Venado Caves

Top choice


Two kilometers northeast of Venado (Spanish for ‘deer’) along a good dirt road, these caves are an adventurous excursion into an eight-chamber limestone labyrinth that extends for almost 3km. A bilingual guide leads small groups (limit seven) on two-hour tours through the darkness, squeezing through narrow passes and pointing out the most interesting rock formations (an altar, a papaya) while dodging bugs and bats (12 species in all – the vampires have darker poop from their iron-rich blood diet). Rubber boots, headlamps and helmets – plus a shower afterwards – are provided.

You’ll definitely want to bring a change of clothes.

Better to spring for their photographer to take some snaps (US$20) than to lose your precious phone in the murky waters. Trust us.

Any tour operator in La Fortuna can arrange this trip for you. If you’re driving yourself, the caves are well signed from Hwy 4. One bus at 9am comes straight here from La Fortuna (US$2.75, one hour). Otherwise, other Upala-bound buses can drop you at Jicarito, 9km from the caves. From the Jicarito cruz (crossing) it's simple to catch a lift uphill from one of the local farmers. Cash only if paying at the caves.

There's also a pool and restaurant here.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Mirador El Silencio

5.23 MILES

Set on 22 hectares, this private reserve about 11km west of La Fortuna is a mix of primary and secondary forest, filled with life, from vibrant blue…

2. Arenal Natura

5.55 MILES

Located 6km west of La Fortuna, this is a well-manicured nature experience that includes frogs, turtles, snakes and crocs, all in their appointed places…

3. Parque Nacional Volcán Arenal

6.58 MILES

From 1968 until 2010, Volcán Arenal was an ever-active and awe-striking natural wonder, producing menacing ash columns, massive explosions and streams of…

4. Catholic Church

9.18 MILES

This prominent landmark oversees the central plaza of La Fortuna. The landscaped green is often dotted with outdoor art exhibits and souvenir stands, and…

5. Catarata Río Fortuna

9.24 MILES

You can glimpse the sparkling 70m ribbon of clear water that pours through a sheer canyon of dark volcanic rock arrayed in bromeliads and ferns with…

6. Arenal EcoZoo

9.29 MILES

This snake house offers a hands-on animal experience, as in, handling and milking a venomous snake. It's home to a red-tailed boa (one of the largest…

8. Ecocentro Danaus

10.37 MILES

This center, 4km east of town, has a well-developed trail system that’s excellent for birding, as well as for spotting mammals such as coatis and agoutis …