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Arenal (Arenal Volcano & La Fortuna area, Costa Rica) is a popular nature and adventure destination. Plan for tropical weather, outdoor activities (hiking, hot springs, canopy, rafting), and basic infrastructure in La Fortuna. Know entry requirements, seasonal weather, safety precautions, local customs, money, and transport options to make the most of your visit.
Visa / Entry requirements
- Passport: valid for at least 1 day on arrival (but many airlines require 3–6 months). Check your carrier.
- Visa: Costa Rica allows visa-free entry for many nationalities (U.S., EU, Canada, Australia). Others need a visa—confirm on the Costa Rican consulate website.
- Entry fee/exit tax: No exit tax at stamp (usually included in tickets); confirm current rules before travel.
- Proof of onward travel: Officials may request return/onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds.
Best time to visit
- Dry season (mid-December to April): Best for clear views, hiking, outdoor activities; busiest and pricier.
- Green/wet season (May to November): Fewer crowds, lush scenery, lower prices; expect afternoon rain showers, muddy trails, and possible limited visibility of the volcano.
- Shoulder months (May, November): Often a balance of good weather and lower crowds.
Safety tips
- Volcano activity: Arenal is an active volcano but eruptions are typically minor and monitored by the national observatory. Stay on marked trails and heed park/ranger warnings.
- Hiking: Use trails with proper footwear, bring insect repellent, water, and rain gear. Trails can be slippery after rain.
- Wildlife: Keep distance, do not feed animals, and follow guide instructions on wildlife tours.
- Water activities: Use reputable operators for rafting, canyoning, and waterfalls; life jackets are mandatory.
- Health: Bring sunscreen, insect repellent (DEET or picaridin), and a basic first-aid kit. Tap water in La Fortuna is generally safe but bottled water is widely available.
Local customs & etiquette
- Greetings: Polite and friendly — a handshake or a light hug is common. Use "Buenos días/tardes/noches."
- Language: Spanish is the official language; tourism sectors speak English. Learning basic Spanish phrases is appreciated.
- Tipping: 10% service charge is often included in restaurant bills; if not, 10–15% is customary. Tip guides and drivers separately (cash preferred).
- Environmental respect: Costa Ricans (Ticos) value nature conservation—avoid littering and follow park rules.
Currency & money
- Currency: Costa Rican colón (CRC). US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas; change and pricing often displayed in both currencies.
- Cards & ATMs: Major cards accepted in La Fortuna; smaller vendors may be cash-only. ATMs available but carry some colones for small purchases and tips.
- Cash safety: Carry only what you need; use hotel safes for passports and excess cash.
Transportation
- Getting there: Arenal (La Fortuna) is ~2.5–3 hours from San José by car/bus, ~3–4 hours from Liberia. Shared shuttles, private transfers, and rental cars are common.
- Roads: Main roads are paved but rural roads can be rough or muddy in rainy season—4x4 recommended if self-driving in wet months.
- Local transport: Taxis and colectivos operate locally. Many excursions include pickup/drop-off.
- Parking: Hotels usually provide parking; secure parking recommended for rental cars.
Must-know tips & local insights
- Hot springs: Arenal is famous for thermal springs. Choose between public spas, boutique resorts, or free/cheaper pools—book popular resorts in high season.
- Tours & bookings: Book popular activities (hanging bridges, canopy/zipline, Arenal Volcano National Park hikes, rafting, La Fortuna waterfall) in advance during high season.
- Weather gear: Pack quick-dry clothing, light rain jacket, good hiking shoes, swimsuit, and evening layers (mornings/evenings can be cooler).
- Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk are best for seeing wildlife. Guided nature walks increase sightings and safety.
- Markets & food: Try local sodas (small cafés) for Costa Rican food—gallo pinto, casado, fresh fruit. Street food is generally safe from reputable stalls.
- Connectivity: Wi‑Fi is widely available in hotels and restaurants, but signal may be spotty on trails and rural spots.
- Sustainable tourism: Support eco-friendly operators and respect signs in protected areas—many lodges run on sustainable practices.
Quick checklist before departure
- Check passport validity and visa needs
- Book transfers and key tours in advance
- Pack rain gear, hiking shoes, and swimwear
- Bring insect repellent, sunscreen, and basic meds
- Have some local currency and copies of travel documents
Enjoy Arenal’s outdoor adventures, hot springs, and lush landscapes—plan for changing weather and book core activities early for the best experience.