When is the best time to visit Arenal?
If good weather is your priority, choose the dry season Dec - Apr when there is plenty of sun. The green (i.e. rainy) season is quieter in terms of number of visitors. La Fortuna, at 1,150m, has a pleasant climate with temperatures averaging 15-25°C.
For more detailed information visit our When To Go section.
What language is spoken in Arenal?
The main language spoken in Arenal is Spanish.
What currency do I need in Arenal?
The Colón is the main currency used in Arenal. Notes can be withdrawn from ATMs in La Fortuna using a UK credit or debit card. You may have to authorise your bank first, and withdrawals may be limited to amounts lower than in the UK. US dollars cash can be exchanged in banks too. If you are not going to the town of La Fortuna, bring your cash with you from San Jose.
What is the time difference between Arenal and the UK?
The time difference between Arenal and the UK is GMT -5 hours.
What places combine well with Arenal?
A beach wind-down at Manuel Antonio on the Pacific coast, or Nosara on the Nicoya Peninsula: each 5hrs by road; Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, for excellent bird watching, 3 hours by boat and bumpy road. Costa Rica is a tiny country so road journeys, even winding ones through the highlands, are relatively short. Some roads are in good condition while others require 4WD vehicles.
How do I get to Arenal?
Fly by light aircraft from San Jose, or travel by road from the capital which will take approximately 3.5 hours.
If you still have questions, please contact us and one of our Travel Experts will be happy to help.
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