Arenal National Park (Boat Ride + 2 different Trails) in La Fortuna, Costa Rica
La Fortuna, Costa Rica

Arenal National Park (Boat Ride + 2 different Trails)

Outty Ranking 63 5.0 · 5 traveler reviews4.5 hoursFrom $106
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Outty Ranking

63/100

Solid Choice. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

5.0/5

Based on 5 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Arenal National Park (Boat Ride + 2 different Trails) worth booking?

Arenal National Park (Boat Ride + 2 different Trails) is a 4.5-hour experience in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, from $106 per person. It scores 63 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 5/5 rating across 5 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
63 / 100
Rating
5/5 (5)
Duration
4.5 hours
From
$106 per person

Arenal Volcano is one of Costa Rica's biggest attractions. The unavoidable presence of the perfectly symmetrical colossus towers above the countryside. People who climbed Arenal’ s summit before 1968, told that inside the crater there were big trees and they slept in places where there was some heat due to small steam outlets. Explore the history and dramatic landscapes shaped by this iconic landmark on this picturesque and comprehensive tour that combines the enjoyment of a boat ride with a walk through the National Park's rainforest at the Peninsula Trail and the most impressive views of the colossus from every angle at the Coladas Trail. Entering the foothills of Arenal is to immerse yourself in a universe of flora and fauna of incomparable richness. Winding paths lead through an emerald, green tapestry, where the singing of birds and the rustling of trees create a unique ambient melody just waiting for you to come!

What you get

    About this experience

    Arenal Volcano is one of Costa Rica's biggest attractions. The unavoidable presence of the perfectly symmetrical colossus towers above the countryside. People who climbed Arenal’ s summit before 1968, told that inside the crater there were big trees and they slept in places where there was some heat due to small steam outlets. Explore the history and dramatic landscapes shaped by this iconic landmark on this picturesque and comprehensive tour that combines the enjoyment of a boat ride with a walk through the National Park's rainforest at the Peninsula Trail and the most impressive views of the colossus from every angle at the Coladas Trail. Entering the foothills of Arenal is to immerse yourself in a universe of flora and fauna of incomparable richness. Winding paths lead through an emerald, green tapestry, where the singing of birds and the rustling of trees create a unique ambient melody just waiting for you to come!

    What's included

    Included

    • Hotel pickup and drop-off
    • National Park fees
    • Snacks
    • Transport by air-conditioned minivan
    • Guide

    Not included

    • Lunch
    • Bottled water

    What you'll see and do

    1. Arenal Volcano

      This tour will simply amaze you; it starts with a short boat ride from the Arenal Lake Dam to the entrance of “La Península”, this path will take us through the forest in the most recent national park trails area, we will hike with amazing views of the Arenal Lake and enjoy fantastic lookouts, this trail is special for birdwatching and nature photography. Then we’ll go to areas that were once destroyed by volcanic activity and are now in the process of regeneration, a hike through the “Coladas Trail” will take us all the way to experience what not long ago were lava flows. Nature, geology, and volcano history all in the hands of our professional guides.

      240 minutes here · Admission included

    2. Lake Arenal

      Embark on a relaxing journey and discover the beauty of Arena Lake with our scenic boat tour. Glide across the crystal-clear waters, surrounded by breathtaking scenery that will leave you feeling rejuvenated. As you cruise the lake, witness stunning mountain ranges reflected on the water's surface. Lush greenery and vibrant wildflowers paint the shoreline, creating a picture-perfect postcard scene.

      Pass by without stopping

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    La Fortuna

    Pick uThis is our main office next to La Habana river bridge. We will be happy to meet you here or at your hotel.p service in more than 65 hotels in the area, please contact us (+506) 2479 9133

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is available for selected locations. Pickup begins about 30 minutes before departure.

    Ends at

    Pick uThis is our main office next to La Habana river bridge. We will be happy to meet you here or at your hotel.p service in more than 65 hotels in the area, please contact us (+506) 2479 9133

    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 15 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Blue Pass by Aventuras Arenal

    Know before you go

    • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
    • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
    • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
    • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
    • Hiking shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a camera are recommended
    • Due to uneven surfaces, this tour is not recommended for those with walking disabilities
    • Operates in most weather conditions, please dress appropriately
    • If canceled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative date or full refund
    • Children must be accompanied by an adult
    • Due to the nature of this tour and the safety of all guests, the tour operator reserves the right to refuse service to passengers who are intoxicated or show signs of intoxication. If, as a result, your tour is canceled, you will not be entitled to a refund.

    Photos

    Boat Ride - Arenal Lake, Arenal National Park (Boat Ride + 2 different Trails) in La FortunaPenínsula Trail - Arenal National Park, Arenal National Park (Boat Ride + 2 different Trails) in La FortunaPenínsula Trail - Arenal National Park, Arenal National Park (Boat Ride + 2 different Trails) in La FortunaPenínsula Trail - Arenal National Park, Arenal National Park (Boat Ride + 2 different Trails) in La FortunaPenínsula Trail - Arenal National Park, Arenal National Park (Boat Ride + 2 different Trails) in La FortunaColadas Trail - Arenal National Park, Arenal National Park (Boat Ride + 2 different Trails) in La Fortuna

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 5 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    5 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    2 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Photo opportunities

    2 mentions

    The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    Physical effort

    2 mentions

    Expect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.

    Value for money

    1 mention

    Travelers feel they got more than they paid for.

    Organization

    1 mention

    Pickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.

