Arenal Volcano

Arenal Volcano is not only one of the most active volcanoes in Costa Rica, but it is also one of the most active volcanoes on the planet.

This natural wonder stands 5,358 feet tall; its enormous crater spans 460 feet and spews tiny eruptions on a daily basis. During the day, you can paddle around the adjacent lake admiring the area’s rich array of wildlife; or if it isn’t too cloudy at night, try to watch red hot lava rocks bubble out of its crater and roll down its flanks.

So Much to Do
So many activities are available near Volcano Arenal that it would be impossible to tackle them all in just one trip. Wind surfing, sailing, and sport fishing for rainbow bass are among the most popular things to do here. Adrenaline seekers can try zip lining canopy tours, whitewater rafting, bungee jumping and waterfall rappelling, while the less adventurous can hike to the La Fortuna Waterfall or explore nearby spelunking caves. ATV tours, jungle safari floats and hanging bridge tours are other options for guided excursions.

Thanks to Arenal Volcano’s thermal activity, the area is speckled with natural hot springs – the perfect way to sooth aching muscles and unwind. Try following up with a mud bath or massage therapy session at one of the local wellness centers.

Rich Biodiversity
Volcano Arenal National Park protects thousands of plant and animal species. Agoutis, sloths and coatimundis are around every corner, as well as howler monkeys, coatimundis and fer-de-lance snakes. Basilisk lizards, poison dart frogs, and peccaries are a few other types of critters that you can hope to encounter here, along with 20 types of medicinal plants and 15 species of amphibians. Wild cats like jaguars and pumas are rare but present.

Lake Arenal
Lake Arenal and the Lake Arenal Dam make up the largest hydroelectric project in Costa Rica, creating clean power, water and recreational opportunities for neighboring towns. This area also offers some of the most amazing natural views imaginable – the road leading around the body of water is nothing short of stunning. Mist floats above the surface of the water, slowly drifting to and fro and providing a phenomenal backdrop for the Arenal Volcano.

La Fortuna
The town around Arenal is home to luxurious hotels, day spas and restaurants. Because it is such a popular city, there are many places to go shopping for crafts and homemade products. Because of its comfortable climate, La Fortuna is generally a great walking city.