Choose from 31 Fun Things to Do in Central Valley
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Doka Estate
Costa Rica has some of the world’s most flavorful coffee and travelers who favor this bold brew can see how these prized beans make it from farm to table on a tour of Doka Estate. This iconic plantation puts visitors right up close to the production and practices of this age-old crop. Travelers can tour the grounds, see where workers hand-pick coffee berries from prized plants and even sample some of the eight roasts the Doka Estate creates on site.
Organized small-group, on-site tours ensure visitors receive personalized attention and loads of information, while the plantation’s gift shop, Casa de Artesanias, is filled with unique and flavorful items picked fresh from the farm that are perfect souvenirs for friends and family back home. The Doka Estate is also home to a Bonsai Tree and Orchid Garden, as well as a Butterfly Farm, making it the ideal place to spend the day exploring some of Costa Rica’s natural wonders.
Practical Info
The coffee estate is stationed near Costa Rica’s Poas Volcano. Tours take place Monday through Friday at 9 a.m., 10 a.m., 11a.m., 1:30 p.m., and 3:30 p.m. Travelers can also explore the grounds at 9 a.m., 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. on weekends.
Address: Poas & the Airport Area, Alajuela, Costa Rica
From $ 72
National Theater
Perhaps the most famous (and certainly most prized) public building in all of San Jose, the National Theater of Costa Rica in the city’s Catedral district, is home to the nation’s cultural community. Classical music, theater and dance performances take place several times a week. And while it’s always worth catching a show, the theater’s traditional Renaissance architecture, breathtaking ceilings and grand interiors make it a must-see stop even if you can’t get tickets for the symphony.
Free tours of the historic building, which was built in1897, take place daily at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., and the theater’s highly regarded café with picturesque San Jose views, is a perfect spot to grab lunch before exploring the rest of the city.
Free tours of the historic building, which was built in1897, take place daily at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., and the theater’s highly regarded café with picturesque San Jose views, is a perfect spot to grab lunch before exploring the rest of the city.
Practical Info
The theater is located on 2nd Avenue between 3rd and 5th Street in the capital city and is open to visitors Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Entry is $7. Visit the theater’s website for information on performances and an updated monthly schedule.
Address: National Theatre of Costa Rica, San Jose, Costa Rica
Hours: Mon - Sat 9am-4pm
Admission: Entrance: $7
From $ 10
Arenal Volcano National Park
Although visitors once flocked to Arenal Volcano for its impressive lava shows, the 5,437-foot (1,657-meter) volcano has stayed quiet since its last eruption in 2010. However, Arenal and the surrounding Arenal Volcano National Park remain a hot spot for visitors to Costa Rica, and is especially popular among those seeking hiking trails, swimming holes, hot springs, bird- and wildlife-watching, and sweeping views of the tropical rain forest.
The Basics
If your ideal vacation involves hiking or hot springs, Arenal is sure to please. Take a guided hike through the lush rain forest to learn about native wildlife, wade beneath Arenal Waterfall, or soak in Baldi Hot Springs. Although much of the park is open to the public, some portions of the volcano are accessible only as part of a guided tour. And even though the volcano itself is large, hiking is limited to the basal portions for safety reasons, as the volcano still sputters and spews on occasion. The park and surrounding areas are rich in lava-less activities: Combo tours help you make the most of your visit to the Arenal area, pairing a trip to the volcano with nearby attractions such as La Fortuna Hot Springs, Venado Caves, Lake Arenal, and the Peñas Blancas River for activities including zipline and hanging bridge canopy tours, waterfalls and hot springs visits, horseback riding, rappelling, safari floats, and whitewater rafting.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Arenal Volcano tours from San Jose can last upward of 12 hours.
- Many tours include hotel pickup and dropoff from the La Fortuna area.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven ground.
- Although the volcano’s summit is closed for safety reasons, there are plenty of hiking trails closer to the base.
