Experiences
Things to do near NARA.
Hot springs, waterfalls and rainforest trails are all within reach of the retreat. Explore at your own pace — the concierge arranges what you want and leaves out what you don't.
Quick Answers
Everything at a glance.
What's near NARA?
Hot springs, waterfalls, zipline, canyoning and horseback riding — plus Arenal Volcano, Poás Volcano, Sarapiquí and the Bajos del Toro waterfalls.
How far is the nearest hot spring?
5 minutes by car from the retreat.
Best time to visit the waterfalls?
Dry season (Dec–Apr) for easier, less muddy trails.
Do I need a guide?
Recommended for canyoning and canopy, optional for hiking.
Hot Springs
Volcanic thermal waters minutes from the retreat — a natural way to unwind after a day outdoors, with pools ranging from warm to hot fed by the region's volcanic activity.
Waterfalls & Hiking
Short hikes lead to waterfalls hidden inside the rainforest. Trails range from easy walks to more demanding routes, with birdwatching opportunities along the way.
Activities
For guests who want to explore more, the area offers zipline tours, canyoning, horseback riding, ATV rides, rafting and paddling on nearby lakes and rivers — all close enough to reach and leave behind by the end of the day.
Not sure where to start?
Tell the concierge what you enjoy and how active you'd like your stay to be — we'll put together a plan around it, at no extra cost.
Frequently Asked
Questions about experiences nearby.
The concierge service is included, but tours and activities themselves are booked separately with local operators. The concierge helps arrange them and can share current pricing for each option.
Most hot springs and waterfalls near NARA are within a short drive of Venecia de San Carlos, generally between 15 and 45 minutes depending on the specific spot.
A car makes it easier to explore at your own pace, but it isn't required — the concierge can help arrange transportation for tours and activities on request.
Yes. Tell the concierge what you're interested in before or during your stay, and they'll help coordinate bookings with trusted local operators.
Absolutely. Many guests choose to stay close to the retreat, visit a single hot spring or waterfall, and spend the rest of their time resting on the terrace — there's no obligation to fill every day with activities.
NARA sits within reach of some of Costa Rica's most visited natural landmarks: Arenal Volcano and its surrounding hot springs, Poás Volcano National Park with its active crater lake, the Sarapiquí region known for rainforest biodiversity and rafting, and the Bajos del Toro waterfalls hidden inside a cloud forest reserve. Most of these can be reached as a day trip from the retreat.
Nature outside. Calm within.
Tell us the dates you have in mind and we will take it from there.