Arenal Volcano National Park by The Lake

This half-day trip pairs a walk in Arenal Volcano National Park with a boat ride on Lake Arenal, so you see the volcano from the forest floor and from the water. It runs about 4 hours, departing at 08:00 or 14:30 and returning by noon or 18:00, with a minimum of 2 adults. A 20-minute transfer takes you from your hotel to the Peninsula section of the park.

From there you follow an easy 1.5 km trail (about an hour) with several observation points, including a 40-foot platform that brings you close to the volcano. Your bilingual naturalist guide points out wildlife along the way. Afterward, a guided boat tour takes in the forest-lined shores and islets, with views across the lake to the Tilarán mountain range, followed by a stop in the village of El Castillo for traditional Costa Rican snacks.

Included: hotel transfers, guide, park entrance, bottled water, snacks, and the boat. Bring hiking shoes, comfortable clothing, a rain jacket, insect repellent, and sunscreen.