Tours & experiences

Arenal Park Self-Guided Experience

About this experience

Explore at your own pace the 1968 Arenal Park, a unique setting on the lava pourings of the historic Arenal Volcano eruption. Self-guided walk, without guide or schedule, ideal for those who value freedom and contact with nature.

Explore regenerating secondary forests and enjoy panoramic views of the volcano and Arenal Lake. Walk on volcanic soil and watch life resurgent among ash and rocks.

Visit pitahaya, pineapple and sugarcane plantations, and spot birds, alligators, monkeys and coati.

One of the trails reaches Lake Los Patos, home to alligators, and other lagoons are home to the Rainbow Guapote.

Three marked routes: short (1.7 km), medium (3 km) and long (5.6 km), for all ages and physical levels.

A perfect experience for families, couples and lovers of ecotourism, to explore without haste and connect with volcanic nature.

At a glance

  • Duration: 1 hr–3 hr
  • Skip-the-line entry

Choose your tour option

Select a date and travellers to compare current prices and departure times.

Arenal Park Self-Guided Experience

Plan your experience

Time on the tour1 hr–3 hr
Guide languagesEnglish (written information), Spanish (written information)

Set aside 1 hr–3 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.

Before you go

  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

What is included

  • Parking

Itinerary and highlights

Explore Arenal Park 1968 on a unique self-guided walk, without the need for guidance or schedules. Walk the paths over the lava pourings of the great eruption of 1968 and discover how nature is reborn among ash and volcanic rocks. Enjoy panoramic views from privileged viewpoints of the majestic Arenal Volcano and the imposing Arenal Lake.

One of the trails takes you to Lake Los Patos, home to alligators, while other natural lagoons are home to the colorful Rainbow Guapote, giving you an authentic wildlife experience.

With three trails of varying length and difficulty, well marked and maintained, this adventure adapts to all ages and physical levels. Ideal for independent travelers and nature lovers seeking freedom, real connection with the environment and an unforgettable tour of a unique volcanic landscape in Costa Rica

Languages and tickets

  • English — Written
  • Spanish — Written
  • Mobile Only

Tour operator

  • Arenal 1968 Volcano View & Trails

Accessibility and practical details

  • Service animals allowed
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Questions about this experience

How long is this experience?
The supplier lists a duration of 1 hr–3 hr.
Which guide languages are listed?
English (written information), Spanish (written information).
What ticket format is listed?
Mobile ticket.
What ticket age bands are listed?
Child tickets: age 6–11; Adult tickets: age 12+; Senior tickets: age 65+. Check the practical details for participation requirements.
What accessibility information is provided?
Service animals allowed
What is the cancellation policy?
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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