The active Arenal Volcano is one of the most visited attractions in Costa Rica. It has remained active ever since its last, huge eruption in 1968. It is an impressive experience to observe one of the smaller eruptions, especially at night. Although Arenal Volcano is active, there are some quiet periods, where only a few or no eruptions can be observed. A few weeks later there usually is a bigger eruption. Of course eruptions can only be observed when the weather is good and the sky is clear. However, the area offers so many different attractions that it won't get boring, even if clouds are covering the view. We have designed an explorer package that includes the most important sites of the area.

Day 1:

You will be picked up by collective bus (Interbus) at your hotel in San José and take a scenic drive via San Ramón to La Fortuna and Hotel Arenal Paraíso***(*). This hotel is located right at the foot of Arenal Volcano and rooms offer a direct view of the volcano. We recommend that you spend the afternoon and the evening relaxing in the thermal waters of the Hotel. Overnight at Hotel Arenal Paraíso. Included meals: dinner

Day 2:

In the morning, you will join a guided walking tour to Arenal National Park that lets you explore the safe areas of the volcano. This is a group activity that is shared with other visitors. The rest of the afternoon is at your leisure. Overnight at Hotel Arenal Paraíso***(*), superior room. Included meals: breakfast

Day 3:

After breakfast you will be picked up at the hotel and drive to Los Chiles via Muelle, close to the Nicaraguan border. From there you continue by boat along the Rio Frio to Caño Negro Wildlife Reserve. During this boat ride you will have the opportunity to observe many different species of birds. With a little bit of luck you will also observe crocodiles, monkeys, iguanas, turtles and sloths. Return to Los Chiles and drive back to Hotel Arenal Paraíso.
Included meals: breakfast, lunch

Day 4:

The morning is still at your leisure. Return to San José by collective bus (Interbus). Arrival in the early evening. Included meals today: breakfast

Prices per person in 2010/2011

Supplements apply for Christmas and Easter bookings as well as for solo departures

*Prices may vary slightly due to fluctuating currency exchange rates.

Options and Combinations

Additional nights and excursions are available upon request.

Option 1) with Laguna del Lagarto Lodge

You can book a transfer from La Fortuna to Laguna del Lagarto Lodge at an extra charge.

Option 2) with Monteverde

You can book a transfer by collective bus to Monteverde at no extra charge. This transfer will take place in the morning.

Option 3) with beach hotels in Tamarindo

You can book a transfer by collective bus (Interbus) to Tamarindo at no extra charge. This transfer will take place in the morning.

Option 4) with Sámara or Nosara

You can book a transfer by collective bus (Interbus) to Sámara / Carillo or Nosara at extra charge. This transfer will take place in the morning.

Option 5) with Rincón de la Vieja

Instead of returning to San José, you can book a transfer by collective bus (Interbus) to Hacienda Guachipelín or Rincón de la Vieja Mountain Lodge at extra charge. This transfer takes place in the morning.

Option 6) with Tambor or Montezuma

Instead of driving back to San José, you can book a collective transfer (Interbus) to Tambor or Montezuma at an extra charge. The driver accompanies the clients to the ferry, where he hands over their luggage. The ticket for the ferry is included in the price. On the other side the driver for the rest of the journey waits already for the clients and collects the luggage again. The ferry journey is on your own. This transfer takes place in the morning.

Option 7) with Puerto Viejo de Limón

Instead of returning to San José, you can book a transfer by collective bus (Interbus) to Puerto Viejo de Talamanca at extra charge. This transfer takes place in the morning.

NOTE: All our Costa Rica adventures can be combined to form individualized packages. Please ask if you need help creating your own itinerary. We also offer fly drive packages and some short mountain biking and white water rafting tours that are not mentioned in the index. Please ask.

Note: Ask about hotel options

For booking inquiries and further information contact Sacred Earth Travel.