with a privileged location, panoramic views of the volcano, and beautiful gardens. It has thermal mineral pools, which are fed by the underground geological formations of the Arenal Volcano. In addition, there are cold and warm pools, fed by chemical-free springs from the tropical forest. The waters flow freely.
240 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 45 minutes before departure.
Options you can book
Baldi Hot Springs
Entrance & Dinner at Baldi : Baldi Hot Springs, a true thermal paradise featuring 25 volcanic water pools that flow naturally from the volcano. Pickup included
Ecotermales Hot Springs
Entrance&Dinner at Ecotermales: Natural hot springs sanctuary, featuring six exclusive thermal pools into the rainforest. Pickup included
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en, es
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 30 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Expediciones Tropicales Day Tours
Know before you go
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- If you are travelling with children please let us know their ages, during the booking process.
- Please bring: swimsuit, sandals, extra dry clothing, and towels
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 31 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
6 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
5 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Food and drink
4 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Pace and timing
3 mentionsSeveral reviewers found the schedule tight or the day long.
Photo opportunities
2 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Traveler reviews
31 verified traveler reviews for Arenal Hot Springs Full Day Trip from San José. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Perfect
Perfect excursion with very knowledgeable and well organized team. Pick up, lunch, dinner, and everything included
Response from the operator: Thank you for your wonderful review! We’re delighted to hear you enjoyed the excursion and appreciated our knowledgeable and well-organized team. We’re glad everything from transportation to the meals was smooth and enjoyable. We hope to see you again in Costa Rica!
via Viator
I don't know where I'm a gonna go when de volcano blow!
Long day on treacherous roads! The payoff was the volcano, though its top was shrouded in clouds. The thermal baths were good. I even rode the medium water slide.
Response from the operator: Thank you for sharing your experience! We’re glad the Arenal Volcano and thermal baths made the long journey worthwhile. We’re also happy to hear you enjoyed the water slide! We hope to welcome you back for another Costa Rica adventure, hopefully with clearer views of the volcano next time.
via Tripadvisor
Great Experience
Absolutely 💯 on of the best tours I have been on. It was a group of 3 who spoke different languages. The tour guide was amazing he explained everything in both language. He gave both history and facts as we toured the country to get to our destination. The driver was drove safely and stopped for rest stops as needed. It was during the time of independence which the country exploded with pride and culture. The tour guide explained the rituals and the celebration that was to come. Lunch was absolutely delicious we stopped at a local restaurant. The volcano 🌋 was beautiful with so many birds in the area. Lastly, Bali hot springs was magical. The water was piped in from the volcano. Several different pools to explained the magic. Felt very safe. Will definitely would recommend!
Response from the operator: Thank you very much for your wonderful review! We are delighted to hear that you enjoyed the tour and appreciated our guide’s multilingual service, historical insights, and attention to detail. We are also glad you felt safe and comfortable throughout the journey, from the scenic volcano and local lunch to the relaxing hot springs experience. It was a pleasure sharing Costa Rica’s culture and natural beauty with you. We truly appreciate your recommendation and hope to welcome you again in the future! Expediciones Tropicales Day Tours Team
via Viator
Fun, fun, fun!
The raft safari was my favorite part!
Response from the operator: Thanks for sending us your experience with Expediciones Tropicales Day Tours, We hope to see you again! Sincerely,
via Tripadvisor
Amazing!! 10/10
This was a wonderful experience with breathtaking views, good people and crew, and awesome hot springs! Shoutout to Donald for being with us during the whole duration!
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re delighted to hear that you enjoyed the breathtaking views, the hot springs, and the experience with our team. We’ll be sure to share your kind words with Donald—he’ll be thrilled to know that his presence and dedication helped make your experience even more memorable. We truly appreciate you choosing to join us and hope to welcome you back for another unforgettable adventure in the future! Expediciones Tropicales Day Tours
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 11 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $197 to $233
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 11
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Who runs this experience
Operated by Expediciones Tropicales Day Tours, who run 3 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 59.5.
See everything Expediciones Tropicales Day Tours runsWhy this scores 60
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Arenal Hot Springs Full Day Trip from San José: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Alajuela.
How much does Arenal Hot Springs Full Day Trip from San José cost?
+
Prices start at $197 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Alajuela usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Arenal Hot Springs Full Day Trip from San José take?
+
Plan for about 11 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Alajuela is not rushed.
Is Arenal Hot Springs Full Day Trip from San José worth it?
+
It holds an Outty Ranking of 60 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.2/5 across 31 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Alajuela, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Arenal Hot Springs Full Day Trip from San José?
+
Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Arenal Hot Springs Full Day Trip from San José suitable for kids and families?
+
Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 11-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Arenal Hot Springs Full Day Trip from San José?
+
Around 11 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Alajuela can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
+
Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Alajuela and add a light layer if any part of the 11-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Arenal Hot Springs Full Day Trip from San José start and how do I get there?
+
The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Alajuela within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Alajuela?
+
On Outty we rank every Alajuela experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Arenal Volcano Full-Day Combo Tour with Lunch and Dinner, Arenal Volcano Experience Full-Day Tour from San Jose, Manuel Antonio National Park Sightseeing and Wildlife Day Tour from San Jose. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Alajuela?
+
Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Alajuela?
+
Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
+
Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Arenal Hot Springs Full Day Trip from San José?
+
Included: Traditional Costa Rican lunch and dinner; Air-conditioned vehicle transport; Professional bilingual tour guide (English and Spanish); Hotel pickup and drop-off from select San Jose locations; and Use of lockers and towels at hot springs. Not included: Tour guide and driver gratuities; Bottled Water; and Personal expenses and souvenirs. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Arenal Hot Springs Full Day Trip from San José include hotel pickup?
+
Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 147 listed pickup locations in and around Alajuela. Be ready about 45 minutes before the start time.
What languages is Arenal Hot Springs Full Day Trip from San José offered in?
+
It is offered in English and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Arenal Hot Springs Full Day Trip from San José?
+
Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Arenal Hot Springs Full Day Trip from San José wheelchair or stroller accessible?
+
The operator notes: Wheelchair accessible; Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; and Specialized infant seats are available. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Arenal Hot Springs Full Day Trip from San José if the weather is bad?
+
This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Arenal Hot Springs Full Day Trip from San José?
+
Across 31 reviews averaging 4.2 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, food and drink. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works. One thing to know: Several reviewers found the schedule tight or the day long.
What booking options are available for Arenal Hot Springs Full Day Trip from San José?
+
There are 2 options to choose from, including Baldi Hot Springs, Ecotermales Hot Springs. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
Ready to lock in your spot?
Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Arenal Hot Springs Full Day Trip from San José.
Pick your date




