A family-run hot-springs complex on Arenal’s rainforest edge, EcoTermales offers four mineral pools (99–105°F), an artificial waterfall, and buffet Creole meals. Limited daily admissions and day/night time slots make it a calm, restorative stop while visiting La Fortuna.
A family-run hot-springs complex on Arenal’s rainforest edge, EcoTermales offers four mineral pools (99–105°F), an artificial waterfall, and buffet Creole meals. Limited daily admissions and day/night time slots make it a calm, restorative stop while visiting La Fortuna.
Steam lifts from the pools like a slow exhale into the rainforest; warm water runs over stone and through ferns while birds punctuate the heat with sharp calls.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Tico Paradise Costa Rica · La Fortuna, Alajuela
Steam lifts from the pools like a slow exhale into the rainforest; warm water runs over stone and through ferns while birds punctuate the heat with sharp calls.
EcoTermales is a small, family-run hot-springs complex on the eastern flank of Arenal Volcano’s drainage, offering four mineral pools ranging from about 99–105°F (37–41°C). One pool features an engineered waterfall that adds a rhythmic, cooling splash as the jungle presses close—bright heliconias and broad-leaf plants frame the thermal terraces and the sound of nearby creeks underscores the calm.
The springs sit where recent volcanic activity and groundwater meet: volcanic heat circulates through fractured rock to warm groundwater and deposit minerals that color stones and feed plant communities. Locally owned since its founding, EcoTermales reflects Costa Rica’s hospitality culture—meals are served buffet-style with Creole influences, and the team limits daily admissions to preserve a relaxed atmosphere.
Practical side: day passes run roughly 10:00–16:00 and night sessions from 17:00–22:00; reservations and time-slot scheduling are required. Expect short, slightly uneven walkways between pools and full-service food and snack options on site. Not recommended for pregnant visitors or people with serious heart conditions; children are welcome but supervised. Bring swimwear, a towel, a water bottle, and cash or card for upgrades. Arrive early in your booked slot to settle in, alternate hot-dip periods with cool-downs, and drink water—the tropical heat and mineral water combine to dehydrate. With limited daily capacity, EcoTermales rewards slower, quieter visits rather than rushes—plan to linger and let the springs set the pace.
easy.
3–7 hours.
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires only short walks on uneven paths and steps.
Yes—EcoTermales uses scheduled day and night passes with limited capacity; book a time slot in advance to secure entry.
Pools vary from about 99°F to 105°F (37–41°C); choose a cooler pool if you’re sensitive to heat.
Yes—buffet-style Creole lunches or dinners are offered; snacks and drinks are also available at the poolside facilities.
Children are welcome but must be supervised; some pools may be too hot for young kids or those with health concerns.
Hot springs in the Arenal area have long been used by locals; small family operators like EcoTermales grew as tourism to Arenal Volcano expanded in the late 20th century.
Limited daily admissions reduce crowding and pressure on the site; visitors are encouraged to avoid soaps in pools and minimize single-use plastics.
Tico Paradise Costa Rica operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.




Steam lifts from the pools like a slow exhale into the rainforest; warm water runs over stone and through ferns while birds punctuate the heat with sharp calls.
Steam lifts from the pools like a slow exhale into the rainforest; warm water runs over stone and through ferns while birds punctuate the heat with sharp calls.
EcoTermales is a small, family-run hot-springs complex on the eastern flank of Arenal Volcano’s drainage, offering four mineral pools ranging from about 99–105°F (37–41°C). One pool features an engineered waterfall that adds a rhythmic, cooling splash as the jungle presses close—bright heliconias and broad-leaf plants frame the thermal terraces and the sound of nearby creeks underscores the calm.
The springs sit where recent volcanic activity and groundwater meet: volcanic heat circulates through fractured rock to warm groundwater and deposit minerals that color stones and feed plant communities. Locally owned since its founding, EcoTermales reflects Costa Rica’s hospitality culture—meals are served buffet-style with Creole influences, and the team limits daily admissions to preserve a relaxed atmosphere.
Practical side: day passes run roughly 10:00–16:00 and night sessions from 17:00–22:00; reservations and time-slot scheduling are required. Expect short, slightly uneven walkways between pools and full-service food and snack options on site. Not recommended for pregnant visitors or people with serious heart conditions; children are welcome but supervised. Bring swimwear, a towel, a water bottle, and cash or card for upgrades. Arrive early in your booked slot to settle in, alternate hot-dip periods with cool-downs, and drink water—the tropical heat and mineral water combine to dehydrate. With limited daily capacity, EcoTermales rewards slower, quieter visits rather than rushes—plan to linger and let the springs set the pace.