cave waterfall!
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Venado Caves

4.8
·701 reviews·, Costa Rica

Explore the ancient, water-filled Venado Caves, a subterranean world of bats, spiders, and stunning geological formations near La Fortuna.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Anytime

Always an adventure!

CrowdMedium
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cave waterfall!

Venado Caves

Best Time

Anytime

Always an adventure!

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore the ancient, water-filled Venado Caves, a subterranean world of bats, spiders, and stunning geological formations near La Fortuna.

4.8
(701 reviews)

"Best experience I've had on my Costa Rica trip! Amazing adventure!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Wear Quick-Dry Clothes

You WILL get wet! Opt for synthetic fabrics that dry fast. :athletic_shoe:

Waterproof Your Gear

Use a waterproof bag or case for phones/cameras. Leave valuables behind! :iphone:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Bat Colony

Bat Colony

Bat Cave Section

Witness thousands of bats in their natural habitat. A truly unique and awe-inspiring underground spectacle.

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Subterranean Waterfalls

Subterranean Waterfalls

Various Chambers

Marvel at the natural beauty of waterfalls cascading within the ancient cave system.

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Geological Formations

Geological Formations

Throughout the Caves

Explore millions of years of history etched in stalactites, stalagmites, and unique rock formations.

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The 'Birth Canal'

The 'Birth Canal'

Narrow Passage

Experience a thrilling crawl through tight spaces, a test of agility and a memorable part of the adventure.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Wet Adventure

Prepare to get soaked! Venado Caves are an active system with water flowing through. Wear quick-drying clothes and shoes you don't mind getting wet. Waterproof bags for essentials are a must, and leave valuables behind. InstagramReddit

Book Ahead & Pack Smart

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak season. Bring cash for faster transactions and be ready to shower in cold water afterward. Don't forget a towel! Reddit

Best Times

When
Anytime
Why
Always an adventure!
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Así se vivió la visita de @Victor Wembanyama en nuestras cancha sintética en La Fortuna de San Carlos 🇨🇷 ❤️ muy felices de su vista en nuestro negocio y la invitación a toda la comunidad para meguenjar junto a él ❤️ GRACIAS POR LA VISITA #victorwembanyama #victorwembanyamaencostarica #espn
@silviapearanda
278.7K likes • 5.3M views

Wear Quick-Dry Clothes

You WILL get wet! Opt for synthetic fabrics that dry fast. InstagramReddit :athletic_shoe:

Waterproof Your Gear

Use a waterproof bag or case for phones/cameras. Leave valuables behind! Reddit :iphone:

Un lugar para relajarse 🦦y disfrutar todo el dia, ubicado en la fortuna de San Carlos... 🍃🌤️🌋🏞️ Tel: 8740 - 4000 Info: https://m.facebook.com/100066797094813/ @Vianka Unfried Musica: Balloon Músico: @iksonmusic #costarica🇨🇷 #familytripstips #economico #relax #aguascristalinas #termales #lafortunacostarica #toboganesacuaticos #viral
@familytripstips
73K likes • 1.1M views
Venado caves in Costa Rica. This place is amazing. Lots of bats and spiders. Some pretty tight squeezes as well and having to swim in water but it was worth it for the views.
reedr61
6 likes • 118 views

Book in Advance

Secure your spot, especially during busy periods. Cash is often preferred. Reddit :ticket:

Bring Your Own Towel

Showers are available, but towels are not provided. Reddit :beachwithumbrella:

Dive into the heart of darkness at Venado Caves' bat cave! 🦇✨ Join me on an adventure like no other as 'The Costa Rica Experience' takes you deep into the mysterious depths. #VenadoCaves #BatCaveAdventure #CostaRicaDiscovery #wanderlust #thecostaricaexperience #hiking #adventure #costaricatravel #solotravelchronicles #solotraveler #travelogue #eatpraylovemyself
solotravelchronicles
4 likes • 101 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Wear Quick-Dry Clothes

You WILL get wet! Opt for synthetic fabrics that dry fast. InstagramReddit :athletic_shoe:

Waterproof Your Gear

Use a waterproof bag or case for phones/cameras. Leave valuables behind! Reddit :iphone:

Book in Advance

Secure your spot, especially during busy periods. Cash is often preferred. Reddit :ticket:

Bring Your Own Towel

Showers are available, but towels are not provided. Reddit :beachwithumbrella:

Embrace the Crawl

Some passages require crawling. It's part of the fun and adventure! InstagramReddit :hiking_boot:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(701 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Venado Caves as a highlight of their Costa Rica trip, offering an unforgettable adventure with unique geological formations and abundant wildlife. Guides are frequently commended for their knowledge, patience, and excellent photography skills, making the experience accessible and enjoyable for all. While the caves are wet and involve crawling, this is seen as part of the exhilarating experience.

