Don"t Miss the Hot Springs
Arenal is home to more than a volcano--its volcanic hot springs attract international visitors all year.
The town of La Fortuna became a tourist destination after the Arenal volcano erupted in 1968. In the quiet days before that first event, rural youngsters taking lunch to their working fathers discovered the waters through which they walked barefooted had gone from cold creeks to warm to hot. In the years that followed, someone discovered that lush landscaping and a nice long soak in these delightful waters would appeal to visitors.
In fact, these volcanic hot springs have become just as important as the volcano itself. One option is the plush setting at Tabacón Grand Spa Thermal Resort. Here, you can look into booking a five-star room (sometimes for less than $150/night), or pay for a $70 visitor's pass. Too much? Another option that is less exclusive is to book a cheap room in La Fortuna and then visit another a garden spa called Baldi Hot Springs and Spa. The cost here is $17, and it can be booked as part of a larger tour. Baldi tends to be more party-friendly and crowded than Tabacón, but a nice soak near Arenal has become one of Costa Rica's must-do experiences.
The town of La Fortuna became a tourist destination after the Arenal volcano erupted in 1968. In the quiet days before that first event, rural youngsters taking lunch to their working fathers discovered the waters through which they walked barefooted had gone from cold creeks to warm to hot. In the years that followed, someone discovered that lush landscaping and a nice long soak in these delightful waters would appeal to visitors.
In fact, these volcanic hot springs have become just as important as the volcano itself. One option is the plush setting at Tabacón Grand Spa Thermal Resort. Here, you can look into booking a five-star room (sometimes for less than $150/night), or pay for a $70 visitor's pass. Too much? Another option that is less exclusive is to book a cheap room in La Fortuna and then visit another a garden spa called Baldi Hot Springs and Spa. The cost here is $17, and it can be booked as part of a larger tour. Baldi tends to be more party-friendly and crowded than Tabacón, but a nice soak near Arenal has become one of Costa Rica's must-do experiences.