    Traveler reviews

    5 verified traveler reviews for Arenal National Park (Boat Ride + 2 different Trails). Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    5
    4 star
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    debbiepD1644PW · June 2025

    Arenal park hike

    Fabulous trip with our brilliant guide Natalia Robleto who guided us with her expertise and knowledge every step of the way. We spent time exploring the Arenal park trails with Natalia who took time to point out many different types of wildlife and give us in depth information explaining in detail about the forest and also the story of the volcano. We were taken care of expertly and Natalia is an excellent guide with an abundance of knowledge.

    via Tripadvisor

    Gonzalotorresoceja · December 2024

    Exceeded expectations

    Although the day was not accompanied by rain, Natalia and driver Germsn’s great professionalism made for an unforgettable day. Showed to be a great naturalist and fully adapted to the needs of the group

    via Tripadvisor (translated)

    Curious01200327249 · December 2024

    Professionals out of 10

    One day with a lot of rain we could not see the.volcano but still our guide Natalia and the driver Germán made our experience unforgettable a 10 to both Thanks

    via Tripadvisor (translated)

    NalaiNalai · December 2019

    Wonderful hike with spectacular views and wildlife

    Our guide Daniel from Aventuras Arenal picked us up on time and drove us to the boat landing on the far side of the dam. From there we took a short boat ride on the lake past the dam to the peninsula of Arenal Volcano Park. We got off there and hiked up a well paved path to the visitor center. From the landing, you get some great panoramas of the lake and the mountain range to the south where MonteVerde is. The wildlife we saw on this part of the tour was arguably better than what we saw at many dedicated nature reserves or at the Hanging Bridges. Daniel spotted a 3-toed sloth and several different types of birds along the way (vultures, turkeys, toucans, wrens, and hummingbirds). We were able to see them up close with his spotting scope, and we got great shots with our cameras. We heard howler monkeys, but they declined to show themselves. From there, it was a short drive to the main Arenal Volcano Park, where we got off again and hiked to the 1992 lava flow. You're able to get up on the flow and see the natural landscape reclaim the lava flow, but you need to stay on the marked trails and aren't allowed to go very far onto the lava flow. While it would technically be possible to hire a taxi and do the main parts of this tour yourself, having a guide is well worth the price. He spotted so many different animals that we would have been completely oblivious to, had we just walked it ourselves. We did this tour in late December, which is technically the start of the dry season, but we had scattered rainstorms throughout. The rain let up right at the beggining of the hike, which meant that we probably saw more birds than normal, since they were emerging from shelter and drying themselves off in the sun.

    Response from the operator: We are thrilled to read how much you enjoyed your trip with us! We hope we can welcome you back very soon

    via Tripadvisor

    jraddick · May 2019

    Amazing variety of birds

    Billy was our guide. He brought a spotting scope and took photos with our smartphones looking through the eyepiece. We saw an amazing variety of birds, and our first coati. Billy was very knowledgeable about everything we saw.

    Response from the operator: Dear Jraddick Thank you for taking the time to write a review of your experience at the Arenal Volcano National Park . We are thrilled you love our guided services , we will make sure to share your comments with Billy, We hope your travels will bring you back to La Fortuna.

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    4.5 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Price range
    $106 to $111
    Hotel pickup
    Available for selected locations
    Booked in 30 days
    2
    Verdict
    Solid Choice

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Blue Pass by Aventuras Arenal, who run 8 experiences we rank across 2 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 61.6.

    See everything Blue Pass by Aventuras Arenal runs

    Why this scores 63

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)90
    Review evidence (18% weight)25
    Booking momentum (14% weight)18
    Value for money (12% weight)71
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)54
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Arenal National Park (Boat Ride + 2 different Trails): questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for La Fortuna.

    How much does Arenal National Park (Boat Ride + 2 different Trails) cost?

    +

    Prices start at $106 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in La Fortuna usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Arenal National Park (Boat Ride + 2 different Trails) take?

    +

    Plan for about 4.5 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 La Fortuna is not rushed.

    Is Arenal National Park (Boat Ride + 2 different Trails) worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 63 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 5 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in La Fortuna, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Arenal National Park (Boat Ride + 2 different Trails)?

    +

    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 National Park (Boat Ride + 2 different Trails) suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 4.5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Arenal National Park (Boat Ride + 2 different Trails)?

    +

    Around 2 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 La Fortuna 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 La Fortuna and add a light layer if any part of the 4.5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Arenal National Park (Boat Ride + 2 different Trails) 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 La Fortuna 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 La Fortuna?

    +

    On Outty we rank every La Fortuna experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Upper Balsa River White Water Rafting Class 3/4 in Costa Rica, White Water Rafting Class II and III, Authentic Coffee and Chocolate Tour at North Fields. 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 La Fortuna?

    +

    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 La Fortuna?

    +

    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 National Park (Boat Ride + 2 different Trails)?

    +

    Included: Hotel pickup and drop-off; National Park fees; Snacks; Transport by air-conditioned minivan; and Guide. Not included: Lunch; and Bottled water. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Arenal National Park (Boat Ride + 2 different Trails) include hotel pickup?

    +

    Yes, pickup is offered, or you can meet at the start point instead from 62 listed pickup locations in and around La Fortuna. Be ready about 30 minutes before the start time.

    What languages is Arenal National Park (Boat Ride + 2 different Trails) 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 National Park (Boat Ride + 2 different Trails)?

    +

    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 National Park (Boat Ride + 2 different Trails) wheelchair or stroller accessible?

    +

    The operator notes: Not recommended for pregnant travelers. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Arenal National Park (Boat Ride + 2 different Trails) 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 National Park (Boat Ride + 2 different Trails)?

    +

    Across 5 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, photo opportunities. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works. One thing to know: Expect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.

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