Rainforest, hot springs and the cone of Arenal Volcano, then the winding lakeshore road to Tilarán. That is what Arenal Volcano and Lake Loop promises, and it delivers. At about 70 miles (113 km), it is a drive best taken slowly, over 2–3 days, with time to pull over whenever the view demands it on the way from La Fortuna to Tilarán.
Open this route in XCRSNSetting out from La Fortuna
Start early, with a full tank and a loose plan. La Fortuna is where the road begins, and the first miles set the rhythm for everything that follows.
The first big moment is Tabacón hot springs. Give it the time it deserves; it is why many people make this trip at all.
Along the way
The road strings together Arenal Volcano National Park and Nuevo Arenal. Each one makes a natural break, and Nuevo Arenal sits close to the middle if you want to split the drive with a night's sleep.
Do not miss Arenal hanging bridges.
Arriving in Tilarán
Save energy for the final stretch: La Fortuna Waterfall is still ahead.
By the end you will have seen Tabacón hot springs, Arenal hanging bridges and La Fortuna Waterfall, and you will understand why Arenal Volcano and Lake Loop belongs on any list of great drives.
When to go and how to pace it
The best time to drive it is December–April. Plan on 2–3 days so the drive never feels rushed.
Route 142 around the lake is narrow and curvy; allow extra time after rain.
XCRSN prices fuel for every leg in the local currency, finds stops along the way and books overnights near each town.
