La Fortuna (Arenal) to Tamarindo

From the volcano to the beach, this route follows the scenic lake road to Tilarán, drops down to the Interamericana at Cañas and crosses the ranch lands of Guanacaste. It’s paved all the way and takes about 4 to 5 hours.

Step-by-step directions

1. 1

   Around Lake Arenal to Tilarán

   Scenic, winding and potholed in places.

2. 2

   Down to Cañas and Route 1 north

   Join the Interamericana at Cañas and head north.

3. 3

   Liberia and Route 21 west

   At Liberia turn left onto Route 21 toward Santa Cruz, then follow signs to Tamarindo.

Tolls, fuel & road facts

Hazards to know before you go

• Potholes on the lake road.
• Strong winds near Tilarán.
• Cattle on rural roads in Guanacaste.

Stops worth making

• Nuevo Arenal

  Lakeside café stop.

• Liberia

  Lunch and supplies.

Local tips

• Plan to arrive before dark (about 5:45–6:15 pm year-round). Rural roads have no lighting, few shoulders, and pedestrians, cyclists and animals on the road.