How to Get There
Many guided tours depart from La Fortuna, the closest city to Arenal Volcano National Park—about 30 minutes away by car. Day tours from larger cities such as San Jose, Liberia, and Monteverde are best accomplished with a private car, taxi, or professional shuttle service, which keep travel times down to roughly three hours from each. Those looking for more budget-friendly options can take the public bus, but be prepared for a long trip; save travel time by checking for direct routes when possible.
When to Get There
The dry season (March to December) is generally considered the best time to view and explore Arenal; however, that is also Costa Rica’s high tourist season, so expect crowds and higher prices. Travel during the rainy season is better for budget travelers or those seeking a quieter experience.
Arenal Volcano Eruption History
After nearly 400 dormant years, Arenal Volcano exploded in 1968, burying three villages and wreaking destruction in the area. This eruption ushered in Arenal’s active period, which produced near-constant ash, smoke, and streams of molten lava until its abrupt stop in 2010. The volcano is now considered resting.
Address: Highway 142, La Fortuna 4417, Costa Rica
Hours: Open daily
Admission: US$10
From $ 30
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
Situated atop the Continental Divide, this high-altitude forest is literally shrouded in clouds. Wisps of fog trail through the lofty canopy, creating the perfect environment for thousands of animal and plant species. Here you can find wild orchids, colorful birds, and sinuous jungle cats—plus scenic mountaintop vistas.
The Basics
A gem of Central America, Monteverde Cloud Forest spans more than 35,089 acres (14,200 hectares) of land and contains 8 miles (12.9 kilometers) of trails. Trek through the lush reserve and immerse yourself in Costa Rica’s rich wilderness; spot rare wildlife; climb to “La Ventana,” a scenic overlook with panoramic views; and take a photo on the Continental Divide with one foot on the Pacific side and the other on the Caribbean side.
Guided tours of the reserve cover a wide range of interests. Nature lovers can head out on a guided hiking excursion, night tour, or private bird-watching tour, while thrill seekers can fly through the treetops on ziplines or traverse the park’s series of hanging bridges on a canopy tour. For an in-depth experience, it’s also possible to visit Monteverde Cloud Forest on a multiday tour of Costa Rica’s northwestern highlights.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Remember to bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and plenty of water.
- An on-site restaurant offers traditional Costa Rican dishes.
- The road to Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is half paved and half unpaved; a vehicle equipped with 4-wheel drive is recommended.
How to Get There
The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is located along the Cordillera de Tilaran mountain range, roughly three hours by road from San José. Bus services connect San José to Santa Elena. From there, a transportation service runs periodically to the reserve.
When to Get There
The most popular time to visit is during Costa Rica’s dry season (mid-December to April), when the weather is ideal for exploring. Arrive early in the day if you want to avoid crowds.
Exploring the Reserve
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve contains four different ecological zones and also includes Monteverde Biological Reserve, Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve, the Children's Eternal Rainforest, and part of the Arenal Volcano National Park. Most of the reserve is still comprised of untouched forest.
Address: Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, Monte Verde, Costa Rica
From $ 105
Costa Rican Art Museum (Museo de Arte Costarricense)
Explore the works of some of Costa Rica’s greatest artists from the colonial era through today at the Costa Rican Art Museum, including almost the entire body of work from prolific local artist Juan Manuel Sanchez. The museum is housed in the building that once served as the main terminal of San Jose’s original international airport and outside, toward where the tarmac once sat, is a lovely sculpture garden where visitors can walk around an enjoy the tropical weather. The museum often has chamber music concerts playing in the Golden Hall.
Practical Info
The Costa Rican Art Museum sits at the eastern end of La Sabana Park, so it’s a good idea to pair a trip to the museum with a walk through this peaceful park. The museum is free to visit and open every day except Mondays.
Address: San Jose 10101, Costa Rica
Hours: Daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
From $ 69
National Museum (Museo Nacional)
The National Museum, housed in the barracks of the Bellavista Fortress, has been proudly displaying indigenous and pre-Columbian artifacts, religious artwork and geological and archaeological pieces linked to Costa Rica’s rich and colorful history since 1950.
