Mistico Hanging Bridges Tour With Lunch and Hotsprings

Exploring the stunning landscapes of Costa Rica’s Arenal Volcano National Park, the Mistico Hanging Bridges Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the region’s natural wonders. Beginning with a guided hike through the lush rainforest, adventurers will traverse a series of suspended bridges, keeping an eye out for the diverse wildlife that calls this haven home. But the journey doesn’t end there – visitors can expect to bask in the soothing waters of natural hot springs and savor a traditional Costa Rican lunch, creating a well-rounded experience that blends adventure, relaxation, and cultural discovery. With the Arenal Observatory Lodge as the perfect vantage point, this tour promises an unforgettable day in one of Costa Rica’s most breathtaking regions.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Lunch Experiences In La Fortuna.

Key Points

• The Mistico Hanging Bridges Tour offers a guided hike through Arenal Volcano National Park, featuring captivating rain forest views from suspended bridges.
• The tour includes a visit to Arenal Observatory Lodge for panoramic vistas of the volcano and lake, as well as a traditional Costa Rican lunch.
• Participants can relax in natural hot springs and enjoy a rejuvenating volcanic mud facial after the hike.
• The tour is approximately 3 hours long and includes hotel pickup, with a maximum group size of 15 for a personalized experience.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible, and mobility challenges may arise, though it is suitable for a wide range of visitors.

Tour Overview

The Mistico Hanging Bridges Tour with Lunch and Hot Springs is a comprehensive nature experience located in La Fortuna, Costa Rica. It boasts an impressive 4.5/5 rating from 68 reviews, earning it the badge of Excellence.

This tour takes adventurers on a journey through the lush Arenal Volcano National Park, with the highlight being a hike across hanging bridges overlooking a waterfall and rain forest gardens.

Participants can also visit the Arenal Observatory Lodge for panoramic views of the volcano and lake, as well as the observatory museum to learn about the area’s volcanic history.

After the exploration, guests can indulge in a soak in natural hot springs and a volcanic mud facial, complemented by a traditional Costa Rican lunch.

Highlights of the Tour

Explorers on the Mistico Hanging Bridges Tour can enjoy the lush Arenal Volcano National Park, traversing hanging bridges that offer captivating views of a waterfall and surrounding rain forest gardens.

The tour includes a visit to the Arenal Observatory Lodge, where guests can take in panoramic vistas of the iconic volcano and nearby lake. Along the way, travelers will have the chance to learn about the region’s volcanic history at the observatory’s museum.

After the hike, the experience concludes with a relaxing soak in a natural hot river pool and an invigorating volcanic mud facial.

• Traverse hanging bridges through a rain forest

• Enjoy panoramic views of Arenal Volcano and Lake

• Discover the region’s volcanic history at the observatory

• Unwind in a natural hot river pool

• Experience a volcanic mud facial

Itinerary Details

This tour begins at 7:00 AM, with pickup available from hotels in La Fortuna. Guests will meet at the designated meeting point, the Red Lava TSC in La Fortuna, before embarking on the approximately 3-hour experience.

Once the group is assembled, they’ll set out to explore Arenal Volcano National Park from the La Fortuna area. The guided hike will take them across hanging bridges, past a waterfall, and through lush rain forest gardens, providing opportunities to spot wildlife like monkeys, exotic birds, and red-eyed tree frogs.

After the hiking portion, guests will have the chance to relax in a natural hot water river, with an optional cocktail to enjoy the soothing volcanic waters.

Tour Duration and Pickup

Guests will meet at 7:00 AM at the designated Red Lava TSC meeting point in La Fortuna, where they’ll be picked up for the approximately 3-hour Mistico Hanging Bridges Tour.

The tour offers:

• Convenient hotel pickup service, if available, to transport guests to the starting point.

• A guided hike through the lush rain forest of Arenal Volcano National Park.

• Ample time to cross the suspended bridges and take in panoramic views of the volcano and surrounding landscape.

• A relaxing soak in natural hot springs after the hiking portion of the tour.

• A typical Costa Rican ‘casado’ lunch to refuel before the return journey.

