Guided Adventures Near Arenal Volcano

Adventure operators around La Fortuna sell rappelling, aerial trams, ziplines and canopy walks, and the right choice depends on age, budget and nerve. This page compares the main options so you can pick before you book. Figures are in US dollars and rounded, and operators often add 13 percent IVA.

Rappelling down waterfalls

Pure Trek runs the waterfall canyoning trips covered here. The standard outing costs about $103 and lasts around 4 hours. You make 4 rappels, three of them beside waterfalls and one down a rock wall, then add a rock climb and a “monkey drop”. A step up, the Rainforest Falls outing runs about $125 and includes a rappel of about 32 m beside a waterfall. Children from age 5 can join. Lunch and a hotel transfer come with some combos.

Trams, bridges and ziplines

Sky Adventures operates at its Arenal site only. Adults pay about $51 for the Sky Tram, about $41 for the Sky Walk and about $93 for the Sky Trek zipline. A combo costs about $90 to $107 or more, and transport to the site is extra. Insurers often exclude zip-lining, so check your own cover and book an established operator.

Mistico Arenal is a gentler way to be among the treetops. Its self-guided walk costs from $32 plus tax, and a guided walk from $44. Night, bird and twilight tours begin at $54. The 3.2 km trail crosses 16 bridges, six hanging, up to 45 m above the ground. The park closes at 3:50pm and requires closed-toe shoes with good grip.

Observation tower and lava fields

Arenal Observatory Lodge welcomes day visitors. Entry costs about $20 to $22, or $40 for a day pass that includes lunch. It offers 11 km of trails, a wheelchair-accessible stretch of 800 m and The Nest, an observation tower of about 28 m.

The private Arenal 1968 reserve charges about $25 for adults and keeps its own hours, from about 8am to 5pm. Black lava fields from the 1968 eruption line about 7 km of trails.

Questions to ask any operator

  • What is included: transport, lunch, equipment and tax?
  • What is the minimum age, and is there a weight or fitness limit?
  • Is the guide certified, and how big are the groups?
  • What happens if it rains?
  • Is the price shown per person and for which season?

Practical tips

  • Reserve a few days ahead in the busy months.
  • Wear closed shoes and bring a change of clothes for water activities.
  • Keep your belongings with you, because car break-ins are the usual local crime.

Read more: Day trips from La Fortuna and Bus tours in La Fortuna .

Official sites: Sky Adventures Arenal and Mistico Park .

Browse canyoning and zipline listings on GetYourGuide .