Separate rooms explore ancient cultures dating back some 12,000 years, as well as collections of ornate jewelry, medallions and statues made of gold. And while the Museum’s impressive collection of grinding stones and other artifacts from ancient Costa Rica grant tourists a chance to travel back in time, visitors should be sure to explore the grounds, too. Nationals fought at the barracks during the Civil War in 1948, and damage from bullet holes and warfare can still be seen in the Spanish-style courtyard.
Separate rooms explore ancient cultures dating back some 12,000 years, as well as collections of ornate jewelry, medallions and statues made of gold. And while the Museum’s impressive collection of grinding stones and other artifacts from ancient Costa Rica grant tourists a chance to travel back in time, visitors should be sure to explore the grounds, too. Nationals fought at the barracks during the Civil War in 1948, and damage from bullet holes and warfare can still be seen in the Spanish-style courtyard.
Practical Info
The National Museum is located in the Bellavista Fortress at Calle 17, between Cenral and Second Avenues. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 8:30am until 4:30pm, and on Sundays from 9am until 4:30pm. Foreign visitors pay $8 to enter or $4 with a valid student ID.
Address: Cuesta de Moras, San Jose, Costa Rica
Hours: Tue - Sat 8:30am-4pm; Sundays 9am-4:30pm
Admission: Adult: $8; Student: $4
From $ 14
Children's Museum (Museo de los Ninos)
The Costa Rica Children’s Museum is an interactive fun experience for all the family.
Housed in a gaily painted toytown castle, that’s actually a historic old military prison, the museum’s hands-on exhibits range across all manner of topics.
Kids will love the 40 exhibits exploring outer space, old-fashioned fun on the farm, history, music, science and ecology and everyday life in Cost Rica.
The Costa Rica Children’s Museum is housed in a striking red and yellow fort on Calle 4, above Avenida 9, a little north of downtown San Jose.
Address: Calle 4, San Jose 10101, Costa Rica
Hours: Open daily
From $ 7
Jade Museum (Museo de Jade)
The Jade Museum (Museo del Jade) proves to Costa Rica visitors that this small Central American country is as rich in its history and cultural offerings as in biodiversity. The museum, located in the Costa Rican capital of San Jose, showcases more than 1,000 years’ worth of artifacts from Mesoamerica dating from 500 B.C. to 800 A.D.—including pre-Columbian jade, wood, and ceramics—in a renovated space.
The Basics
A visit to the Jade Museum sheds light on pre-Columbian societies and traditional Costa Rican culture. Thanks to its central location in downtown San Jose, the Jade Museum can easily be added onto any city tour. Explore its collection of 7,000 artifacts on your own or go with a guide for a more comprehensive experience.
Things to Know Before You Go
- This site is a must-see for history buffs.
- Children under 12 receive a reduced rate of $2.
- Plan to spend roughly two hours exploring the five floors of displays.
- Engaging kid-friendly activities include an excavation role-play and giant puzzles.
- The museum offers a souvenir shop, restaurant, and cafe; take your drinks to go while you tour the exhibits.
How to Get to the Jade Museum
The Jade Museum is located on Central Street in San Jose, just down the road from the National Museum of Costa Rica and two blocks south of the famed National Park, so it’s easy to visit while you’re exploring downtown. Multiple bus lines stop within a few blocks of the museum, and the Museo stop on the Tren Urbano rapid transit system is a five-minute walk away. Transport by taxi or private vehicle is also available.
When to Get There
The Jade Museum is open year-round from 10am to 5pm, including weekends, but it’s best to confirm opening hours during the many national holidays. Thanks to one of the largest collections of pre-Columbian artifacts in all of Central America, the museum can attract crowds. Save time waiting in line by booking tickets ahead or exploring as part of a tour. Otherwise, expect the largest crowds during Costa Rica’s high season, which runs from late November through April.
Say What?
