Arenal Jungle Tours

Imagine a place where dense tropical forests meet the power of a dormant volcano, and every rustle of leaves promises an encounter with a fascinating jungle inhabitant. Arenal Jungle Tours (also known as Arenal Jungle Zoo) is not a traditional menagerie with cages, but a professional ecotourism center in the cozy town of La Fortuna.

This site serves as a starting point for a deep dive into the nature for which Costa Rica is so famous. The focus here is on responsible tourism and professional guidance, as evidenced by the exceptionally high ratings from travelers worldwide. This place is ideal for those who want to see the "real" life of the tropics without interfering with the natural environment.

The center's main feature is its team of expert guides, who possess an almost magical ability to spot sloths, bright toucans, and nimble monkeys hidden in the greenery. Thanks to their knowledge, an ordinary walk turns into an exciting educational adventure amidst the exotic flora and fauna of the Arenal region.

You can contact the center's representatives to clarify excursion details or book spots using the following contact information:

An incredible kaleidoscope of activities awaits visitors. One of the most vivid experiences is a trip to La Fortuna Waterfall, where you can not only admire the powerful cascade but also swim in the refreshing natural basin. For lovers of panoramic views, walks across hanging bridges are organized, allowing you to see the jungle from a bird's-eye view.

Special attention is paid to wildlife observation. Accompanied by experienced guides like Norlan or Gonzalo, you will go in search of sloths, monkeys, turtles, and exotic birds. Guides use professional optics so you can see every detail of an animal's plumage or curious face without disturbing them. For the more adventurous, night tours are available, revealing the secrets of the forest dwellers' lives after sunset.

The program often includes not only hiking but also cultural experiences: a farm lunch with traditional local dishes, and tastings of fresh coffee and cocoa. To end a busy day, guests are invited to relax in natural hot springs, where warm water heated by the volcano's energy helps wash away fatigue under the shade of tropical trees.

Finding the organizers' office in La Fortuna is easy, as it is conveniently located right in the center, near the south side of the central park. If you are already staying within the town, the meeting point is easily reachable on foot or by a quick taxi ride.

For tourists staying in the surrounding hotels, an even more convenient option is available: the company often organizes transfers directly from your hotel doorstep. This eliminates the need to navigate on your own and allows you to fully relax before the adventure begins.

If you are traveling from San José or Liberia, the journey by rental car or tourist shuttle takes about 3–4 hours along the scenic Route 142. Travelers using public transport should look for intercity buses heading to the La Fortuna bus station, which is just a stone's throw from the office.

While archival records haven't preserved the exact opening date, this center is rightfully considered one of the most experienced tour operators in the Arenal region. Its history is closely tied to the development of ecological tourism in Costa Rica, when the country began opening its natural treasures to travelers from all over the world.

Over the years, the team of professionals has accumulated unique knowledge about the local ecosystem. Interestingly, the name is often associated with a "zoo," yet the center's ideology is fundamentally different: the emphasis here is on observing animals in their natural habitat, without cages or enclosures.

This project grew from a small group of enthusiasts in love with the nature surrounding the volcano into a respected organization with top ratings on international travel platforms. The core value here has always been a respectful attitude toward the jungle and a commitment to showing guests the authentic, "wild" life of the tropics.

The amount of time you should set aside for a visit directly depends on your chosen program. If you are planning a combo tour, which includes a visit to the waterfall, a walk on the volcano slopes, and relaxation in thermal springs, it will take a full day (about 8–10 hours).

For those with limited time, shorter excursions are available. For example, a night walk through the jungle or a visit to the hanging bridges park will take approximately 3–4 hours. In any case, there’s no need to rush, as nature requires silence and patience to observe its wild inhabitants.

The organizers are ready to welcome guests daily, seven days a week. The office and tours operate according to the following schedule:

Monday – Sunday: 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

It is recommended to book excursions in advance through the official website or by phone, especially if you plan to visit during the "high" season, to guarantee guide availability.

Thanks to its central location in La Fortuna, you will find yourself surrounded by excellent restaurants and cozy spots to relax after your jungle excursion. It is a wonderful opportunity to experience the local gastronomy and the town's hospitality.