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Arenal Volcano and Thermal Hot Springs from San Jose

San José · Central Valley & San José

Arenal Volcano and Thermal Hot Springs from San Jose

4.3from 245 traveler ratings13h

Ratings aggregated by Viator and Tripadvisor. ToursCR does not collect its own reviews.

About this experience

Your adventure begins in the picturesque town of Sarchí, recognised as the artisan heart of Costa Rica. Discover family workshops where master craftsmen create colourful hand-painted oxcarts, wooden furniture, and souvenirs reflecting generations of tradition. Next, travel through Costa Rica's fertile countryside of vast pineapple, mango, and banana farms and traditional cattle farms. Arrive in La Fortuna for a typical lunch at a restaurant with panoramic views of Arenal Volcano. This iconic 1,633-meter-tall volcano dominates the horizon and defines the region's landscape. After lunch, immerse yourself in a unique thermal experience. The La Fortuna area is world-renowned for its natural hot springs, heated by Arenal Volcano's geothermal activity. Many pools are connected by small waterfalls and thermal water slides for a complete sensory adventure. Finish your day with a delicious dinner while contemplating Arenal's silhouette against the sunset sky before returning to San José.

Description supplied by the tour operator via Viator.

Getting there

Hotel pickup in San José

Picks up at 47 listed locations, including:

  • Morazan Hotel & Casino
  • Gran Hotel Costa Rica, Curio Collection by Hilton
  • Casa Conde Hotel & Suites
  • Hotel Fleur de Lys
  • Hotel Santo Tomas
  • Hotel Barcelo San Jose
  • +41 more

Pickup details are confirmed with the operator during booking.

Pickup begins about 30 minutes before departure.

Where

Sarchi

What you'll do

  1. Enroute to the Arenal Volcano there will be a stop in the famous town of Sarchi, known as the birthplace of Costa Rica’s Artisans. In Sarchi, you may very well see an ox cart that holds the title as being the largest ox cart in the world. The cart is made of wood (cedar) and is decorated with stunning colors, such as a bright orange. The design is typical and intricate, indicative of traditional oxcarts. The ox cart is two stories high and took 70 days to complete. The oxcart is also deserves an honorable mention in the Guinness book of world records.

    45 min here

  2. The journey will then continue, traversing diverse plantations with agricultural products, including pineapple farms, and mango groves, ornamental plants and cattle ranches until arriving to the small town of La Fortuna, and stopping to enjoy lunch at a cozy restaurant with a spectacular view of the Arenal volcano.

    Drive past, no stop

  3. The impressive Arenal Volcano is a magnificent natural wonder that is situated in La Fortuna (The Fortune) of San Carlos, Costa Rica, providing thousands and thousands of tourists with the opportunity to witness volcanic activity, such as the white plumes of smoke that emanate from the conical shaped behemoth. It is important to note that the volcano had previously been assumed to be dormant, until in 1968, when it experienced a major eruption.

    1h hereAdmission included

  4. Then you will go on to relax at one of the best hot springs in the area where you will enjoy the rejuvenating effects of the thermal waters, as well as an optional massage or other special treatment that must be reserved ahead of time. And for a perfect ending, before going back to San José, a wonderful dinner will be served with a great view of the volcano so that you do not miss any opportunity to look at the stunning and classically shaped volcano one more time.

    3h here

What's included

Included

  • Accompanied by a professional tour guide delivering expert insights and personalized service
  • Water included during meals
  • Comfortable, air-conditioned transportation provided from hotels in San José
  • Savor a rich buffet with a wide selection of fresh, flavorful dishes
  • Guests can choose from a selection of main courses, including beef, chicken, or pasta options."

Not included

  • Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
  • Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
  • Gratuities
  • Optional massage or treatment at Baldi Hot Springs

Good to know

  • Moderate fitness needed

Guided in en, es.

  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
4 more notes
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Bring to your tour: swimsuit, comfortable clothing, walking shoes, a change of clothes, and sunscreen
  • Tour requires a minimum of two participants to operate
  • Contact line available for handling hotel pick-up reconfirmations and day-to-day operational matters

Cancellation

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

The operator may cancel for poor weather, with a full refund or reschedule.

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