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Walk the Arenal 1968 Trail where lava fields meet regrown rainforest, then soak in mineral-rich hot springs at Los Lagos. This full-day tour from La Fortuna pairs accessible hiking with thermal baths and a local lunch.
Walk the Arenal 1968 Trail where lava fields meet regrown rainforest, then soak in mineral-rich hot springs at Los Lagos. This full-day tour from La Fortuna pairs accessible hiking with thermal baths and a local lunch.
Morning light slices across the raw black of 1968 lava fields as you step onto the Arenal Volcano 1968 Trail, the air thick with the wet scent of rainforest and the distant hiss of thermal vents. Guides point out surviving trees that now wear lichen like armor; the volcano watches over Lake Arenal, a steady, reflective companion that changes color with the wind.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Native's Way Costa Rica · La Fortuna, Alajuela
Morning light slices across the raw black of 1968 lava fields as you step onto the Arenal Volcano 1968 Trail, the air thick with the wet scent of rainforest and the distant hiss of thermal vents. Guides point out surviving trees that now wear lichen like armor; the volcano watches over Lake Arenal, a steady, reflective companion that changes color with the wind.
The trail follows well-groomed paths that weave through patches of regrown forest and open lava flats, offering clear views of Arenal’s cone and the extinct Cerro Chato across the basin. The hike is rooted in volcanic history: the 1968 eruption reshaped the landscape, scouring slopes and creating the stark contrasts visible today. Geologically, you’ll notice layered flows and vented fumaroles; culturally, La Fortuna’s recovery and reliance on eco-tourism are visible in local guides and small lodges.
After the walk, hot springs at Los Lagos draw their mineral warmth from Arenal’s underground heat. Pools are stepped into like warm wells, each one urging you to linger and let the minerals loosen long day travel stiffness.
Practical guidance: expect an easy to moderate walk of about 1.5 hours within a full-day outing. Bring waterproof layers for sudden showers, sturdy shoes for uneven volcanic rock, and a refillable water bottle. Plan for an early pickup and a long day — cameras, swimwear and insect repellent will make the experience smoother. Respect trail markers and leave no trace to help preserve this active landscape for those who follow.
The guided nature walk along the Arenal 1968 Trail lasts about 1.5 hours, though the full experience including transport and hot springs fills most of the day.
Yes—entrance to the Los Lagos hot springs and a plentiful lunch are included in the tour price.
The trail is generally easy but not fully accessible; the tour is not recommended for those with serious cardiovascular issues—consult your doctor and the operator if concerned.
Pickup from many hotels in the northwest Guanacaste and La Fortuna areas is provided; exact times are confirmed the day before and may vary by location.
Native's Way Costa Rica operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
Morning light slices across the raw black of 1968 lava fields as you step onto the Arenal Volcano 1968 Trail, the air thick with the wet scent of rainforest and the distant hiss of thermal vents. Guides point out surviving trees that now wear lichen like armor; the volcano watches over Lake Arenal, a steady, reflective companion that changes color with the wind.
Morning light slices across the raw black of 1968 lava fields as you step onto the Arenal Volcano 1968 Trail, the air thick with the wet scent of rainforest and the distant hiss of thermal vents. Guides point out surviving trees that now wear lichen like armor; the volcano watches over Lake Arenal, a steady, reflective companion that changes color with the wind.
The trail follows well-groomed paths that weave through patches of regrown forest and open lava flats, offering clear views of Arenal’s cone and the extinct Cerro Chato across the basin. The hike is rooted in volcanic history: the 1968 eruption reshaped the landscape, scouring slopes and creating the stark contrasts visible today. Geologically, you’ll notice layered flows and vented fumaroles; culturally, La Fortuna’s recovery and reliance on eco-tourism are visible in local guides and small lodges.
After the walk, hot springs at Los Lagos draw their mineral warmth from Arenal’s underground heat. Pools are stepped into like warm wells, each one urging you to linger and let the minerals loosen long day travel stiffness.
Practical guidance: expect an easy to moderate walk of about 1.5 hours within a full-day outing. Bring waterproof layers for sudden showers, sturdy shoes for uneven volcanic rock, and a refillable water bottle. Plan for an early pickup and a long day — cameras, swimwear and insect repellent will make the experience smoother. Respect trail markers and leave no trace to help preserve this active landscape for those who follow.