How to Plan Your Arenal Hanging Bridges/Volcano Walk and La Fortuna Waterfall Tour by Local Guides

If you’re looking for an exciting way to explore the Costa Rican countryside and take in some breathtaking views, the Arenal Hanging Bridges/Volcano Walk and La Fortuna Waterfall Tour is a must-try. This tour lasts about 5-7 hours and will take you on a trek through the beautiful Arenal Volcano National Park, on the hanging suspension bridges, and down to the La Fortuna Waterfall for a refreshing dip.

To make the most of your experience, here’s everything you need to know to plan your tour with local guides:

Tour Overview

This tour is an excellent option for anyone who wants to see the beautiful Costa Rican countryside while also getting in some exercise. The trek is moderate and takes place at two stops. Your guide will take you to the scenic Mirador El Silencio to view the volcano, then to the hanging suspension bridges where you’ll enjoy a walk through the lush greenery, before continuing to the La Fortuna Waterfall. Lunch, water, tropical fruits, and a stop at the hot springs are also included.

Duration

This tour lasts about 5-7 hours, making it an excellent option if you’re short on time but still want to explore.

Transfer to/from Hotel

Transfers to and from your hotel can be arranged by your local guide, making getting to and from the tour hassle-free.

Entry/Admission Included

The tour includes entry to Mirador El Silencio, Arenal Hanging Bridges, and La Fortuna Waterfall, so you won’t have to worry about extra fees or admission costs.

Inclusions

All fees and taxes, a stop at the free hot springs, lunch, and tips are included in the tour price.

What to Expect

When you book the Arenal Hanging Bridges/Volcano Walk and La Fortuna Waterfall Tour, you’ll meet up with your guide at a designated pickup point. The exact location will be provided when you book your tour. Once you’ve met your guide, they will take you through the scenic countryside to start your trek.

Things to Bring

It’s essential to pack accordingly for this tour since you’ll be spending a few hours trekking through the countryside. Bring comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect you from the sun. You might also want to pack a towel, bathing suit, and extra clothes to change into after you take a dip at La Fortuna Waterfall.

Additional Information

It’s important to note that this tour is not wheelchair accessible and not recommended for pregnant travelers. Infant seats are available, so this tour is perfect for families traveling with small children.

Booking Your Tour

Booking the Arenal Hanging Bridges/Volcano Walk and La Fortuna Waterfall Tour is simple. Just use this link: book the tour here. The tour is offered by local guides, and you can choose your preferred time and date when booking. Confirmation will be provided at the time of booking.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a trek that combines stunning views, a moderate workout, and the chance to splash around in a waterfall, the Arenal Hanging Bridges/Volcano Walk and La Fortuna Waterfall Tour is an excellent choice. With local guides to lead the way, all admission fees included, and a seamless booking process, this tour is sure to be an unforgettable highlight of your Costa Rican vacation.

An Insider’s Guide to the Beautiful City of La Fortuna

La Fortuna is a small town located in Costa Rica and is one of the top tourist destinations in the country. It is a magical place that offers visitors an unforgettable experience with its beautiful scenery, natural wonders, delicious food, and welcoming locals. In this insider’s guide, we will take you on a journey through La Fortuna’s hidden gems, unique cultural experiences, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that will make your visit truly unforgettable.

Local Attractions: Discovering Hidden Gems

While La Fortuna’s main attractions are the Hanging Bridges and Volcano Walk, and the La Fortuna Waterfall Tour, there are many other hidden gems that locals know about. For instance, the local hot springs are a visual spectacle. Not only is the water warm and relaxing, but the surroundings are breathtaking. Another hidden gem is the Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa, where visitors can relax, hike, and witness the beauty of the Arenal Volcano. For bird enthusiasts, the Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park offers an immersive experience to observe different species in their natural habitats.

Dining Spots: Savoring Local Cuisine

La Fortuna boasts a rich food culture with a variety of options to choose from, including the traditional Costa Rican dishes. One of the most famous dishes is the “Casado,” a traditional Costa Rican meal that consists of rice, beans, plantains, and various toppings like chicken, pork, or beef. There are many restaurants that offer this popular dish, but the best place to enjoy it is at local sodas, small food stands or restaurants typically run by families.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you might want to try the local delicacy, “Gallo Pinto,” a mix of rice and black beans and side dish that locals eat for breakfasts. Visit Soda Viquez, one of the oldests sodas in town, where you’ll enjoy a delicious meal in a cozy atmosphere.

Cultural Experiences: Immerse Yourself in La Fortuna’s Traditions

La Fortuna is not only known for its natural attractions but also for its rich culture and traditions. One cultural experience that visitors should not miss is a tour of the Maleku Indigenous Reserve, where they can learn about the Maleku community’s way of life, their traditions, and their ecological and conservation efforts. The town’s church in the central park is also a must-visit destination, as it is the only church in the country with a unique triangular shape that represents the Holy Trinity.

In addition, in January, La Fortuna celebrates its annual patron saint festivity (Fiesta de la Santa Rosa de Lima), featuring parades, music, food, and lots of festivities.

Local History: Fascinating Stories from the Past

To truly appreciate La Fortuna’s history, one must visit the El Fortin Historical Monument. It is a museum that showcases artifacts, photographs, and information about the town’s evolution from a small village to a booming tourist destination. Another interesting historical site that should not be missed is the Juanilama Petrified Forest, where visitors can see the fossils of trees that date back almost 20 million years.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Discovering Something New

For a unique experience, we suggest visitors take a horseback ride to the Naranjo Waterfall, a hidden gem located deep in the jungle that impresses anyone with its beauty. Another exciting adventure is a nighttime hiking tour of the jungle’s flora and fauna, where you can observe nocturnal animals, get to know medicinal plants, and learn about night survival skills. For art lovers, we suggest a visit to the Artist Studio Yuliana’s Place, where you can admire the art of a local artist working with various mediums.

In conclusion, La Fortuna is a small town with many big surprises that go beyond the common tourist spots. We hope you will take this insider’s guide and explore the other hidden gems, traditions, history, and cultural experiences that this beautiful place has to offer.