THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Spend a private day from San José exploring La Paz Waterfall Gardens’ forest trails and wildlife, then relax in Tabacón’s geothermal hot springs at the foothills of Arenal. This full‑day tour combines easy walks, wildlife viewing, and restorative thermal pools with lunch and dinner included.
Spend a private day from San José exploring La Paz Waterfall Gardens’ forest trails and wildlife, then relax in Tabacón’s geothermal hot springs at the foothills of Arenal. This full‑day tour combines easy walks, wildlife viewing, and restorative thermal pools with lunch and dinner included.
You step out of an air‑conditioned vehicle into humid forest light, the distant roar of cascades filling the valley. On this private full‑day route from San José you’ll thread boardwalks and dirt trails past hummingbird feeders, aviaries, and the unmistakable sway of sloths and howler monkeys overhead. The river dares you onward, each cascade framed by ferns and orchids.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Destiny Travel Costa Rica · Alajuela, Alajuela
You step out of an air‑conditioned vehicle into humid forest light, the distant roar of cascades filling the valley. On this private full‑day route from San José you’ll thread boardwalks and dirt trails past hummingbird feeders, aviaries, and the unmistakable sway of sloths and howler monkeys overhead. The river dares you onward, each cascade framed by ferns and orchids.
La Paz Waterfall Gardens grew as a private ecological park with trails and rescue facilities that showcase Costa Rica’s cloud‑forest fauna and a string of waterfalls carved into volcanic foothills. Later the road climbs toward Arenal’s shadow, where Tabacón harnesses geothermal water seeping from the volcano’s subterranean heat — the resort’s thermal river ranges roughly 25–50°C and is fed by Arenal’s lingering geothermal activity after the 1968 eruption that reshaped the region.
Expect easy‑to‑moderate walking on well‑maintained paths punctuated by wooden steps and viewing platforms; ponds, aviaries, and interpretive signage keep the pace varied. At Tabacón the terrain opens to terraced pools and warm currents that encourage restorative soaks; shaded gardens frame distant views of Arenal on clear days.
Practical notes: start early to beat traffic from San José, bring swimwear and a quick‑dry towel, and wear closed shoes for the waterfall trails. Insect repellent, sun protection, and a small daypack make the long day more comfortable. This private itinerary skips lines and includes lunch and dinner, making it a compact, accessible way to combine wildlife viewing and thermal relaxation in one fuel‑efficient loop.
easy.
12–13 hours.
Suitable for most fitness levels; expect several hours of walking on uneven paths and short stair sections, plus standing during viewing stops.
The tour runs about 12–13 hours including hotel pickup and return—most pick up starts around 8:00 a.m. with a late‑evening return.
Yes—the itinerary is family friendly with moderate walking; the operator lists it as accessible for a wide range of fitness levels and provides infant seats when requested.
Yes—admission to La Paz Waterfall Gardens and Tabacón Hot Springs plus lunch and dinner are included in the tour price.
Many areas are wheelchair accessible, but some waterfall overlooks use steps and uneven paths—notify the operator about mobility needs when booking.
La Paz Waterfall Gardens grew from private conservation and educational efforts to protect rainforest species and showcase multiple waterfalls; Arenal’s 1968 eruption reshaped the landscape and set the stage for nearby thermal activity that feeds Tabacón’s springs.
Tabacón operates as an eco‑friendly, carbon‑neutral resort and La Paz supports rescue and education programs—visitors are asked to follow trail rules and avoid disturbing animals.
Destiny Travel Costa Rica operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
You step out of an air‑conditioned vehicle into humid forest light, the distant roar of cascades filling the valley. On this private full‑day route from San José you’ll thread boardwalks and dirt trails past hummingbird feeders, aviaries, and the unmistakable sway of sloths and howler monkeys overhead. The river dares you onward, each cascade framed by ferns and orchids.
You step out of an air‑conditioned vehicle into humid forest light, the distant roar of cascades filling the valley. On this private full‑day route from San José you’ll thread boardwalks and dirt trails past hummingbird feeders, aviaries, and the unmistakable sway of sloths and howler monkeys overhead. The river dares you onward, each cascade framed by ferns and orchids.
La Paz Waterfall Gardens grew as a private ecological park with trails and rescue facilities that showcase Costa Rica’s cloud‑forest fauna and a string of waterfalls carved into volcanic foothills. Later the road climbs toward Arenal’s shadow, where Tabacón harnesses geothermal water seeping from the volcano’s subterranean heat — the resort’s thermal river ranges roughly 25–50°C and is fed by Arenal’s lingering geothermal activity after the 1968 eruption that reshaped the region.
Expect easy‑to‑moderate walking on well‑maintained paths punctuated by wooden steps and viewing platforms; ponds, aviaries, and interpretive signage keep the pace varied. At Tabacón the terrain opens to terraced pools and warm currents that encourage restorative soaks; shaded gardens frame distant views of Arenal on clear days.
Practical notes: start early to beat traffic from San José, bring swimwear and a quick‑dry towel, and wear closed shoes for the waterfall trails. Insect repellent, sun protection, and a small daypack make the long day more comfortable. This private itinerary skips lines and includes lunch and dinner, making it a compact, accessible way to combine wildlife viewing and thermal relaxation in one fuel‑efficient loop.