Author: Maverick Digital Group

This refuge is located in Los Ángeles Sur de Río Cuarto, the newest canton in the province of Alajuela. The Hule, Congo, and Bosque Alegre Lagoons are three wetlands that are part of the refuge and the Central Volcanic Mountain Range Conservation Area.

They are situated 11 km south of Poás Volcano and 8 km from the town of Cariblanco.

The largest of the three lagoons is the Hule Lagoon, well known for the incredible view from its lookout point. It is 1,150 meters long and over 26 meters deep, located at an altitude of 400 meters above sea level.

The second largest is the Congo Lagoon, with a depth of 14.6 meters and an area of 15 hectares. To reach it, you must take the path to the right of Hule Lagoon, which is about 3 km through a densely forested and somewhat muddy trail. This lagoon has a distinctive greenish color, perfect for photography.

In third place is the Bosque Alegre Lagoon, the smallest of the three. It does not have a trail leading to it, so it is rarely visited.

Around these lagoons, you can find a great diversity of wildlife. You might encounter animals such as armadillos, white-faced capuchin monkeys, and howler monkeys. Additionally, there are around 170 species of birds in the area.

Activities you can enjoy here include fishing, kayaking, camping, hiking, and even taking a refreshing swim.

Near the lookout, there is also a restaurant where you can have lunch, or you can bring your own picnic to enjoy by the shores of Hule Lagoon.

Don’t forget:

Comfortable or trail shoes, a waterproof jacket, a swimsuit, a towel, sunscreen, insect repellent, and snacks for the hike.

What are you waiting for? Bring your family and friends and explore this place—you won’t regret it!

How to get there:

To visit these lagoons, take Route 126, which connects Varablanca-Cinchona and Cariblanco. Once you arrive in Cariblanco, continue for 6.5 km on a gravel road towards Los Ángeles. This turn-off is through the community known as “Nueva Cinchona.” You can leave your vehicle at the Bosque Alegre Lookout Park; from there, it’s just a 500-meter walk to Hule Lagoon. We recommend using your preferred navigation app to guide you from your starting point.

It Had Its Strongest Eruption in 1968 This park is considered a living laboratory due to its complex biological processes. It also provides 70% of the water contained in the Arenal Reservoir basin, the main source of hydroelectric power in the country. It is located in the northern region of the country, about 7 km northeast of La Fortuna, San Carlos.

The Arenal Volcano remained inactive for a long time until a powerful eruption in 1968 caused the destruction of nearby villages and the loss of many lives.

If you visit this protected area, make sure not to miss the lava flows from 1992, the impressive 400-year-old Ceiba tree, and the trails through the extensive and authentic rainforest, where you can appreciate the site’s wildlife.

The altitude range goes from 500 meters to 1,633 meters above sea level, with the Arenal Volcano standing out prominently due to its almost perfect conical shape, distinguishing it from the rest of the country’s volcanoes.

Main Points of Interest

Main Lookout:

Trail Length: 1.8 km. Access is by vehicle or on foot. The permitted stay time is 20 minutes, and it is located at the base of the volcano, a special place to hear and observe the various manifestations of the volcano. From here, you can see the lava flows from 1968 and 1992, as well as Cerro Chato and the Arenal Reservoir, a great spot for photography.

El Ceibo Trail:

Trail length of 1.8 km with a walking time of 1.5 hours. This semicircular trail has a flat topography and goes through secondary forest, offering a wide variety of flora and fauna. It is named after its main attraction: the Ceiba tree, which is 60 meters tall and about 100 years old, along with many other species that catch the eye with their unique beauty.

Los Miradores Trail (PENINSULA):

The trail length is 1.2 km with a walking time of 1 hour. It is located in a place called La Península, with flat and gently sloping terrain. This is an excellent spot for bird watching, such as guans, toucans, finches, and hummingbirds, as well as mammals like monkeys, coatis, anteaters, agoutis, and peccaries. The trail offers scenic beauty, providing panoramic views of the reservoir, the volcano, and the park’s highlands.

Heliconias Trail:

The trail is 1 km long and takes about 25 minutes to complete. This trail showcases vegetation that began to grow after the 1968 eruptions. It is named after the presence of heliconias.

Las Coladas Trail:

The trail is 2 km long one-way, and it takes about 1 hour to walk. You can stay at the viewpoint for only 20 minutes. It features a flat, sandy terrain with varied vegetation. Due to its strategic location, you can appreciate the volcanic structure. It is named after the impressive lava flow emitted in 1992. From the top of the flow, you can see the Arenal Reservoir and Cerro Chato.

