Arenal Volcano, located in the province of Alajuela, near the charming town of La Fortuna, is one of Costa Rica’s youngest and most active volcanoes. This impressive natural wonder attracts both adventurers and nature lovers, offering a wide range of exciting activities.
Whether you’re looking for adrenaline or relaxation, Arenal has it all. Experience the thrill of treetop tours, ride the aerial trams for breathtaking views of the rainforest, or try rafting, kayaking, and hiking. For those seeking a more tranquil experience, ATV tours, fishing, and revitalizing visits to hot springs are also available.
If you simply want to relax, let yourself be lulled by the soothing sound of the volcano beneath your feet and watch the plumes of smoke rise into the sky, offering a moment of awe and peace.
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From Arenal to
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*Approximate driving times
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San José
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3h 15min
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Caldera
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3h
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Dominical
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5h 30 min
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Flamingo
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4h 30min
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Guápiles
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3h
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Jacó
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3h 30min
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Liberia
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3h 30min
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Aeropuerto de Alajuela
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2h 45min
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San Ramón
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2h
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Manuel Antonio
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4h 30min
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Using public transportation is not recommended if you have luggage. If you choose to use it, the bus stops on the main street outside the airport, past the parking lot. Buses run approximately every 10 minutes from 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., heading to San José. Please note that using this mode of transportation may be unsafe.
The shuttle service to and from Arenal is an efficient, safe, and comfortable option. These routes operate daily with multiple departures and, unlike public buses, offer direct, safe, and air-conditioned trips, as well as more personalized service. Advance reservations are generally required, so be sure to book your seat in advance to guarantee availability.
Shared Shuttle Service Routes and Fares
Arenal – Monteverde (Car, Boat, Car).
Driving to Arenal offers a scenic and direct route to La Fortuna, a small town located a few kilometers east of Arenal Volcano National Park. Along the way, you'll pass through picturesque dairy farms, rolling hills, lush pastures, and rainforests, as well as several towns such as San Ramón, Bajos de Los Rodríguez, and Santa Clara. Here are detailed driving directions from San José to La Fortuna:
Take Highway 1 (Pan-American Highway) toward Juan Santamaría International Airport.
Look out for signs indicating San Ramón as you pass the airport.
Continue on Highway 1 toward Guanacaste, passing towns such as Atenas, Grecia, Naranjo, and Palmares. Stay on the highway until you reach San Ramón (approximately 42 kilometers from the airport).
In San Ramón, turn right onto Highway 1. You will pass a large shopping center and continue for 1.7 kilometers until you reach an intersection. Turn left and then right at the next traffic light, heading towards San Ramón Hospital.
Leaving San Ramón, take a secondary road towards La Fortuna, passing through towns like Los Ángeles, Bajos de Los Rodríguez, and Santa Clara. Upon reaching Bajos de Los Rodríguez, continue towards Santa Clara and look for a large soccer field on your left, followed by a giant soccer ball near the road. After Santa Clara, continue straight through the Javillos intersection.
Continue on the road towards La Fortuna, passing through small towns like La Vega, La Perla, and El Tanque. Once you pass El Tanque, La Fortuna will be about 7 kilometers away.
Prepare for a scenic 3-hour drive, but the route is well worth it for the views.
For assistance, you can contact Tropical Expeditions at (506) 2257-4171 / (506) 2257-4133 for transportation, tours and lodging.
Arenal is a paradise for nature lovers, with scenic trails, stunning waterfalls, and relaxing hot springs. Of course, the main attraction is Arenal Volcano National Park, home to one of the world's most active volcanoes, offering visitors a truly unique natural experience.
