Exploring La Fortuna’s national parks is straightforward and rewarding. Three standout tours consistently deliver excellent value: The Arenal Volcano trek lets you witness active volcanic landscapes up close with knowledgeable local guides. At Tenorio Volcano National Park, the Rio Celeste tour reveals Costa Rica’s most striking natural wonder – a river so intensely blue it seems artificial. The quieter Cloud Forest trek through Juan Castro Blanco National Park offers pristine trails and exceptional birding opportunities.
I’m particularly fond of the Rio Celeste experience for its perfect blend of hiking and natural phenomena, while the Arenal tour’s proximity to town makes it wonderfully convenient. For nature enthusiasts seeking a crowd-free option, Juan Castro Blanco’s cloud forest trails are a genuine treasure.
Let’s look at our favorite national park tours in detail.
Key Points
- Arenal Volcano National Park Tour offers a half-day exploration of diverse ecosystems, stunning volcano views, and optional thermal springs.
- Rio Celeste Hiking Tour in Tenorio Volcano National Park features a guided trek along the milky blue waters of the Río Celeste.
- Walk in Río Celeste tour in Tenorio Volcano National Park showcases craters, suspension bridges, and swimming opportunities with a personalized experience.
- Cloud Forest Hike at Juan Castro Blanco National Park provides an enchanting bird-watching experience with a fresh seafood lunch.
- Comprehensive Rio Celeste and Tenorio National Park Hike is an active 4.3-mile trek through tropical rainforest to the stunning Celeste River waterfall.
Arenal Volcano National Park Walk With Optional Hot Springs
For travelers seeking an immersive experience in the heart of Costa Rica’s natural wonders, the Arenal Volcano National Park Walk with Optional Hot Springs tour offers a captivating adventure.
This half-day tour explores the diverse ecosystems surrounding the iconic Arenal Volcano, providing visitors with stunning views of the volcano and the Tilarán Range. Participants can hike through the forest, learning about the region’s wildlife and history from a knowledgeable guide.
The tour also includes the option to visit nearby thermal springs for a relaxing soak. With free hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, and excellent reviews, this tour is an ideal way to experience the beauty of Arenal Volcano National Park.
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Rio Celeste Hiking From Arenal – National Park Guided Tour
Venturing into the heart of Tenorio Volcano National Park, the Rio Celeste Hiking from Arenal guided tour offers visitors a chance to enjoy the park’s captivating natural beauty.
Hikers will trek along the Río Celeste, marveling at the stunning milky blue waters and cascading waterfall. Led by a knowledgeable bilingual guide, the nature walk through the lush rain forest promises opportunities to spot diverse wildlife.
This moderate-level tour is suitable for most fitness levels, with good walking shoes recommended. Included in the package are lunch, park entrance fees, and round-trip transportation from La Fortuna hotels.
With a maximum of 50 travelers per tour, this experience provides an intimate and immersive exploration of one of Costa Rica’s natural gems.
Read our full review: Rio Celeste Hiking From Arenal – National Park Guided Tour Review
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Walk in Río Celeste in Tenorio Volcano National Park
Visitors exploring Tenorio Volcano National Park can embark on a captivating journey through the heart of the park to witness the renowned Río Celeste. This guided tour offers private transportation and a bilingual guide, providing an immersive experience.
The hike showcases two craters, suspension bridges, and the origin of Río Celeste’s vibrant blue waters. Guests can also swim in a local river and savor Costa Rican cuisine for lunch.
With a maximum of 12 travelers, the tour ensures an intimate and personalized experience. Moderate fitness is required, and the tour isn’t recommended for certain medical conditions.
Confirmation is provided at booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Walk in Río Celeste in Tenorio Volcano National Park Review
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Cloud Forest Hike – Water National Park: Juan Castro Blanco National Park
Travelers to La Fortuna can embark on an enchanting cloud forest hike through the lesser-known Juan Castro Blanco National Park.
This 35,200-acre preserve offers a bird-watching adventure in its pristine ecosystem, home to diverse wildlife like deer, monkeys, and the elusive quetzal.
As an alternative to the crowded Monteverde, the park provides easier access from La Fortuna. Guests will explore primary and secondary forests, spotting various species along the way, before enjoying a fresh seafood lunch featuring trout.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional guide, and lasts approximately 6 hours, with a maximum group size of 15 travelers.
Read our full review: Cloud Forest Hike – Water National Park: Juan Castro Blanco National Park Review
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Cloud Forest Hike at Juan Castro Blanco National Park
Embarking on the cloud forest hike at Juan Castro Blanco National Park, adventurers can expect an immersive journey into a pristine ecosystem teeming with diverse flora and fauna.
Located just 1.5 hours from La Fortuna, this full-day excursion takes hikers on a 3-mile trail through primary growth forest, leading to the Pozo Verde Lagoon within a dormant volcano’s crater.
Travelers are provided with round-trip transportation, a typical Costa Rican lunch, energizing snacks, and the expertise of a professional guide.
While moderate fitness is required, the hike is suitable for ages 8 and up.
With an overall 5.0 rating, this immersive nature experience is highly recommended for those seeking an unforgettable adventure in Costa Rica’s stunning wilderness.
Read our full review: Cloud Forest Hike at Juan Castro Blanco National Park Review
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Rio Celeste and Tenorio National Park Hike + Lunch From La Fortuna
Explore the vibrant Rio Celeste and Tenorio National Park on this comprehensive hiking tour from La Fortuna. The 4.3-mile trek takes you through tropical rainforest, where a knowledgeable guide highlights the local biodiversity.
The key attraction is the stunning Celeste River waterfall. This active tour suits fit travelers and includes round-trip transport, admission fees, and lunch. With a maximum group size of 22, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience.
While it’s not wheelchair accessible, the moderate hike is suitable for most. Past travelers rave about the rewarding experience and knowledgeable guides.
At $135 per person, it’s an excellent value with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Rio Celeste and Tenorio National Park Hike + Lunch From La Fortuna Review
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Rio Celeste National Park Hike
The Rio Celeste National Park hike takes visitors on a captivating journey through the heart of Costa Rica’s lush rainforest. This full-day tour starts at 8:00 AM and can accommodate up to 15 travelers, costing €96.67 per person.
Along the way, a knowledgeable naturalist guide leads the group, providing insights into the diverse flora and fauna. Highlights include potential sightings of spiders, snakes, frogs, sloths, and various birds.
The hike also includes stops for swimming and photography. Participants should have a moderate fitness level, as the trail isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Read our full review: Rio Celeste National Park Hike Review
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Sum Up
La Fortuna offers a variety of national park tours showcasing Costa Rica’s natural wonders. Visitors can explore Arenal Volcano National Park, Rio Celeste in Tenorio Volcano National Park, and the cloud forests of Juan Castro Blanco National Park. These tours provide opportunities to hike, observe wildlife, and experience the country’s diverse ecosystems and stunning landscapes.