Top Ten Things To Do in Arenal

Windsurf one of the top windsurf destinations in the world. Lake Arenal provides a scenic backdrop and little or no boat traffic, making it a must-do among avid windsurfers. Rent equipment or take a class with Tico Wind (2692-2002) or Tilawa Windsurf Center (2695-5050.)
Get pampered at the Tabacón Grand Spa and Thermal Resort (2519-1999). With naturally-heated pools, intertwined with an icy mountain river, the Tabacón spa experience is truly unique. The mineral and biological composition of the water has been proven to have positive impact on one's health, but if you need something a little extra, the spa offers a long list of soothing treatments.
Link: www.tabacon.com/hot-springs
Stroll across a series of eight hanging bridges in a private nature reserve. Located in La Fortuna of San Carlos, Arenal Hanging Bridges (2290-0469) allow visitors to explore nearly 250 hectares of tropical rain forest from a unique vantage point.
Link: www.hangingbridges.com
Explore a labyrinth of underground caves with Venado Caves Tour. The caves were formed during the Miocene period, between 15 and 20 million years ago. Because the caves used to be below sea level, visitors can view marine fossils, along with the bats, spiders and crickets that now make the place their home.
Link: www.arenal.net/tour/venado-caves.htm
Float down the Caño Negro River near the Nicaraguan border through one of the richest biologically diverse regions in Costa Rica. Look out for sloths, turtles, monkeys and iguanas.
Link: http://www.agenciadeviajesvirtualcostarica.com/tours_canonegro.html
Ride through the forest at the base of Arenal and along the lake in a mountain bike adventure. Though bikes are not allowed inside the national park, Bike Arenal (2479-7150) can get you right up to the volcano, by way of rarely-traveled back roads.
Link: www.bikearenal.com
Trot up to La Fortuna Waterfall on a three-hour horseback ride tour. The waterfall stretches up nearly 70 meters and provides an icy natural pool at its base for a hot afternoon dip.
Link: www.horsebackridingarenal.com
Cast a line for a Rainbow Bass in the cool waters of Lake Arenal. Spend a half or full-day with an expert guide for an unforgettable catch-and-release experience.
Link: www.hotelarenalkioro.com/sport-fishing-tour-eng
Soar off a 40-meter ledge with Arenal Bungee (2479-7440). With the steep slopes of Arenal as backdrop to this free fall, you can choose a jump at night or during daytime hours and never escape the incredible views.
Link: www.arenalbungee.com

For help coordinating any of these trips, contact Aventuras Arenal - a local, family-run tour company - which offers all of the listed tours and more. Tel:2479-9133

Link: www.arenaladventures.com