When you think of Costa Rica, chances are that a towering volcano surrounded by jungle and hot springs comes to mind — and that’s Arenal Volcano. Located near the charming town of La Fortuna, this area is one of the country’s top destinations for adventure, relaxation, and all things pura vida.
For travelers based in Jaco Beach or Los Sueños, Arenal makes for an unforgettable overnight getaway or a scenic multi-day trip inland. With Jaco360’s transportation and tour services, getting there is easy — and once you arrive, the mix of rainforest adventure and soothing hot springs will have you wishing you’d stayed longer.
From Jaco Beach, the drive to La Fortuna takes about 4.5 to 5 hours, winding through beautiful countryside, mountain roads, and small local towns. Along the way, you’ll pass rolling hills, coffee farms, and panoramic lake views as you approach Arenal Volcano National Park.
Jaco360 can arrange private transportation, group shuttles, or custom tour packages, so you don’t need to worry about navigating. The drive itself is part of the adventure — you’ll see a completely different side of Costa Rica beyond the Pacific coast.
Standing tall at 1,633 meters (5,358 feet), Arenal Volcano is one of Costa Rica’s most iconic natural landmarks. Though it’s currently in a resting phase, Arenal remains a mesmerizing sight — a perfect symmetrical cone often crowned by clouds and surrounded by dense rainforest.
The Arenal Volcano National Park covers nearly 30,000 acres and offers excellent hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and a chance to see wildlife like howler monkeys, toucans, and coatis. Don’t miss the Las Coladas Trail, which takes you across old lava fields from the volcano’s active years, or the Mirador el Silencio viewpoint for stunning panoramic photos.
After a day of exploring, there’s nothing better than soaking in Arenal’s natural hot springs. These geothermal waters, heated by the volcano itself, are packed with minerals that relax your muscles and rejuvenate your skin.
La Fortuna is home to several world-class hot spring resorts — Tabacón, Baldi, and Ecotermales are just a few of the favorites. Whether you prefer a luxurious spa setting with cascading thermal pools or a quiet riverside spring surrounded by nature, there’s a perfect spot to unwind.
Jaco360 can include hot spring passes or day trips as part of your travel package, so you can combine adventure and relaxation in one unforgettable experience.
Arenal is known as the adventure capital of Costa Rica, and it’s easy to see why. The area is packed with adrenaline-fueled activities for every traveler.
Here are some of the top Arenal tours you can experience:
Whether you want heart-pounding adventure or a mellow nature tour, Arenal has something for everyone.
For nature lovers, Arenal is paradise. The region’s rainforest ecosystems are home to hundreds of animal species — from colorful poison dart frogs and sloths to scarlet macaws and bats that emerge at dusk.
You can also visit the Arenal Hanging Bridges or the Bogarin Trail, both great spots for wildlife watching and photography. For birders, the area is a dream come true, with over 400 species recorded, including toucans, motmots, and hummingbirds.
From luxury resorts to cozy eco-lodges, La Fortuna offers accommodations for every budget.
Jaco360 can help you find the right stay to match your vibe — whether it’s romantic, adventurous, or family-friendly.
La Fortuna’s dining scene is as vibrant as its volcano. You’ll find everything from authentic Costa Rican sodas (local eateries) serving gallo pinto and casados to international restaurants offering wood-fired pizza, sushi, or Argentinian steak.
Popular picks include:
The best thing about visiting Arenal with Jaco360 is how seamlessly it fits into your trip. You can start your vacation on the coast — surfing, fishing, or lounging at Jaco Beach — then head inland for rainforest adventures and hot springs.
Jaco360’s private transfers and custom tour packages make it easy to connect the Central Pacific with the Northern Highlands. You can go from ocean to volcano in half a day, with local insight and professional service every step of the way.
The Arenal Volcano and La Fortuna area capture everything travelers love about Costa Rica: wild nature, adventure, relaxation, and friendly people. Whether you’re ziplining through the canopy, soaking in a thermal pool, or hiking through volcanic landscapes, it’s pure magic from start to finish.
Add Arenal to your Jaco360 itinerary, and you’ll experience both sides of Costa Rica — the sunny coast and the lush mountains — all in one incredible journey.
Adventure, relaxation, and pura vida await at Arenal Volcano.