12 of the best Costa Rica Volcano Tours 2024

Trying to find the Best Costa Rica Volcano Tours? I’ve compiled all the top picks for you!

Are you dreaming of exploring Costa Rica’s famous volcanoes but feeling unsure about which tour to choose? Costa Rica is home to some of the most amazing volcanoes in the world, each offering its own unique adventure.

From the active Arenal Volcano with its hot springs and lush rainforest to the stunning views from the Irazú Volcano, there’s a volcano tour for everyone.

Finding the right tour can seem a bit tricky with so many options out there. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie looking for an exciting hike, a nature lover in search of breathtaking landscapes, or someone who just wants to learn more about these natural wonders, we’re here to help guide you.

Let’s dive into the world of Costa Rica volcano tours together and discover which one will make your trip unforgettable. Get ready to stand in awe of these giants and experience the power of nature like never before!

1. Hanging Bridges, La Fortuna Waterfall and Arenal Volcano Hike

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 | ⏳ LENGTH: 9 hours | ✅ Book it!

Explore Costa Rica and embark on a thrilling adventure with a tour combining the three best activities into one unforgettable day. Explore the magnificent Arenal Volcano on an exciting hike, cross 16 hanging bridges, and take in the stunning natural beauty of La Fortuna Waterfall. 

This full-day expedition from La Fortuna is perfect for nature enthusiasts looking for adventure-filled hikes and refreshing swims amidst Costa Rica’s breathtaking landscapes. Enjoy the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, making this an unforgettable experience you won’t want to miss.

“Angelica was an amazing tour guide. She was fun, informative and pleasant. She was able to spot a lot of wild life including monkeys, colorful frogs and hogs. The experience itself was well worth the price. You got to visit the 3 main places people visit La fortuna for with admission to the parks included and a delicious lunch. I would recommend this tour to anyone who likes hiking and nature.” – Jocelyn_T

Explore the stunning beauty of Costa Rica with your tour that begins with a hotel pickup and a 30-minute drive to the 1968 Arenal Volcano Park. You’ll embark upon a 2.5-hour hike to the base of the Arenal Volcano, where you’ll witness the dry lava field from the 1968 eruption.

Next, your driver will take you to the La Fortuna Waterfall, where you’ll climb 500 steps to reach the waterfall’s base. You’ll have plenty of time to swim and enjoy the waterfall there. 

You’ll then spend approximately 2.5 hours hiking through a primary rainforest and crossing the Mistico Hanging Bridges, which consist of 16 hanging bridges. The hike is in a large forest, incomparable to the Volcano Trails, so make the most of it. Remember, it’s a rainforest, so be prepared for rain and bring your gear.

Important details 

• Start Time (and location): 7:00 AM at your chosen pickup point
• Duration: 9 hours
• Includes: Driver/guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Lunch, Bottled water

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2. Full Day Poas Volcano, La Paz Waterfall Gardens and Coffee Plantation Experience

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 | ⏳ LENGTH: 9 hours | ✅ Book it!

Join one of the highly recommended Costa Rica Volcano tours, where you’ll journey to three extraordinary destinations exclusive to this region. Learn about Costa Rican coffee, and visit Poás Volcano, a rare gem among the nation’s five active volcanoes. 

You’ll also venture into the enchanting La Paz Waterfall Gardens, home to over 100 captivating species, including rescued sloths and vibrant hummingbirds. This trip ensures you see stunning landscapes and have opportunities to connect with Costa Rica’s diverse wildlife intimately.

“Viewing the inside of an active volcano at Poas and the wildlife at the La Paz Waterfall Gardens were memorable experiences. Our tour host was very polite and informative. Highly recommend this excursion for anyone six years or older and physically fit.” – James_B

On this tour, you’ll be able to visit 3 of the most stunning areas you can visit during your stay in Costa Rica. First, you’ll travel to the Province of Alajuela to the  Coffee Land of San Isidro to learn about the history and essence of coffee production. 

Next, travel to Poás Volcano, one of the five active volcanoes in the country. You’ll hike to Botos Lagoon and trail around the volcano there.

You’ll then proceed to La Paz Waterfall Gardens Natural Park, where over a hundred rescued animal species live, including sloths, jaguars, toucans, and hummingbirds. Then, you’ll have a complimentary buffet lunch with over 35 food options. 

Finally, visit La Paz waterfalls, where you can take tons of photos from the various picturesque locations!

