Arenal 1968 Volcano View & Trails
Arenal 1968 Volcano View & Trails
4.5
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
About
Enjoy the immersive nature experience provided by our trails over the Lava Flow remains of the 1968 eruption, explore across our intern lake and the forest, either by walking or MTB, that would give you 2 completely different options of this experience. Get amazed by the spectacular views from our viewpoints with 360° sights of the Arenal Volcano and the Arenal Lake.
Suggested duration
2-3 hours
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from $32.00
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See what other travelers are saying
- KathyTo123Bristol, United Kingdom72 contributionsGreat trail and yummy cafeEnjoyed the hike. It was quite rainy so we didn’t get the best views but we did hang around at the summit long enough for it to clear a bit so did get a view of the lake after a while (although never got to see the top of the volcano). Well maintained trails. Had lunch at the cafe afterwards which was really delicious with a great view.Visited February 2020Traveled as a coupleWritten March 1, 2020
- Sarah GHarrogate, United Kingdom1,478 contributionsGreat volcano views if not in cloudsWe preferred to the national park trails as better views of the volcano. Shorter or Longer trail, I would recommend longer ones to give you good mix of rainforest and volcano views. We didn't see many animals or birds in the park - a guide with another group had seen a snake but we didn't see it.Visited December 2019Written January 5, 2020
- sdurkin24St. Petersburg, Florida155 contributionsJungle and Volcano Run***This review is for September 2019*** We still describe hiking through this experience as our "jungle run." We went very early in the morning on a weekday, and practically had the trail to ourselves. Literally through the 2-4 hours we were there we saw maybe 2-4 other people. The trail starts out a little boring, but then you enter the jungle, a legitimate jungle. The trail is narrow, windy, up, down, and you really do feel like a 16th century explorer for some of it. The the trail enters into the volcano part, totally different terrain and atmosphere than the jungle - drier, hotter, but still with an amazing view. This trail was by far one of our favorite things we did in Costa Rica.Visited September 2020Written July 30, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
547 reviews
Excellent
290
Very good
194
Average
39
Poor
17
Terrible
7
windvalley
Europe888 contributions
Feb 2020 • Couples
Did the walk (not a hike) and the area of course is nice. But at $17 per person it is too expensive for what it is. Should offer much longer hikes and an information center to tell more about the volcano. Then the $17 would be worthwhile. We did this one as the area otherwise lacks any proper hikes given that the cerro chato trail is not maintained and too muddy to enjoy.
Written February 29, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ana100462
Montreal, Canada10 contributions
Mar 2020
There are two trails offered. The longer one (yellow) takes about two hours to complete. Since it leads to where the volcano erupted, you need to climb but we thought it was easy most of the time. It is a great way to spend time in nature and see the damages caused by the 1968 eruption. We had lunch at the restaurant and the six of us were very satisfied with the food and the excellent fresh fruit juices. We only have good words about the service. Thanks to Joseph!
The only thing that we would have liked is a little more explanations on what we come across during the hike but the model at the entrance is a must see.
The only thing that we would have liked is a little more explanations on what we come across during the hike but the model at the entrance is a must see.
Written March 9, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Alex L
Silver Spring, MD31 contributions
Dec 2020
The 1968 Trail was a "moderate" hike and nice adventure through the lower portion of the Arenal volcano. We stayed at Volcano Lodge, and the trip from there was about 15 km or so. Very easy to spot with road signs and our iPhone. The cost was $18/person. There were very clean bathrooms onsite at the base of the trail. Hikers should take water and rain gear. Perhaps a small snack. They should also wear hiking shoes, particularly if they are continuing past the forest trail on to the Lago Trail. The loose rocks on the decent and slippery terrain can be rather difficult at times.
In early December, the temperature was in the mid-70s with no breeze and no rain, though hikers might consider packing a rain jacket and extra set of clothes to change into if the weather turns more wet. After about a one hour hike, trekkers will arrive at a beautiful "summit"/plateau that overlooks the Arenal Lake/valley and provides ideal views of the entire western portion of the volcano. We were unable to view the top of the volcano on the day of our hike due to cloud cover but the views were gorgeous of the lake and volcano nonetheless.
