December is the beginning of Costa Rica’s dry season and an excellent time to visit Arenal. Expect sunny days with lush green scenery, ideal for adventure and hiking.
| Category | Amount |
|---|---|
| ✈️ Transport | 1200 USD |
| 🏨 Accommodations | 800 USD |
| 🧳 Gear | 100 USD |
| 🗺️ On-site | 800 USD |
| Total | 2900 USD |
[ ] 🌋 Arenal Volcano National Park ⭐⭐⭐ (~4h)
Hike lava trails and rainforest paths with volcano views — go early for wildlife and fewer crowds.
[ ] 💦 La Fortuna Waterfall ⭐⭐⭐ (~2h)
Descend 500+ steps for a dramatic jungle waterfall and swim in the pool — best in morning.
[ ] 🌳 Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park ⭐⭐ (~3h)
Canopy walkways through the rainforest; frequent sightings of monkeys and exotic birds.
[ ] 💧 Ecotermales Hot Springs ⭐⭐ (~2h)
Natural volcanic thermal pools for soothing relaxation post-adventure. Reservation recommended.
[ ] 🛶 Cano Negro Wildlife Refuge (boat tour) ⭐⭐ (~3h)
Wildlife viewing by boat—see sloths, monkeys, caimans; organized day trip.
[ ] 🏞️ El Salto Swimming Hole ⭐ (~1h)
Locals’ riverside hangout with rope swings — fun, free, and close to town.
[ ] 🚵 Mountain Biking Arenal Area ⭐⭐ (~3h)
Trails for all levels amid rainforest and pastures — guided rentals available.
[ ] 🥾 Cerro Chato Hike ⭐⭐ (~5h)
Strenuous climb to an extinct volcanic crater with scenic crater lake (currently trail may be closed, check locally).
[ ] 🧗 Canyoning & Waterfall Rappelling ⭐⭐ (~4h)
Adventure tour rappelling down waterfalls in the rainforest.
[ ] 🛶 Kayaking on Lake Arenal ⭐ (~2h)
Paddle with volcano backdrop. Calm mornings, rental or guided tours.
[ ] 🏞️ Arenal 1968 Trail ⭐⭐ (~2h)
Private trail with superb views of Arenal’s slopes and unique recent lava flows.
[ ] 🦥 Wildlife Night Walk ⭐ (~2h)
Guided hike to spot nocturnal creatures — frogs, armadillos, insects.
[ ] 🥾 Bogarin Trail ⭐ (~1h)
Short, easy walk known for sloth sightings — close to La Fortuna.
[ ] 🏕️ Lake Arenal Peninsula Viewpoint ⭐⭐ (~1h)
Panoramic views of lake and volcano, best at sunset.
[ ] 🍸 The Springs Resort & Spa Hot Springs (evening pass) ⭐⭐ (~2h)
Elegant hot springs at night, with swim-up bars & mountain views.
[ ] 🍹 La Fortuna Pub Crawl ⭐ (~2h)
Sample craft beer and cocktails at friendly local bars.
[ ] 🍜 La Choza de Laurel ⭐⭐⭐
Classic Costa Rican casado plates, garden setting — $12-15.
[ ] 🍜 Soda Víquez ⭐⭐
Local “soda” with homemade gallo pinto breakfasts and friendly service — $8-10.
[ ] 🍜 Pollo Fortuneño ⭐
Simple spot for grilled chicken and sides — $8-12.
[ ] 🏙️ La Fortuna Town Park (~1h)
Central spot to people-watch, enjoy ice cream, or catch a festival.
[ ] 🛍️ Souvenir shopping in La Fortuna (~1h)
Hand-crafted wood, local coffee.
[ ] 🦋 Ecocentro Danaus (~1.5h)
Small private reserve focusing on butterflies, birds, and medicinal plants.
Amazon PrimeNetflixNetflix| City | Nights | Accommodation | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| La Fortuna | 4 | Airbnb (2 guests) | 800 USD |
| Total | 4 | 800 USD |