Important details 

• Start Time (and location): 7:30 AM at your chosen pickup point
• Duration: 9 hours
• Includes: Lunch, Air-conditioned vehicle, Entrance Fee to Poas Volcano and La Paz Waterfall Gardens, Guaranteed to skip the long queues, Professional guide with 30+ years experience, Hotel pick-up and drop-off and Parking Fees

3. 3-in-1 Arenal Combo Tour: Hanging Bridges, La Fortuna Waterfall & Volcano Hike

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 | ⏳ LENGTH: 9 hours and 30 minutes | ✅ Book it!

Do a lot of adventurous activities during this Arenal Costa Rica tour, where you’ll be visiting some of the most anticipated destinations in the country, all in one day. You’ll visit Arenal Volcano and Arenal Hanging Bridges, pass through Lake Arenal, and experience La Fortuna Waterfalls. 

Get to witness lava fields from former eruptions and immerse in the native wildlife as you trail around Arenal Volcano National Park. You’ll also experience a traditional lunch at a serene restaurant along the river. Throughout your exciting tour, you’ll also go on treks and hikes.

“Pedro was the best tour guide ever! He was very knowledgeable of all the sites and wildlife and he really made an effort to get to know everyone and point out things that were of interest to each person individually. Our driver Robin was also a great group lead. Totally recommend this tour.” – Frances_Z

If you have limited time in Arenal and want to tour some of its best places, I recommend you join this 3-in-1 day tour. There’s only a maximum of 10 people during your time, so you’ll avoid the big group hassles. 

Your first stop is at Arenal Volcano, where you’ll see the lava trails it left when it last erupted. Then, you’ll hike and cross along the hanging bridges to see and experience the rainforest from above.

The next stop will be at La Fortuna Waterfall, where you can swim, relax, and explore its gorgeous vicinity. There’s also a restaurant and observatory in the area where you can stay if you need to go hiking. 

After your exhausting excursion at the waterfall, you’ll head to La Familia Rodriguez to have a traditional lunch and recover your energy. Before heading back to explore the volcano, you can engage with the locals and have the opportunity to learn about the rich Costa Rican culture.

Important details 

• Start Time (and location): 7:00 AM at your chosen pickup point
• Duration: 9 hours and 30 minutes
• Includes: Lunch, Snacks, Driver/guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off from Arenal/La Fortuna only, National Park fees, Air-conditioned vehicle

4. Volcano-Waterfall and Hot Springs Combo ( Private)

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 | ⏳ LENGTH: 8 to 10 hours | ✅ Book it!

In this private day tour in Costa Rica, you’ll have the chance to experience adventure and relaxation as you visit three iconic destinations in the country. You’ll experience the natural beauty of a tropical rainforest through a moderate hike while also enjoying the safety of observing volcanic activity from a distance. 

Take a refreshing dip in a natural swimming pool at the base of the stunning Oropendola Waterfall waterfall. Also, you can unwind in the rejuvenating volcanic mineral hot springs. 

Included in the tour is a buffet lunch and private transportation. You can also ask if you’d like to shop at the biggest souvenir shop in Costa Rica. 

“Highly recommend this excursion. The activities are amazing and beautiful scenery. Having the private tour gives you flexibility for example our guide took us to a souvenir shop on the way back to the resort. Better prices and selection. Gabriel did an outstanding job pointing out various animals during the hike. This has to be the best tour out there….A perfect day!” – Steve_O

Your 10-hour journey begins as you get picked up at your hotel by a private and comfortable vehicle. This tour is private, so you can embark with as little as 2 of you in the group, which is excellent for couples who want privacy.  

Hike on secondary forest trails at Parque Nacional Rincón de la Vieja. You can watch birds in the area and witness volcanic steam vents and the bubbling mud around it. 

Your next stop is at Oropendola Waterfall, where you can swim in its refreshing natural pool, a great activity after your exhausting hike. After relaxing at the waterfall, you’ll now head on a buffet lunch to fill up before your next activity. 

Then, head on to Rio Negro Hot Springs for a stress-releasing bath a the volcanic mud and natural hot springs. You can stop by Liberia to shop for souvenirs on your way back. 

Important details 

• Start Time (and location): 7:30 AM at your chosen pickup point
• Duration: 8 to 10 hours
• Includes: Private transportation, Lunch, All Fees and Taxes

5. Arenal Volcano Full-Day Combo Tour with Lunch and Dinner

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 | ⏳ LENGTH: 14 hours | ✅ Book it!

Visit some of the best  Costa Rica destinations, like Arenal Volcano, La Paz Waterfall, and Arenal Hot Springs, in this 14-hour tour. Tour the famous attractions with your professional multilingual tour guide. 