After descending from the overlook, hikers have an option to continue on another one hour hike around the Lago Dos Patos (Duck Lake) or simply take an exit trail back to the entrance. We took the extended trail around the lake, but in hindsight probably wouldn't do it again. The Lake Trail doesn't add much in terms of beauty, wildlife, or flora. It is good exercise, though! There is a wonderful viewpoint at the 1968 Trail's events venue, located not too far (maybe 5 minutes) from the trail entrance. Worth a visit up to that for views, if you have time.
We completed the entire hike at a modest/amateur pace in about 2 hours and then went and soothed our feet in the thermal pools at our hotel.
In early December, the temperature was in the mid-70s with no breeze and no rain, though hikers might consider packing a rain jacket and extra set of clothes to change into if the weather turns more wet. After about a one hour hike, trekkers will arrive at a beautiful "summit"/plateau that overlooks the Arenal Lake/valley and provides ideal views of the entire western portion of the volcano. We were unable to view the top of the volcano on the day of our hike due to cloud cover but the views were gorgeous of the lake and volcano nonetheless.
After descending from the overlook, hikers have an option to continue on another one hour hike around the Lago Dos Patos (Duck Lake) or simply take an exit trail back to the entrance. We took the extended trail around the lake, but in hindsight probably wouldn't do it again. The Lake Trail doesn't add much in terms of beauty, wildlife, or flora. It is good exercise, though! There is a wonderful viewpoint at the 1968 Trail's events venue, located not too far (maybe 5 minutes) from the trail entrance. Worth a visit up to that for views, if you have time.
We completed the entire hike at a modest/amateur pace in about 2 hours and then went and soothed our feet in the thermal pools at our hotel.
Written December 11, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Vince L
Chelmsford, UK45 contributions
Feb 2020
I walked in late february in the morning during intermittent rain. The path is clearly marked and easy for someone of average fitness. However I did not see much wildlife. Some coatis climbing down from a tree and a toucan, and a few small lizards. maybe there are too many noisy trekkers? I spoke to a couple of guys who had done the trek a preious day and had a much better experience. Thats nature for you! Dont pay for a guide. Just turn up and pay at the gate.
The cafe is amazing with fantastic views, great food and a super view of the Volcano on a clear day. Also lots of great birds on the feeders! However although it was the dry season, we only saw the top of the volcano once in 5 days due to low clouds and showers. It is a rain forest after all! The staff were great and took photos of us all too.
The cafe is amazing with fantastic views, great food and a super view of the Volcano on a clear day. Also lots of great birds on the feeders! However although it was the dry season, we only saw the top of the volcano once in 5 days due to low clouds and showers. It is a rain forest after all! The staff were great and took photos of us all too.
Written March 6, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Nicole O
Delta, Canada1 contribution
Mar 2023 • Couples
It is mind blowing how much there charging for a hike! Yes a walk around a volcano. It is disgusting!!
They must be clearing 10k a day for the amount of idiots that pay this price.
What are they paying there employees and maintenance crews.
Probably nothing there Probably volunteers!!
We came to Costa Rica from canada to enjoy crazy wild nature but not break the bank at the same time!
They must be clearing 10k a day for the amount of idiots that pay this price.
What are they paying there employees and maintenance crews.
Probably nothing there Probably volunteers!!
We came to Costa Rica from canada to enjoy crazy wild nature but not break the bank at the same time!
Written March 16, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
BrandyeG
Austin, TX127 contributions
Mar 2021 • Family
This place was amazing! We also hiked the 3 trails in the Arenal National Park but we liked this best. No tour needed and it’s on private land. Parking lot very safe. The full loop was 4km and took us about 3 hours, although we stopped to watch the birds and hang by the lake a lot. We saw so many birds, lizards, frogs and butterflies. The well marked, easy trail takes you through part of the 1968 lave flow as well as primary & secondary rain forest, with close views. It’s beautiful! At the end there is an observation deck with restaurant and cold drinks. Bathrooms are clean and grounds are well maintained. My 9 year old did this trail with ease, as did I.
Written March 29, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kristy C
Orlando, FL10 contributions
Dec 2022 • Couples
Great view of the Arenal volcano! This private park costs $2 more than the park operated by their national government, so the total cost as of Dec 2022 is $19 per person.
