The Ultimate Guide to Arenal, Costa Rica for Your Company Trip

If you are planning a corporate incentive trip for your company and you’re looking for an adventure-filled destination, look no further than Arenal, Costa Rica. With its stunning natural beauty, adrenaline-pumping activities, and luxurious accommodations, Arenal is the perfect destination for your next company trip. From hiking trails around the iconic Arenal Volcano to soaking in geothermal hot springs, there’s something for everyone.

This guide from our team at Costa Rica DMC covers everything you need to know about Arenal, Costa Rica, including planning your trip, tips on when to go, and the best activities to partake in so that you can have a successful corporate incentive trip.

About Arenal

La Fortuna, a small town in Arenal with only 15,000 inhabitants, receives an incredible 1.5 million visitors annually. This makes the town packed with people year-round, all eager to witness the country’s most renowned volcano: Arenal. What makes Arenal so unique? Firstly, it’s one of Costa Rica’s most active volcanoes, although it hasn’t had a major eruption since 1968, which claimed 87 lives and destroyed two towns. Despite its dormancy, the volcano remains a must-see destination due to its stunning natural beauty and rich geological history.

How to Plan Your Trip

When organizing a corporate incentive trip to Arenal, Costa Rica, it’s important to remember the location’s logistics and the many attractions and activities beyond La Fortuna. Arenal Volcano National Park, covering 29,692 acres, is just one of the many sights in the 504,094-acre Arenal Conservation Area, offering abundant opportunities for excursions and exploration.

Come prepared with various outdoor clothing suitable for rugged terrain and casual activities, including hiking boots, waterproof backpacks, a hat, a water bottle, mosquito repellent, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Don’t forget to pack a rain jacket, waterproof storage packs, and a bathing suit, as unexpected rain and waterfall swimming may be on the itinerary.

When to Go to Arenal

To increase your chances of witnessing the stunning peak of Arenal without any hindrances, it’s advisable to skip the green season (May to early November), when cloudy mist often envelopes the summit. However, even during the dry season (mid-November to April), the peak may still be hidden under a layer of cloud cover, making it a hit-or-miss situation. The locals estimate that only about 60 days per year allow for an unobstructed view of Arenal, adding to the exclusivity of the experience.

Activities in Arenal

• Hot Springs

La Fortuna’s geothermal hot springs are a must-visit during your corporate incentive trip to Arenal. Formed after the 1968 eruption, these thermal pools offer a range of features to cater to different preferences and budgets. Tabacon Resort is famous for its natural setting and lush gardens, while other, more exclusive options exist. After a long day of hiking around Arenal, indulging in the hot springs’ warm pools is the perfect way to unwind.

• Hiking Trails

One of the most enjoyable and popular activities to do while in Arenal is hiking. The trails surrounding the Arenal volcano are well maintained and offer easy walks for all physical levels, making it the perfect choice for a company incentive trip activity. For instance, the Sendero Colada 1968 trail is just over two miles long, while the Tucanes trail is about 1.3 miles long. Though none of the trails ascend very high, they do offer breathtaking views of the forest and dried lava fields. For example, Sendero Las Coladas is a 1.3-mile trail that passes by the lava rocks and affords some awe-inspiring views of Arenal. Meanwhile, Sendero El Ceibo is a one-mile trail that leads to a magnificent 164-foot-high Ceiba tree.

• La Fortuna Waterfall

La Fortuna’s most recognizable landmark, the La Fortuna Waterfall, is an essential visit for all travelers, located just 15 minutes south of town. This popular destination, considered one of the most visited waterfalls in Costa Rica, features a stunning 75-meter waterfall cascading into a deep blue lagoon, inviting visitors to take a dip. It’s situated at the base of the Chato Volcano, offering a great half-day excursion.

• Canyoning

For those companies seeking an adventure like no other for their employees, canyoning is a popular activity that will surely get their hearts racing. La Fortuna and its surrounding areas are home to several licensed operators who offer tours that involve rappelling down canyons and waterfalls. With stunning views and the roar of the waterfalls in your ears, it’s an experience you won’t forget. Rest assured, safety is paramount, and guides will provide you with all necessary equipment and instruction before your descent. Whether you are an adrenaline junkie or looking to try something new on your corporate incentive trip, canyoning in La Fortuna is an activity worth trying.

• Horseback Riding

Exploring the stunning landscapes of La Fortuna and Arenal on horseback is a popular activity for nature enthusiasts. From two to six hours, horseback riding tours offer riders an unforgettable experience with breathtaking views of the volcano and the surrounding areas. Some tours will even take you to the edge of the “danger zone” at the base of the volcano or to the La Fortuna Waterfall. Experienced guides lead the way, pointing out the unique flora and fauna along the trails, making it an unforgettable adventure for all.

Planning on Going to Arenal for Your Corporate Incentive Trip? Let Us Help You!

When you choose Costa Rica DMC to plan your corporate incentive trip to Arenal, we make sure to map out all the details to your liking. From hotels to excursion bookings, we’ve got you covered. Contact our team today to learn more about booking your next corporate incentive trip through Costa Rica DMC!