Pure Trek Canyoning, Arenal Volcano Hike & Hot Springs

Exploring Costa Rica’s Top Attractions in One Day

This full-day adventure in La Fortuna offers a well-rounded taste of what makes Costa Rica special. For $282 per person, you get a blend of waterfall rappelling, a volcano hike, and a relaxing soak in natural hot springs. Starting early at 7:00 am, the tour lasts about 10 hours, making for an active but rewarding experience. Guides are bilingual, transportation is included, and all activities are family-friendly, which makes it accessible for travelers of various ages and fitness levels.

What we love most about this tour is the diversity of experiences packed into a single day. First, the adrenaline rush of canyoning—with waterfall rappelling and rock climbing—gets your heart pumping, and the guides ensure safety while making it fun. Second, the volcano hike offers not just scenic views but also an educational touch from knowledgeable guides, including the chance to use a telescope to observe the volcano’s craters and old lava flows.

A potential downside is the long day’s schedule—it’s packed, and if you’re not used to active itineraries, it might feel a bit rushed. Also, since the tour is sold as a bundle of three experiences, some travelers might find it tricky to focus solely on one part unless they choose their activities carefully.

This tour works best for adventure-seeking families, active couples, or groups who want a comprehensive taste of La Fortuna’s highlights without multiple bookings. If you enjoy spending your day outdoors with a mix of adrenaline, learning, and relaxation, this is a solid pick.

Key Points

• Diverse activities: Combines canyoning, volcano hiking, and hot springs for a full day of adventure.
• Expert guides: Bilingual guides ensure safety and share insightful information, enriching the experience.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for children, provided they are accompanied by adults and have moderate fitness.
• All-inclusive price: Includes transportation, lunch, snacks, dinner, and photos (available for purchase).
• Active day: Expect a physically engaging itinerary, ideal for active travelers.
• Good value: Combines multiple experiences at a competitive price, saving time and effort.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Experience

Pickup and Transportation

Your day kicks off with hotel pickup if you’re staying at certain locations, or at the meeting point located just outside La Fortuna. From there, you’re transported about 20 minutes to the canyon area, providing a smooth start that minimizes hassle. Once there, you transfer into 4×4 trucks, adding a bit of excitement even before reaching the activity site.

This part of the journey offers a taste of Costa Rica’s lush surroundings and sets the tone for an active, outdoor-filled day. The guides are known for their friendliness and professionalism, making all travelers feel comfortable from the moment they’re picked up.

Canyoning: Waterfall Rappelling and More

The core adrenaline experience takes place in a rainforest canyon that’s both breathtaking and challenging. You’ll rappel down waterfalls, slide along canyon walls, and climb rocks—an active, exhilarating way to connect with nature. According to reviewers, the canyoning is “amazing” and “exciting”, with some noting it as the highlight of the day.

Your guides handle all gear, ensuring safety without sacrificing fun. You don’t need prior experience, but a moderate level of physical fitness is recommended. One reviewer notes, “What I didn’t realize is this is 3 different tours sold in one package,” which suggests the variety keeps the pace lively and engaging.

Lunch and Rest at the Base

After a vigorous morning, you’ll settle in for a Costa Rican lunch at the base office surrounded by tropical gardens. The meal provides much-needed energy for the afternoon activities. This is a great opportunity to relax, chat with your guides, and enjoy the lush surroundings.

Volcano Hike: Learning and Viewing

Post-lunch, the tour moves to a private park named after the first eruption of the volcano in 1968. The trail offers stunning views of Arenal Volcano, with the option to use a telescope to get up close and personal with old lava flows and craters. This isn’t just a hike but an educational experience, thanks to guides who share insights about the volcano’s history and geology.

Visitors find this part fascinating; one reviewer called it “pretty neat,” emphasizing the value of the guide’s expertise and the chance to see the volcano from close quarters.

Hot Springs: Relaxation and Rejuvenation

After a day of activity, the hot springs await. These pools, heated naturally by volcanic activity, range in temperature from 34-40°C (93-104°F), offering a soothing soak. You’ll love the experience of floating in warm waters surrounded by tropical scenery—a great way to unwind and reflect on your day.

The hot springs are considered some of La Fortuna’s best, and many travelers appreciate how this segment balances the adrenaline with relaxation. It’s a favorite part for families and couples alike.

Dinner and Wrap-Up

Your day concludes with a delicious dinner, included in the package. It’s a fitting end, providing hearty sustenance after a day of active exploration. The entire experience is designed to be seamless, with transportation returning you to your hotel or meeting point.

Practical Details and Tips

The cost of $282 reflects good value considering all included activities, meals, and transportation. The tour’s length of about 7-8 hours makes it a full but manageable day. It’s important to note that travelers should have moderate physical fitness, as some activities like canyoning and hiking are physically demanding.

If you’re traveling with children, rest assured, as this is family-friendly, though children must be accompanied by adults. The maximum group size is 50 travelers, which gives a good balance between group camaraderie and personal attention.

Booking well in advance (about 73 days on average) is recommended, especially in high season. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours, providing peace of mind if weather turns unfavorable.

Transportation and Meeting Points

The meeting point is conveniently located just outside La Fortuna, and the tour includes hotel pickup if you stay at select locations. This saves you the hassle of arranging transport and allows you to relax before the adventure begins.

What to Wear and Bring

Expect to get wet during canyoning, so wear quick-drying clothes and sturdy footwear with good grip. Sunscreen, insect repellent, and a camera (photos are available for purchase) are also recommended.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for active travelers, families with children, or anyone wanting a comprehensive day of outdoor adventures in Costa Rica. If you enjoy a mix of adrenaline, nature, and relaxation, it ticks all those boxes. However, those with limited mobility or looking for a more relaxed experience might find the schedule a bit intense.

Final Thoughts

This Pure Trek adventure offers a well-balanced combination of thrill, education, and relaxation. It’s perfect for those eager to experience Costa Rica’s natural beauty and volcanic landscapes in a single day, with guides who are knowledgeable and friendly. The inclusion of meals and transportation makes it convenient, and the activity’s diversity keeps the day lively and engaging.

While it’s a physically active tour, it’s designed to be accessible to families and travelers with moderate fitness. The hot springs offer a lovely wind-down, making this a memorable, authentic experience that showcases Costa Rica’s adventurous spirit.

For active families, curious nature lovers, or couples wanting a full day of exploration, this tour delivers a fantastic, well-rounded snapshot of La Fortuna’s natural wonders.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, hotel pickup is included if you stay at certain locations, and the meeting point is also provided for those who prefer to meet there.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 7-8 hours, starting at 7:00 am.

Are activities suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly, but all children must be accompanied by adults and have a moderate fitness level.

What is the cost, and what does it include?
The price is $282 per person and includes all activities, transportation, guides, lunch, snacks, dinner, and photos (which can be purchased).

What should I wear?
Wear quick-drying clothes, sturdy footwear with good grip, and bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and a camera.

Is the tour physically demanding?
Yes, a moderate level of physical fitness is recommended, especially for canyoning and hiking.

Can I cancel if the weather turns bad?
Yes, there is free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.