Arenal Volcano Hike 1968 Trail in La Fortuna, Costa Rica
La Fortuna, Costa Rica

Arenal Volcano Hike 1968 Trail

Outty Ranking 53 3.8 · 9 traveler reviews3.5 hoursFrom $94
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Outty Ranking

53/100

Worth a Look. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

3.8/5

Based on 9 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Arenal Volcano Hike 1968 Trail worth booking?

Arenal Volcano Hike 1968 Trail is a 3.5-hour experience in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, from $94 per person. It scores 53 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 3.8/5 rating across 9 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
53 / 100
Rating
3.8/5 (9)
Duration
3.5 hours
From
$94 per person

Enjoy the most extraordinary view of the Arenal Volcano on a hike along the base and flanks of this giant on the Arenal 1968 park. For this tour we have choose one of the park’s most extraordinary trails to the 1968 lava flows: the remaining memory of the 20th century first eruption and some other areas now in the process of regeneration. Whether hiking through the lava flow trail from 1968´s eruption, traversing into the rainforest and deep nature or celebrating your special occasion, enjoy a remarkable occasion filled with scenic beauty in our 360° viewpoints of the Arenal Volcano accompanied by the breathtaking Arenal Lake. The “68” lava flow trail will give you the best of the best hiking in all the Arenal Volcano area, walk on rocky areas, feel the power and serenity of nature, enjoy amazing views of the Arenal Lake and the Monteverde mountains, plus an insight contact with the local flora and fauna and a great chance for some birdwatching and animal encounters.

What you get

    About this experience

    Enjoy the most extraordinary view of the Arenal Volcano on a hike along the base and flanks of this giant on the Arenal 1968 park. For this tour we have choose one of the park’s most extraordinary trails to the 1968 lava flows: the remaining memory of the 20th century first eruption and some other areas now in the process of regeneration. Whether hiking through the lava flow trail from 1968´s eruption, traversing into the rainforest and deep nature or celebrating your special occasion, enjoy a remarkable occasion filled with scenic beauty in our 360° viewpoints of the Arenal Volcano accompanied by the breathtaking Arenal Lake. The “68” lava flow trail will give you the best of the best hiking in all the Arenal Volcano area, walk on rocky areas, feel the power and serenity of nature, enjoy amazing views of the Arenal Lake and the Monteverde mountains, plus an insight contact with the local flora and fauna and a great chance for some birdwatching and animal encounters.

    What's included

    Included

    • Park Entrance Fee
    • Naturalistic Guide
    • Snacks
    • Transportation

    Not included

    • Bottled water
    • On-board restrooms

    What you'll see and do

    1. Arenal 1968 Volcano View & Trails

      Early one morning in July 1968, an unassuming green mountain in northern Costa Rica suddenly awoke and turn into the legendary Arenal Volcano. If you are visiting the town of La Fortuna, you will be able to get a close up of Arenal's now ashy gray peak from many different spots. One place of particular interest is the Arenal 1968 Trail. This series of hiking trails brings you through forested areas and across some of the historic lava fields that buried much of the surrounding jungle during the dramatic eruptions of 1968. This guided hike will be a trip back to explore the history of one of Costa Rica’s most iconic landmarks.

      150 minutes here · Admission included

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    La Fortuna

    This is our main office next to La Habana river bridge. We will be happy to meet you here or at your hotel.

    Hotel pickup

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

    Ends at

    This is our main office next to La Habana river bridge. We will be happy to meet you here or at your hotel.

    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 12 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

    Photos

    Arenal Volcano Hike - 1968 Park, Arenal Volcano Hike 1968 Trail in La FortunaArenal Volcano Hike - 1968 Park, Arenal Volcano Hike 1968 Trail in La FortunaArenal Volcano Hike - 1968 Park, Arenal Volcano Hike 1968 Trail in La FortunaArenal Volcano Hike - 1968 Park, Arenal Volcano Hike 1968 Trail in La FortunaArenal Volcano Hike - 1968 Park, Arenal Volcano Hike 1968 Trail in La FortunaArenal Volcano Hike - 1968 Park, Arenal Volcano Hike 1968 Trail in La Fortuna

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 9 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    Physical effort

    5 mentions

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

    The guide

    4 mentions

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

    Photo opportunities

    4 mentions

    The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    3 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Food and drink

    2 mentions

    The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.

    Traveler reviews

    9 verified traveler reviews for Arenal Volcano Hike 1968 Trail. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    4
    4 star
    1
    3 star
    3
    2 star
    0
    1 star
    1
    Sort
    Linda W · February 2026

    Pleasant but no wildlife.

    A pleasant quiet walk but absolutely no wildlife apart from a few birds. Felt it was way Too expensive for the experience

    via Tripadvisor

    jitster2020 · February 2025

    Great hike on way to nearby Ziplining

    Great family hike - about 2.5 hrs for the longest trail. You may want to buy discount tickets in town - we went here as it was on the way to our afternoon zipline reservation. else it was $24 each. The only problem was it was cloudy, so we couldn't see the top of Arenal. But a fun hike none the less. Parking was free, and they have a snack shop/bathroom at the end. Staff was very friendly

    via Tripadvisor

    Churtman · January 2025

    Highly recommend Blue Pass and David

    We would highly recommend David, who was our guide. His English was excellent. He had great local knowledge, and most importantly knew all the names of the birds.

    via Tripadvisor

    beverlycV2349MG · November 2023

    A Nice Scenic Hike Maybe Overpriced

    Well-maintained trails with nice views. No animals or wildlife. Great drinks and food at the restaurant. Entrance fees high but the owner is improving the property.

    via Tripadvisor

    John S · April 2022

    Great guide in brilliANT environment

    Krystal is an excellent guide with deep knowledge of history, environment and ants. She is a qonderful storyteller and an inclusive guide. Highly recommend.

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    3.5 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Price range
    $94 to $96
    Hotel pickup
    Available for selected locations
    Booked in 30 days
    3
    Verdict
    Worth a Look

    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 53

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

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)64
    Review evidence (18% weight)32
    Booking momentum (14% weight)23
    Value for money (12% weight)62
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)10
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Arenal Volcano Hike 1968 Trail: questions travelers ask

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

    How much does Arenal Volcano Hike 1968 Trail cost?

    +

    Prices start at $94 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 Volcano Hike 1968 Trail take?

    +

    Plan for about 3.5 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 Volcano Hike 1968 Trail worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 53 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (3.8/5 across 9 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 Volcano Hike 1968 Trail?

    +

    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 Volcano Hike 1968 Trail suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 3.5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Arenal Volcano Hike 1968 Trail?

    +

    Around 3 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 3.5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Arenal Volcano Hike 1968 Trail 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 Volcano Hike 1968 Trail?

    +

    Included: Park Entrance Fee; Naturalistic Guide; Snacks; and Transportation. Not included: Bottled water; and On-board restrooms. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Arenal Volcano Hike 1968 Trail include hotel pickup?

    +

    Yes, pickup is offered, or you can meet at the start point instead from 66 listed pickup locations in and around La Fortuna. Be ready about 30 minutes before the start time.

    What languages is Arenal Volcano Hike 1968 Trail 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 Volcano Hike 1968 Trail?

    +

    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 Volcano Hike 1968 Trail 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 Volcano Hike 1968 Trail 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 Volcano Hike 1968 Trail?

    +

    Across 9 reviews averaging 3.8 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, photo opportunities, knowledge and storytelling. 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.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

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