Spend a full day moving from coffee country to volcanic pools: visit Grecia’s metal church and Sarchí’s crafts, zip through cloud forest, then unwind in Baldi-style hot springs beneath Arenal. Practical, full-day escape from San José with cultural stops and thermal baths.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Steam threads up from mineral pools as the Arenal Volcano looms, a hulking presence that seems to watch every dipped toe and towel-draped shoulder. You arrive from the Central Valley after morning pickups, passing patchwork coffee farms and the painted oxcarts of Sarchí before the first real breath of rainforest at La Fortuna.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
12 hours (full-day)
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels—includes short active segments (zipline, swings) but mostly transfers and soaking
Wildlife
History
Grecia’s unique metal church was imported from Europe in the late 19th century; Sarchí has a long heritage of woodworking and cart-making central to Costa Rican identity.
Conservation
Thermal resorts can impact local water and riparian zones—choose operators that manage runoff and use biodegradable products; support local craftmakers to keep traditional skills viable.
Reserve your spot on the A Paradise at Hot Springs Resort today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring swimwear and a change of clothes
Pools are the highlight—pack a swimsuit, quick-dry towel, and waterproof bag so wet gear doesn’t soak the vehicle.
Expect a full-day schedule
Pickups start early and the round-trip drive plus activities makes this a roughly 12-hour outing—plan childcare and energy accordingly.
Cash for local crafts and tips
Sarchí vendors and on-site staff may prefer cash for small purchases and gratuities—carry CRC or USD in small bills.
Use reef-safe sunscreen and insect repellent
Protect skin in the sun and against mosquitoes, but choose biodegradable products to protect thermal pools and waterways.
Swimwear
Required for the thermal pools and water attractions.
Quick-dry towel
Dries fast between activities and keeps the bus and car seats dry.
Light daypack
Holds sunscreen, water, documents, and a change of clothes for the day.
Insect repellent (DEET or picaridin)
Useful during cloud-forest ziplines and near vegetated areas, especially in wetter months.
summer