Float the Peñas Blancas, hike to La Fortuna Waterfall, eat farm-to-table Costa Rican fare, trace Arenal's 1968 lava flows, then relax in Baldí's 25 hot pools—all in a guided full-day adventure near La Fortuna.
Float the Peñas Blancas, hike to La Fortuna Waterfall, eat farm-to-table Costa Rican fare, trace Arenal's 1968 lava flows, then relax in Baldí's 25 hot pools—all in a guided full-day adventure near La Fortuna.
You push off at first light into a quiet green corridor: the Peñas Blancas River moves steady and clear, the rainforest pressing close as toucans call overhead and howler monkeys punctuate the canopy. The safari float is slow and observant—your guide points out submerged roots, volcanic terraces, and the occasional coati padding the bank.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Blue Pass by Aventuras Arenal · La Fortuna, Alajuela
You push off at first light into a quiet green corridor: the Peñas Blancas River moves steady and clear, the rainforest pressing close as toucans call overhead and howler monkeys punctuate the canopy. The safari float is slow and observant—your guide points out submerged roots, volcanic terraces, and the occasional coati padding the bank.
Later the pace changes. A steep trail drops roughly 1,640 feet to La Fortuna Waterfall, a 210-foot curtain that thunders into a pool cold enough to take the heat out of your cheeks. The route then settles into cultivated land at Vida Campesina, where a farm-to-table lunch showcases local coffee and vegetables grown in rich volcanic soil.
The Arenal 1968 Trail walks you across blackened lava flows and regenerating forest for about 3 km, an open lesson in geology where recent eruptions meet life reclaiming ground. The day ends at Baldí Hot Springs, with 25 pools and slides—warm mineral water and cool plunge pools alternate to soothe tired legs.
This full-day loop blends gentle river travel, a vigorous waterfall descent, hands-on local food, interpretive volcano hiking, and restorative hot springs. Expect changing microclimates, uneven steps, and sections of slick rock. Bring layered quick-dry clothing, secure footwear, insect repellent, and a sense of curiosity for wildlife and volcanic history. Guides handle logistics and entrances; physical fitness at a moderate level will make the day comfortable and rewarding.
moderate.
10 hours.
Moderate fitness—able to walk stairs and uneven trails, and tolerate a full day of mixed activities
Meet at the operator’s main office by the La Habana river bridge in La Fortuna or opt for hotel pickup—both are offered and listed at booking.
The descent to La Fortuna Waterfall is steep (about 1,640 ft downhill); return is uphill. Moderate fitness and good knees are recommended.
Lunch is farm-to-table; notify dietary needs when booking and guides will accommodate common requests when possible.
Baldí and the river float are family-friendly, but the operator advises that pregnant travelers and those with serious heart or spinal issues should not join.
Arenal’s 1968 eruption reshaped the landscape and created the lava fields traversed on the 1968 Trail; the nearby communities rebuilt with tourism now central to the economy.
Entrance fees to reserves like La Fortuna support local social projects and conservation; stick to paths to protect regenerating lava fields and riparian habitats.
Blue Pass by Aventuras Arenal operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.




You push off at first light into a quiet green corridor: the Peñas Blancas River moves steady and clear, the rainforest pressing close as toucans call overhead and howler monkeys punctuate the canopy. The safari float is slow and observant—your guide points out submerged roots, volcanic terraces, and the occasional coati padding the bank.
You push off at first light into a quiet green corridor: the Peñas Blancas River moves steady and clear, the rainforest pressing close as toucans call overhead and howler monkeys punctuate the canopy. The safari float is slow and observant—your guide points out submerged roots, volcanic terraces, and the occasional coati padding the bank.
Later the pace changes. A steep trail drops roughly 1,640 feet to La Fortuna Waterfall, a 210-foot curtain that thunders into a pool cold enough to take the heat out of your cheeks. The route then settles into cultivated land at Vida Campesina, where a farm-to-table lunch showcases local coffee and vegetables grown in rich volcanic soil.
The Arenal 1968 Trail walks you across blackened lava flows and regenerating forest for about 3 km, an open lesson in geology where recent eruptions meet life reclaiming ground. The day ends at Baldí Hot Springs, with 25 pools and slides—warm mineral water and cool plunge pools alternate to soothe tired legs.
This full-day loop blends gentle river travel, a vigorous waterfall descent, hands-on local food, interpretive volcano hiking, and restorative hot springs. Expect changing microclimates, uneven steps, and sections of slick rock. Bring layered quick-dry clothing, secure footwear, insect repellent, and a sense of curiosity for wildlife and volcanic history. Guides handle logistics and entrances; physical fitness at a moderate level will make the day comfortable and rewarding.