Arenal Volcano Hike - Morning
The 1968 lava flow, at the clearest hour of the day
Overview
Arenal's summit is usually wrapped in cloud by mid-morning, which is why this hike leaves at 7:30. You walk the trails on the western flank across the 1968 lava flow - a field of black volcanic rock where the forest is still only decades old - with Lake Arenal opening up below you and the cone above. Guides cover the 1968 eruption that destroyed three villages, the volcano's 2010 return to dormancy, and the regeneration you are walking through. It is the best-value single tour in La Fortuna and the right choice if you only do one thing on the volcano itself.
Highlights
- Earliest departure, so the best chance of a clear summit
- Hike across the 1968 lava flow
- Lake Arenal and volcano views from the trail
- Guides who explain the 1968 eruption on the ground where it happened
- National park entrance included
Included
- Guided Arenal Volcano lava-flow hike
- Arenal Volcano National Park entrance fee
- Certified naturalist guide
- Round-trip hotel pickup in the La Fortuna area
Not included
- Food and drinks
- Photos
- Guide gratuity
- 13% national sales tax
Meeting point & getting there
Departure times
- 7:30 AM
What to bring
- Closed-toe walking shoes
- Sunscreen and a hat
- Insect repellent
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Refillable water bottle
- Camera
Good to know before you book
- Minimum age 6
- Moderate fitness - about 3 km on uneven volcanic rock
- Closed-toe shoes required
Safety
- Lava-flow trail has loose rock; guides set the pace
- Summit cloud cover is weather-dependent and never guaranteed
- Park closes trails during electrical storms
Children
Children 6-10 pay 50% of the adult rate. The minimum age for this tour is 6.
Cancellation policy
Free cancellation up to 48 hours before departure. Inside 48 hours the tour is non-refundable, though we will always try to move you to another date first. Tours run rain or shine; if the operator cancels for safety you are refunded in full.
What travelers say about Arenal Jungle Tours
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