Discovering the Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park

I’m slowly getting back to writing about our trip to Costa Rica. It’s been just over 2 months since our return from our month in Costa Rica for vacations and I have to admit that I haven’t had enough time to do any more writing. In the article above, I’m going to give you an overview of where we went during that month.

We started our journey by exploring the Bajos del Toro area. This is not far from the Costa Rican capital of San José. We all fell in love with it, even if the weather wasn’t on our side.

Today, I’m continuing my discovery. After visiting this first region, we continued our journey towards La Fortuna and the famous Arenal volcano region. This is a very volcanic region. It is located at the foot of the famous volcano, which is still considered to be active.

After picking up our beautiful Airbnb just outside La Fortuna, we decided to explore the area. Unfortunately, everyone was a bit under the weather, especially Téo, who still hasn’t fully recovered. So we decided against hiking up the Arenal volcano. Instead, we’d heard good things about the famous Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park.

This park is best known for its bridges suspended over the void in the middle of the rainforest. It’s located about 20 km west of the town of La Fortuna, not far from the Laguna of Arenal. We decided to explore the site on an afternoon when the weather wasn’t great anyway.

When we arrived it was still quite busy and the weather wasn’t that bad. From the car park there’s a great viewpoint with a panoramic view of the Arenal volcano. Even though it’s partly cloudy, the view of the surrounding area is magnificent.

After paying the entrance fee, we proudly set off, cameras in hand, to explore this famous park. With hindsight, it would have been interesting to take a guide to see more. They certainly have a sharper eye than we do, and we think we missed a lot of the small creatures and insects that would have been so much fun to discover with the kids. But hey, it’s not the end of the world.

We took a very well-maintained path through the heart of a truly magnificent tropical rainforest. It is similar to the one in Guadeloupe. The path is all concrete and covered in non-slip material, which is a nice touch.

We quietly followed the path and discovered a very nice first site (Rufous Garden) around a waterfall and several bodies of water. Here we spotted a fascinating fluorescent green caterpillar. The place is as muggy as you could ever wish for and the heat underneath is quite stifling. We were lucky to get a few drops, but nothing more.

I took the opportunity to test the lens we had just bought. It was a Tamron 150-500mm f/5-6.7 Di III VC VXD. To be honest, with the lack of light in this very dark wood, things get complicated with a lens that doesn’t have a wide aperture. So I’m going to alternate with my other telephoto lens, the Tamron 70-180mm F/2.8 Di III VC VXD. The latter has a much larger maximum aperture. This means I’m much more comfortable in the undergrowth.

The kids really enjoyed themselves and a little further on we came across a snake tucked up against a tree which was difficult to see and even more difficult to photograph.

Even though there were a lot of people in the car park, we still didn’t get to see many of them. We finally arrived at the first hanging point, Puente Vista Arenal, a 45m high and 75 m long bridge. Suffice it to say that this was the first time we’d climbed anything that high. We’d been on smaller suspension bridges before, but never at such a height. Even though I’m not afraid of heights, you can’t be too clever at 45 meters above the void. We’re keeping our fingers crossed that the engineers who designed it didn’t make a mistake in their calculations, haha. It is, in fact, the highest bridge in the park.

Unfortunately, it was at this point that we realized we weren’t alone. We’d met a few groups of tourists, but they were moving very quickly, as you get the impression that people come here just to see these famous bridges. It has to be said, though, that the rainforest is pleasant to explore. But if you’ve ever walked in the middle of a rainforest, you’re used to this kind of landscape and you’re not really disorientated. There was a bit of a queue at the first bridge. Depending on the bridge we couldn’t take more than 4 or 5 people. But it didn’t matter, we were patient and after a few minutes we were able to take it easy as a family on this first bridge.

The kids are over excited and you really have to tell them not to run or jump around. Of course everyone knows that, but they’re kids, so what the hell… It’s a really nice feeling, and even though the view is completely blocked, being able to look down 45 meters is pretty impressive. The bridge looks very well maintained, and the whole thing isn’t as scary as you might think (thankfully, no?). On the first point we were lucky enough to see a sloth from quite a distance. This was thanks to the binoculars we’d brought with us.

If I’d had a little more time to myself, and if there hadn’t been so many tourists, I could have taken some wonderful photos of these hanging points. Especially when no one was around.

We continued along the path during our excursion, passing other less impressive suspension points, notably Pont Le Pilon (53m long and 21m high) and Pont de la Cascade, the longest bridge on the route at almost 92m long and 45m high. It is really impressive. I went down with Louis to see the waterfall, while Mélanie walked along the path with Théo. Unfortunately, I can’t find the photo I took at the waterfall – it was probably a mistake and I may have deleted it. But if you’re wondering, it’s well worth the 10 minute walk down. You’ll find a beautiful and breathtaking waterfall about 20m high.