View the rainforest from about as you take a zipline course. Learn about the places you’ll visit and witness the abundant wildlife in the area.  With all entrance fees and two meals included, this tour offers excellent value. Perfect for a short trip, this tour is a must-do for anyone visiting Costa Rica!

“Our Tour guide Harlem/Harlum was amazing. He was very informative and made sure we didn’t feel rushed at the stops. I would highly recommend this tour. The views are amazing ..oh and we got lucky and was able to get a clear picture of the volcano which we were told doesn’t happen often. The tour is all day and worth every penny. The food we had for lunch and dinner was amazing at both locations not to mention the fresh juice.” – Tjuanathomas70

This is one of the highly-rated Arenal Volcano tours that take you up to 6 destinations in one day. As you drive along a scenic route to Arenal, stop by La Casa del Café for a quick informative briefing about coffee in Costa Rica. 

Then, proceed to La Paz Waterfall to admire and take social media-worthy pictures! Wander at the exotic bird gallery at Cinchona as you sip your Costa Rican coffee and indulge in traditional snacks. 

Have a 10-minute stop at the Iguanas Center to see the marvellous reptiles before heading to Go Adventure Arenal Park, where you’ll have an authentic Costa Rican lunch. After filling up, head to the Rainforest Jungles for a 150-foot-high zip-lining adventure along 9 cables. 

End the tour by sightseeing for a few hours at the serene Paradise Hot Springs and Gardens, where you can also soak in jacuzzis, waterfalls and lagoons. 

Important details 

• Start Time (and location): 7:00 AM at your chosen pickup point
• Duration: 14 hours
• Includes: Transport by air-conditioned vehicle, Hotel pickup and drop-off (most San Jose area hotels), Professional Bilingual Guide, Lunch, Dinner, Coffee or Tea with local snacks, Entrance fees

6. Full day Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna Waterfall and Hotsprings

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 | ⏳ LENGTH: 11 hours | ✅ Book it!

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast looking for Arenal Volcano tours from La Fortuna, this tour is worth trying. Embark on a journey to witness the natural splendour of the La Fortuna region.

Go on thrilling hikes through rainforests, explore the vast nature, and immerse yourself in the abundant wildlife. Go for a swim at the La Fortuna Waterfall and climb up the slopes of Arenal. 

Learn insightful things as your guide does a live commentary. This group is limited to 10 people, ensuring an intimate adventure.

“Our family of five had a great time. Cristal was so friendly, knowledgeable and enjoyable as our tour guide. I highly recommend this tour for an action packed adventure capturing the highlights of La Fortuna.” – Lorraine_B

See the lush surroundings of La Fortuna and take a refreshing dip at its base. Ascend rocky trails to the highest viewpoint around Arenal, witnessing panoramic views of the volcano, lush jungles, valleys, and lava fields. 

Climb steep steps to a vast expanse of lava rocks and follow a trail to the highest viewpoint for breathtaking panoramic vistas from Mirador El Silencio. 

Important details 

• Start Time (and location): 7:30 AM at your chosen pickup point
• Duration: 11 hours
• Includes: National Park fees, Beverages, Lunch, Local guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off (In la Fortuna area), Small-group tour (10 persons per group), Alcoholic Beverages, Hotspring resort fee

7. Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna Waterfall, Hot Springs Combo Tour with Lunch & Dinner

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 | ⏳ LENGTH: 14 to 15 hours | ✅ Book it!

This tour is perfect if you’re in Costa Rica for a limited time and want to tour some of the country’s best attractions. Explore Costa Rica’s iconic Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna Waterfall, and Paradise Hot Springs. 

A bilingual guide will accompany you and provide informative commentaries along the way. This tour package also includes lunch and dinner, so you won’t have to worry about anything!

“What an amazing day! It was very long but full of fun and adventure! The waterfall was beautiful and the water was great for swimming. The only downside was the 500 stairs each way. Totally worth the work though! The volcano hike was great. Got to get up close and explore the rain forest. It rained some on us and clouds blocked a full view of the volcano but it was still amazing. Also, the hot springs…amazing! Differing temps for anyone’s preference. The bar had great drinks as well! Both meals we had were authentic and delicious!” – Chad_C

This tour includes a convenient hotel pickup and drop-off. You’ll pass by scenic roads on your way to Arenal. Your first stop is at La Fortuna Waterfall, where you have 2 hours to relax and swim in its relaxing waters. Then, proceed to hike over the large lava flow at Mirador El Silencio to witness one of the best views of Arenal Volcano. 

Another highlight of this tour is your visit to Paradise Hot Springs. There, you can unwind and release toxins from your body in the thermal mineral waters. 

Important details 

• Start Time (and location): 7:00 AM at your chosen pickup location
• Duration: 14 to 15 hours
• Includes: Air-conditioned vehicle, Hotel pickup and drop-off (most Jaco-Hermosa-Los Suenos area hotels), Professional bilingual guide, All Fees and Taxes, Lunch, Dinner

8. Arenal Volcano Experience Full-Day Tour from San Jose

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 | ⏳ LENGTH: 14 hours | ✅ Book it!

Costa Rica is known for its national parks and lush natural resources. In this full-day tour, you explore the Arenal Volcano region effortlessly, departing from San Jose and taking scenic routes.

During the tour, you’ll also visit a coffee plantation and a stunning waterfall. Included in the tour is a professional guide and hotel pickup and drop-off. 

“Our tour was fantastic! Juan did an amazing job sharing interesting information and history about every part of the trip. With all of the well-times stops it didn’t feel like we were on a bus ride forever which was really nice. Juan had a very good knowledge of how and where to find wildlife so we could see sloths and iguanas. The only down side was that we were unable to see the volcano due to inclement weather but this tour is definitely worth the money no matter what. We recommend this tour and hopefully you get Juan as your tour guide and you will have a blast!” – Michael_ H

If you love nature and want to see Costa Rica’s breathtaking natural landmarks, this tour is ideal. On your way to Arenal, you’ll go through an alternate route to pass by picturesque sights.

Your first stop is at La Casa del Café for a quick informative break before heading to a rejuvenating visit at La Paz Waterfall. After that, you’ll have time at Cinchona for a snack and coffee break before heading to Centro Turístico Las Iguanas. 

You will proceed to Go Adventure Arenal Park, where you can participate in a native presentation by the Maleku Tribe. Finally, spend the rest of your time at Paradise Hot Springs to unwind and refresh. 

Important details 

• Start Time (and location): 7:00 AM at your chosen pickup point
• Duration: 14 hours
• Includes: Transport by air-conditioned vehicle, Hotel pickup and drop-off (most San Jose area hotels), Professional bilingual guide, Lunch, Dinner, Coffee or Tea with local snacks, Entrance Fees

9. Volcano Hike, Waterfall Swim & Hot Springs Combo on Rincon de la Vieja

⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 | ⏳ LENGTH: 12 hours | ✅ Book it!

Embark on an immersive adventure through the untamed volcanic landscapes of Rincon de la Vieja National Park on this full-day trekking expedition. Also, venture on a 3-hour jungle hike, where you can spot Howler monkeys, Capuchin monkeys, Toucans, and Coatis along the trail.

Experience the sights of steaming fumaroles, volcanic craters, and simmering mud pools before rejuvenating with a swim beneath the Oropendola Waterfall. Following an authentic Costa Rican, treat yourself to the ultimate relaxation with a soak in the therapeutic hot springs and volcanic mud baths at Rio Negro.

“I had the pleasure of Ivan being my tour guide on our volcano hike, and he was amazing! Very knowledgeable and patient with our group, and well as making sure we got to see some wildlife and have a good time throughout our hike. Beautiful hike, the waterfall and hot springs were amazing too. Would definitely do it all over again!” – Rene_G

In this tour, you will explore Parque Nacional Rincón de la Vieja National Park with a bilingual naturalist guide. Start with a hike along the Las Pailas circular path that offers the best views of the Vieja volcano. 

You’ll also get close to Costa Rica’s rich biodiversity with over 300 bird species and diverse animals like armadillos, bays, iguanas, coatis, monkeys, and more. Witness volcanic marvels like bubbling mud pots and fumaroles during the tour.

Then, after the hike, take a refreshing dip in the pristine blue lagoon of Oropendola Waterfall. Afterwards, indulge in relaxation at the Rio Negro Hot Springs, surrounded by tropical dry forest and naturally heated by Rincón de la Vieja Volcano.

Important details 

• Start Time (and location): 6:30 AM at chosen pickup point
• Duration: 12 hours
• Includes: Bottled water, Lunch, Driver/guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Air-conditioned vehicle, National Park fees

10. Combo La Fortuna Waterfall and Volcano Hike & Hotsprings

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 | ⏳ LENGTH: 10 hours | ✅ Book it!

During this fully guided combo tour from La Fortuna, you will explore the lush rainforest and captivating waterfalls surrounding Arenal Volcano. This excursion generally includes nature walks, traversing hanging bridges, and immersing yourself in the indigenous culture of the Maleku Village. 

