Things to do in Arenal Volcano National Park, Province of Alajuela: The Best Cultural Tours

May 3, 2022 Darleen Reid

If waterfalls, hot springs, wildlife and volcanoes are your thing, then Arenal Volcano National Park will take your breath away. One of the world’s most active volcanoes burps tufts of smoke in the background as you make your way through forests and old lava fields. Take a rafting tour or hit the beach, then retire to a comfy hotel.
Restaurants in Arenal Volcano National Park

1. Costa Rica Campesino Farm Tour

Casa Luna Hotel & Spa, Diagonal 301, Provincia de Alajuela, San Carlos, Costa Rica Ecoterra Costa Rica
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5.0 based on 2 reviews

We will start the tour with a delicious welcome drink prepared with the fresh fruits of the area. Our guide will highlight the main objectives of the farm, which include the promotion of the sustainable use of natural resources and preservation of Costa Rican customs and traditions. After this warm welcome, we will get to try milking cows by hand. Anyone can participate in this experience, especially the little ones. Next, we will participate in the process of extracting cane juice and have the opportunity to taste the juice with combined with a variety of ingredients such as liquor, peppermint, and other products obtained from the farm. We will visit a small archaeological ranch where we can observe different indigenous pieces and use them in the creation of artisanal cocoa. At the end of the tour, we will share a lunch made with farm-fresh products such as cheese, tortillas, hash, and more. Undoubtedly, this is an experience full of culture, tradition, and Costa Rican customs.

Inclusions: Traditional Costa Rican lunch, Bottled water, Snacks, Professional guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Transport by air-conditioned minivan

Exclusions: Gratuities, Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)

Reviewed By antonj71

We visited here as part of a day tour and had a guided hike. We did not see any exciting large wildlife, but did see where Tapirs had barreled through the brush. We got to see some cool insects, a couple of short nosed green vine snakes and variety of the less spectacular birds. The star of the show was the waterfall where we got our Christmas Card shot! It takes at least minimal mobility as the drop to the viewing platform is 253 steps down and then 253 steps back up. The view was more than worth it. We had a very considerate guide that also educated us in the flora that we were walking through and patiently answered all our questions.

2. Maleku Indigenous Cultural Tour

Jacamar Naturalist Tours, Costado Sur de la Iglesia Católica de La Fortuna, Apartado Posta 40-4417, Provincia de Alajuela, La Fortuna, Costa Rica Jacamar Naturalist Tours
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

Cultural Maleku Tour, we visit to the Indigenous reservation set by the government, in the Northern Plains

Inclusions: Bottled water, Lunch, Local guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off

Exclusions: Souvenir photos

Reviewed By Hershbar

We really enjoyed our horseback riding experience at the foothills of the Arenal Volcano. Jarvin was our guide, and he was fantastic! 10 minutes into the ride and he spotted a sloth at the top of a tree. He was very knowledgeable about the wildlife, the biodiversity and the history behind the famous volcano. He was an excellent guide, very attentive and kind. The horses were calm. I can't think of a better way to get up close and take in that breathtaking view of that majestic volcano. Highly recommend this tour and Jarvin. Thoroughly enjoyable!

3. Full Day Nicaragua Tour from La Fortuna

Casa Luna Hotel & Spa, Diagonal 301, Provincia de Alajuela, San Carlos, Costa Rica Ecoterra Costa Rica
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

Spend a full day exploring the sights of Nicaragua with a knowledgeable tour guide. Take a boat ride to popular islands, enjoy the history of the country, see famous national monuments, explore the culture, and experience an authentic Nicaraguan lunch. Bring your camera to snap shots of the colorful wildlife, and comfortable clothing for your boating excursions.

Inclusions: Local taxes, Bottled mineral water, Box Breakfast, Traditional Nicaraguan Lunch, Professional guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off (selected hotels only), Transport by air-conditioned minivan with Wi-Fi, Aquatic transportation

Exclusions: Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase), Gratuities, $7 Costa Rican exit tax, $12 Nicaraguan entrance tax, $3 Nicaraguan exit tax., Other personal expenses.