You may want to brush up on your Spanish or download a translation app before visiting the museum, as much of the information is presented in Spanish. If you need a place to start, remember that jade is pronounced "ha-day," the Spanish word for gold is oro, and pre-Columbian is precolombino.
Address: West side of Plaza de la Democracia, Central Av. Street 13 and 13 bis, San Jose 10101, Costa Rica
Hours: Monday through Sunday, 10am to 5pm
Admission: $15
From $ 15
Gold Museum
More than 1600 pre-Columbian artifacts, including Costa Rica’s very first coin, handmade ceramics and a life-sized warrior, are housed in this museum that was opened in 1985. The museum’s collection displays indigenous works dating from 500 AD to 1500 AD, including traditional jewelry and culturally relevant pieces from other Latin American countries. Displays on the second floor explore the influence of these artifacts on the social and cultural development of the nation, as well as a history of Costa Rica’s currency. Signs in both Spanish and English easily guide guests through hallways filled with rich history.
Practical Info
The museum is located underneath the Plaza de la Cultura near Central Avenue and 5th Street. It’s open every day from 9:15 a.m. until 5 p.m. except some major holidays.
Address: Calle 5, San Jose, Costa Rica
Hours: Daily 9:15am-5pm
From $ 11
Chirripo National Park
Cerro Chirripo, Coast Rica’s highest point, is just one of the attractions that draws wilderness adventurers to what some consider the nation’s wildest park. The 11-mile hike up a steep mountain pass can prove a challenging climb for even the most experienced trekkers. Two permanent shelters along the way mean hikers can leave their tents at home, but travelers will still need to carry plenty of food and water for the demanding trail. Though the pass can be difficult, the views from the top—including the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea—are truly amazing.
For less-fit travelers and those in search of more leisurely strolls, the forests of Chirripo National Park offer plenty of opportunity to explore the unique flora and fauna indigenous to Costa Rica. Its scenic passes, lush pastures and minimal elevation gains are accessible for the entire family.
For less-fit travelers and those in search of more leisurely strolls, the forests of Chirripo National Park offer plenty of opportunity to explore the unique flora and fauna indigenous to Costa Rica. Its scenic passes, lush pastures and minimal elevation gains are accessible for the entire family.
Practical Info
The high season is from December to April, but the rainforest is at its greenest between May and November. Maps and visitor guides are available for free in the park. Visitors must pay $7 to enter and an extra $3 to stay overnight. Chirripo is accessible by bus from San Isidro and leaves daily at 5 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Address: Chirripó National Park, Pérez Zeledón, Costa Rica
Admission: Entrance: $7; Overnight: $3
From $ 85
La Paz Waterfall Gardens
This popular jungle oasis is the number one ecological attraction in Costa Rica. With incredible hiking that’s easily accessible from the capital city, as well as stunning waterfalls and indigenous wildlife, it’s a destination that’s truly worthy of a visit.
Travelers can explore the 3.5 kilometers of rugged trails and 10 animal exhibits on site to gain a deeper appreciation of Costa Rica’s famed biodiversity and natural beauty. Whether it’s hiking to the five waterfalls that give this garden its name, wandering through the cloud forest or venturing into the aviary, there’s plenty to do, see and discover at La Paz Waterfall Gardens.
The grounds are easy to navigate, and most visitors choose to self-guide their tours. But travelers looking to gain a deeper understanding of conservation efforts, as well as to learn more about the unique flora and fauna here can also opt for a guided tour.
Practical Info
The gardens are open daily from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. Entrance is $40 for adults and $24 for children three to 12. Add-on experiences are available for an additional fee, including a guided animal encounter and a waterfall gardens tour.
Address: 126, Costa Rica
Hours: Open daily 8am-5pm
Admission: Adults: $40; Children: $24
From $ 95
Plaza de la Cultura
As far as city squares go, Plaza de la Cultura leaves much to be desired. That’s because its unremarkable architecture and mostly concrete designs tend to make it one of the less visually pleasing squares in this colorful city.
