Why Arenal?

Considered the Adventure Capital of the Americas, the Arenal area offers the best of all worlds. Here you’ll enjoy all the elements—lush rainforest, a sweet volcano, expansive Lake Arenal, sustainable farms, sparkling rivers and waterfalls, tropical gardens and decadent hot springs—within a small, easily accessible radius. We are truly blessed to have world-class tourist amenities and incredibly romantic and remote venues. No either/or here—you can have it all! 

And if you’re like me and digest information in list format, here are my favorite reasons to host your event in Arenal. 

1. The Arenal Volcano. It is the iconic, conical volcano that dominates the landscape in Arenal. It is one of the youngest volcanoes in the hemisphere, and although it entered a resting phase in 2010—meaning that its eruptions have paused—it is still a stunning sight. Rising above the rainforest at its base, Arenal frames the skyline with near perfect symmetry and offers the perfect backdrop for any event. In other words, you will have stunning photos. 

2. 100% Rainforest. Arenal and its surroundings are made up mostly of primary rainforest. When you think “tropical,” you’re imagining our home. The Arenal Volcano National Park encompasses four different microclimates and harbors a tremendous diversity of plants and wildlife. In fact, nearly 75% of the bird species identified in Costa Rica can be found here. 

3. Wildlife. It’s a jungle—literally! The area boasts over 10,000 identified species of plants, 850 species of birds, 800 species of butterflies, and 500 species of mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. Among the most productive ecosystems in the world, Costa Rican jungles are pristine and lush, bursting with some of the most colorful flora and fauna on the planet. 

4. Adventures. La Fortuna and the Arenal Volcano area offer a huge number of adventures—actually, more than anywhere else on the planet. You and your guests will never be bored with white water rafting, canyoning, waterfall rappelling and jumping, canopy and zipline tours, hanging bridges, cultural experiences, farm tours, mountain biking and climbing, tubing, and river boat safaris. Phew. (And that’s not even getting into our lake activities.) We are proud partners with the leading Adventure Company in Costa Rica. With nearly 30 years of experience and offices all over the country, the #1 rated Desafio Adventure Company tops the charts for safety and cutting edge adventures! 

5. Lake Arenal. Located at the base of the volcano, Lake Arenal is the largest lake in the country. Constructed as part of Costa Rica’s hydroelectric project to provide sustainable energy to the country, its turquoise waters are an enchanting sight from many vistas in the area. Surrounded by the lush rainforest and diverse wildlife we love, it also offers freshwater fishing, boating, kayaking, and stand up paddle boarding, as well as kiteboarding, wake boarding and windsurfing. 

6. The Famous Hot Springs. World-famous for a reason, our decadent hot springs are fed by one of the largest geothermal aquifers in the world and powered by our personal volcanic space heater. Mineral rich and great for your health, they offer a relaxing way to unwind after a full day of adventures. We have a variety of romantic and secluded options ranging in style and price. If you're looking for a romantic and restorative day, you've found it. Stay after sunset and soak under the stars to take things to the next level. Many also offer world class spas for even deeper relaxation and healing. It is a truly unforgettable experience... and muy caliente! 

7. Convenience. The Arenal/La Fortuna area is located approximately three hours from both International airports (San Jose or Liberia). This means you can choose from more flight options, and no matter where your guests land, they will be settled in no time! It is also located midway between our two coasts, which means it is a perfect complement to any beach destination in the country. We are truly at the heart of Costa Rica. 

8. Wide Selection of Venues. Host your event anywhere. Really, anywhere. In a historic Costa Rican farmhouse, an amphitheater with volcano views, beneath a 500-year-old Ceiba tree (the actual tree of life), in a five star riverside restaurant, at the base of a waterfall, on an organic farm serving farm-to-table meals, at a funky disco club tucked deep into the jungle, or on a lakeside pavilion complete with floating stage. Don’t see your dream venue on the list? Ask us—we can probably make it happen! 

9. So Many Places to Stay! You can find something for every style and in every price range. From cozy B&B's and budget-friendly lodges to the most luxurious eco-resorts, it’s all here. The area boasts over 120 different accommodation options, many of which top the Best Of lists every year on TripAdvisor, Conde Nast, and Travel & Leisure, and all of which are independently owned. Tell us what you like, and we can match you with one of our favorites. 

10. Because you’ll love it! I love it, of course. I live here. But I’m pretty sure you’ll love it too. Not a day goes by that the beauty of Arenal doesn’t take my breath away. Plus, La Fortuna is the friendliest little tourist town you could ask for. Full of restaurants, shops and services, it offers anything and everything you could want, right at the base of our majestic volcano. 

11. Good Vibes. What’s more, Arenal offers a unique meeting point of the elements: water (lake), fire (volcano), earth and wind all converge here. Costa Rica generates most of its (renewable!) energy in the immediate area, and you can truly feel the unique vibration of this place when you visit. With so many good vibes, you’ll connect with nature and others on a whole new level. I know I have! Arenal is the perfect setting for any event, and I would love to share it with you. 

Of course, I’ll always give you a balanced and transparent look at the pros and cons of every decision you make about your event. So, here are a few reasons you may NOT want to host your event in Arenal: 

1. You’re not okay with the possibility that it could rain on the day of your event. Full disclosure: Considered paradise by many, the rainforest can be… rainy. Rain is possible anytime and any day of any month. Rainy season or not, the sky can open up for 10 seconds or 10 days straight. It can also change quickly. There is often no way of predicting it—even with forecasts and radar. 

The good news: We also enjoy long stretches of time with totally amazing, clear and sunny weather. Days and weeks that are beyond beautiful! Don’t let anyone tell you differently. There is also always a rain plan, and most activities go on rain or shine. 

2. You don’t want to drive three hours from the airport to your destination. 

The good news: I can recommend other venue options closer to one of our international airports without sacrificing your dreams of cloud forest or rainforest, waterfalls or volcanos. I’ll be happy to provide some different options to suit your needs.