Paddling opportunities abound in La Fortuna, with Arenal Lake and Penas Blancas River offering prime spots for water adventures. The two main options – guided kayak and canoe tours – let you explore hidden coves while spotting toucans, monkeys, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
I love the small-group wildlife safaris on Penas Blancas River, where expert guides help track down sloths and river otters. The kayak fishing excursions on Lake Arenal are especially memorable, combining scenic paddling with chances to catch guapote and machaca.
Each tour includes quality gear, bilingual instruction, and convenient hotel pickup. Whether you’re a first-timer or experienced paddler, the calm waters and professional guides ensure a safe, enriching experience.
Our recommended tours showcase the best of La Fortuna’s waterways:
Key Points
- The Kayaking at Arenal Lake tour offers a 5-star activity with a 100% recommendation rate, featuring exploration of secluded bays and islands.
- Stand Up Paddling on Lake Arenal provides a half-day adventure with hotel pickup, paddleboarding techniques, and included equipment and snacks.
- The Kayak Safari on the Penas Blancas River offers a 100% recommended gentle kayaking experience focused on local wildlife, with a small group size and accessibility.
- The Guided Kayaking Tour on Arenal Lake is a highly-rated activity with a 90% recommendation, including snacks, kayaks, and a bilingual naturalist guide.
- The Wildlife Safari Experience by Kayak explores abundant wildlife in La Fortuna, with sightings of howler monkeys, sloths, and crocodiles, and knowledgeable guides.
Kayaking at Arenal Lake – La Fortuna
Kayakers venture onto Arenal Lake, a stunning body of water nestled amidst the lush rainforest and towering Arenal Volcano.
This 5-star kayaking activity in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, boasts a 100% recommendation rate from travelers. Surrounded by breathtaking scenery, paddlers can explore secluded bays and islands during the half-day tour.
Hassle-free transportation and a bilingual guide ensure a smooth and informative experience. With a maximum group size of 15, the activity caters to various fitness levels, though not suitable for those with certain medical conditions.
Positive reviews highlight the safety, views, and enjoyable guides, making this a must-try adventure in the region.
Read our full review: Kayaking at Arenal Lake – La Fortuna Review
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Stand Up Paddling on Lake Arenal
What better way to experience the serene beauty of Lake Arenal than through the exhilarating activity of stand-up paddleboarding?
Desafio Adventure Company offers a half-day adventure on the lake, with hotel pickup and drop-off in La Fortuna. For a maximum group of 25, guests will learn paddleboarding techniques before enjoying a boat ride to the lake’s center for practice.
Along the way, they’ll take in picturesque views, including the iconic Arenal Volcano. With equipment, snacks, and gratuities included, this is an ideal way for both novice and experienced paddlers to explore the 33-square-mile lake and its depths of up to 200 feet.
Read our full review: Stand Up Paddling on Lake Arenal Review
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Kayak Safari
For those seeking a more serene and up-close encounter with La Fortuna’s natural wonders, the Kayak Safari on the Penas Blancas River provides an excellent option.
This 100% recommended tour offers a gentle kayaking experience while learning about the local wildlife and landscape. Travelers can expect to see monkeys, iguanas, and birds in small groups of up to 6 people, keeping costs down.
The tour includes kayaks, safety equipment, a naturalist guide, and transportation. It’s wheelchair accessible, allows service animals, and has a moderate fitness level requirement.
Priced from $84.75 per person, it’s available daily from 8 AM to 1 PM, with a reserve now, pay later option.
Read our full review: KAYAK SAFARI Review
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Discover the Beauty of Arenal Lake on a Guided Kayaking Tour
Gliding across the serene waters of Arenal Lake, this guided kayaking tour offers a unique opportunity to discover the natural beauty of this stunning Costa Rican landscape.
Priced from $90 per person, the tour accommodates up to 10 travelers and is recommended by 90% of previous participants. Participants will enjoy snacks, use of kayaks, life vests, and paddles, and be accompanied by a bilingual naturalist guide.
However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions. Confirmation is provided at booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start of the experience.
Read our full review: Discover the Beauty of Arenal Lake on a Guided Kayaking Tour Review
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Wildlife Safari Experience by Kayak
Calypso Adventures offers a thrilling Wildlife Safari Experience by Kayak in the lush La Fortuna region of Costa Rica. This 4.5/5 rated tour allows you to explore the area’s abundant wildlife from the comfort of your kayak.
