Experience geothermal baths fed from Arenal Volcano at Los Lagos Hot Springs. This accessible 2–4 hour soak combines natural mineral pools, spa treatments, and easy shuttle access from La Fortuna.
Experience geothermal baths fed from Arenal Volcano at Los Lagos Hot Springs. This accessible 2–4 hour soak combines natural mineral pools, spa treatments, and easy shuttle access from La Fortuna.
Steam drifts through tropical trees as mineral-rich water laps the stone rims of each pool, and the Arenal Volcano watches from a short rise like a patient furnace. At Los Lagos, natural thermal springs are sculpted into a series of open-air baths and lagoons, where warm currents coax tired muscles and steam wraps the canopy in a humid veil.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Tico Paradise Costa Rica · La Fortuna, Alajuela
Steam drifts through tropical trees as mineral-rich water laps the stone rims of each pool, and the Arenal Volcano watches from a short rise like a patient furnace. At Los Lagos, natural thermal springs are sculpted into a series of open-air baths and lagoons, where warm currents coax tired muscles and steam wraps the canopy in a humid veil.
The springs are fed by groundwater heated by Arenal’s subterranean forces; ash and lava over millennia have altered local aquifers and concentrated minerals that many visitors find soothing. The resort pools mimic natural basins rather than tiled tubs, and local guides will explain how hydrotherapy and geotherapy—clays and mud—have been used in the region alongside modern spa practices. La Fortuna’s tourism grew with Arenal’s rise in the 1970s and hot springs became a key draw for travelers seeking both relaxation and an active base for hiking, canopy tours, and waterfalls.
Practicalities are straightforward: typical visits run two to four hours, and the property offers shared shuttles. Bring a swimsuit, quick-dry towel, and a reusable water bottle—hydrate between soaks, as warm water can accelerate dehydration. Pregnant guests and anyone with cardiovascular issues should avoid hot pools; follow posted temperature guidance and limit long immersions. Plan late afternoon to combine golden light on the volcano with cooler evening air, or arrive earlier to beat crowds.
Respect the thermal environment: use biodegradable sunscreen, avoid soap in the pools, and follow staff directions. A soak at Los Lagos is part geology lesson, part relaxation ritual—an accessible way to feel Arenal’s heat beneath your feet while staying anchored to clear, practical precautions.
easy.
2–4 hours.
Suitable for most fitness levels; ability to walk short steps and move between pools is needed
Most packages include towel service and locker access but check your booking; bringing a personal towel is recommended for comfort.
No — hot springs at Los Lagos are not recommended for pregnant travelers due to heat exposure; consult your physician for alternatives.
Yes, a shared shuttle is available from about 8am to 6pm; private transfers can be arranged with advance notice.
Children are typically allowed but must be supervised; some hotter pools may have age or health restrictions—ask staff on arrival.
Local tourism around Arenal grew after the volcano’s increased activity in the 1970s; hot springs have since been developed into resort pools combining traditional and modern spa treatments.
Pools rely on natural geothermal flow; guests should avoid soaps in the water, use biodegradable products, and follow onsite rules to minimize impacts.
Tico Paradise Costa Rica operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.




Steam drifts through tropical trees as mineral-rich water laps the stone rims of each pool, and the Arenal Volcano watches from a short rise like a patient furnace. At Los Lagos, natural thermal springs are sculpted into a series of open-air baths and lagoons, where warm currents coax tired muscles and steam wraps the canopy in a humid veil.
Steam drifts through tropical trees as mineral-rich water laps the stone rims of each pool, and the Arenal Volcano watches from a short rise like a patient furnace. At Los Lagos, natural thermal springs are sculpted into a series of open-air baths and lagoons, where warm currents coax tired muscles and steam wraps the canopy in a humid veil.
The springs are fed by groundwater heated by Arenal’s subterranean forces; ash and lava over millennia have altered local aquifers and concentrated minerals that many visitors find soothing. The resort pools mimic natural basins rather than tiled tubs, and local guides will explain how hydrotherapy and geotherapy—clays and mud—have been used in the region alongside modern spa practices. La Fortuna’s tourism grew with Arenal’s rise in the 1970s and hot springs became a key draw for travelers seeking both relaxation and an active base for hiking, canopy tours, and waterfalls.
Practicalities are straightforward: typical visits run two to four hours, and the property offers shared shuttles. Bring a swimsuit, quick-dry towel, and a reusable water bottle—hydrate between soaks, as warm water can accelerate dehydration. Pregnant guests and anyone with cardiovascular issues should avoid hot pools; follow posted temperature guidance and limit long immersions. Plan late afternoon to combine golden light on the volcano with cooler evening air, or arrive earlier to beat crowds.
Respect the thermal environment: use biodegradable sunscreen, avoid soap in the pools, and follow staff directions. A soak at Los Lagos is part geology lesson, part relaxation ritual—an accessible way to feel Arenal’s heat beneath your feet while staying anchored to clear, practical precautions.