Along the journey, your knowledgeable guide will highlight wildlife encounters and reveal hidden spots to enjoy refreshing natural pools and soothing hot springs. This volcano tours Costa Rica is the best for those who love the outdoors. 

“Isaac and Juan, our driver, took us on a beautiful hike and down to the hot springs. The mud mask was so soothing and even though the hike was a lot on me (I’m out of shape), I so appreciated their patience! 10/10!” – Tripadvisor Reviewer

Witness Costa Rica’s stunning natural landmarks in this full-day tour. Your guide accompanies you as you hike along the base of the famous Arenal Volcano.

Witness breathtaking views at the top after your hike, a moment you’ll enjoy after a tiring climb. After hiking and walking, relax at the natural hot springs and refreshing waters at La Paz Waterfall. 

Important details 

• Start Time (and location): 8:00 AM at your chosen pickup point
• Duration: 10 hours
• Includes: Professional guide, Lunch, Hotel/port pickup and drop-off, Hotels around 6 kms from La Fortuna Downtown pick up, Alcoholic Beverages

11. Coffee Experience, Poas Volcano and La Paz Waterfall Gardens

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 | ⏳ LENGTH: 13 hours | ✅ Book it!

Venture on a day-long adventure that offers a perfect blend of nature exploration and coffee education in Costa Rica. This group tour departing from San Jose includes breakfast, lunch, and convenient hotel transfers.

Visit the renowned Doka Coffee Estate, where you’ll gain insights into the coffee production process, from the growth of the beans to the final cup. Venture to Poas Volcano National Park for a hike, then end your tour with a visit to the captivating La Paz Waterfall Garden to observe the region’s diverse flora and fauna.

Very cool experience being my first time in Costa Rica. Donald and Alejandro were very knowledgeable tour guides and kept us moving on schedule, but didn’t feel rushed. I was also picked up early and I appreciated that. Make sure you bring a rain coat. This is a tropical climate. They do an outstanding job for the time we spent with them so tip them well!” – Charles_S

This tour offers the best of both worlds: Coffee and nature. The tour begins with convenient pick-up times with a delicious breakfast at the Doka Coffee Estate, where visitors learn about coffee production and discover why Costa Rica produces some of the best coffee in the world. 

You will then visit Poas Volcano National Park, which provides breathtaking views of the main crater and a hike to Botos Lagoon. Finally, guests can explore lush rainforest trails at La Paz Waterfall Gardens, observe wildlife, and engage with educational animal exhibits. 

Important details 

• Start Time (and location): 6:00 AM at your chosen pickup point
• Duration: 13 hours
• Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Air-conditioned vehicle, Entrance Fee to Poas Volcano National Park, Entrance Fee Doka Estate Coffee Plantation, Entrance Fee La Paz Waterfall Gardens, All Fees and Taxes, Operates with a minimum of two passengers

12. Morning Volcano Hike, Lunch & Hot Springs River

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 | ⏳ LENGTH: 6 hours | ✅ Book it!

This half-day tour to Arenal Volcano from La Fortuna offers a perfect blend of exploration and relaxation, with complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off from select locations. Venture into Costa Rica’s lush rainforest to uncover the Arenal Volcano on a half-day excursion

A local guide joins you as you trek through captivating lava formations, take a refreshing swim in a volcano-formed lake, and take a soothing bath in Tabacon River’s warm hot springs. Savour on a delectable Costa Rican lunch with the volcano as your backdrop, and immerse yourself in the rainforest’s beauty. 

“Me and friends did the Volcano Tour in the morning departure, our guide was HANZ, just a young mind with a lot of knowledge to share with everyone, he connected with everyone in the group in the best of the ways, he took profesional pictures from all the members in the group, and the control he had over the group was just espectacular, we finish going to the hot river at the end of the tour, such an incredible ending for an amazing day… I will highly recommend to other travellers!!! Thanks for the day!” – Tripadvisor Reviewer

If you want to visit Costa Rica’s renowned natural tourist attractions but need more time, this 6-hour tour is perfect. You’ll go on a thrilling rainforest hike to ancient lava fields and dip in a stunning green lagoon with views of the magnificent Arenal Volcano.

After those thrilling activities, head to a ranch for a delicious Costa Rican feast to tease your taste buds. Cap off the day with a visit to a natural hot springs river where you can unwind; it’s a Costa Rican experience you won’t want to miss!

Important details 

• Start Time (and location): 10:00 AM at your chosen pickup point
• Duration: 6 hours
• Includes: Lunch, Local guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off (selected hotels only)

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