Reviewed By antonj71

We visited here as part of a day tour and had a guided hike. We did not see any exciting large wildlife, but did see where Tapirs had barreled through the brush. We got to see some cool insects, a couple of short nosed green vine snakes and variety of the less spectacular birds. The star of the show was the waterfall where we got our Christmas Card shot! It takes at least minimal mobility as the drop to the viewing platform is 253 steps down and then 253 steps back up. The view was more than worth it. We had a very considerate guide that also educated us in the flora that we were walking through and patiently answered all our questions.

4. Day Trip from San Jose to Arenal Hanging Bridges & Tabacon Hot Springs

Destiny Travel Costa Rica
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5.0 based on 2 reviews

Unforgettable experience...!! Be amazed by the volcanic colossus of Arenal, though it has not erupted recently, this cinder cone on the Costa Rican skyline is considered one of the world's most active volcanoes. Also, visit The  Arenal Hanging Bridges (Mistico Park) a series of suspension bridges in the Volcan Arenal National Park area, offering views of Lake Arenal and Volcan Arenal, finally soak up in the thermal benefits in the mineral-rich waters at Tabacon natural hot Springs Resort & Spa

Inclusions: Buffet lunch, Buffet dinner, Hotel pickup and drop-off (if option selected), Air-conditioned vehicle, Entrance fees, Professional naturalist bilingual guide

Exclusions: Gratuities (recommendedl)

Reviewed By meator3

I was in Costa Rica in January, now I have traveled to Colombia. I have waited several months but I cannot shake how HORRIBLE this tour was. We were supposed to have a tour bus but was instead packed into a sedan. At some point the tour guide was alluding to us going to a nicer restaurant and having us pay for his lunch because the office "did not send the money over" for the included meal. I have been on many tours before and many after but this one was easily the worst. Our tour guide was out taking pictures of his own on every site instead of actually guiding us. What took the cake was when we thought we were going to see a coffee plantation but instead he pulls over on the side of the road to a ditch to show us mounds of dirt that supposedly were growing coffee and he said he couldn't take us to an actual plantation because "The Nicaraguans are harder working and the Costa Rican youth are always on their phones now so it won't be worth it". We paid 100+ dollars EACH for a glorified taxi ride across the country. 0/10 don't recommend

5. Chocolate Tour & Baldi Hot Springs. Private Tour from San Jose

Greenway Nature Day Tours
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

An exclusive private tour that includes a visit to the rainforest, a cocoa plantation, artisan chocolate farm for learn about the chocolate history, plantation, processing and elaboration of chocolate drink and bars. Later enjoy a great relaxing time at Baldi Hot Springs, the best Thermal Pools complex in Arenal Volcano Area

Inclusions: Lunch, Private transportation, All Fees and Taxes, Private Naturalist Tour Guide, Coffee and/or Tea, Bottled water

Exclusions: gratitudes for guide, Alcoholic Beverages

Reviewed By vivian_CR14

It was an amazing experience, I went with my parents and they loved the tour It consists of a wagon that goes through the Tarcolitos river, with the birds singing, and diferent trees and plants. The customer service is great, and the walk thru Santa Lucía's village is an unforgettable experience.

6. Private North Fields Cafe: Craft Specialty Coffee and Chocolate Tour

North Fields Coffee Tour, Calle 506, Provincia de Alajuela, San Carlos, Costa Rica North Fields Coffee Tours
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5.0 based on 109 reviews

North Fields Cafe offers a two hour local family owned experience in Costa Rica, located close to Arenal Volcano area and its hot springs

Inclusions: Local taxes, Chocolate preparation and tasting, Sugar cane tasting, Water to drink, Professional guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off (not more than 20 minutes away from La Fortuna Area), Coffee and/or Tea

Exclusions: Gratuities, Does not include transportation from hotels 20 minutes away from La Fortuna area.

Reviewed By corinnej755

What an amazing experience: we enjoyed the insightful tour with the very enthusiastic and knowledgeable Rafael a lot. He explained us a lot about coffee, chocolate, sugar cain and the nature of Costa Rica. Additionally, we were able to taste and fully experience coffee, sugar cain and chocolate. Highly recommended!

