Santa Elena

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Top 10 attractions in Santa Elena

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Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve
No. 6 of Best Things to Do in Costa Rica

Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve

5.4
4.8/5
9 reviews
Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve is located on the watershed high in the Tilarán Mountains. The key difference between it and lowland rainforests is the altitude: moist air currents from the Caribbean side rise along the mountain slopes and condense into mist upon cooling, with white mist often filling the forest in the early morning, leaving the entire forest soaked in lush green. The preserve covers 10,500 hectares, with approx. 90% being primary forest. Epiphytes are a highly recognizable view here: mosses, ferns, bromeliads, and hundreds of orchid species hang in layers from the branches, with even the trunks appearing as if draped in a green carpet; the forest is home to birds such as the resplendent quetzal and the bare-necked umbrellabird, while mammals like jaguars and Baird's tapirs are elusive, attracting birdwatchers and naturalists year-round. The park's trails connect several highlights: the classic Cloud Forest Trail allows you to delve into typical cloud forest sections, and walking to the "La Ventana" lookout puts you directly opposite the Continental Divide, where you can overlook the mountain slopes on both sides when the weather is clear; in the hummingbird garden near the entrance, various hummingbirds flit around the flowers and trees, making it suitable for close-up birdwatching; a suspension bridge also spans the valley, allowing you to view the canopy layer covered in epiphytes at eye level. If you wish to experience outdoor activities like ziplining or bungee jumping, you need to book them separately, as the preserve itself focuses on hiking and nature observation.San Ramon · 6.4 km from Santa Elena
Arenal Volcano National Park
No. 1 of Best Things to Do in Costa Rica

Arenal Volcano National Park

6.6
4.8/5
15 reviews
Arenal Volcano Park is located in Arenal Reserve. There are actually two volcanoes in this national park, Arenal Volcano with a height of 1633 meters and Chato Volcano with a height of 1140 meters. The latter has been active for nearly 3500 years. A collapsed crater and a beautiful lagoon. In contrast, Arenal Volcano is a very active volcano in Costa Rica. It erupted in 1968 and 1973. Until July 2010, the eruptions of large and small volcanoes continued, and the severity was much lower, but almost every day. There was smoke and lava coming out.La Fortuna · 19.5 km from Santa Elena
Arenal Volcano

Arenal Volcano

5.7
5.0/5
1 reviews
Arenal Volcano has an elevation of approx. 1,633m, with a nearly symmetrical conical shape. The town of La Fortuna at the foot of the mountain is the gateway to visiting this area. It is a relatively young volcano, formed approx. 7,000 years ago. It erupted suddenly on July 29, 1968, destroying villages such as Tabacón at the foot of the mountain, and remained active for over 40 years thereafter. The sight of lava flowing slowly down the slopes and lighting up the night sky once drew many tourists to wait specifically for it. The volcano entered a dormant phase in 2010 and no longer spews magma today, but its perfectly shaped conical silhouette remains striking. On clear days, when viewed from the foot of the mountain, the dark rock walls contrast with the clouds and mist on the mountainside. Within the national park established around the volcano, multiple trails pass through the lava wasteland left by the 1968 eruption and the regrown rainforest, with greenery emerging from the crevices of the black volcanic rocks. You can often encounter howler monkeys, white-faced capuchin monkeys, and toucans along the way. Volcanic geothermal heat also warms the natural hot springs at the foot of the mountain; soaking in the hot springs after a hike while looking up at the silhouette of the volcano is a common experience in this area. The nearby Lake Arenal has vast waters, suitable for birdwatching and water activities such as kayaking. The top of the volcano is often covered by clouds; there is less cloud cover in the early morning, giving a better chance to see the full mountain.La Fortuna · 21.2 km from Santa Elena
Fortuna Waterfall
No. 5 of Best Things to Do in Costa Rica

Fortuna Waterfall

5.6
5.0/5
7 reviews
Fortuna Waterfall is located in a rainforest canyon in San Carlos, approx. 5.5 km from the town of La Fortuna, at the foothills of the dormant Chato Volcano. Originating from theArenal Mountain Range, the Río Fortuna plunges approx. 70 m from the cliff edge, falling straight into the deep blue pool below. The sound of the water is deafening, and mist fills the air. The surrounding cliffs are covered in dense tropical vegetation. To view the waterfall, you need to walk down the steps to the bottom of the canyon, which involves over 500 steps round trip. There are platforms along the way for resting, and the trail passes through pastures and rainforest, where you may have the chance to encounter animals such as toucans and monkeys. Visitors who do not plan to walk the entire way can also overlook the full view of the waterfall from the viewing platform above. There is an open area at the bottom of the valley for taking photos, and you can also swim in designated areas to experience the cool, clear river water. The current is strong directly beneath the waterfall, so be sure to stay within the designated swimming areas. The return trip requires climbing back up the same way, which is physically demanding, so it is recommended to wear non-slip shoes and allow plenty of time.La Fortuna · 22.3 km from Santa Elena
Selvatura Adventure Park

