Ziplining is a Costa Rican invention in spirit, if not in fact, and Arenal is one of the best places in the country to try it, because the lines run over real rainforest with a volcano and a lake as the backdrop. Sky Adventures Arenal is one of the longest-established parks in the area and has an easy way in for nervous first-timers: an enclosed aerial tram carries you gently up the mountainside through the treetops, with the guide pointing out plants and birds, to a viewpoint known as the Hand of Arenal. From there you clip in and fly back down on a circuit of seven cables, some long and fast, some short and low over the forest. The small-group tour we link on Viator is one of the most reviewed adventure products around La Fortuna, with more than a thousand reviews, and includes a professional guide, certified equipment and a safety briefing. It takes about two hours, with morning and afternoon starts.
How it works: you meet at the Sky Adventures park in the Arenal area, where the tour starts and ends. Transport is not included as standard, but the operator can arrange hotel pickup from La Fortuna for an extra charge. Cancellation is free up to twenty-four hours ahead, and the ticket is mobile.
What to expect: after a safety briefing and harness fitting, you board the tram for the ride up, then walk to the Hand of Arenal viewpoint for photos. The descent is by zipline, with guides at every platform clipping you in and out, so you never handle the safety gear alone. There are strict limits: the minimum age is five and minimum height about 110 centimetres, and riders must weigh between 40 and 136 kilograms. It is not advised for anyone with back or heart problems, recent surgery or pregnancy. GoPro rental and photo packages cost extra.
Making the most of it: morning starts usually have the clearest volcano views and calmer weather. Wear closed shoes, tie back long hair and leave loose items in the locker. If rain comes, the tour usually goes ahead, and the forest is just as beautiful.
What to expect
The experience
A guided small-group tour with an aerial tram ride up to the Hand of Arenal viewpoint and a seven-cable zipline circuit back down.
Best time
A morning start, when clouds are usually higher and the views of the volcano and Lake Arenal are clearest.
How long
About two hours at the park, plus transfer time if you add hotel pickup from La Fortuna.
Tips
Check the age, height and weight limits before booking, wear closed shoes and leave loose items in the locker.
Quick picks
- Best for
- First-time zipliners who like the idea of easing in with a gentle tram ride before the big cables.
- Families
- Children from five who meet the height limit can ride, making this one of the more family-friendly ziplines.
- Couples
- Book the morning slot for the views, then spend the afternoon at Mistico or the hot springs.
- Pair with
- Mistico Hanging Bridges, on the same side of the volcano near the lake.
- Time needed
- Half a day including transfers.
Good questions
How many ziplines are on the tour?+
The tour includes seven zipline cables after the aerial tram ride up. The park also offers longer combinations, but this product lists seven.
Is there a minimum age for the zipline?+
Yes, riders must be at least five years old and about 110 centimetres tall. They must also weigh between 40 and 136 kilograms.
Is hotel pickup included?+
No, transport is not included as standard. The operator can arrange pickup from La Fortuna hotels for an extra fee.
What if it rains?+
Tours usually run in light rain, which is common in the rainforest. Bring a light jacket and expect to get a little wet.
Can I cancel the booking?+
Yes, you can cancel for a full refund up to twenty-four hours before the start. Later cancellations are not refunded.