Still, travelers in search of a true taste of San Jose life will do well to visit this busy square, where locals gather after weekend shopping trips and stay well into the night. Ice cream vendors sell sweet, cool treats, which are perfect for taking the edge off a steamy afternoon. Plaza de la Cultura is typically teeming with street performers and vendors and a nearby police tower means that even with the crowds, it’s still one of the safest places in the city.
Practical Info
Plaza de la Cultura is located on Avenida Central between Calles 3 and 5 near Gran Hotel Costa Rica. It is a short walking distance from Museo Nacional de Costa Rica. Visitors can take the train to Estacion de Ferrocarril al Atlantico, travel to the plaza via one of the city’s buses.
Address: Bulevar Avenida Central, San José, Costa Rica
From $ 58
La Fortuna Waterfall
La Fortuna Waterfall cascades 200 feet (61 meters) down the sheer cliff face of Cerro Chato, the Arenal Volcano’s dormant and thickly forested twin. One of the most impressive and accessible waterfalls in Costa Rica, La Fortuna is a great place to picnic, swim, and photograph the waterfall’s perpetual mists and nearby exotic vegetation.
The Basics
Set just outside the town of La Fortuna, this cascade is a must-see for visitors to Arenal Volcano National Park. From the parking lot, the descent down the staircase to the falls only takes roughly 20 minutes. A longer trail winds through the rain forest and can be traversed on horseback, giving travelers an opportunity to spot toucans, monkeys, and other tropical creatures. At the bottom, adventurous visitors can swim in the clear waters below the fall, while others can picnic along the rocky shoreline or snap pictures of the scenery.
Most La Fortuna Waterfall tours include a visit to the adjacent Arenal Volcano National Park, where you can head out on a volcano hike, get your adrenaline pumping on a waterfall-jumping and canyoning adventure, or float down the river on a safari tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bring a bathing suit, sun protection, bug spray, and comfortable shoes.
- Swimming is allowed, but only in pools well away from the potentially dangerous currents produced by the falls, especially during the rainy season.
- Keep in mind that the staircase down to the falls is steep and sometimes slippery.
How to Get There
La Fortuna Waterfall is located roughly 10 minutes by road from the small town of La Fortuna, and about three hours by road from San José.
When to Get There
The most popular time to visit is during Costa Rica’s dry season (mid-December to April), when the weather is ideal for exploring. Arrive early in the day if you want to avoid crowds.
Exploring Arenal Volcano National Park
Arenal Volcano National Park is a treasure trove of wildlife and epic volcanic landscapes. Trek through the park’s many hiking trails, walk across picturesque hanging bridges, take a horseback ride, or go rappelling down volcanic rock faces. Nearby, Baldi Hot Springs Resort is the perfect place to relax after an action-packed day of sightseeing.
Address: Costa Rica
From $ 15
Escazu
Costa Rica is known for its diverse wildlife, breathtaking waterfalls, dense rainforest and endless outdoor adventures. But the Central Valley neighborhood of Escazu offers travelers a taste of a different Costa Rica—one that’s filled with modern architecture, posh homes and even an exclusive country club. Visitors say this hip spot is the perfect place to enjoy the best of big city life in a neighborhood that rocks a more laidback country vibe.
Travelers can wander the main streets lined with big name stores and unique boutiques or tuck into a meal at one of Escazu’s exclusive restaurants for a relaxing lunch or world-class dinner. State of the art gyms and well-kept bed and breakfasts mean visitors looking to escape the city for a weekend and experience a slice of true Costa Rican life can have it all in Escazu.
Practical Info
Escazu is located 7.5 miles outside of San Jose, about 3 miles west of Sabana Park.