The hiking trail is intermediate with several areas where you are hiking over rocks of mixed sizes; it is recommended to have hiking shoes and/or shoes with a strong grip. There are also trails with varying inclines.
Mid-trail you will find a lookout where you can see the Arenal volcano and a majestic view of Lake Arenal.
At the end of the trail, you are rewarded with another beautiful view of the volcano in a gorgeous garden-like setting that surrounds their cafe. This is a must stop to sit back and enjoy the scenery. The cafe even has a second level just for staring out at the Arenal volcano, and is the perfect little stop if you have a tripod for photos.
Great place to check out if you are in the area!
The hiking trail is intermediate with several areas where you are hiking over rocks of mixed sizes; it is recommended to have hiking shoes and/or shoes with a strong grip. There are also trails with varying inclines.
Mid-trail you will find a lookout where you can see the Arenal volcano and a majestic view of Lake Arenal.
At the end of the trail, you are rewarded with another beautiful view of the volcano in a gorgeous garden-like setting that surrounds their cafe. This is a must stop to sit back and enjoy the scenery. The cafe even has a second level just for staring out at the Arenal volcano, and is the perfect little stop if you have a tripod for photos.
Great place to check out if you are in the area!
Written December 10, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
KingTheWanderlust
Orlando, FL371 contributions
Jul 2022
I had low expectations of this place, because it seemed "touristy" when we pulled in and had to pay (kind of like entering Disney World). But wow, it BLEW us all away! We were virtually alone on the trails through the gorgeous flow of lava rocks from the 1968 eruption (we did both of the trails and found them fairly easy and very well maintained - it took us maybe 2.5 hours or so for all of it). The beauty and scenery is just gorgeous, and the whole place is immaculate. We had an elderly friend with us, and the staff was so kind and drove her in a golf cart up to the shaded snack area to wait for us - she loved it, because the views from there are great too! The staff is super friendly. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend or go back here - it was seriously one of the prettiest hikes I've ever been on anywhere in the world (reminded me of Hawaii's Na'Pali coast hike).
Written July 22, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lorena D
Glasgow, UK3 contributions
Mar 2021
The best service we've had since arriving in Costa Rica. The staff are very well-organised and knowledgeable about the area, and in particular Luis (Sp?) helped us with our taxi driver and was absolutely outstanding.
Very gentle hike suitable for all, with stunning scenery and a real variety of flora and fauna to see - we saw several toucans and brightly coloured lizards as well as all manner of insects and beetles. If you want to see the top of the volcano, go on a clear day. We saw a lot of it, but not the very top, unfortunately. We didn't see any monkeys but were told that they're quite common around the longer 6K hike.
There is a cafe by the end of the trail at the viewpoint which again we got amazing service at. Very attentive waiter who gave us great food recommendations and the coffee was truly delicious. I really have nothing bad to say about this place, a great relaxed way to see the volcano and the wildlife!
Very gentle hike suitable for all, with stunning scenery and a real variety of flora and fauna to see - we saw several toucans and brightly coloured lizards as well as all manner of insects and beetles. If you want to see the top of the volcano, go on a clear day. We saw a lot of it, but not the very top, unfortunately. We didn't see any monkeys but were told that they're quite common around the longer 6K hike.
There is a cafe by the end of the trail at the viewpoint which again we got amazing service at. Very attentive waiter who gave us great food recommendations and the coffee was truly delicious. I really have nothing bad to say about this place, a great relaxed way to see the volcano and the wildlife!
Written March 30, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
gkcummings
Santa Barbara, CA28 contributions
Apr 2021
We walked through the lava fields through beautiful scenery. We encountered a troop of howler monkeys while hiking and there is a scenic lake about 3/4 of the way.The hike took about 90 minutes at a moderate pace.
Written April 18, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
renee m
1 contribution
How do we find out how long each trail is so that we know which one we should do?
Ashley
Chicago, IL2 contributions
For someone afraid of heights or steep drop offs on hikes, how challenging would this hike be?
