Arenal Volcano Tour, La Fortuna
Hike the 1968 lava trail inside Arenal National Park with a certified naturalist guide — shared and private tours available daily.
Check Availability ↓Arenal Volcano Tour at a Glance
How much does the Arenal Volcano Tour cost?
From $77 per person, available in both shared and private format.
How long is the tour?
About 4 hours, with departures at 7:30 AM and 2:30 PM.
What will I do?
Hike the 1968 lava trail inside Arenal National Park while a certified naturalist guide narrates the volcanic history, ecological succession, and wildlife of the area.
Is it beginner-friendly?
Moderate — suitable for most fitness levels, but with more elevation and distance than our wildlife walks.
What Is the Arenal Volcano Tour?
The Arenal Volcano Tour takes you along the 1968 lava trail through Arenal National Park with a certified naturalist guide, who narrates the volcanic history, ecological succession, and wildlife of this extraordinary landscape. The 1968 eruption reshaped this side of the volcano, and the trail winds directly across the solidified lava flow.
Two daily departures — 7:30 AM and 2:30 PM — let you choose between the cooler morning light or a calmer afternoon hike, with views of the volcano's cone when weather allows.
What You'll See
- The 1968 lava flow trail, with volcanic rock formations still visible today
- Views of Arenal Volcano's cone, weather permitting
- Regrowth forest showing decades of ecological succession after the eruption
- Birds and wildlife along the trail
- Panoramic views of Lake Arenal and the surrounding rainforest
Shared vs. Private
The shared format is guided by one of our bilingual partner guides in a small group — a great fit if you want the full experience at a lower cost. The private format is guided personally, at your own pace, and works well for groups who want more time at viewpoints or a slower hiking pace.
Questions About the Arenal Volcano Tour
Moderate — more elevation and distance than our wildlife walks, but manageable for most fitness levels. Sturdy, closed-toe footwear is recommended.
It depends on the weather — Arenal is often partly covered in cloud, especially in the afternoon and rainy season. The lava-flow trail and surrounding scenery are the highlight regardless of visibility at the summit.
Hotel pickup within the main La Fortuna corridor is included; pickups farther out may have an additional fee — just ask when you book.
Kids comfortable with a moderate hike can join; younger children may find the distance challenging. Let us know ages when you book so we can advise.
Sturdy closed-toe shoes, light rain gear, sun protection, and a water bottle. Conditions on the lava trail can be sunny and exposed or wet, depending on the day.
We recommend booking at least 24–48 hours ahead, especially in high season, to secure your preferred departure time.