Driving from Arenal to Tenorio

By The Mantled HowlerCosta Rica, Travel

Should you Drive in Costa Rica?

Should you be driving from Arenal to Tenorio Volcano National Park? Are you concerned about the state of the roads in Costa Rica? If so, keep reading and watch the video below to see for yourself.

Don’t believe all the negative information that you find online about driving in Costa Rica.

Getting Around

If you wonder which navigation app to use in Costa Rica, Waze is the way to go.  Furthermore, from what a few locals told me, Waze is THE best application to find your way in Costa Rica.

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Driving from Arenal to Tenorio Volcano National Park is truly enjoyable. The primary roads are, for the most part, lined will beautiful greenery and are in surprisingly good condition. Do keep an eye out for wildlife that may be crossing the roads, especially in rural areas.

The Drive

In this episode, we drive from the base of Arenal Volcano to Tenorio Volcano National Park. The 86 kilometer drive took around two hours.

The park is located in the North West of Costa Rica, near the Nicaragua border. Tenorio Volcano National Park is home to Rio Celeste, the beautiful azure river.

Arenal volcano is one of Costa Rica’s most visited destinations. In and around the town of La Fortuna, there are many restaurants, hotels and Cabinas. There are also many tour operators that offer interesting activities like rafting, zip lining and hiking tours.

There are fuel stations at regular intervals along the primary road. Fuel prices are regulated, therefore prices are pretty much the same all over the country.

In many areas along most roads, there are vendors selling fresh local fruits.

More importantly, make sure to remain attentive on the road. You will often encounter cyclists and pedestrians, even on primary roads.

Small Bridges

Many small bridges are not wide enough for two oncoming vehicles. On one side is a “Ceda El Paso”, or yield sign, whereas the other side has right of way.

Above all, driving along these beautiful long and winding countryside roads is such a relaxing experience.

Keep an eye out for speed limit changes. More often than not, speed limits are painted directly on the roadway.

If You Get Hungry

Do you get hungry when you drive? If you do, there are sodas along most roadways. Likewise, you will o find them in smaller out of the way communities.  Sodas are what the Ticos call small home style restaurants. Depending on the Soda where you stop, many but not all accept credit cards.

In any event, don’t miss any of my next adventures. Make sure to, Like, Share and also Subscribe to my YouTube Channel.