Frank D
Utica, NY59 contributions
I would say not bad at all - the trail is moderate, with some uphill and I do not remember any cliffs or steep drop offs. I also do not remember any stairs, I think the above poster might be confusing Arenal 1968 with another attraction maybe La Fortuna Falls?
SnappleSpice
New York City, NY528 contributions
Where is the restaurant/ cafe / snack shop located in relation to the trail? At the start/end? (I’m assuming the trail is a loop)
Sarah Z
Geneva, Switzerland93 contributions
It's in the end. But I think you can join it even before to start.
charissarenae87
Rescue, CA
Is this a guided hike? or one you can easily do on your own? Any help is appreciated! Thank you!
KarenZwSA
South Africa136 contributions
I believe there are no guides locally to pick. We pre arranged a tour with a guide. Although it is easily marked and you can walk by yourself, the guide was a wealth of information and that really made the trail amazing.
Olivia S
Johnson, KS178 contributions
Did you prefer the 1968 trail or the trails at Mirador El Silencio?
parrim
nj12 contributions
I am reading everyone post about Arenal 1968 hike. We are going in March. Guide vs doing on our own??? Did anyone have problem staying on the trail and not getting lost while hiking alone? I think that is my big worry. We are staying at Hotel Royal Corin---if we did on our own--would we just take taxi and pay our entrance fee? Any insight on guide vs no guide would be greatly appreciated
sarah j
Altrincham, UK29 contributions
Hi there,
We did the longest of the trails with our 2 kids 5-7. They loved it! No chance of getting lost.
It's really lovely. The cafe was closed when we went so bring a snack and water.
emalice9
Navan, Ireland93 contributions
I was wondering is it possible to do this trail and Ecocentro Damaus in the same day without booking or should I organise a tour? Thanks in advance!
José Luis H
19 contributions
It IS possible to do this hike in the dame day; just Contact . the local guides association AguiA in Facebook book. they are really good and cheap 10 USD pero person for the ticket and you Will hola privaten
emalice9
Navan, Ireland93 contributions
I was wondering is it possible to do this trail and Ecocentro Damaus in the same day without booking or should I organise a tour? Thanks in advance!
ilearnbytravel
Windermere, FL205 contributions
Yes, you can do walk this trail without booking it. Just drive yourself there, park and start walking. They even provide you the walking sticks, real walking sticks if you need one!
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Claim your listingArenal 1968 Volcano View & Trails (La Fortuna de San Carlos) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about Arenal 1968 Volcano View & Trails
- Arenal 1968 Volcano View & Trails is open:
- Sun - Sat 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Arenal 1968 Volcano View & Trails admission prices can vary. Entrance tickets currently cost $32.00, while a popular guided tour starts around $20.00 per person. See all 27 Arenal 1968 Volcano View & Trails tickets and tours on Tripadvisor
- Arenal 1968 Volcano View & Trails can be crowded, so we recommend booking e-tickets ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel at least 24 hours before the start date of your tour for a full refund. See all 27 Arenal 1968 Volcano View & Trails tickets and tours on Tripadvisor
- According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience Arenal 1968 Volcano View & Trails:
- Arenal 1968 Trail Park Admission Ticket (From $32.00)
- Arenal Volcano Hike 1968 Trail (From $84.75)
- FULL DAY COMBO 2: Safari Float + Waterfall Hike + Farm Lunch + Volcano Hike (From $211.31)
- Arenal Volcano & Baldi Hot Springs + lunch & dinner From San José (From $176.00)
- Arenal Highlights (arenal 1 Day) + Baldi Hot Springs & Dinner (From $200.00)
- Hotels near Arenal 1968 Volcano View & Trails:
- (1.76 mi) Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa
- (3.41 mi) Hotel Amor Arenal
- (1.79 mi) Arenal Kioro Suites & Spa
- (4.12 mi) Nayara Springs
- (4.20 mi) Nayara Gardens
- Restaurants near Arenal 1968 Volcano View & Trails:
- (3.11 mi) La Ventanita
- (3.36 mi) Essence Arenal Restaurant
- (3.48 mi) Restaurante phoenix
- (2.93 mi) Fusion Arenal Mirador Restaurante
- (2.37 mi) El Novillo del Arenal
Arenal 1968 Volcano View & Trails Information
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