Selvatura Adventure Park

3.5
Tilaran · 4.2 km from Santa Elena
Treetopia Park

Treetopia Park

3.4
5.0/5
1 reviews
Tilaran · 3 km from Santa Elena
100% Aventura

100% Aventura

3.3
Tilaran · 2.7 km from Santa Elena
Tabacon Hot Springs
No. 1 of Hot Springs Attractions in Costa Rica

Tabacon Hot Springs

4.9
5.0/5
1 reviews
Tabacon Hot Springs is located at the foot of Arenal Volcano. The spring water is naturally heated by volcanic geothermal energy and is rich in minerals. It flows through the park along a riverbed, forming hot spring pools of varying types along the way, ranging from mild to scalding. The pools are connected by paths winding through tropical gardens. A signature feature here is the living water experience: a natural thermal river runs through the park, allowing you to soak in the river bends and let the warm water flow past you, with cascading hot water waterfalls along the riverbed. There is also a cold river next to the thermal river, allowing for alternating hot and cold soaks. The main pool area is relatively lively, featuring a swim-up bar and water slides. As you head deeper into the park, the pools become quieter, and you can look up to see the silhouette of Arenal Volcano.La Fortuna · 22.3 km from Santa Elena
Monteverde Extremo Park

Monteverde Extremo Park

3.2
Tilaran · 3.9 km from Santa Elena
La Reserva Bosque Nuboso Santa Elena

La Reserva Bosque Nuboso Santa Elena

3.1
Tilaran · 4.6 km from Santa Elena

Experiences you can't miss in Santa Elena

Featured Cultural experiences in Santa Elena

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Monteverde: Finca El Paraiso Cheese Farm Tour
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5.0/5
· 2 reviews
Duration: 2 hrs
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5% off
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FromVND 851,910VND 896,748
Hacienda Alsacia Starbucks Coffe Tour
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4.9/5
· 2.5k reviews
Duration: 90 mins
English
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100 consecutive positive reviews
FromVND 790,139
Coffee, Chocolate and Sugarcane Tour La Fortuna
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Duration: 90 mins
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FromVND 1,422,352
Punta Arenas Audio Tour: City Wonders
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Duration: 45 mins
English
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20% off
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FromVND 183,660VND 229,575
San José by Night: Food, Drinks & Local Culture Tour
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Duration: 4 hrs
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5% off
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FromVND 1,922,734VND 2,023,931
Vista Los Sueños: Cacao Plantation & Chocolate Tasting
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5.0/5
· 3 reviews
Duration: 2 hrs
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FromVND 1,216,858VND 1,280,904
Guided Walking Street Art & Graffiti Tour in Jaco Costa Rica
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5.0/5
· 26 reviews
Duration: 2–3 hrs
Free cancellation
26 consecutive positive reviews
FromVND 1,001,475
San José Highlights Audio Tour: Cultural Treasures and Historical Landmarks
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Duration: 1.5 hrs
English
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FromVND 183,660VND 229,575

Featured Spa & wellness in Santa Elena

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La Fortuna: Relax Termalitas Hot Springs Entry with Meal
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FromVND 1,216,858VND 1,280,904
From 1 person for Arenal volcano and hot springs in La Fortuna, Costa Rica
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FromVND 2,576,924
Costa Rica: Baldi Hot Springs Day Pass with Optional Meals
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4.6/5
· 57 reviews
English
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93% of travelers recommend
5% off
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FromVND 1,457,883VND 1,534,614
One Day Adventure Pass at Vida Aventura Nature Park
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Duration: 4 hrs
English
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5% off
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FromVND 2,915,765VND 3,069,227

Featured Day tours in Santa Elena

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Monteverde Cloud Forest: Curicancha Reserve Nature Tour
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4.9/5
· 39 reviews
Duration: 2.5 hrs
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32 consecutive positive reviews
5% off
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FromVND 972,013VND 1,023,172
Monteverde Night Tour+Guide+Photos+HD optic+Flashlights
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5.0/5
· 5 reviews
Duration: 2 hrs
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5% off
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FromVND 517,260VND 544,485
Monteverde: Curi-Cancha Tour with Guide+HD Binoculars+Photos
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4.8/5
· 9 reviews
Duration: 2 hrs
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5% off
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FromVND 523,265VND 550,806
Monteverde: Sky Walk, Sky Tram & Sky Trek Ziplining Tour
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4.8/5
· 12 reviews
Duration: 5 hrs
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FromVND 4,819,119VND 5,072,757
Monteverde: Night Walk with Guide and Flashlights
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4.8/5
· 34 reviews
Duration: 2 hrs
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94.1% of travelers recommend
5% off
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FromVND 486,688VND 512,304
Monteverde: Kinkajou Forest Night Walking Tour
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4.7/5
· 27 reviews
Duration: 1.5 hrs
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FromVND 778,756VND 819,744
Monteverde: Night Tour Closest to Town, Wildlife Spotting
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4.7/5
· 67 reviews
Duration: 2 hrs
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28 consecutive positive reviews
5% off
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FromVND 777,665VND 818,595

