Arenal Natural Hiking Trails: Secret Swimming Spots

This isn’t your usual touristy stuff.

Our hiking trails will take you to secret swimming spots near waterfalls! You’ll see lots of cool plants and animals along the way.

It’s a chance to really have fun and explore Costa Rica’s wild side.

Come join us in the rainforest – it’s going to be amazing!

Duration: 2 hours
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • El Bosque de Tío Victor - 7 km hiking adventure, natural swimming pools, primary rainforest, self-guided trails, birdwatching, 5 waterfalls, exotic flora and fauna from the rainforest.
    You can have the incredible opportunity to explore a pristine primary rainforest firsthand. Join us for an adventure in the rainforest, where you can connect with…
What's Included
  • Walking sticks
Location
El Bosque de Tío Victor
Calle Llano Trepo
At the reception/ entrance to the hiking trails.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
5.0
(6 Ratings)
5 stars
4 stars
3 stars
2 stars
1 star
557laurenk
Dec 21, 2024
My #1 favorite experience of the whole trip! - I have been training and am in the best shape of my life, so we decided to try the "extreme hike" option. It ended up being my favorite thing we did this whole trip. We came at the end of the rainy season, so we were prepared to get muddy and wet. This is not a manicured walking trail to take Instagram photos in your shorts and sandals. Tio Victor literally bushwhacked a path through the jungle with a machete and carved steps and trails into the dirt with a shovel. It's incredible to think about how much work this took. Thank you so much for this. We walked on mud, held together with roots and rocks, covered in slippery leaves, straight up/down steep rolling hills, and in other parts, hanging onto a rope to ascend the side of an active waterfall along slippery rocks. We gained over 600 feet in 2.5 miles. We took a couple of breaks and overall spent 2.5 hours there. When we got back toward the start, I honestly wanted to do it all over again. Instead, we headed to the hot springs for a soak, and I felt zero pain the next day. Their sweet dog, Laika, decided to join us, and she showed us the way and encouraged us to get through the hard parts by demonstrating how easy it was for her. My only compliant was how my glasses constantly fogged up with the humidity and sweat pouring from my head. I am very glad I brought my hiking poles, and we were offered a stick at the start. Prepare for bugs, mud, humidity, heat, more bugs and mud, holes to twist an ankle if you aren't careful, leaves to slip on, vines in your face, roots to trip on, slippery rocks, rushing water, and more mud. You need to sign a waiver at the entrance where you pay the fee saying that you understand that this is a serious hike in rugged nature. I am so glad that I did this. I have hiked all over, and this was my favorite.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Patricia_a
Oct 2, 2024
Hanging Bridged - Our tour guide Julian was friendly and very knowledgeable on finding birds and other critters. He was able to answer questions about the Costa Rican wildlife. The hanging bridges were fun and great views.
Review provided by Viator
Kelly_d
Sep 15, 2024
Hiking - Great hiking. A little slippery at times and steep. Beautiful waterfalls and spots to swim. Wear shoes that can get wet.
Review provided by Viator
Carolinekw953xb
Jul 21, 2024
My soul is at peace now - This was the most beautiful and fun hike! My sister and I went a little off trail through the creeks/river of the waterfalls! It's amazing to be around so much nature! The girl who was working was so nice and told us her father does all the trails! Please come support this awesome/beautiful family business
Review provided by Tripadvisor
646musad
May 19, 2024
Hiking with dogs - I recently enjoyed a fantastic hiking experience in the rainforest with my dogs. We felt completely safe. The scenery was breathtaking, and the trails were well-maintained. I highly recommend this place for anyone looking to enjoy nature and a good hike. I am already planning my next visit!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
327noelle
Mar 31, 2024
Hiking small waterfalls trails - Great beautiful trail. My advice do not go up the extreme trail. Turn back around and head to exit. There is no further trail that way. Also cash only! Nice people . Takes you 45-1 small waterfalls
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Select Date and Tickets
up to 15 guests
1 Adult
December 2024
Sun
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
Today