• La Fortuna waterfallA steep stair drops from the park gate to a cold pool, a short ride from town. Swim only if the river allows. You climb out on the same steps.
  • Arenal VolcanoOn a clear morning the cone shows from town, and the summit stays closed. Lava trails in the park are a drive. Cloud often takes the peak later.
  • Hot springsWarm water sits in built pools, not in a creek you find on foot. Go after the daylight stops. Farther from the gate is usually the quieter soak.
  • Mistico hanging bridgesThe hanging-bridge loop is a drive toward the lake, not a stroll. Spans cross wet forest. Early walkers see more birds, and wet wood is slick.
  • Lake ArenalPast the dam, the road follows open water, with the cone across the lake if it is clear. Not a beach. The far shore town is a real drive.
  • 1968 trailPark trails cross the 1968 lava: dark rock, no shade, a view of the cone when the sky allows, so bring water. The path does not reach the summit.
  • Bogarin sloth trailA flat, guided path at the edge of town looks for sloths in the trees. Morning works better. It is short, and it is not a hike you do alone.
  • Río CelesteThe blue river near Bijagua is a long round trip. Start early. Mud is expected, and hard rain can dull the color; do not add it after lunch.
  • Venado cavesWest of town, a guide takes you into wet caves: mud, bats, a helmet, low rock. It is not a dry gallery. Skip it if you dislike a crawl.
  • Waterfall horsebackHorses cross pasture toward the falls. Most rides end above the stair, and you walk the steep part. Ask where you get off before you agree.