Safari in Northern Plains & Arenal Volcano
Discover the iconic Arenal Volcano, lush rainforests, and rich wetlands of the northern lowlands, offering thrilling adventures and diverse wildlife.
Northern Plains & Arenal Volcano Parks Map
Explore safari parks across Northern Plains & Arenal Volcano
Northern Plains & Arenal Volcano Safari Parks
Explore safari parks in Northern Plains & Arenal Volcano
Parque Nacional Miravalles-Jorge Manuel Dengo
Parque Nacional Miravalles-Jorge Manuel Dengo is a protected area in Costa Rica.
Parque Nacional Volcán Arenal
Parque Nacional Volcán Arenal is a protected area in Costa Rica.
Parque Nacional Volcán Tenorio
Parque Nacional Volcán Tenorio is a protected area in Costa Rica.
Refugio de Vida Silvestre Bosque Alegre
Refugio de Vida Silvestre Bosque Alegre is a protected area in Costa Rica.
Refugio de Vida Silvestre Caño Negro
Refugio de Vida Silvestre Caño Negro is a protected area in Costa Rica.
Refugio de Vida Silvestre Corredor Fronterizo
Refugio de Vida Silvestre Corredor Fronterizo is a protected area in Costa Rica.
Refugio de Vida Silvestre Duaru
Refugio de Vida Silvestre Duaru is a protected area in Costa Rica.
Refugio de Vida Silvestre Lagunas las Camelias
Refugio de Vida Silvestre Lagunas las Camelias is a protected area in Costa Rica.
Refugio de Vida Silvestre La Tirimbina
Refugio de Vida Silvestre La Tirimbina is a protected area in Costa Rica.
Refugio de Vida Silvestre Maquenque
Refugio de Vida Silvestre Maquenque is a protected area in Costa Rica.
Refugio de Vida Silvestre Peñas Blancas
Refugio de Vida Silvestre Peñas Blancas is a protected area in Costa Rica.
Refugio Nacional de Vida Silvestre Curi-Cancha
Refugio Nacional de Vida Silvestre Curi-Cancha is a protected area in Costa Rica.
Reserva Biológica Alberto Manuel Brenes
Reserva Biológica Alberto Manuel Brenes is a protected area in Costa Rica.
Reserva Biológica Bosque Nuboso Monteverde
Reserva Biológica Bosque Nuboso Monteverde is a protected area in Costa Rica.
Reserva Bosque Nuboso Santa Elena
Reserva Bosque Nuboso Santa Elena is a protected area in Costa Rica.
Zona Protectora Miravalles
Zona Protectora Miravalles is a protected area in Costa Rica.
Compare Parks in Northern Plains & Arenal Volcano
Side-by-side comparison of safari parks in Northern Plains & Arenal Volcano
| Park | Area | Wildlife | Lodges | Crowds | Malaria | Airport |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Parque Nacional Miravalles-Jorge Manuel Dengo | - | 488 | - | Very Quiet | Moderate | UPL (22km) |
| Parque Nacional Volcán Arenal | - | 513 | - | Quiet | Moderate | FON (19km) |
| Parque Nacional Volcán Tenorio | - | 513 | - | Quiet | Moderate | MRGT (16km) |
| Refugio de Vida Silvestre Bosque Alegre | - | 507 | - | Very Quiet | Moderate | MRDV (14km) |
| Refugio de Vida Silvestre Caño Negro | - | 513 | - | Very Quiet | Moderate | MRLG (18km) |
| Refugio de Vida Silvestre Corredor Fronterizo | - | 488 | - | Very Quiet | Moderate | LSL (10km) |
| Refugio de Vida Silvestre Duaru | - | 513 | - | Quiet | Moderate | MRSB (8km) |
| Refugio de Vida Silvestre La Tirimbina | - | 507 | - | Very Quiet | Moderate | MRHG (5km) |
| Refugio de Vida Silvestre Lagunas las Camelias | - | 488 | - | Very Quiet | Moderate | UPL (12km) |
| Refugio de Vida Silvestre Maquenque | - | 504 | - | Very Quiet | Moderate | MRHO (12km) |
| Refugio de Vida Silvestre Peñas Blancas | - | 513 | - | Very Quiet | Moderate | MRAJ (16km) |
| Refugio Nacional de Vida Silvestre Curi-Cancha | - | 513 | - | Quiet | Moderate | MRAJ (28km) |
101 species recorded in Northern Plains & Arenal Volcano5 threatened
We love the dramatic contrast here, from the imposing silhouette of Arenal Volcano to the steamy embrace of the rainforest. The air is thick with the scent of damp earth and blooming orchids, and the sounds of howler monkeys and exotic birds are a constant, thrilling soundtrack. We recommend taking a boat trip on Lake Arenal at dawn; the mist rising off the water with the volcano in the background is simply breathtaking. This is a landscape that feels alive, vibrant, and utterly unforgettable.
Terrain & Altitude
Rolling hills and fertile plains give way to dense rainforest and expansive wetlands surrounding the prominent Arenal Volcano.
100-1,600m above sea level
Vegetation
Lush tropical rainforests, cloud forests at higher elevations, and abundant aquatic vegetation characterize the diverse plant life.
Water Sources
The region is crisscrossed by numerous rivers, including the San Carlos and Sarapiquí, and dotted with significant wetlands and the vast Lake Arenal.
Unique Features
The iconic, cone-shaped Arenal Volcano, though currently dormant, dominates the landscape and influences the surrounding ecosystems with its past volcanic activity.
While flying into SJO or LIR is convenient, we often recommend arranging a private transfer directly to your lodge. It saves time and hassle, especially after a long international flight, and allows you to relax and enjoy the stunning scenery from the moment you land.
Nearest Airports
Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO)
120km / 2hr drive
Numerous daily international flights from North America and Europe.
Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR)
180km / 3hr drive
Good connections from the US and Canada, and some European hubs.
Driving Routes
From San Jose
We find the drive from San Jose to be the most straightforward. Take Route 1 North towards Alajuela, then Route 702 towards San Ramon and finally Route 141 towards La Fortuna. The roads are generally well maintained tarmac.
From Liberia
A scenic drive, this route takes you through Guanacaste province. Head south on Route 1, then east on Route 707 and Route 141 towards La Fortuna. Some sections can be winding.
Temperature
19.9°C
68°F
Rainfall
197.3 mm
Heavy rains
Humidity
89.6%
Sunshine
9.4 hrs/day
Data source: Open-Meteo Archive API
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