This is an amazing opportunity to explore the majestic Arenal Volcano then luxuriate in over 20 hot spring pools of varying temperatures fed directly from the volcano in a lush tropical garden setting. You’ll be treating yourself to an effusion of enchantment hiking through the rainforest then over lava flow fields before soaking in the volcanic hot springs.
The famous Arenal Volcano towering 5,000 feet over the La Fortuna community, although currently in a resting phase, is considered one of the ten most active volcanoes in the world. You’ll be hiking in a private preserve through the rain forest with its lush foliage, then up onto the hardened lava flows which created the volcano’s symmetrical shape. It is an awesome presence, still emitting occasional puffs of steam. Unlike dormant or extinct volcanoes, volcanologists say it can erupt again in days or centuries. From 1968 to 2010 it was erupting regularly creating quite a spectacle. Park rangers closely monitor its daily activity and have rarely had to close hiking paths in the past even when it was erupting.
From high up on the volcano you’ll have a spectacular view of the adjoining beautiful Lake Arenal, the largest landlocked lake in Costa Rica. Surrounded by mountains and rainforest, this 33 square mile, clear water lake is owned by the government so the shoreline is protected and remains pristine.
Continuing your hike through the preserve with your naturalist guide you’ll be on the lookout for monkeys, tapir, toucans, parrots and other endemic rainforest wildlife that make their home here. Your guide will recognize bird calls helping you spot what appears on the day of your hike. Every day is different so there are no guarantees, but there is always something to encounter. You’ll also be encircled by exotic trees and plants including: orchids, ferns, fungi, palms, strangler fig and the amazingly grand cieba tree. In this region of rainforest, lake and mountains, the average temperature is a balmy 78 degrees.
When you return from your hike, you’ll be treated to a delicious buffet lunch at Baldi Hot Springs. Afterwards you’ll be able to change into your swim suit before exploring over 20 different pools of therapeutic volcanic hot springs water. Each unique pool area has its own rich landscape with huge hanging Heliconia flowers in a variety of shapes and colors. Baldi is located at the base of the volcano so as you climb upwards the water temperatures increase in intensity. Some of the hot spring pools have swim up bars where you can sit on underwater stools and sip refreshing tropical drinks. Others feature lifelike caves and waterfalls, every hot spring a new adventure.
Round trip air-conditioned transportation is included from the areas of Flamingo Beach, Papagayo, Playa Grande and Tamarindo. Transportation time can take from 3 to 4 hours each way depending on the driving time from your beach lodging to the volcano/hot springs area in La Fortuna. Your hotel will tell you what time to expect to be picked up. This fun filled day and evening excursion includes bilingual guide, transportation, lunch, hike, preserve and Baldi hot springs entrance fees, plus dinner. There is a 4 person minimum or equivalent in price to open this tour.
6 and up
Latitude: N 10° 28' 59.19"
Longitude: W 84° 40' 49.24"