Kalambu Hot Springs in La Fortuna is a fun thermal water park for all ages and is naturally heated by hot springs. This park is one of the newer and more modest-sized in the Arenal area of Costa Rica but offers a few different unique attractions.
The grounds at Kalambu are gorgeous and lush, decked out with stunning flowers that greet their visitors. There is also a fantastic view of the volcano, adding to the enchanting ambiance. After entering the venue, guests will see a changing room before reaching the water areas.
Tickets are sold before going inside, and there are meal deals that include lunch or dinner with the entry fee. If you plan on eating on-site, this will probably save you some money over purchasing meals separately. Locker and towel rentals are available on-site for those who need them, and visitors need to bring their own water-friendly footwear, swimsuits, and sun protection.
The springs are open year-round, but it can be even more satisfying to visit on a cool, cloudy day or after a rain. Arriving just before dusk also reduces the amount of time you spend in the sun, especially during the summer months. Larger groups can ask about reserving an area on the property ahead of time or renting out some space to host a family reunion, birthday party, or other celebrations.
Water Park Attractions
Kalambu has areas that appeal to kids, adults, and thrill-seekers.
The Mammoth
Designed for ages seven to adult, The Mammoth Water Slide is a wild beast to ride. It’s 12.6/41 feet meters high, 114 meters/374 feet long, and requires a minimum of two people and a max of four in one slide down. Floats are provided for this attraction.
The Triple Slide
The triple slide comprises three adjoining slides named Cyclone, Tornado, and Avalanche. They are five stories high, and each one goes a different route, making this a fun one to do with friends or family at the same time. Kids age six and up can ride this one as long as they are 1.2 meters/3.9 feet tall. Riders travel fast on these, covering about 2 meters/6.5 feet per second.
Water Playground
Kids under age six can enjoy this wet playground facility with the supervision of an adult. The water is less hot than the others but still comfortably warm. There’s a custom, small slide for little ones to zip down, an area to wade or swim, and a giant red bucket that unloads gallons of water every few minutes on the people below.
Thermal Pools
Two thermal pools are on-site at Kalambu, both with access to a wet bar that connects to the main restaurant. One of the pools is family-friendly, while the other is strictly for adults; both are hotter than the kids’ swimming area. The all-ages pool has a beautiful cascading waterfall that splashes down onto swimmers and creates a relaxing place to soak.
The bottoms of the pools aren’t too rocky, but it’s still recommended to have water shoes.
Dining
The property’s restaurant is a spacious, tastefully decorated eatery with a colorful menu. Some of the featured cuisines offer mostly casual fare, including local Costa Rican dishes, pizza, salads, grilled options, and snack bar items. Guests who want to indulge in a fancier type of beverage can grab a beer or frozen drink here.
The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner and overlooks the thermal pools.
Nearby Lodging
Many hotels are less than a mile from Kalambu Hot Springs, and several of them have their thermal pools as well. Two of the closest ones at just 0.1 miles away are The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort, an adults-only property, and Paradise Hot Springs (affiliate links).
Details
Address: F8MC+RCC, Alajuela Province, La Fortuna 21007, Costa Rica
Phone: +506 2479 0170
Email: info@kalambu.com
Season: Year-round
Hours: 9 am – 8 pm Monday- Friday, 9 am to 9 pm Saturday & Sunday
Website: kalambu.com/en