Arenal Volcano & Hot Springs Full-Day Tour from San José
Active
11h - 12h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover why the Arenal Volcano & Hot Springs experience is one of Costa Rica’s most unforgettable adventures — where excitement and serenity come together in a single perfect day. Journey through stunning countryside to reach Arenal Volcano, an iconic natural landmark rising above lush rainforest and dramatic mountain scenery.
After enjoying panoramic viewpoints and learning about the region’s volcanic history, continue to La Fortuna’s famous natural hot springs. Immerse yourself in warm, mineral-rich thermal pools surrounded by tropical gardens, soothing waterfalls, and the peaceful sounds of the jungle. Recharge your body, relax your mind, and let nature work its magic.
Ideal for couples, families, wellness seekers, and nature lovers, this full-day tour blends exploration, relaxation, and pure Pura Vida energy — a must-do experience in the heart of Costa Rica’s volcanic paradise.
Available options
Ecotermales Hot Springs
Visit Ecotermales Hot Springs : Natural hot springs sanctuary, featuring six exclusive thermal pools into the rainforest.<br/>Pickup included
Los Lagos Hot Springs
Visit Los Lagos Hot Springs: This option includes the visit to Los Lagos Hot Springs a true thermal paradise with a privileged location, panoramic volcano<br/>Pickup included
Baldi Hot Springs
Visit to Baldi Hot Springs: We relax at Baldi Hot Springs, a true thermal paradise featuring 25 volcanic water pools that flow naturally from the volcano<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Entrada a las piscinas termales, uso de toallas y casilleros
Guía de Turismo Certificado Bilingüe
Transporte de ida y vuelta en vehículo con aire acondicionado
All Fees and Taxes
Almuerzo y Cena
Opera con un mínimo de 2 personas
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
In Sarchi, you will be able to appreciate many of the art crafts and souvenirs that Costa Rica has to offer. Also you will see the world’s largest ox cart according to the Guinness Book. The cart is 2 stories high, nearly 45 feet long (14 meters) and weighs 4400 lbs. (2 tons), and took 70 days to complete.
2
The impressive Arenal Volcano is a magnificent natural wonder that is situated in La Fortuna (The Fortune) of San Carlos, previously assumed to be dormant, until in 1968, when it experienced a major eruption. Now is visited by tourist from all around the world hoping for the opportunity to witness volcanic activity, such as the white plumes of smoke that emanate from the conical shaped behemoth.
3
As the perfect end to the day, we will relax in a true thermal paradise with a privileged location, panoramic views of the volcano, and beautiful gardens. It has thermal mineral pools, which are fed by the underground geological formations of the Arenal Volcano. In addition, there are cold and warm pools, fed by chemical-free springs from the tropical forest. The waters flow freely.
What's not included
Propina
Botella de Agua
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.5
4 reviews
5★
3
4★
0
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.2
11 reviews
5★
8
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
2
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Que llevar? - Traje de baño – Sandalias – Ropa adicional - Toalla – Abrigo.
If you are travelling with children please let us know their ages, during the booking process.
About San José
San José, the capital of Costa Rica, is a vibrant city known for its rich cultural heritage, bustling markets, and colonial architecture. Nestled in the heart of the Central Valley, it offers a unique blend of urban life and natural beauty, with nearby volcanoes and coffee plantations adding to its allure.
Top Attractions
Museo del Jade
This museum houses an extensive collection of pre-Columbian jade artifacts, showcasing the rich history of Costa Rica.
Museum
1-2 hours
¢5,000 (CRC)
Mercado Central
A bustling market offering a variety of local foods, souvenirs, and crafts. It's a great place to experience the local culture.
Market
1-2 hours
Free entry
Teatro Nacional de Costa Rica
A stunning example of neoclassical architecture, this theater hosts various cultural performances and events.
Historical
1 hour
¢6,000 (CRC) for tours
Parque La Sabana
A large urban park with walking paths, sports facilities, and a lake. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Gallo Pinto
A traditional breakfast dish made with rice, beans, onions, and peppers, often served with eggs, tortillas, and natilla (sour cream).
Breakfast
Vegetarian
Casado
A typical lunch dish consisting of rice, beans, salad, plantains, and a choice of meat or fish.
Lunch
Can be vegetarian or vegan with modifications
Olla de Carne
A hearty beef and vegetable soup, often served with rice, tortillas, and salad.
Dinner
Can be made vegetarian
Chifrijo
A popular bar snack made with fried pork, beans, rice, and avocado.
Snack
Can be made vegetarian with modifications
Popular Activities
Hiking in national parks
Zip-lining in nearby areas
Coffee tasting tours
Spa treatments
Museum visits
Historical tours
White-water rafting in nearby rivers
Coffee plantation tours
Best Time to Visit
December to April
The dry season offers pleasant weather with minimal rain, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
22-28°C
72-82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Costa Rican Colón (CRC)
Time Zone
CST (UTC-6)
Electricity
110VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
San José is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, especially in crowded areas. Exercise caution and keep valuables secure.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Avoid walking alone at night
- • Use official taxis or ride-sharing apps
Getting there
By air
- Juan Santamaría International Airport • 20 km (12 miles) from city center
By bus
Cariari Bus Terminal, San José Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around San José. They cover most of the city and its suburbs.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, DiDi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Barrio Escalante
Barrio Amón
San Pedro
Day trips
Poás Volcano National Park
50 km (31 miles) • Half day
A stunning national park featuring the active Poás Volcano and beautiful crater lakes.
Irazú Volcano National Park
55 km (34 miles) • Half day
A national park featuring the Irazú Volcano, one of the highest peaks in Costa Rica, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Alajuela
20 km (12 miles) • Half day
A charming city known for its colonial architecture, museums, and the Juan Santamaría Museum, dedicated to Costa Rica's national hero.
Festivals
Fiesta de las Luces • December
Festival de las Artes • March
Pro tips
- Visit the Mercado Central early in the morning for the freshest produce and to avoid crowds.
- Try local street food for an authentic and delicious culinary experience.
- Explore the city's museums and cultural attractions to gain a deeper understanding of Costa Rica's rich history.
- Take a day trip to nearby natural attractions, such as Poás Volcano National Park, for stunning views and outdoor activities.
- Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your interactions with locals and show respect for the culture.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
