Parque Ecológico Volcán Arenal — Hotel in La Fortuna

If you're reading this before visiting Parque Ecologico Arenal, that's good - you can avoid the SCAM. I was in La Fortuna bus station waiting for the 8am bus to the National Park. Carlos approached me and two others. He said the bus was C1,300 each, but he would take us to the National Park for C1,000 each. We went with Carlos. In the car he also promised to bring us back later in the day. We arrived - it was Parque Ecologico Arenal, NOT the National Park! He was persuasive saying that there was a good hike to the lava of 2010 and good swimming. Both of these turned out to be true, but I hated being lied to - plus, I didn't get to the National Park! In the afternoon, I went to ask for the return car to La Fortuna. Carlos, who promised the return trip, was now too far away / not available! I felt upset and cross. The guy at the entrance eventually got me a taxi for C5,000. Avoid the liars and scammers that work for this place! The entrance fee was $15 - they gave me a wristband, but it was only for Parque Ecologico Arenal (not for the National Park). It seems they pull this whole scam on tourists...

English Version:

Visiting Parque Ecológico Volcán Arenal was one of the most rewarding and memorable experiences I’ve had in Costa Rica. The park is incredibly well-maintained and offers a unique blend of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural insight. From the moment you enter, you're surrounded by breathtaking views of the Arenal Volcano and the lush greenery of the rainforest.

One of the highlights of the visit was the live cultural show offered at the park. It was vibrant, engaging, and a beautiful representation of Costa Rican traditions. The performers were energetic and passionate, and the show added a meaningful cultural touch that complemented the natural experience perfectly.

But don’t be fooled — this park is not just about relaxing. Walking through it is a full-body workout! The trails are well-marked but include plenty of steps, inclines, and rugged paths that take you deep into the forest. Along the way, you’re rewarded with stunning views, hidden wildlife, and scenic spots that are perfect for taking photos or just pausing to appreciate the environment.

Whether you’re into nature, culture, photography, or just looking for a meaningful outdoor experience, Parque Ecológico Volcán Arenal offers it all. It’s a place where you’ll sweat, smile, learn, and leave with unforgettable memories. I highly recommend it to anyone visiting the La Fortuna area — it’s an adventure you won’t want to miss.

Versión en Español:

Visitar el Parque Ecológico Volcán Arenal fue una de las experiencias más gratificantes y memorables que he tenido en Costa Rica. El parque está muy bien cuidado y ofrece una combinación única de belleza natural, aventura y un toque cultural muy especial. Desde que uno entra, se siente rodeado por las impresionantes vistas del Volcán Arenal y la exuberante vegetación del bosque tropical.

Uno de los momentos más destacados de la visita fue el espectáculo cultural en vivo que ofrece el parque. Fue vibrante, entretenido y una hermosa representación de las tradiciones costarricenses. Los artistas demostraron mucha energía y pasión, y el espectáculo añadió un toque cultural que enriqueció aún más la experiencia natural.

Pero no te dejes engañar — este parque no es solo para relajarse. ¡Recorrerlo es un entrenamiento completo para el cuerpo! Los senderos están bien señalizados, pero incluyen muchas escaleras, subidas y caminos irregulares que te llevan al corazón del bosque. En el camino, te encuentras con vistas espectaculares, fauna escondida y rincones perfectos para tomar fotos o simplemente conectarte con la naturaleza.

Ya sea que te guste la naturaleza, la cultura, la fotografía o simplemente estés buscando una experiencia al aire libre significativa, el Parque Ecológico Volcán Arenal lo tiene todo. Es un lugar donde vas a sudar, sonreír, aprender y salir con recuerdos inolvidables. Lo recomiendo totalmente a cualquiera que visite la zona de La Fortuna — es una aventura que no te...

This is not a national park, and it is really expensive for the experience given the trails are barely marked, and are definitely not maintained. The park map is not accurate either. This could be described as a challenging hike depending on which trail you take. The pictures are not a scam as another reviewer said because there is definitely a beautiful view at the end, and there is wildlife to see along the way (we saw birds and two coatis), but I can see how someone might feel misled into thinking this is high quality park. It almost feels like someone's backyard where they cleared a path up to the volcano and started charging $15 USD per person. I'd go to other parks first if you aren't in the...