For $83 per person, you’ll enjoy snacks, meals, and private transportation. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers, though those with medical conditions should consult the guidelines.
Past guests have spotted howler monkeys, sloths, and crocodiles, praising the knowledgeable guides. However, some have reported issues with cancellations.
Read our full review: Wildlife Safari Experience by Kayak Review
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Morning Kayaking by Arenal Lake
Visitors can embark on a picturesque morning kayaking excursion across the serene Arenal Lake in La Fortuna, Costa Rica. The 5-star rated tour takes guests on a scenic paddle, where they’ll spot wildlife and enjoy the stunning natural surroundings.
With a maximum capacity of 29 travelers, the small-group experience provides a more intimate and personalized outing. Included are essential amenities like life vests, snacks, and bottled water.
The activity caters to those with a moderate fitness level, though infant seats are available. Booking is flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior and a “reserve now, pay later” option.
Read our full review: Morning Kayaking by Arenal Lake Review
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Wellness Park Retreat & Kayaking on Lake Arenal
This Wellness Park Retreat & Kayaking on Lake Arenal activity offers a comprehensive day of adventure and rejuvenation in La Fortuna, Costa Rica. Priced from $190 per person, this small-group experience accommodates up to 30 travelers.
It includes life jackets, paddles, private transportation, and all meals. The tour starts at 8 AM, with optional hotel pickup, and ends back at the meeting point.
While moderate fitness is required, this activity isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions.
With a 5.0 rating based on 3 reviews, this wellness-focused retreat promises an unforgettable combination of outdoor exploration and relaxation on the serene Lake Arenal.
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Pure Trek Canyoning & Paddle Boarding
For those seeking a thrilling outdoor adventure in La Fortuna, the Pure Trek Canyoning & Paddle Boarding activity offers a unique combination of adrenaline-pumping canyoning and serene paddle boarding.
Located in the Alajuela Province, this 5-star rated tour provides all the necessary equipment and transportation. Participants will enjoy air-conditioned vehicle transfers, a photographer for the canyoning portion, and a delicious lunch.
However, the activity isn’t recommended for those with physical limitations, as a moderate fitness level is required. With a maximum group size of 30, this tour is perfect for adventurous travelers looking to explore Costa Rica’s natural wonders.
Read our full review: Pure Trek Canyoning & Paddle Boarding Review
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Kayak Fishing on Arenal Lake
Adventurous anglers can’t go wrong with the Kayak Fishing on Arenal Lake experience in La Fortuna.
Operated by Desafio Adventure Company, this tour offers the chance to fish from a kayak on the scenic Arenal Lake. At $147 per person, the package includes bottled water, snacks, and a local guide.
Pickup is available from selected hotels, starting at 5:00 am. With a maximum of 4 travelers, the intimate group size ensures personalized attention.
Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the start. Based on 2 perfect 5-star reviews, this kayak fishing excursion seems to be a reliable and enjoyable activity in the La Fortuna region.
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Kayaking on the Arenal Lake From Arenal
Regularly, visitors to La Fortuna can enjoy the stunning vistas of Arenal Volcano while kayaking across the tranquil Arenal Lake.
The kayaking tour offers an immersive experience, allowing participants to observe Costa Rica’s diverse flora and fauna along the shoreline. The tour is suitable for beginners, with a safety briefing and paddling instruction prior to launching.
Accommodating up to 25 travelers, the tour includes transportation from La Fortuna hotels, a guide, bottled water, and a fruit snack. While not recommended for those with certain medical conditions, the activity is accessible to those with a moderate fitness level.
Recent reviews highlight the beautiful scenery and knowledgeable guides, though some customers have reported communication issues and equipment problems.
Read our full review: Kayaking on the Arenal Lake From Arenal Review
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The Sum Up
La Fortuna offers an array of captivating kayak and canoe experiences. Arenal Lake is the main draw, with activities ranging from guided tours to stand-up paddling and even fishing. Visitors can explore the lake’s serene waters and spot wildlife. For a more adventurous outing, canyoning and paddleboarding are also available. Whether seeking relaxation or thrill, La Fortuna’s water-based activities won’t disappoint.