Arenal Volcano Ecological Park Entry Ticket La Fortuna
Overview
An entry ticket to the Arenal Volcano Ecological Park near La Fortuna, valid for one day. The ticket gives you access to three trails that cross the lava flows of 1535, 1968 and 2010, a nature amplifier audio experience, a life jacket for swimming in the Tabacon Lagoon, a Tarzan swing, showers, toilets, green areas and parking. Extra activities such as kayaking and paddleboarding are sold separately, and transport is not included. It suits independent travellers and families who want to explore the volcano landscape at their own pace.
Highlights
- Three trails across lava flows from 1535, 1968 and 2010
- Close views of Arenal Volcano and its forest
- Nature amplifier, an immersive audio experience
- Life jacket included for swimming in the Tabacon Lagoon
- Tarzan swing for children and adults
- Showers, toilets, green areas and parking on site
- Open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM; entry only, extras sold separately
Full Description
Arenal Volcano Ecological Park
The Arenal Volcano Ecological Park is a private nature park at the foot of Arenal Volcano, about a short drive from La Fortuna. It combines trails through forest, open lava fields and a lagoon in one place, so it works well as a half-day or a full-day visit. Because it is self-guided, this ticket suits those who prefer to set their own schedule instead of following a group tour.
The park lies on the slopes of a cone that reaches about 1,633 metres, and it is a good option for anyone asking how to see Arenal Volcano up close without a long hike. Wear comfortable shoes, bring water and plan around the weather, as clouds often cover the summit by afternoon.
The three trails and the lava flows
Three trails lead through the park and cross the lava flows of 1535, 1968 and 2010. Each one tells part of the story of the volcano: old flows already covered by forest, the fields left by the destructive eruption of 1968 and the most recent flow, which is bare black rock. Walking over them, you can see how quickly the forest returns.
Signs along the way explain what you are looking at, and there are viewpoints where the cone appears above the trees. Take your time, drink water and stay on the paths. The trails are of moderate difficulty and are suitable for most visitors who can walk on uneven ground.
Tabacon Lagoon and the Tarzan swing
Your ticket includes a life jacket so you can swim in the Tabacon Lagoon, a cool natural pool where you can float while you look up at the forest. Swimming here is a pleasant way to cool down after a walk in the heat. Bring swimwear and a towel, and use the showers and changing areas on site.
The Tarzan swing lets you launch yourself over the water, and it is a popular activity with children and teenagers. Follow the staff's instructions, and check the current rules on the day. Extra activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, the aquatic trampoline and Monkey Splash are not included and are sold separately on site.
Nature amplifier and visitor facilities
The nature amplifier is an immersive audio experience that lets you listen closely to the sounds of the forest, from insects and birds to the wind moving through the trees. It is a simple way to slow down and notice details that a walker often misses.
The park has showers, toilets, green areas for resting and parking, all included with the ticket, and it is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Transport is not included, so arrange a taxi or a rental car. Arrive earlier in the day for cooler weather and better views.
Itinerary
- Arrive and enter the parkShow your voucher at the entrance any time between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM.
- Walk the three trailsCross the lava flows of 1535, 1968 and 2010 and stop at the viewpoints.
- Nature amplifierListen to the forest sounds in the immersive audio experience.
- Swim in the Tabacon LagoonUse the life jacket that comes with your ticket and cool off in the lagoon.
- Tarzan swing and rest areasTry the swing, use the showers and relax in the green areas before you leave.
What's included
- Entrance to the Arenal Volcano Ecological Park
- Access to three trails and the lava flows (1535, 1968 and 2010)
- Nature amplifier, an immersive audio experience
- Life jacket to swim in the Tabacon Lagoon
- Tarzan swing
- Use of showers, toilets and green areas
- Free parking
Not included
- Extra activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, the aquatic trampoline and Monkey Splash
- Transport
Not suitable for
- People who cannot walk on uneven ground
- Non-swimmers who are not comfortable in the water even with a life jacket
- Visitors with serious heart or mobility problems
Meeting point
There is no meeting point and no guide. Go to the park entrance any time between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM on your chosen day and show your booking voucher. Transport is not included, but parking is available at the park.
Important information
- Wear comfortable closed shoes for the lava trails, and carry water, sunscreen and insect repellent.
- Bring swimwear, a towel and a change of clothes if you plan to swim in the lagoon.
- The ticket includes park entry, three trails, the nature amplifier, a life jacket for the lagoon, the Tarzan swing, showers, toilets and parking.
- Kayaking, paddleboarding, the aquatic trampoline, Monkey Splash and other extra activities are not included.
- Transport is not included.
- Follow the staff's rules at the lagoon and swing, and supervise children.
- Views of the summit depend on the weather; mornings are usually clearer.
Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
Straight answers to what travellers ask us most, before they book.
How much does the Arenal Volcano Ecological Park ticket cost?
The price depends on the number of adults and children. The booking panel on this page shows the current price, adult and child, before you pay.
Is hotel pickup included?
No, the ticket is for park entry only, so you arrange your own transport. Parking is available at the park.
How long does the visit take?
Most visitors spend between two and four hours, depending on how many trails they walk and how long they swim.
What is included in the ticket?
Park entry, access to three trails and the lava flows, the nature amplifier, a life jacket for swimming in the Tabacon Lagoon, the Tarzan swing, showers, toilets, green areas and parking.
Is the park suitable for children?
Yes, children can enjoy the trails, the lagoon and the swing. The booking panel shows the age range for the child price. Children should be supervised near the water.
What should I wear and bring?
Comfortable closed shoes, light clothes, swimwear, a towel, water, sunscreen and insect repellent.
Can I book for today or tomorrow?
Often yes, depending on availability; the booking panel shows the open dates and the last time you can reserve.
What are the opening hours?
The park is open from about 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but hours can change by season, so check your confirmation.
Are kayaking and paddleboarding included?
No. The ticket is for entry only. Extra activities are sold separately on site.
Can I swim in the lagoon?
Yes, a life jacket is included with the ticket. Follow the staff's rules and stay within the marked area.
