Walk the Arenal night forest with lanterns and a local guide to spot red-eyed tree frogs, owls, and nocturnal mammals. This two-hour guided hike from La Fortuna balances close-up wildlife viewing with practical safety and low-impact practices.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The forest at dusk closes like a curtain and then quietly reopens for a different cast of creatures. Lantern light cuts narrow cones through wet understory as the guide leads a small group along the Gallery Trail at Arenal Mundo Aventura, where calls, clicks and the occasional rustle announce frogs, owls and mammals that only come alive after sunset.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires walking on uneven, sometimes muddy trails for up to two hours.
Wildlife
History
The Arenal region’s modern ecology was heavily influenced by the 1968 eruption of Arenal Volcano, which reshaped forests and opened space for diverse successional habitats.
Conservation
Guided night hikes promote low-impact viewing—stay on paths, avoid flash photography, and follow your guide to minimize disturbance to nocturnal species.
Reserve your spot on the Guided Night Hike Arenal Mundo Aventura today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring a dimmable headlamp
A headlamp with a red-light setting preserves night vision and reduces disturbance to animals.
Wear grippy, closed-toe shoes
Trails can be muddy and slippery—trail runners or light hiking boots help prevent slips.
Use insect repellent
Mosquitoes and other insects are most active at night—apply DEET or picaridin before the hike.
Keep noise and flash low
Stay quiet and avoid camera flash to improve sighting chances and protect wildlife.
Headlamp with red-light mode
Hands-free light that preserves night vision and reduces disturbance to animals.
Closed-toe hiking shoes
Protects feet and provides traction on wet, uneven trails.
Light rain jacket
Quick protection from tropical downpours common in Arenal’s evenings.
rainy-season
Insect repellent
Effective insect protection improves comfort and reduces bites.