"Best experience I've had on my Costa Rica trip! This was my first time caving and I was in awe of the cave and tour. My wife and her son are experienced cavers and they too loved the cave. Guide was terrific and meeting the owner Pam and hearing her story of this long time family business was so nice. I highly recommend this experience if you want an amazing adventure!"

Tim Ryan

"Fantastic. Went with two kids 12 and 9, and, despite being a little scared at first, they loved it! Incredible place filled with bats and spiders. Totally fascinating and exhilarating. Guides were friendly and great"

Gabriel Simon

"We went to Venado Caves with my family in August 2025. The entire team deserves 5 Stars for the entire experience and patience. I would like to especially thank WILMER 👍 for making my kids feel safe and comfortable in the cave. He was very knowledgeable and explained the history and critters. The caves / birth canal is fully worth exploring. The caves do require some physical agility so be sure to get down on all fours and crawl through narrow passeges. If your clothes don't get drenched then you are not doing something right 😁. You will also be climbing up and down 2-3 meters in dark. You will have hard hat with lights.

Recommendation:
- make reservations in advance .. carry cash for faster transaction. I was able to use credit card but it took some
- they have shower facility with soap (cold water) but you need to bring your own towel. - You shouldn't take car keys, purse, wallet, passport, or anything that may get damaged due to water immereion.
- Take head or wrist mounted action camera, or cell phone with waterproof cover - however your pix may not come out well due to darkness.
- I definitely recommend having lunch at the facility - and they had plenty of options for vegetarian. They dessert and fresh guava juice were tasty.

Thanks again for a unique experience."

Malhar Shah

What People Like

Incredible adventure
Knowledgeable guides
Unique wildlife

What People Dislike

Getting very wet
Tight passages

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Venado Caves are located about 45 minutes to an hour from La Fortuna. You can hire a taxi, which typically costs around $20 USD each way, or arrange transportation through your hotel or a tour operator. Reddit Some visitors mention it's a detour if roads to other attractions are flooded. Reddit

The caves are generally well-marked, but having GPS or using a navigation app is recommended. Taxis and tour operators will know the exact location. Reddit

Yes, you can drive your own vehicle. There is parking available at the site. TikTok

Venado Caves are near La Fortuna, which offers attractions like Arenal Volcano National Park, La Fortuna Waterfall, and various hot springs. TikTok+2

For a day trip from La Fortuna, hiring a taxi or booking a guided tour that includes transportation is the most convenient option. This allows you to focus on the adventure without worrying about navigation. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The entrance fee is typically around 5,000 Costa Rican colones (CRC) per person, which is roughly $10 USD. TikTok It's advisable to confirm current pricing when booking. Reddit

Yes, it's highly recommended to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your spot. Reddit

Venado Caves are generally open daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. TikTok However, it's always a good idea to check their official hours or confirm with your tour provider. TikTok

While there aren't strict age restrictions, the caves involve crawling and navigating uneven terrain, so it's best suited for those who are physically able. Children as young as 9 have enjoyed the experience. Reddit

While credit cards may be accepted, it's recommended to carry cash for faster transactions, as some sources suggest it can be quicker. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Expect an adventurous exploration involving crawling, wading through water, and climbing. You'll see bats, spiders, and unique geological formations. Guides provide hard hats with lights. InstagramReddit+1

Some sections are narrow and require crawling, which might be challenging for those with severe claustrophobia. However, guides can often offer alternative routes. InstagramReddit

You'll likely encounter bats, spiders, and various insects. Some reviews mention seeing fish and millipedes as well. InstagramReddit+1

The tour usually lasts a couple of hours, making it a manageable activity that leaves time for other adventures in the area. Reddit

Yes, knowledgeable guides are provided and are essential for navigating the caves safely and understanding the geology and wildlife. They are also great for taking photos! InstagramReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, it's recommended to have lunch at the facility. They offer vegetarian options, and their dessert and guava juice are noted as tasty. Reddit

The facility offers a variety of food options, including vegetarian choices. Reddit

While not explicitly stated, it's generally best to purchase food and drinks at the facility to support their services. Reddit

