Adventure Travel in Alajuela

An ever popular tourist destination, Alajuela has plenty of adventure travel opportunities. Home to the Arenal Volcano, the Poas Volcano and the Caño Negro Refuge, this province is a great place for the entire family to enjoy. Due to its proximity to the capital San Jose, many travelers often spend a lot of time in Alajuela to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Poas Volcano

The Poas Volcano and its national park are a great place for an adventure. The hiking here is superb with many well maintained trails that highlight the park’s dramatic scenery. Near the crater of the Poas there is a pretty dwarf cloud forest to explore, with some wonderful bird watching prospects.

La Fortuna

If you head northwest of the province, your first destination along the way is La Fortuna de San Carlos, a tiny town located at the base of the Arenal Volcano. Offering some truly superb views of the fiery volcano, La Fortuna is a tourist haven with plenty of activities for everyone. Go whitewater rafting, kayaking or canoeing on the Rios Peñas Blancas, Toro and Sarapiqui, or if you prefer try some mountain biking in the area. There are also a lot of hiking spots around La Fortuna, with a number of horse riding trails as well.

Other Activities

A popular activity are canopy tours in the region of Alajuela that are in the rainforest near the foot of the Arenal. A great way to catch a glimpse of the amazing wildlife in the area, these canopy tours offer an adrenaline filled adventure. Another way to tour the forestation here is via the Puentes Colgantes del Arenal or the Hanging Bridges of the Arenal Volcano. A unique environmental project the 14 bridges here are designed for all ages, with excellent birding tours for the keen naturalist.

At the Parque Nacional Volcano Arenal observe the awesome power of this volcano every day from the Arenal Observatory Lodge located a safe distance away, or if you like visit the wonderful Laguna de Arenal. A terrific place to go windsurfing, the less adventurous tourists can try their hand at some first class freshwater fishing opportunities.

Map of Alajuela

Click to enlarge map - Alajuela Region Map

North of Alajuela is the Refugio Nacional Caño Negro, an excellent place for a wildlife tour. Fishing and bird watching are the main activates at this rather remote refuge, which makes for a lovely day trip from the towns of San Carlos or La Fortuna.

Plan your Trip

With so much to do, it is no wonder then that Alajuela is a great place to have an adventure. Check our Adventure Travel Listings for Alajuela to plan out a truly memorable vacation. Make sure you look for a reputable adventure travel company and ask for a bilingual guide so that you can enjoy an exciting hassle free getaway.