By MupDay - the planner that does the research for you.
Updated: 2026-08-07
Arenal, Costa Rica, is a tropical paradise renowned for its active Arenal Volcano, natural hot springs, and lush rainforests. It's a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventurers seeking breathtaking experiences in the heart of the wild.
Plan a trip to ArenalThe must-see places in Arenal include Arenal Volcano National Park, Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa, La Fortuna Waterfall, Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park, Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park and more. Here is the full list, with a short note on each:
A must-visit park for nature lovers, with hiking trails, volcano viewpoints, and wildlife.
Luxurious natural hot springs powered by the volcano, a relaxing and upscale experience.
A spectacular waterfall with a natural swimming pool, requiring a stair descent but worth the effort.
A unique experience of walking on hanging bridges through the treetops, with stunning forest views.
Tabacón is a hot spring resort and ecohotel located in Nuevo Arenal, Alajuela Province, Costa Rica, twelve kilometres (7.5 mi) northwest of La Fortuna. It lies on the flanks of Arenal Volcano, which it uses to heat its springs. The geothermal springs have a range between 72 and 105°F (22–41°C).
More intimate and tranquil hot springs, with an authentic and less crowded atmosphere.
A place with amazing views of the volcano and lake, ideal for bird watching.
The largest lake in Costa Rica, perfect for water sports and panoramic views.
A park with walking trails, butterfly gardens, and a wildlife rescue center.
A short and accessible walking trail famous for sloth and bird sightings.
A popular restaurant serving modern Costa Rican dishes in an elegant atmosphere.
Here is what 3 days in Arenal look like when the planner builds them: stops grouped by proximity so no day doubles back, one full day at a time. The same route can be built for any length, from two days to a week.
This is an example. The planner builds a different route for your dates, real opening hours, how you get around and your own preferences.
Build your own itineraryArenal Volcano National Park, Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa, La Fortuna Waterfall, Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park, Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park, Baldi Hot Springs
Any season works - MupDay plans around opening hours and the weather, and rebuilds your days as you add or remove places.
Most travellers spend between two and five days in Arenal. MupDay builds a full itinerary for whatever length you pick - two days, three, four or a week - splitting the places across the days by proximity and opening hours, so each day stands on its own.
Pick places in MupDay and it auto-builds a day-by-day route with no zig-zag, weather-aware.
Maps © OpenStreetMap.