Arenal is one of the areas with the most things to do in Costa Rica – you will find activities for all ages and tastes.

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Check out our updated map with things to do and places to eat

Things to do

 

• Hanging Bridges – approximately 2 hour hike through the rainforest. It is highly recommended that you do this tour early morning or late afternoon with a guide to see all the monkeys, and other animals.
   

• Aerial Tram – a tram through the rainforest on the skirts of Arenal volcano. Enough said. Great option to see life in the rainforest from a treetop view.
   

• Check out the Sloths
   

• Canyoning – This is not for the faint of heart. Hang from ropes on a canyon overlooking a river. This is a 2-3 hour activity for younger more active people.
   

• La Fortuna Waterfall
   

• Venado Caves
   

• Rio Celeste Waterfall - this is 3 hour strenous hike to a waterfall that when the water hits the lake, it changes color to a light blue color. It is really nice and worth it if you are staying in the Arenal area for 3 days or more. This waterfall is about 2 hours from La Fortuna - making the hike a full day activity. 
   

• Thermal Waters - the hotel we choose for you will have thermal waters inside the complex. They are great so you can relax after hiking all of Arenal's many trails. 
   

• Whitewater rafting
   

• Birding – Cano Negro Reserve. Another full day activity. One of Costa Rica's most diverse wildlife areas - excellent for birding and crocodile watching. 

 

Places to Eat

Arenal has great cuisine. Lots of steakhouses and traditional food restaurants. You can’t go wrong going to the following places to eat:

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Our preffered hotel has excellent food options that are included in the rate. 

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• Visit ANY "Soda" - they have traditional food with fresh ingredients. All offer the "Casado" or "Chifrijo" - try it. Great local prices.
   

• Tierra Mia - Located in La Fortuna - traditional food at good prices.
   

• Pollo Fortuneno - roasted chicken specialty restaurant in downtown La Fortuna.
   

• An'chio - fine dining in La Fortuna.
   

• Rancho Las Penas - traditional food in a location that has absolutely best view of the volcano and Arenal lake. You'll need 4x4 to get there. Call before going there as it is open just on weekends in low season. 
   

• Don Ruffinos – a bit of the pricey side but great steakhouse. It is located in downtown La Fortuna.

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Arenal is best enjoyed by staying 2-3 full days with year round good weather to get a glimpse of gorgeous Arenal Volcano.

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Check out our Maps with directions to things to do and eats: https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1H3uSpVWMgOWJ6MthXo1yvgJXUkAgmJk&usp=sharing

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