La Fortuna, a short drive away, has numerous restaurants offering a wide range of cuisines. TikTok+1

Many visitors recommend having lunch at the Venado Caves facility after the tour, especially for their vegetarian options and fresh juices. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Using a head or wrist-mounted action camera is ideal. A cell phone with a waterproof cover can also work, but photos might be affected by the darkness. Reddit Guides are also excellent photographers! Reddit

You can bring your camera, but it must be protected from water. A waterproof case or action camera is highly recommended. Reddit

It's very likely your phone will get wet. Using a waterproof case or leaving it behind is advised. Reddit

Absolutely! The unique formations, bats, and underground waterfalls offer incredible, albeit challenging, photo opportunities. InstagramReddit+1

Yes, many guides are happy to take photos and videos of your group, which is a great way to capture memories without risking your own equipment. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Venado Caves can be an exciting adventure for families, even with younger children. While some parts require crawling and navigating water, guides are excellent at making kids feel safe and comfortable. Reddit The presence of bats and spiders is often a huge hit with children, turning a potentially scary environment into a thrilling discovery. InstagramReddit The tour duration is manageable for kids, and the guides' willingness to take photos means parents can focus on the experience without worrying about their phones. Reddit Consider the physical capabilities of your children, but many families with kids as young as 9 have had a fantastic time. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Venado Caves offer a relatively affordable adventure compared to some other Costa Rican attractions. The entrance fee is around $10 USD, and transportation from La Fortuna can be managed with a taxi for a reasonable price, especially if shared. TikTokReddit Bringing your own snacks or having a budget-friendly lunch at the facility can help keep costs down. Reddit This experience provides a significant adventure and unique natural wonder for the price. Reddit

❤️ Couples & Adventure Seekers

For couples looking for a unique and thrilling experience, Venado Caves are a perfect choice. The adventurous nature of the tour, with its tight squeezes and underground water, creates a memorable bonding experience. InstagramReddit The sense of discovery and the awe-inspiring natural formations provide a romantic and exciting backdrop. InstagramReddit It's an opportunity to step outside your comfort zone together and create lasting memories in a truly extraordinary setting. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Geology and History of Venado Caves

Discovered in 1962, the Venado Caves system is a testament to millions of years of geological activity. These caves were once submerged beneath the sea and were brought to the surface through tectonic plate movements. Instagram+1 The system is known for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites, formed over eons by dripping water depositing calcium carbonate. The constant presence of water, with some chambers featuring flowing streams and pools, is a defining characteristic of these active caves. Instagram+1

The caves are a dynamic environment, with formations still actively growing. The unique ecosystem within the caves supports a variety of life, adapted to the dark and humid conditions. Exploring these caves offers a glimpse into a hidden world shaped by natural forces over vast periods of time. Instagram+1

Navigating the Caves: What to Expect

A tour of Venado Caves is an immersive adventure that requires a degree of physical agility. Visitors should be prepared to get wet, as water is a constant feature throughout the cave system. InstagramReddit This can range from wading through ankle-deep water to swimming in deeper sections. Instagram The terrain is uneven, and certain passages necessitate crawling on hands and knees, or even getting down on all fours. Reddit Some sections, like the 'birth canal,' involve tight squeezes and may require a bit of a pull-up, with guides readily available to assist. InstagramReddit

Hard hats with lights are provided to illuminate the path and ensure safety. Reddit The duration of the tour is typically around two hours, offering a substantial yet manageable experience that doesn't consume the entire day. Reddit This allows ample time to enjoy other attractions in the La Fortuna area. The guides are not only knowledgeable about the cave's geology and inhabitants but also adept at capturing memorable photos and videos of your adventure. InstagramReddit

Wildlife Encounters in the Depths

The Venado Caves are a thriving habitat for a variety of subterranean creatures, offering a unique wildlife viewing experience. The most prominent residents are the numerous bats that inhabit specific chambers, creating a fascinating spectacle for visitors. Instagram+2 Beyond the bats, the caves are home to a diverse array of invertebrates, including spiders, insects, and millipedes, all adapted to the dark, humid environment. InstagramReddit

While less commonly mentioned, some visitors have reported seeing fish in the cave's water bodies. Instagram The presence of this unique fauna underscores the ecological significance of the Venado Caves. Observing these creatures in their natural, undisturbed habitat provides a memorable and educational aspect to the cave exploration. InstagramReddit

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