National Park · Arenal, Costa Rica

Arenal Volcano National Park

Arenal Volcano National Park
Photo: Adlira512, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Arenal was very active until 2010 and is now quiet. Trails cross old lava flows and secondary forest. Buy tickets online through SINAC or at the entrance, by card only.

Updated November 8, 2026On day 2 of Costa Rica in 1 Week

Visiting Arenal Volcano National Park: what to know

Tickets
Paid entry through SINAC; check current prices
Time needed
3 hours
Best time
Early morning for clear views
Getting there
About 30 minutes by car from La Fortuna

Costa Rica itineraries with Arenal Volcano National Park

green trees near body of water during daytime
Costa Rica, Costa RicaCosta Rica in 1 Week1 week · 27 stops
Arenal Volcano National Park is on day 2
Day 2 of Costa Rica in 1 Week

Arenal Volcano day

How Arenal Volcano National Park fits into a day.
  1. 7:30Arenal Volcano National ParkArenal
  2. 12:00Lunch by Lake ArenalArenal
  3. 14:00Mistico Hanging BridgesArenal
  4. 19:00Dinner in La FortunaLa Fortuna
See all 7 days
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Arenal Volcano National Park FAQs

Can you hike to the top of Arenal?

No, the summit is closed. Trails go to the lava fields.

Do I need tickets in advance?

Not usually. Buy online through SINAC or at the gate by card.

Is Arenal still active?

It has been quiet since 2010 but is still monitored.

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