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Clear All FiltersLa Fortuna & Arenal Volcano Area
Arenal Volcano National Park
About 4–5 hours away—best as an overnight. Hot springs, hiking, and stunning volcano vistas. Park entry ~$15/adult, $5/kid. Hot springs range $20–$75.
Address: Arenal Volcano National Park, La Fortuna
Distance: 4-5 hours by car
Kid-Friendly: Yes - but involves long travel time
La Paz Waterfall Gardens
A perfect stop on the way to La Fortuna from San José. Explore five stunning waterfalls, hike scenic trails, and visit the animal rescue center with sloths, toucans, and jaguars. Self-guided tours available.
Address: La Paz Waterfall Gardens, Vara Blanca
Cost: ~$30/adult, ~$20/student with ID
Kid-Friendly: Yes - great for wildlife spotting and photography
Budget Tip: Bring water bottles and snacks to skip the on-site restaurant
Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park
Walk 3.2 km across six hanging bridges through the rainforest canopy, spotting monkeys, sloths, and birds. The swaying bridges offer thrilling views of the rainforest and Arenal Volcano (if clear).
Address: Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges, La Fortuna
Cost: ~$26/adult, ~$16/student (self-guided)
Kid-Friendly: Yes - exciting bridges and wildlife spotting
Budget Tip: Book tickets online to avoid lines, and skip the guided tour (~$50/person)
Proyecto Asis Wildlife Rescue
Volunteer to feed rescued animals like spider monkeys and parrots, and learn about rehabilitation efforts. A hands-on experience that's educational and fun.
Address: Proyecto Asis Wildlife Rescue, Javillos
Cost: ~$30/adult, ~$20/student (2-hour tour)
Kid-Friendly: Yes - interactive animal experiences
Budget Tip: Book the basic tour, not the pricier combo with other activities
Free Hot Springs (Tabacón Area)
Experience natural hot springs without the resort prices. These public hot springs near Tabacón Resort offer a more adventurous and authentic experience.
Address: Free Hot Springs, La Fortuna
Cost: Free (parking ~$5)
Kid-Friendly: Yes - but supervise children closely
Budget Tip: Visit in the morning for fewer crowds
Don Olivo Chocolate Tour
Learn about cocoa farming, taste fresh chocolate, and make your own chocolate bar. A delicious and educational experience before leaving La Fortuna.
Address: Don Olivo Chocolate Tour, La Fortuna
Cost: ~$25/adult, ~$15/student (2 hours)
Kid-Friendly: Yes - interactive and tasty!
Budget Tip: Choose a smaller farm like Don Olivo over pricier resort tours
Turrialba Volcano (~3.5 hrs)
Offers a quieter volcano experience, scenic farmland, and fewer crowds. Entry fees ~$12/adult, $5/kid.
Address: Turrialba Volcano National Park, Turrialba
Distance: 3.5 hours by car
Kid-Friendly: Yes - but involves long travel time
Chocolate/Cacao Tours (Bribri)
$20–$40/person. Meet indigenous Bribri communities, learn traditional chocolate-making, and enjoy tastings! Some tours include a refreshing waterfall swim.
Address: Bribri Chocolate Tours, Bribri
Distance: About 1 hour's drive
Kid-Friendly: Yes - interactive and educational
Chocolate Tour Photos | Bribri Tour Details | Instagram #costaricachocolate
Coastal Bike Rides
Rent bikes (~$10/day) and explore the beautiful coastal road between Puerto Viejo and Manzanillo. Stop at beaches, cafes, and viewpoints along the way.
Address: Puerto Viejo Bike Rentals, Puerto Viejo
Puerto Viejo Bike Rentals | Instagram @puertoviejobikerentals
Distance: Various routes from 5km to 20km
Kid-Friendly: Yes - with child seats or for older children with their own bikes
Recommended Route: Puerto Viejo to Punta Uva (7km one-way) - mostly flat with beautiful views