Address: Escazu, Costa Rica
From $ 58
Parque La Sabana
With its 175 acres of green space and network of forested walking trails, Parque La Sabana is San José’s version of New York’s Central Park. The large open lawns are perfect for Frisbee, soccer, or tossing a ball, and the walking trails and running tracks are where to work up a sweat. This site once housed the city’s airport until the 1940s, and today the former terminal building houses the Costa Rican Art Museum. Also within the leafy park is the country’s national stadium, where concerts and national soccer matches are held for up to 40,000 people. On most days, however, the park plays hosts to groups of locals all feeding the geese by the pond, or families simply enjoying a picnic beneath the shade of a tree. It’s a calming place to escape the crowds and the urban city bustle, and a comfortable perch for people watching and mingling with San José locals.
Practical Info
Parque La Sabana is located at the western end of upscale Paseo Colón. There is no admission fee or opening hours, although daytime hours are often safest and nights are best avoided.
Address: Av. de Las Américas, San Jose, Costa Rica
From $ 50
Orosi River Valley
The thick green forests, fertile coffee plantations and scenic mountains of the Orosi River Valley draw bird watchers, freshwater fishermen and nature lovers to the banks of the Reventazon River, as well as the pristine lake formed by the Cachi Dam.
Travelers can spend the morning wandering through Iglesia de San Jose de Orosi Church, where Spanish Colonial artifacts and religious paintings line the interior of Costa Rica’s oldest church still in use. Adventurers will enjoy an afternoon at the Irazu Volcano. Crater lakes and lush farmland make for scenic hikes and picturesque views.
The Ruins of Ujarras, with peaceful gardens and even a nearby public swimming pool, prove another popular destination for both travelers and residents. Buy lunch from one of the local women selling fragrant arepas before exploring the historic ruins and cooling off with a refreshing dip.
Travelers can spend the morning wandering through Iglesia de San Jose de Orosi Church, where Spanish Colonial artifacts and religious paintings line the interior of Costa Rica’s oldest church still in use. Adventurers will enjoy an afternoon at the Irazu Volcano. Crater lakes and lush farmland make for scenic hikes and picturesque views.
The Ruins of Ujarras, with peaceful gardens and even a nearby public swimming pool, prove another popular destination for both travelers and residents. Buy lunch from one of the local women selling fragrant arepas before exploring the historic ruins and cooling off with a refreshing dip.
Practical Info
Orosi River Valley is located about 40 miles from San Jose and five miles south of Cartago.
Address: Orosi, Costa Rica
From $ 107
La Fortuna
Its close proximity to Volcan Arenal—one of the top 20 most active volcanoes in the world—has kept the quaint town of La Fortuna ranked high among the most popular destinations for travelers venturing into the Costa Rican countryside. Its picturesque hillside, epic views of Volcan Arenal and much-storied history of narrowly avoiding total demise during a major eruption in the 1960s are all just part of what lends this tiny city its charm.
While both Arenal and Arenal Volcano National Park are responsible for attracting the majority of visitors who come to La Fortuna, travelers say La Catarata de la Fortuna—an impressive natural waterfall—and the town’s close proximity to adventurous day trips like zip-lining and cavern tours make it an ideal stopping point for those looking for a Costa Rican experience that’s anything but urban.
Practical Info
La Fortuna is located in San Carlos in the province of Alajuela.
Address: La Fortuna, Costa Rica
From $ 156
Monteverde Butterfly Gardens
Tucked away in the mountains and known locally as Mariposario, Monteverde Butterfly Gardens is one of the town's most visited attractions, having been educating visitors about Costa Rica's local insect and arachnid species for more than 20 years.
Guides take visitors through the various displays at the biodiversity center, which features over 20 species of live insects and arachnids, as well as an active leaf-cutter ant colony. When it comes to butterflies, this site reigns supreme with more than 30 species in four different climate-controlled habitats that represent ones found in Costa Rica. The three-acre garden also houses other wildlife, including white-faced capuchin monkeys, agoutis, coatis, toucans, motmots and more.
Practical Info
Monteverde Butterfly Gardens is open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. It is located near downtown Santa Elena, accessible via either a 20-minute walk or a short cab ride from town. Onsite guides speak English and/or Spanish. It should be known that Monteverde Butterfly Gardens accepts cash only – either USD or Colones.