7. Sloth Watching Trail

Sloth Watching Trail La Fortuna, Arenal Volcano Private Trail, 600 east of the Central Park, La Fortuna, Alajuela Province Alajuela, Provincia de Alajuela, La Fortuna, 21007, Costa Rica Sloth Watching Trail
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4.9 based on 22 reviews

It’s an outdoor hiking tour through the rain forest with the help of a naturalistic guide to look for the sloths in the wild. We’ll be finding an average of four to six sloths in the area. We have about 2 miles trails with a rich biodiversity so we also be able to appreciate some birds, frogs, insects and other wildlife around. This adventure takes almost two hours to be done but it’s a gentile hike in a flat land 30 acres property. The trails are mostly under shade with some open areas so you only we’ll need some bug spray.

Inclusions: Driver/guide, Professional guide

Exclusions: Drinks

Reviewed By Luisrose30

It is a fantastic excursion, the walk is easy and we observe a great variety of bird species, butterflies and the guides were friendly and professional, it is a good place to visit near La Fortuna.

8. Volunteer Program and Tour at Wildlife Rescue Center in Costa Rica

738, Provincia de Alajuela, San Carlos, Costa Rica Proyecto Asis
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4.8 based on 86 reviews

This tour is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and educational opportunity for you to learn about Costa Rican wildlife while volunteering. It takes place at a Wildlife Rescue Center close to La Fortuna. It is the perfect activity for individuals, couples, families and groups. Volunteer and have fun as you see wild animals up-close.

Inclusions: We will offer you some coffee, juice and exotic fruits

Exclusions: Transportation to/from attractions, Hotel pickup and drop-off

Reviewed By FamilyTravelersCO

We very much enjoyed our morning spent on the volunteer tour. We loved seeing the animals up close and learning about their rehabilitation, which sometimes takes many years. It was fun to prepare the food and watch them eat. We also enjoyed the wild animals about, including herons, a caiman, a white-faced monkey who followed us around in the trees above and a sloth. Be sure to book tickets in advance and prepare for hefty taxi cost ($100 round trip for us just outside of Fortuna). Highly recommend!

9. Rainforest Chocolate Tour from La Fortuna

Rainforest Chocolate Tour, La Fortuna - Catarata Río Fortuna, Provincia de Alajuela, San Carlos, Costa Rica Rainforest Chocolate Tour
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4.8 based on 673 reviews

With the view of the majestic Arenal Volcano, enjoy the sweetest rainforest experience, discovering the ancient secrets of chocolate: from its discovery and use, in tropical America, to the processing of the product we know and enjoy today. A hands on program, that lets you eat all the chocolate you want. Enjoy this journey through the history, culture, traditions and the flavor.

Inclusions: Local taxes, Food tasting, Professional guide

Exclusions: Gratuities, Transportation

Reviewed By L6872DCcatherinew

This was better than I expected. Some review suggested this was for kids, but our group was almost all adults, and I thought that was the target audience. I thought it was well-paced. It isn't a real chocolate plantation, but you get to see a small plot of trees. It was lightly raining, so was actually glad most of it was in a covered area. You get to taste some different chocolate recipes - as much as you want! I hear the record was 56 (teenage boy!) but this chocolate lover was satiated after about 7 tries. It was a fun way for a chocolate lover to spend a couple of hours.

10. Costa Rican Farm Experience in La Fortuna

Granja Eco Turistica Victoria
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4.7 based on 3 reviews

This experience is a great opportunity for you to learn about the Costa Rican eco system and the impact on the climate. You will go to a local farm with a local family, where you will find 17 different stations and you will be able to learn something from each of them. Some of the stations are: rescute animals, green house, Trapiche "sugar cañe juice process, work with the animals of the farm, participate of the farm activities and have a Costarican typical lunch. The Farm life wait for you. 

Inclusions: Lunch, Local guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off (La Fortuna only)

Exclusions: Gratuities, Souvenir photos

Reviewed By yosoylalay

We spent a week in the La Fortuna area for our anniversary. Our travel agent recommended this little gem to us and it did not disappoint - it is one of the top things that we did on the trip! The farm has been under new management in the past year or so, and the experience has been totally revamped so that it is a hands-on living farm experience. We fed animals, we washed pigs, we tasted fresh herbs from the garden, pressed sugar cane, and even tied oxen to their yokes. It was awesome. At the end of the tour, we had a tortilla-making class and then ate a delicious lunch. I highly recommend a visit to the farm!!!!

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