Your Two-Day Guide to Lake Arenal: Experience the Best of the Rainforest
Lake Arenal served as our first destination on a memorable two-week adventure through Costa Rica and Panama. In this guide, I'll explore the stunning landscapes of Lake Arenal, the majestic Arenal Volcano, the lush rainforest and the relaxing hot springs that make this area a must-visit for travellers.
Lake Arenal, Costa Rica: Everything You Need to Know
Discovering Lake Arenal: Where to Find It in Costa Rica
Situated in the Northern Highlands of Costa Rica, Lake Arenal is a serene freshwater lake enveloped by picturesque green landscapes and home to the active Arenal Volcano. Located just a three-hour drive from San José International Airport, it serves as the perfect stop for travellers seeking relaxation after a long flight.
As we planned our two-week trip, we wanted to begin with an experience beyond beaches. Spanning approximately 33 square miles, Lake Arenal is the largest inland body of water in Costa Rica, surrounded by thousands of acres of Arenal National Park. This stunning area is teeming with diverse wildlife, lush scenery and opportunities for outdoor activities.
Getting to Lake Arenal from San José Airport: Your Travel Guide
Since we weren't returning to the airport, we decided against renting a car, opting instead for a private transfer. This choice proved to be excellent as we booked it in advance, allowing us to relax upon arrival with the driver waiting for us at the airport. After a long flight, it was a relief not to worry about navigating the roads while we were tired.
We arranged our transfer through Desafio Adventure Company, which cost around $140 USD for three people. The journey, covering approximately 123 kilometers, took about 2.5 hours and offered scenic views along the way. Desafio provided clear instructions on where to meet our driver, who greeted us with a sign at the airport and drove us directly to our Airbnb in Lake Arenal. Additionally, by providing our flight details, they ensured they were aware of any delays.
Website: Desafio Adventure Company
Exploring Lake Arenal: Best Ways to Get Around
In Arenal, attractions are spread out and public transportation options are limited, making hiring a car the best way to get around. We picked up our rental car in La Fortuna, the main town in the Arenal region. Although I was initially apprehensive about driving in Costa Rica, I found the roads in Arenal and La Fortuna to be relatively quiet, which made our experience enjoyable. Having a car allowed us the freedom to explore all that the area has to offer at our own pace.
Why Choose an Airbnb in Arenal: A Unique Stay in Costa Rica
We chose an Airbnb with stunning views of Arenal Volcano and Lake Arenal, which made our stay truly memorable. Given that the attractions in the area are quite spread out, having a car provides flexibility in choosing accommodations; you can stay virtually anywhere and easily explore the region. For those without a vehicle, the nearest town, Nuevo Arenal, offers a variety of restaurants, shops, and bars, making it a convenient option for dining and entertainment.
Arenal Activities: Your Guide to the Best Things to Do
During our two-night stay in Arenal, we wanted to make the most of our time and fully immerse ourselves in the area's incredible natural attractions. From breathtaking landscapes to thrilling adventures, these are the two activities we highly recommend based on our unforgettable experiences:
1. Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges: Experience Nature from Above
One of the main reasons we traveled to Costa Rica was to experience its incredible wildlife. The Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges offer a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the rainforest from above, featuring 3 kilometers of walkways and suspended bridges that showcase this ecosystem. As someone who isn’t particularly fond of heights, I felt a bit apprehensive, but I ended up loving the experience. The park includes 16 bridges, with about six of them being hanging bridges.
The walk is self-guided, so you can take as much time as you want along the trail—there's no chance of getting lost if you stick to the path. We completed the circuit in about an hour, but you can easily spend longer if you wish. Be prepared for the humid, rainy weather; waterproof gear is essential and you should expect to get a bit wet!
During our walk, we encountered a stunning variety of plants and wildlife, including numerous bird species, frogs and snakes. We even heard howler monkeys before spotting them in the trees! If you're fortunate, you might also catch a glimpse of pumas, jaguars and tapirs.
Website: Arenal Hanging Bridges
2. Go Swimming and Rejuvenate at Tabacon Hot Springs
After trekking through the rainforest, there’s no better way to relax than by visiting a hot springs spa. While there are several options to choose from in Arenal, we decided on the luxurious Tabacon Hot Springs. Located within the Tabacon Thermal Resort, the hot pools are naturally heated by the Arenal Volcano, offering a soothing and rejuvenating experience.
Tabacon features multiple pools of varying temperatures, allowing guests to move between them. One of the highlights is a large outdoor pool complete with a waterslide, surrounded by sun loungers for relaxation. Additionally, there is a beautiful area with multi-level pools and cascading waterfalls, perfect for unwinding in the midst of nature.
We purchased a day pass, which grants access to all the facilities at different price points, making it an unforgettable and indulgent experience.
Website: Tabacon Hot Springs
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