rickandpat

Going in less than two weeks (yeah!). Though I like some guided activities because you always learn so much and see things you wouldn't have on your own, I'm wondering about doing a bit of hiking in Arenal Volcano National Park on our own. Any suggestions or tips? I'm looking for something half day or less, which leaves out Cerro Chato. We could do a guided tour if it is definitely the way to go. Husband and I are in our 40s, very good shape, 19-year-old son is a runner and we're all experienced hikers. Nothing in stone, but plan to do Pure Trek canyoning, La Fortuna waterfall, Skytrek, Rio Celeste, possibly caving, kayaking/rafting or biking.

Anyone know if there's any decent kayaking/duckies/rafting trips out of Arenal this time of year?

tully

I think the hiking at Arenal is pretty straight-forward. The trail we took is just one long, flat trail (noturn-offs that I remember) that dead-ends into the old lava area that you can climb around (rocky but fairly easy) and look around, see the lake, etc. It's something that, if I'd had a car, I would've felt very comfortable doing alone. The tour I did though was nice, and pretty cheap, I think around $30 including transportation & drinks. I think people with a car and even just a little hiking behind them would have a very easy time of it on their own.

Melissa5

rickandpat, our favorite hike in Arenal was the Hanging Bridges. Beautiful rainforest and IF you go slowly you will see a lot. However you will need to slow down your runner, as if he runs along this path, he will come out the end and say "I didn't see anything!" Hint: if everybody else is passing you on this trail, you are going at the right pace to see fascinating insects, howler monkeys in the trees overhead, and lots of other surprises. Enjoy!

flyfaraway

Oh, I had a similar question, so thanks for asking rickandpat!

I am going this upcoming weekend and am spending 3 days in Arenal, then 3 in Manuel Antonio.

Regarding the PureTrek Canyoning - my friends and I were interested in that, too. Is that something we should have booked ahead or can you book when you get there?

rickandpat

Flyfaraway:
Last year when we did Pure Trek, we reserved ahead of time. As I recall at that time we had to fax back credit card info., a bit of a hassle. But we only had a day and a half and didn't want to miss out due to their booking up. This time, since we have more days to work with, we'll probably book it after we get to Arenal and get a look at the weather forecast. (We prefer ziplines during clear weather, and if there's rain, canyoning then - you're wet anyway.) You might want to call Pure Trek's toll free number, and ask if things are filling up for the weekend, and go from there. You won't want to miss it!