Hike through the forest at the base of Arenal Volcano, then soak in natural hot springs

Embark on a day filled with adventure and relaxation on this sought-after trip to the Arenal Volcano 1968 Park and the Tabacon Hot Springs. Your journey begins with a guided trek around the base of the iconic Arenal Volcano, where you’ll be on the lookout for exotic birds and monkeys while enjoying breathtaking views of the unspoiled Lake Arenal and the dormant Cerro Chato volcano. Afterward, you’ll head to the Tabacon Hot Springs to unwind in the thermal waters naturally heated by the nearby volcano. Conclude your day with a delightful Costa Rican meal at the hot spring’s restaurant.

Highlights of this excursion include a hike around the towering Arenal Volcano, where you’ll learn about its fascinating history, a relaxing soak in the natural hot springs, and savoring a traditional Costa Rican dinner.

Before you go, here are some key details: The excursion lasts approximately 7 hours and is recommended for individuals aged 5 and up. It is designed for small groups, and either lunch or dinner is included, depending on the time of your activity.

During the excursion, you’ll be picked up from your accommodations and taken to the entrance of the 1968 Trail. Accompanied by your guide, you’ll walk along well-maintained paths that encircle the base of the Arenal Volcano and Lake Arenal. The 1.5-hour route offers opportunities to spot wildlife, with your naturalist guide keeping an eye out for exotic birds, monkeys, and other creatures along the forested path. However, travelers should not expect to see a large number of animals on this hike. The standard excursion follows a 1.9-mile (3 km) trail, with an alternative 1.1-mile (1.8 km) option available for those with reduced mobility.

As you traverse the park, you’ll pass through areas affected by the 1968 lava flow, resulting in sparse vegetation. Your guide will share insights into the area’s history, both before and after the 1968 eruption, and highlight unique flora and fauna. The trail offers stunning views of the Arenal Volcano, Lake Arenal, and the extinct Cerro Chato volcano. One section of the trail is steep and rocky, which may pose a challenge for children and those who don’t hike frequently.

After the hike, you’ll visit Tabacon Hot Springs to relax in mineral-rich waters warmed by the volcano, which have been used for therapeutic baths for centuries. You’ll have approximately four hours to enjoy the hot springs. The complex features a large main pool with a swim-up bar, a cold pool, and 20 smaller “in-river” pools. The hot springs are powered by gravity, with no mechanical systems involved in moving or heating the water, and the pools flow from one to the next like a river. It’s advisable to wear shoes, as the natural rocks lining the pools can be slippery. The pool temperatures range from 72ºF to 105ºF (22ºC to 41ºC).

Conclude your experience with a meal at the onsite restaurant, offering a la carte Costa Rican dishes and international cuisine. At the end of the day, you’ll be picked up and transported back to your accommodations.

Start times for this excursion are available daily at 8:00 am and 3:00 pm.

What’s included in this experience: transportation, entrance fees, a naturalist guide, and a meal (a la carte) at Tabacon Hot Springs.

A-Activ-27sep2025-328