Important Facts

• You cannot climb the volcanic cone or its immediate surroundings, as it is prohibited.
• You cannot make bonfires. You may use portable gas stoves only in designated areas.
• You cannot bring pets.
• You cannot use sound equipment such as radios, megaphones, televisions, or any other loud devices.
• It is prohibited to misuse, damage, or vandalize park infrastructure.
• You cannot smoke within the boundaries of Arenal Volcano National Park.
• You cannot extract or harm plants, animals, or their byproducts, nor extract rocks or any other geological material.
• You cannot carry firearms, crossbows, knives, or any other weapon classified as such by law number 7530 on Arms and Explosives.
• You cannot place signs, advertisements, or hold any type of event within the park boundaries without authorization from the Arenal Volcano National Park administration.
• You must dispose of waste (garbage) in the appropriate receptacles provided in public use areas or remove it from the area if no receptacles are installed for management reasons.
• You cannot bring alcoholic beverages or any other drugs into the park.

Located in the 11th canton of the Alajuela province, La Fortuna de San Carlos is a region brimming with adventure and perfect for a day trip or a vacation. Whether you’ve passed through without exploring all it has to offer or are considering a visit to make the most of your time here, we’ve compiled a list of 12 exciting activities for you to enjoy. Start planning your trip with friends or family today!

Ready to Explore?

La Fortuna is about a three-hour drive from San José and 45 km from Ciudad Quesada (San Carlos). This area is renowned for its concentration of hotels and tour operators specializing in wellness and adventure.

1) La Fortuna Waterfall:
This stunning 70-meter waterfall is located within Arenal Volcano National Park, about 16 km from the center of La Fortuna. Note that entry requires a fee ($18 for international visitors, $9 for nationals, and children under 8 are free). Facilities include dressing rooms, a restaurant, and a souvenir shop. If you prefer not to descend the nearly 530 steps to the base of the waterfall, you can enjoy the view from a nearby lookout point. However, taking the time to descend is worth it, as you can swim in the cool waters below the falls or in a natural pool further downstream.

2) Hanging Bridges:
For a closer view of Arenal Volcano, consider taking a hike among the clouds and trees on the hanging bridges near La Fortuna. Some of these bridges are located about 20 km from the town center and offer incredible views of the volcano and Arenal Lake.

3) Arenal Volcano National Park:
A visit to Arenal Volcano is a must. This iconic destination is a primary reason why La Fortuna remains a popular tourist spot. The national park is open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with an entrance fee of ¢1000 for nationals, ¢500 for national and resident children, $15 for foreign adults, and $5 for non-resident children.

4) Boat Tour on Arenal Lake:
If you’re near Monteverde or La Fortuna, consider a boat tour on Arenal Lake. These tours last approximately 3 to 4 hours, allowing you to admire the volcano’s grandeur and the surrounding natural beauty.

5) Rafting Tour:
Experience the thrill of white-water rafting on the Balsa, Toro, and Peñas Blancas rivers, where you can navigate rapids ranging from class II to IV. This adventure offers a mix of calm waters and exciting rapids, making for an unforgettable experience.

6) Canopy Tour:
Close to the center of La Fortuna, several tour companies offer zip-lining experiences. These canopy tours feature multiple cables of varying heights and lengths, with some routes crossing over rivers or through lush natural surroundings.

7) Chocolate Tour:
In addition to adventure, La Fortuna also offers cultural and culinary tours. One great option for families is a chocolate tour, where you’ll learn about the process of making chocolate from bean to bar and enjoy delicious tastings.

8) Horseback Riding:
Near the town center, you’ll find opportunities for horseback riding, allowing you to explore local farms and forests while connecting with nature.

9) ATV Tour:
If you’re into motor sports and adventure, consider an ATV tour. These tours are available near the town center or closer to the volcano’s slopes, offering a thrilling way to explore the area.

10) Hot Springs:
La Fortuna de San Carlos is a paradise for hot springs, thanks to the volcanic activity in the region. There are numerous options available, ranging from natural hot spring pools to family-friendly water parks, catering to all budgets.

11) Río Celeste:
Located about 1 hour and 20 minutes away in Tenorio Volcano National Park, Río Celeste is shared by the provinces of Alajuela and Guanacaste. While swimming in the waterfall is not allowed, you can hike to the falls and enjoy a picnic by the river, which features the same striking blue water.

12) Arenal Lake:
Besides boat tours, Arenal Lake also offers kayaking and paddleboarding opportunities. Or, try a unique water bike tour—an interesting way to enjoy the lake’s beauty!

These are just some of the exciting activities that await you in this incredible region of Costa Rica. Don’t forget to enjoy the warm hospitality of the local people and savor the fantastic cuisine available.