Don’t let the eyelash viper scare you! Yes, we encountered one along a hiking trail in Arenal Volcano National Park, almost brushing past it as we walked. Perfectly camouflaged in the jungle bushes, the snake was lazily soaking up the morning sun, completely unbothered by our presence. That moment alone captures what makes Arenal Volcano National Park and La Fortuna my favorite destination in Costa Rica—if I’m allowed to have a favorite at all. I never tire of visiting this region. Every trip reveals something new: a hidden trail, an unexpected animal encounter, or a breathtaking view of the volcano that feels different every time.
But what if you only have three days in Arenal and La Fortuna? With so many options—adventure tours, cultural experiences, wildlife encounters, and moments of pure relaxation—it can feel overwhelming to decide. Based on personal experience and many repeat visits, here is how I would plan three unforgettable days in this magical corner of Costa Rica.
Why Arenal and La Fortuna Are So Special
La Fortuna sits at the base of the iconic Arenal Volcano, one of the most recognizable landmarks in Costa Rica. Although Arenal is no longer erupting daily as it once did, it remains an imposing presence—steep, symmetrical, and dramatic. The surrounding region is a lush tapestry of rain forest, rivers, waterfalls, lava fields, and thermal hot springs. Add in friendly locals, excellent food, and world-class tour operators, and you have a destination that offers something for every traveler.
Adventure seekers, nature lovers, photographers, families, and honeymooners all find their rhythm here. And three days, if planned wisely, is just enough time to sample the best of what Arenal has to offer.
Day One: Canopy Zip Lines, Indigenous Culture, and Hot Springs
Morning: Zip Line Adventure Over the Rain Forest
If there is one activity that defines adventure in Costa Rica, it is zip lining, also known locally as canopy tours. Think Tarzan and Jane, but with modern safety equipment.
I chose Arenal Mundo Aventura for this experience
🌐 www.arenalmundoadventura.com
It was a clear, sunny morning, and the mighty Arenal Volcano stood proudly in full view. We were transported high into the rain forest canopy in a flatbed truck that bumped and squeaked all the way up the mountain. The sounds of the engine nearly drowned out the howler monkeys calling in the distance, adding to the sense of excitement and anticipation.
At the base of a massive rain forest tree—easily the largest I have ever seen—we suited up with helmets, harnesses, and gloves. My husband Ken had his video camera ready to capture every moment. I’ll admit, I felt a surge of fear when I looked down. The forest floor seemed impossibly far away. Bad thoughts crossed my mind—visions of my husband collecting life insurance—but they quickly disappeared once it was my turn.
I was clipped in, stepped off the platform, and suddenly I was flying.
Gliding effortlessly above the pristine rain forest canopy, I passed lush green foliage and two towering waterfalls that looked like skyscrapers. It was far easier—and far more exhilarating—than I had imagined. Eleven platforms later, the journey ended, and I was left wanting eleven more. WOW doesn’t even begin to describe it.
Midday: Maleku Indigenous Village Experience
After the adrenaline rush of zip lining, we shifted gears for a meaningful cultural experience: a visit to a Maleku Indian village.
Inside the Spiritual House, we sat on wooden benches as twelve Maleku tribesmen and two women performed a religious ritual, praying for rain and good fortune. The chants were sung in the Maleku language, haunting and beautiful. Hand-painted masks were displayed inside the House of the Spirits, each one rich in symbolism and tradition.
I couldn’t resist purchasing a small jaguar mask, painted in vibrant reds, greens, yellows, and black—a powerful reminder of the deep connection between Costa Rica’s indigenous cultures and the natural world.
Afternoon and Evening: Tabacón Hot Springs and Spa
By late afternoon, it was time to slow down and indulge. We headed to Tabacón Hot Springs and Spa, a true tropical fairyland.
Cascading thermal waters flow naturally down the side of the volcano, weaving through lush rain forest filled with tropical flowers and plants—thousands of them. Sitting beneath the warm, rushing water, surrounded by mist and greenery, I was convinced I had died and gone to heaven.
Dinner came too soon. Still wrapped in the dreamlike atmosphere, we enjoyed a traditional Costa Rican meal—fresh baked chicken and five different picadillas. As night fell, we watched Arenal Volcano in the distance, occasionally spitting fire and glowing lava rocks from its summit. It felt surreal, like dining in a land of make-believe.
Day Two: Hiking Arenal Volcano National Park and Lava Fields
Morning: Exploring the National Park
We set out early on our second day to explore Arenal Volcano National Park, hiking around the volcano’s northern base. This is where the infamous 1968 eruption destroyed a nearby village, tragically killing 87 people. It’s impossible not to feel a sense of humility and respect while walking these trails.
Our naturalist guide reminded us firmly: “Do not leave the trails.” Not only because of snakes and jungle creatures, but also for safety around the unstable terrain.
As we walked, we heard the hissing and puffing of the volcano—sounds that seemed much closer than they actually were. Suddenly, a band of howler monkeys appeared, staring us down and even throwing small twigs in our direction. Clearly, they were not thrilled about visitors invading their territory.
Eventually, we reached the old lava fields. Massive, jagged black rocks—some nearly two meters in diameter—lay scattered like frozen waves. We were allowed to climb them, and my camera could hardly keep up. The formations were otherworldly, eerie, and fascinating.
After about an hour of hiking, rain began to fall—unusual for March, typically a dry month. We started our return when our guide suddenly shouted, “Freeze!”
There it was: a pinkish-yellow eyelash viper, coiled on a tree limb beside the trail. The guide instructed us to keep our distance. The eyelash viper is highly venomous, affecting both the central nervous and cardiovascular systems. Its name comes from the strange, bristly scales above its eyes that resemble eyelashes. Fascinating—and terrifying.
Evening: El Silencio Lava Viewpoint
That evening, we traveled up a dirt gravel road to a place called El Silencio. From here, the crater of Arenal felt close enough to touch. As darkness fell, glowing balls of fire emerged from the volcano’s cone-shaped summit, lighting up the night sky like Fourth of July fireworks.
It was a powerful reminder of nature’s raw energy.
Day Three: Hanging Bridges and Wildlife Watching
On our third and final day, I wasn’t ready to think about going home. With so many options—horseback riding to La Fortuna Waterfall, Cano Negro Wildlife Refuge, river floats, and challenging hikes—we had to choose carefully.
The winner: Arenal Hanging Bridges.
These man-made bridges stretch high above the rain forest canopy, offering a unique perspective on the ecosystem. We were hoping to see monkeys and colorful birds, and luck was on our side.
A group of howler monkeys swung through the trees, filling the air with their unmistakable calls. Early morning proved to be the best time for bird activity, and the jungle was alive with sound—a symphony of chirps, whistles, and calls. Of course, I had forgotten my binoculars, a mistake I won’t make again.
Planning Your Tours
For a full range of tours, descriptions, and prices for everything around Arenal and La Fortuna, I highly recommend the excellent local tour operator Sunset Tours. Their office is conveniently located on the town square in La Fortuna.
Final Thoughts
Three days in Arenal Volcano National Park and La Fortuna is enough to fall completely in love—but not enough to see it all. From adrenaline-pumping zip lines to tranquil hot springs, from ancient lava fields to encounters with venomous snakes and playful monkeys, this region delivers unforgettable experiences at every turn.
If you plan wisely and balance adventure with relaxation, your three days in Arenal will feel like a perfectly crafted journey—and you may find yourself, like me, already planning your return before you even leave.