One of the most common questions I hear from people planning their first trip to Costa Rica is this:
“Tell me the most interesting place to vacation in Costa Rica.”
And my honest answer is always another question.
Do you want the beach?
Or do you want the rainforest and the mountains?
Costa Rica is a small country, but it offers an incredible diversity of landscapes, climates, and experiences. Within just a few hours’ drive, you can move from tropical beaches to misty cloud forests, from dry savannas to lush rainforests, and from quiet rural villages to energetic adventure hubs.
If you tell me you want long days lounging on the sand with the sound of waves in the background, I’ll guide you toward the coast. But if you say you want mountains, rainforest, wildlife, waterfalls, and adventure, then my answer is immediate and confident.
The most interesting place for a rainforest and mountain vacation in Costa Rica is the Arenal Volcano and La Fortuna area.
Why Arenal and La Fortuna Stand Out
The Arenal region, located in the northern part of Costa Rica, offers one of the most diverse ecosystems in the country. It combines dramatic volcanic landscapes with lush rainforest, rich wildlife, rivers, waterfalls, and natural hot springs—all in one compact area.
At the center of it all is Arenal Volcano, one of Costa Rica’s most iconic natural landmarks.
For decades, Arenal was one of the most active volcanoes in the world. While it is currently in a quieter phase, the massive cone still dominates the landscape, and its presence is impossible to ignore. When it was fully active, glowing lava and fiery rocks shot from the summit, lighting up the night sky like a Fourth of July fireworks display.
Even today, standing at its base, you can feel its power—its history, its energy, and its role in shaping the surrounding land.
A Living Rainforest Ecosystem
What makes this region truly special is not just the volcano—it is the rainforest that surrounds it.
The forests around Arenal are home to:
- Hundreds of species of tropical birds
- Howler, white-faced capuchin, and spider monkeys
- Sloths, coatis, and agoutis
- Frogs, butterflies, and reptiles
Birdwatchers are especially drawn to this area. You can spot toucans, parrots, motmots, and hummingbirds, often without even leaving your hotel grounds.
The combination of volcanic soil, abundant rainfall, and warm temperatures creates a rich, thriving environment where life flourishes.
What Activities Do I Recommend?
That depends on what kind of traveler you are. The beauty of the Arenal area is that it offers something for everyone—from adrenaline seekers to nature lovers to those who simply want to relax.
Zip-Lining Over the Rainforest Canopy
My personal favorite activity in the Arenal region is zip-lining through the rainforest canopy.
Soaring above the treetops gives you a completely different perspective of the forest. You glide silently from platform to platform, surrounded by towering trees and endless green.
Two excellent companies offer this experience:
- Arenal Mundo Aventura Ecological Park
- Sky Adventures Arenal
I chose Arenal Mundo Aventura, and it did not disappoint. The course features 11 high platforms, offering sweeping views of the rainforest below. At one point, I spotted a group of toucans hopping playfully between branches—a moment I will never forget.
Relaxing in Natural Hot Springs
After a day of adventure, nothing compares to soaking in natural hot springs heated by the volcano.
One of my favorite spots is Tabacón Hot Springs. The water temperature is perfect—not too hot—and flows naturally through a series of cascading pools. You can sit under warm waterfalls and let the mineral-rich water melt away sore muscles.
The surrounding botanical gardens are stunning, filled with tropical flowers, lush greenery, and stone pathways. Tabacón also offers an excellent spa, where massage therapists—many trained in Sweden—provide world-class treatments.
Another popular option is EcoTermales, a quieter, more intimate hot springs experience, which many travelers also love.
Hiking Arenal Volcano National Park
Hiking in Arenal Volcano National Park is a must.
The trails wind through old lava fields and dense forest, offering views of the volcano and Lake Arenal. As you walk, you may hear the volcano “breathing”—deep, subtle sounds that remind you this giant is still alive.
During one hike, our guide pointed out a tiny eyelash viper, perfectly camouflaged among green leaves. Despite its small size, it is highly venomous. Without a trained guide, we would have walked right past it—or worse, stepped too close.
This is why guided hikes are strongly recommended.
More Adventures to Choose From
The list of activities in the Arenal region seems endless:
- White-water rafting on nearby rivers
- Gentle river floats for wildlife viewing
- Horseback riding through countryside and forest
- Mountain biking
- ATV tours
- Birdwatching excursions
- Waterfall hikes
- Organic farm tours, where you enjoy lunch made from freshly harvested produce
One popular day trip is to Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge, a wetland area rich in birdlife, crocodiles, monkeys, and aquatic animals.
Perfect for First-Time Visitors
One reason I often recommend Arenal and La Fortuna to first-time visitors is that the area offers a perfect introduction to Costa Rica.
You experience:
- Rainforest and wildlife
- Adventure activities
- Relaxation and wellness
- Friendly local culture
- Comfortable accommodations at every budget level
You can be as active—or as relaxed—as you want.
Learning More and Booking Tours
If you want to explore tour options and activities in the Arenal area, here are two excellent resources:
Both companies offer well-organized, professional tours with knowledgeable guides who truly love what they do.
Final Thoughts
So, tell me again:
What is the most interesting place to vacation in Costa Rica?
If your heart is drawn to rainforests, mountains, wildlife, adventure, and natural beauty, then the answer is clear.
Arenal Volcano and the La Fortuna area offer one of the richest, most exciting, and unforgettable travel experiences in all of Costa Rica.
It’s a place where nature takes center stage—where every day feels like an adventure, and every night ends beneath a sky shaped by fire, rain, and time.
Once you visit, you’ll understand why so many travelers return again and again.