Peñas Blancas accommodation from NZ$59

The Arenal Tropical Garden and Hotel Castillo del Arenal are close to the Butterfly Conservatory. If you'd prefer to base yourself close to the Arenal Eco Zoo, you could plan to stay at the Rancho Margot and Hotel Linda Vista.

The Hostel Backpackers La Fortuna is positioned 13 kilometres away from the main part of El Castillo. Another alternative is the Arenal Hostel Resort, which is positioned 13 kilometres away. Alternatively, book a room at the Hotel El Volcan or the Arenal Country Inn.

After you have spent some time in El Castillo, set out to discover more of the Northern Plains area. Spend time at the traditional villages, craft workshops and open-air markets in Northern Plains. Outdoorsy types can also make the time to enjoy its forests and lakes. Popular activities in this part of Costa Rica include hiking and shore fishing.

Fortuna is situated 11 kilometres to the northeast of El Castillo. While here, be sure to discover the Baldi Hot Springs. Fortuna accommodations include the Hotel Las Colinas and Hotel Arenal Bromelias. Or you can find Arenal 14 kilometres to the northwest of El Castillo. In Arenal, take the time to enjoy the Arenal Hanging Bridges. Room options in Arenal include the La Mansion Inn Arenal and Ceiba Tree Lodge.

If you are really into sports and want to see games, you could head to Saprissa Stadium, which is 90 kilometres to the southeast of El Castillo. The Hotel Bougainvillea and the Isla Los Angeles Costa Rica are both good options if you want to get into it.

Juan Santamaria International Airport is the gateway to El Castillo. Nearby hotels include the Hampton Inn and Suites San Jose Airport and the Holiday Inn Express San Jose Costa Rica Airport.