Address: Jardin de Mariposas, Puntarenas, Costa Rica
Hours: Daily 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
Admission: Adults $15, Students $10, Children 4-6 $5, Children 3 & Under free
From $ 135
Kalambu Hot Springs Water Park
What’s the only thing better than visiting hot springs in the uplands of La Fortuna? How about splashing inside of the hot springs after racing top speed down a slide. At the Kalambu Hot Springs Water Park, travelers can soak in thermally heat pools near the base of Arenal volcano, while enjoying the comforts, smiles, and thrills you’d expect of a modern waterpark. At the four-story tower that’s known as The Mammoth, sit in a wide, circular raft and pack it full of your friends, and then go shooting nearly 400 feet down a winding, twisting slide. The Triple Slide has triple the fun, and you can race your friends or family members to see who splashes down first. You’ll also find an interactive play area for children—just don’t get caught beneath the big bucket when it splashes down water from above!
Insider's Tip: For a truly unique La Fortuna experience, visit the waterpark at night.
Practical Info
Locker rental is $3 and towels are available for a $7 deposit. There is a restaurant on site, although no outside food is allowed. Many of the water slides have a minimum age of 6 years old, and children under 6 years old must be accompanied by an adult in the play area.
Address: Kalambu Hot Springs, Rte 142, La Fortuna, Costa Rica
Hours: December-February: 10am-10pm daily; March-June: 10am-10pm from Friday-Sunday; July: 10am-10pm daily; August-November: 10am-10pm from Friday-Sunday.
Admission: $32 for adults and $16 for children
From $ 32
Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park
The 16 hanging bridges that line the paths of Costa Rica’s Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park stretch a total of 1.6 miles (2.6 kilometers) across the steep landscape. See the birds, monkeys, sloths, snakes, and frogs that call the forest canopy home by ascending these spans, suspended above gorges and stretched across jungle floors.
The Basics
A hike through the Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park in sunny weather is a perfect way to spend several hours viewing and photographing the area’s flora and fauna. The life of the rain forest largely takes place overhead, in the thick canopy of jungle and sunlight.
Wander through the thick vegetation on well-marked trails on your own, or join a guided tour focused on plants, birds, and animals—or more adventurous pursuits. An early morning birding tour is the best way to expand your bird list, with more than 60 species spotted regularly in this protected wilderness. Also look for families of monkeys swinging through the air and lazy sloths lounging among tree limbs. For a unique view of the forest, sign up for a night walk. Some guided tours combine a visit to the park with stops at Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna Waterfall, Lake Arenal, and the nearby Tabacon Hot Springs.
Know Before You Go
- Closed-toe shoes are required in Mistico Park; wearing sandals is not permitted and you will be refused entry.
- The Sal & Pimienta Restaurant, on the park grounds, is open daily from 7:30am to 4pm.
- The rain forest is home to a hearty bug population; insect repellent is a good idea.
- Children under 10 years old receive free admission.
How to Get There
The hanging bridges are located five miles (eight kilometers) east of Tabacon and 12.5 miles (20 kilometers) from La Fortuna. Look for them just after the exit to El Castillo, on the lakefront road to Tilaran. Round-trip transportation from nearby hotels is available for an additional fee.
When to Get There
General entry and guided tours take place Monday through Sunday from 7:30am to 4:30pm. Costa Rica’s rainy season is typically May through November; prime Arenal Volcano viewing time is September and October.
Adventure Tours in Mistico Park
The adventure seeker in you will find plenty to keep busy at Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park. One option is a zorbing tour, which envelops you in a huge rubber ball in order to roll safely (if quickly) down a steep hill. Book a Paco’s Horses tour to ride through a remote pasture for epic views, or set out for Spider Monkey Canyon to rappel and zipline among the canyon’s striking natural features.
Address: Arenal Volcano National Park, Costa Rica
Admission: Varies
From $ 60