We climbed back up with Louis and took this famous bridge, which is almost 100m long. Once again, the sensation is always impressive, and walking at this height isn’t exactly reassuring at first. The view is still not free of obstructions, which is a shame, but it seems to be quite common. The two of us simply enjoyed this bridge crossing, with Mélanie and Téo waiting for us at the other end.

The rest of the route is more or less the same as when we started, with a succession of much less impressive hanging bridges and a long walk to finish in the woods. I have to admit that the kids are a bit tired and the end is a bit less interesting than the beginning. We didn’t come across much, but it’s also possible that we were making too much noise with the children. I think we could have seen more with a guide.

Nevertheless, it’s a great adventurous hiking trail. The price is reasonable for the discovery and the sensations you get on the bridges. Crossing the bridges is still the most interesting thing to do, especially if you’re already familiar with the tropical rainforests.

I hope this little photo tour has inspired you to explore the area if you’re on holiday in La Fortuna.

As usual, here’s everything you need to know about visiting Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park.

You’re going to tell me that it all depends on where you’re coming from. I’d recommend the flight comparison site Skyscanner if you’re on the lookout for cheap flights. It’s a site we use every day to compare airfares. It doesn’t necessarily mean you have to buy your ticket through it, but you can see the different options from where you live, for example. For example, here are the cheapest flights from Paris to San Jose.

Once you’re there, you’ll have no choice but to hire a car. It’s the easiest and fastest way to get around and, honestly, we were pleasantly surprised by the prices. To give you an idea, for a month’s rental of a 4×4 in Costa Rica we got a rate of €1,900. This is quite acceptable, especially when you compare it to the rental of our motorhome for our future trip to Canada for the same length of time.

Once you’re there, there’s a good chance you’ll end up in the town of La Fortuna, which is the nearest major tourist town. It’s the starting point for all adventurous activities in the naturalist area anyway. From the town of La Fortuna you can simply take Route 142 towards the lake (Laguna de Arenal). It takes about 20 km and 30 minutes to get there. Here’s the route on Google Maps.

I’d still advise you to check the website for the latest information at the time of writing.

The first thing you need to know is this: Although the park is known for its suspension bridges, there are many other services you can book. These include

• Arenal Bird Watching Tour: You can book this tour, which allows you to observe all the bird species with a guide, and the returns are apparently excellent.
• Mistico night walk: As in Monteverde, you can book a 2.5 hour night hike with a guide, starting at 6pm. This is a chance to see some nocturnal wildlife with a bit of luck.
• Natural history tour: Here’s another tour with a guide who will help you discover the history of the place and all the hidden secrets of this sanctuary. This is the type of guide we should have taken. The tour takes about 2.5 hours.
• Pacos Horseback Riding: You can also book a 2 hour horseback ride around the park, which is also very popular. You can combine this ride with exploring the park, as I did.
• Twilight walk: Finally, you can explore the park at sunset. Apparently the experience is well worth the detour.

Prices are subject to change, but when we visited the park, the entrance fees (in US dollars) were as follows:

• Adults: 32 dollars
• Groups aged 11 to 18: $21
• Over 65s: $26
• Children aged 6 to 10: free

Entrance is from 6am until 3.30pm for the last entry. We got back in the middle of the afternoon and I have to admit that by the end of the walk you couldn’t see much because it got dark so quickly in this dense rainforest.

The hiking trail through the rainforest is about 3.2km long. It’s not particularly difficult as it’s mostly flat. However, the heat and humidity can make it a bit tricky. Make sure you bring water.

This depends on your preferences and budget. In our case, we came from La Fortuna during the day, so the question of where to stay didn’t really arise. However, we have often been asked for advice on this subject. So here are some serious recommendations.

There are really too many options for accommodation in La Fortuna to give you all our top recommendations, but here are some nice options for all budgets. We’ve even gone further by writing a complete guide to the best places to stay in La Fortuna.

• Essence Arenal Spa & Yoga: offers an eco-friendly stay in the heart of the rainforest with views of Lake Arenal and the volcano. It offers comfortable rooms, an outdoor swimming pool and a restaurant with a variety of vegetarian dishes. Wellness activities include yoga, spa and massages.
• Sunset Inn: Enjoy a peaceful stay with spectacular lake and volcano breathtaking views at the Sunset Inn in La Fortuna, Costa Rica. Accommodation includes family rooms and an outdoor fireplace, and is ideally located for activities such as biking and hiking.
• Casona Rústica & Bungalow: Accommodation includes family rooms and an outdoor pool, and you’ll enjoy an ideal location for activities such as biking and hiking.

• Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails: Nestled in the protected natural Arenal area, this is an exceptional place to stay. Surrounded by lush rainforest, it offers well-appointed rooms, a variety of facilities, birdwatching, hiking trails and stunning views of the Arenal Volcano.
• Hotel Campo Verde: Located at the foot of the Arenal Volcano, the Campo Verde eco-hotel offers spacious lodges with breathtaking views. It offers a peaceful setting, a rustic restaurant and easy access to the hot springs.
• Arenal Xilopalo: This lodge offers an exceptional setting with magnificent views of the Arenal Volcano. You will appreciate the tranquility of the surroundings, the closeness to nature and the quality of the breakfast. The spacious rooms have modern facilities and there are many activities on offer.

• Arenal Manoa Resort & Hot Springs: This accommodation offers an exceptional experience with breathtaking views of the Arenal Volcano, spacious rooms, a warm welcome and a hearty breakfast. On-site facilities include a swimming pool, spa and international restaurant. The location is ideal, just 10 minutes from the Arenal Volcano National Park.
• Noah’s Forest Hotel by Tifakara: offers an exceptional experience with spacious rooms offering privacy and cleanliness. Its central location, quality facilities and exceptional concierge service for planning excursions and activities make it an ideal choice. Enjoy the paradisiacal setting, the swimming pool, the lush gardens and the friendly staff.
• Tifakara Boutique Hotel & Birding Oasis: Enjoy spacious rooms, a swimming pool, lush gardens and fine cuisine. The warm welcome, delicious cuisine and location in the heart of nature will make your stay unforgettable!
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You can also use the following link to search for other types of accommodation in the town of La Fortuna in the countryside that may be suitable for you.

There aren’t as many places to stay in the vicinity of the park as there are in La Fortuna, but there are a few real gems right next door. Here’s a small selection.

• Sangregado Lodge: With breathtaking views of the Arenal Volcano, this place offers a truly unique experience. It’s best appreciated for its tranquil atmosphere, spacious rooms and terraces, not to mention the opportunity to enjoy a delicious breakfast at the nearby Blue Hibiscus. Facilities are first class, with a swimming pool, free parking and, as a bonus, eco-friendly initiatives for a more responsible stay. This place really stands out for its location, comfort and amenities.
• Arenal Roca Suites: A unique experience with magnificent and amazing views and overlooking of the Arenal Volcano. Known for its peace and quiet, spacious rooms with terraces and the opportunity to enjoy breakfast at the nearby Blue Hibiscus. Facilities include a swimming pool, free parking and sustainable practices for a greener stay. This hostel is renowned for its location, comfort and facilities. The warm welcome, the comfort of the villas, the spectacular views of the volcano and the quality of the continental breakfast served in the studio are often highlighted.
• Hotel Arenal Lodge: Located 200 meters north of the Arenal Lake dam in La Fortuna, Hotel Arenal Lodge offers a warm welcome, comfortable rooms, spectacular and majestic views of the volcano and a delicious continental breakfast served in the studio. Guests have particularly appreciated the friendliness of the staff, the spacious rooms with uninterrupted views of the volcano and the swimming pool. Close to many activities, the hotel offers an immersive experience of Costa Rican nature. Despite a challenging access road that requires a good 4×4, the unique experience and panoramic views are well worth the effort.
• Lost Iguana Resort and Spa: an enchanting retreat in the heart of nature. Surrounded by lush vegetation, the hotel offers spacious rooms with magnificent views of the Arenal Volcano. Highlights include tranquility, attentive service, a warm outdoor pool and a restaurant serving international cuisine.
• Wellness Park CR: The place offers a unique experience with hiking trails, a zen-like atmosphere amidst wildlife and the chance to watch the wildlife (fauna and flora) from the vantage point of a waterfall. The original accommodation is well equipped and the park’s facilities, such as hiking trails and majestic views of the Arenal Volcano, are a big plus. The warm welcome, the tranquility and the total isolation of this place in the heart of nature will be on the agenda.

That’s it for the Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park. It’s a really nice place in Costa Rica (a central American country with many wild animals such as snakes, sloths, colorful frogs, howler monkeys, quetzals, toucans, various insect species and hummingbirds) and well worth a visit. If you’re in the area, it’s well worth an expedition during a day-trip! Afterwards, we continued our journey towards the Tenorio Volcano National Park.

See you soon for another article on Costa Rica.