In the shadow of the towering Arenal Volcano is La Fortuna. La Fortuna is jumping off point for tourists who want to explore the Alajuela province of northern Costa Rica. Dams, bridges, Tabacon Hot springs, waterfalls, and the classic Costa Rica canopy tour all lie within easy reach of this town.

La Fortuna is at the heart of some of Costa Rica's most rugged and scenic terrain. You could easily arrive with no plans yet suddenly find yourself overwhelmed at the possibilities, which lie in every direction.

The Venado caves, also south of La Fortuna, Costa Rica should always be explored with a guide, even though you are free to enter them alone. The cool temperatures are created by the lack of sunlight combined with the ever-present water that flows through them.

Bats and spiders live in the caves, but these are negligible hazards compared to the high waters that fills the caves during the rainy season, when visitors should avoid the caves altogether. Take a one-hour drive south of Fortuna and you will reach the small village of Venado, about 7km south of La Fortuna.

Follow the signs to the caves, which are located on private property. Obtain permission and pay a small entrance free to be admitted to the caves.