Featured Food & drink in Santa Elena

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Monteverde: Coffee and Sugar Cane Tour at El Pueblo
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5.0/5
· 4 reviews
Duration: 2–2.5 hrs
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FromVND 1,022,238VND 1,076,040
Costa Rican Bread-Making Workshop in Monteverde
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5.0/5
· 35 reviews
Duration: 2 hrs
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35 consecutive positive reviews
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FromVND 1,093,480VND 1,151,032
Farm to Table Cooking Class
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4.8/5
· 156 reviews
Duration: 2 hrs
English
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23 consecutive positive reviews
FromVND 1,155,549
Sloth Tour in La Fortuna and Tortillas Cooking Class
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5.0/5
· 12 reviews
Duration: 2 hrs
English
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FromVND 975,797
San Jose: Bites and Sights Walking Food Tour including Markets
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4.9/5
· 912 reviews
Duration: 210 mins
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97.6% of travelers recommend
FromVND 950,118
San Jose City Tour and central Market with local food
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Duration: 150 mins
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FromVND 1,925,914

More things to do

What travellers say about Santa Elena

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YoYo_1I8Q7O5ODecember 1, 2025
5.0
Entering the Montevideo Cloud Forest, the world suddenly sinks into a grey-green seabed. Gnarled tree roots, wrapped in moss, resemble the spine of a prehistoric behemoth, and each fern is adorned with diamond-like droplets of mist. On the suspension bridge, hummingbirds flutter their wings eighty times per second, frozen before bromeliad blossoms, while twenty meters below, in the layer of decaying leaves, the legend of the golden toad's extinction gently turns its page with a sigh from the guide. The most magical moment is the "sun dog"—a crack in the thick fog, sunlight dyeing the steam iridescent, and thousands of shades of green awaken in an instant. Touching the roots of epiphytic orchids leaves your hands covered in cool mist, and you understand why the locals call this place "the forest of eternal breathing."

Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve

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中南美向导yolandaFebruary 16, 2020
5.0
We welcome tourists to the Arenal Volcano Park. It is so enjoyable to soak in the volcanic hot springs. Costa Rica is really a fairy-like country! There are more than 270 volcanoes here. The most famous one is the Arenal Volcano, which is located near La Fortuna, a well-known tourist destination in northern Costa Rica. It had a devastating eruption in 1968 and entered a long-term dormant state after 2010. It is now a national park for tourists to visit. On the way to the volcano, you can see many small ants moving in groups with mini leaves on their backs. Walking to the observation deck, the view here is very good. There is always a cloud of mist around the crater, and it is surrounded by cloud forests. There is a restaurant next to it, where you can have a drink and look at the volcano. The scenery here is too suitable for wide-angle, enjoy pure life pura vida! ❤️For more local fun in Costa Rica, please consult me!

Arenal Volcano National Park

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criskotsuJune 16, 2022
5.0
Arenal is wonderful. During winter is hard to see the full cone without mist, or even some clastic material falling down at night. However, it’s a gorgeous location to visit anytime of the year, close to San Jose even for one-day trip

Arenal Volcano

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乖小咪August 21, 2019
5.0
La Fortuna Falls in Costa Rica is a very spectacular waterfall. Although it is not very wide, it has a large amount of water. The mist stirred up by the waterfall is very large, like a fairyland. Many tourists are swimming in the pool below, very happy.

Fortuna Waterfall

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丰辰June 30, 2025
5.0
10/10 we walked up to bridge 5 bright and early and saw the resplendant quetzal! 🦜go to bridge 5 and find the avocado tree!contact me to buy these photos:bryankor@hotmail.com

Treetopia Park

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_We***54February 12, 2021
5.0
It's really a nice place. I went there twice. The natural hot spring river. It's just a little far from the airport. There is a bus station 1.3 km from the airport. You can take a bus to Ciudad Quesada (2.5-3 hours) and then transfer to Ciudad Quesada (50 minutes). There are also direct buses to the capital, but you have to go from the airport to the city center first (the bus takes about 1 hour).

Tabacon Hot Springs

Frequently asked questions

What are the must-do things in Santa Elena?

Don't miss these attractions in Santa Elena: Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve, Arenal Volcano National Park, and Arenal Volcano. If you like Cultural experiences, try Monteverde: Finca El Paraiso Cheese Farm Tour. If you enjoy Spa & wellness, try 1-day tour in Costa Rica - Fortuna Waterfall + Arenal Volcano + Natural Hot Springs.

You can give Monteverde: Coffee and Sugar Cane Tour at El Pueblo and Costa Rican Bread-Making Workshop in Monteverde a try. Before you go, please check their opening hours and menus online. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

When choosing a tour, start with how much time you have and the kind of experience you're looking for. Trending options right now include Monteverde Cloud Forest: Curicancha Reserve Nature Tour, Monteverde Night Tour+Guide+Photos+HD optic+Flashlights, and Monteverde: Curi-Cancha Tour with Guide+HD Binoculars+Photos. Check the real-time availability and itinerary before you book.

As of October 24, 2026, the reference price for day tours and activities in Santa Elena is around VND 486,688 – VND 4,819,119. Rates vary by duration, group size, transport, tickets, meals, and any special admission requirements. Before you book, please confirm the billing currency and whether the price is quoted per person or per group.

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