Let’s be honest: planning a trip is hard work. Trying to decide your route, what you’ll eat, where you’ll stay and the places you’ll visit can at times feel incredibly overwhelming. What if you get lost, or waste a day doing an activity that doesn’t make your heart sing? Well, you’re in luck. Costa Rica is a beautiful country filled with biodiversity and adventure. We’ve spent countless hours exploring so we can help you choose the best way to spend your time.

While you’re planning your trip to Costa Rica, don’t forget these 5 things that you absolutely cannot miss in Arenal!

 

The Arenal Volcano

If you find yourself in Arenal, then you’ll be hard-pressed to find a place where you can’t see the Arenal Volcano. This behemoth of a volcano is considered dormant (for now), and it is estimated to be less than 7,500 years old. It erupted unexpectedly in 1968 and was active until May 1998. Now, it seems to have taken a well-deserved rest.

Hike the volcano, bike the volcano or simply sip café con leche as you admire the true magnificence of this sleeping beast.

 

Horseback Riding

horseback_ride_arenal

Why take a car, or bus, (or any form of transportation for that matter) when you can take a horse? Better yet, why don’t you take a horse to go jump in one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Costa Rica? There are countless riding paths surrounding the foothills of the Arenal volcano that lead to the 140-foot Rio Fortuna waterfall, and all of them are breathtaking.

If you’re looking to reconnect with nature amidst incredible views and good company, grab your riding boots and giddyup.

 

Ziplining

The best view of Costa Rica is most definitely from the canopy, and the only way to get there (aside from maybe climbing a very, very tall tree) is by ziplining in Arenal! With a maximum height of 660 feet – yes, that’s above the canopy – you’ll be cruising past critters that you’ve always dreamed of seeing. Toucans and howler monkeys love company, so don’t forget to wave as you’re flying by.

Traveling is all about trying new things, right? If you’re afraid of heights we encourage you to conquer your fears and jump on a zipline!

 

Whitewater Rafting 

sarapiqui rafting

 

Not sure if you’re ready for whitewater rafting in Arenal? Think again. This action-packed adventure will place you on a rolling river in the heart of the rainforest, and there’s nothing better than sightseeing while you splash around! Whether you’d like to try a tame float or challenge yourself with something a little more advanced, there’s no better way to experience one of Costa Rica’s most incredible forms of natural transportation.

 

The Arenal Hot Springs

Truly one of the most remarkable features of the Arenal area, the Arenal hot springs are renowned throughout Central America. Why? Well, the earth is quite literally bubbling beneath your feet! Heated by the earth and brought to the surface, these springs are known to have a variety of healing powers and restorative properties.

Whether you choose to visit the Baldi Hot Springs, Ecotermales, The Springs or Tabacon Resort, you’ll be able to experience the strange sensation of mother nature providing you with the perfect place for a juicy soak. Step directly into a river or choose any of the tranquil pools scattered throughout the area – it’s the perfect way to soothe sore muscles after a long day of activity and adventure.

 

Now you can rest easy knowing that there are 5 things you absolutely cannot miss in Arenal – and you won’t!