Guided Hike and Rain Forest Exploration

As the tour begins, a knowledgeable guide leads participants on a captivating hike through the lush, verdant rain forest of Arenal Volcano National Park, providing opportunities to spot a variety of exotic wildlife, including playful monkeys, vibrant red-eyed tree frogs, and an array of colorful bird species. The guided hike offers an immersive experience, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the biodiversity and natural beauty of the region.

Wildlife Sightings	Probability
Monkeys	High
Red-eyed Tree Frogs	Moderate
Toucans	High
Sloths	Low
Quetzals	Low

The guided hike is a highlight of the Mistico Hanging Bridges Tour, offering an engaging and educational exploration of the remarkable Costa Rican rain forest ecosystem.

Hot Springs and Relaxation

After the invigorating hike through the lush rain forest, visitors can unwind and soak in the natural hot river pools, enjoying the soothing, therapeutic waters heated by the nearby Arenal Volcano.

The tour includes a relaxing visit to these volcanic hot springs, where guests can soak their tired muscles and indulge in a rejuvenating volcanic mud facial.

The experience is further enhanced by:

• An option to enjoy a refreshing cocktail while relaxing in the hot springs.

• The opportunity to take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

• The chance to learn about the volcanic origins and therapeutic properties of the hot springs.

• The ability to connect with nature and find a moment of tranquility.

• The availability of towels and changing facilities for a comfortable experience.

Group Size and Accessibility

The tour has a maximum group size of 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized and intimate experience. This compact group size allows the guide to provide more attentive and individualized attention to each participant, fostering a deeper connection with the natural surroundings.

While the activity isn’t wheelchair accessible, the tour details indicate that most travelers can participate, with some limitations. The tour’s accessibility is suitable for a wide range of visitors, though those with mobility challenges may encounter some challenges.

Cancellation Policy and Additional Info

Travelers can take advantage of the tour’s free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience.

Plus, the tour may be operated by a multi-lingual guide, accommodating visitors from diverse linguistic backgrounds.

Infants can join the tour, provided they’re accompanied by an adult, and the activity features infant seats for their safety and comfort.

While most travelers can participate, the tour does have some limitations in accessibility, so individuals with mobility challenges may face certain constraints.

• The tour is suitable for most travelers, with some limitations.

• Multi-lingual guides are available to cater to diverse language needs.

• Free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours before the tour.

• Infants are welcome, with provided child seats.

• Accessibility is limited, potentially posing challenges for some participants.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Bring to the Tour Besides Swimwear and Towels?

Based on the tour details, visitors should bring small bills in colones for tipping the guide, a light rain jacket or poncho, insect repellent, and comfortable walking shoes. Having these items on hand will enhance the overall experience.

Can I Extend the Tour to Include Additional Activities?

Yes, the tour can be extended to include additional activities. Travelers can add on activities like visiting La Fortuna Waterfall, exploring the neighboring Arenal Volcano, or going on a river float to enhance their overall experience.

Do I Need to Sign Any Waivers Before the Tour?

Yes, participants likely need to sign a waiver before the tour. Waivers are common for adventure activities to acknowledge potential risks and release the tour operator from liability. It’s best to check with the tour provider about any required paperwork.

Is There a Suggested Gratuity Amount for the Guide?

While gratuity amounts for tour guides are usually at the discretion of the traveler, industry standards typically suggest tipping between 10-15% of the total tour cost for excellent service. This allows guests to show their appreciation for the guide’s expertise.

How Does the Weather Typically Impact the Tour Experience?

The weather can significantly impact the tour experience. Sunny, dry conditions allow for optimal trail conditions and wildlife viewing, while rain can make trails slippery and limit visibility. However, the tour typically operates year-round, rain or shine, providing a flexible experience.

Recap

The Mistico Hanging Bridges Tour offers an exceptional opportunity to take in the natural wonders of Arenal Volcano National Park.

Combining a guided hike, suspension bridge traversal, wildlife observation, hot spring relaxation, and a traditional Costa Rican lunch, this tour provides a well-rounded experience that seamlessly blends adventure and tranquility.

It’s an ideal choice for those seeking to discover the beauty and diversity of Costa Rica’s renowned rainforest ecosystem.