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

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Always an adventure!

Venado Caves
Best Time
Always an adventure!

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the ancient, water-filled Venado Caves, a subterranean world of bats, spiders, and stunning geological formations near La Fortuna.
"Best experience I've had on my Costa Rica trip! Amazing adventure!"

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:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

Subterranean Waterfalls
Various Chambers
Marvel at the natural beauty of waterfalls cascading within the ancient cave system.

Geological Formations
Throughout the Caves
Explore millions of years of history etched in stalactites, stalagmites, and unique rock formations.

The 'Birth Canal'
Narrow Passage
Experience a thrilling crawl through tight spaces, a test of agility and a memorable part of the adventure.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Wet Adventure
Book Ahead & Pack Smart
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
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:
Book in Advance
Secure your spot, especially during busy periods. Cash is often preferred. :ticket:
Bring Your Own Towel
Showers are available, but towels are not provided. :beachwithumbrella:
Tips
from all over the internet
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:
Book in Advance
Secure your spot, especially during busy periods. Cash is often preferred. :ticket:
Bring Your Own Towel
Showers are available, but towels are not provided. :beachwithumbrella:
Embrace the Crawl
Some passages require crawling. It's part of the fun and adventure! :hiking_boot:
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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. Some visitors mention it's a detour if roads to other attractions are flooded.
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.
Yes, you can drive your own vehicle. There is parking available at the site.
Venado Caves are near La Fortuna, which offers attractions like Arenal Volcano National Park, La Fortuna Waterfall, and various hot springs.
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.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is typically around 5,000 Costa Rican colones (CRC) per person, which is roughly $10 USD. It's advisable to confirm current pricing when booking.
Yes, it's highly recommended to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your spot.
Venado Caves are generally open daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. However, it's always a good idea to check their official hours or confirm with your tour provider.
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.
While credit cards may be accepted, it's recommended to carry cash for faster transactions, as some sources suggest it can be quicker.
🎫 🧭 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.
Some sections are narrow and require crawling, which might be challenging for those with severe claustrophobia. However, guides can often offer alternative routes.
You'll likely encounter bats, spiders, and various insects. Some reviews mention seeing fish and millipedes as well.
The tour usually lasts a couple of hours, making it a manageable activity that leaves time for other adventures in the area.
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!
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
The facility offers a variety of food options, including vegetarian choices.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally best to purchase food and drinks at the facility to support their services.
La Fortuna, a short drive away, has numerous restaurants offering a wide range of cuisines.
Many visitors recommend having lunch at the Venado Caves facility after the tour, especially for their vegetarian options and fresh juices.
📸 📸 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. Guides are also excellent photographers!
You can bring your camera, but it must be protected from water. A waterproof case or action camera is highly recommended.
It's very likely your phone will get wet. Using a waterproof case or leaving it behind is advised.
Absolutely! The unique formations, bats, and underground waterfalls offer incredible, albeit challenging, photo opportunities.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
❤️ Couples & Adventure Seekers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology and History of Venado Caves
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.
Navigating the Caves: What to Expect
Hard hats with lights are provided to illuminate the path and ensure safety. The duration of the tour is typically around two hours, offering a substantial yet manageable experience that doesn't consume the entire day. 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.
Wildlife Encounters in the Depths
While less commonly mentioned, some visitors have reported seeing fish in the cave's water bodies. 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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit