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Arenal Volcano: Costa Rica's Majestic Giant

Explore Costa Rica's iconic Arenal Volcano: Hike through lava fields, discover rainforest trails, and witness breathtaking natural beauty.

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Arenal Volcano, located in the Alajuela Province of Costa Rica, is an iconic natural wonder and a major attraction within the Arenal Volcano National Park. Though currently in a resting phase since 2010, Arenal was once Costa Rica's most active volcano, drawing visitors with its near-constant displays of smoke and lava. The surrounding park offers diverse hiking trails, lush rainforest, and abundant wildlife, making it a must-see destination for nature enthusiasts.

A brief summary to Arenal Volcano

  • San Carlos, Alajuela Province, CR

Local tips

  • Visit between December and April for clearer skies and unforgettable views of the volcano.
  • Wear sturdy shoes suitable for uneven terrain, especially if hiking the lava field trails.
  • Bring essentials like insect repellent and rain gear, as the area is known for standing water and mosquitos.
  • Purchase park tickets with a credit card, as cash payments are not accepted at the entrance.
  • Consider visiting both the Volcano Sector and Peninsula Sector to experience the diverse landscapes and views the park offers.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Driving is a convenient way to reach Arenal Volcano National Park. From La Fortuna, the drive to the main visitor center takes approximately 30 minutes. Set your GPS to "Arenal Volcano National Park Visitor Center". Parking is free with your park entrance ticket. Be aware that the Vehicle Trail within the park requires a 4x4 vehicle. Taxis from La Fortuna to Arenal National Park cost around $25 USD.

  • Public Transport

    While direct public buses to Arenal Volcano National Park are limited, a local bus travels daily between La Fortuna and the park. Buses leave twice a day from La Fortuna bus station at 8 AM and 2 PM; tickets are about $5 USD. Be aware that the bus may not always be on schedule. Alternatively, you can take a bus from San José to La Fortuna. From there, take a taxi to the park or the local bus.

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Discover more about Arenal Volcano

Arenal Volcano, a dominant feature of Costa Rica's landscape, resides within the Arenal Volcano National Park in the Alajuela Province. For many years, it held the title of Costa Rica's most active volcano, captivating onlookers with frequent eruptions. While it entered a resting phase in 2010, ceasing its regular lava flows, the volcano's imposing presence and the surrounding park continue to draw tourists from across the globe. The volcano's history is marked by a significant eruption on July 29, 1968, which tragically resulted in the destruction of nearby towns and the loss of 87 lives. This event dramatically changed the region and led to the establishment of the national park in 1991 to protect the area's natural resources. Today, visitors can explore the park's diverse trails, traverse old lava fields, and witness the stunning biodiversity of the rainforest. The park offers several well-maintained trails suitable for various fitness levels, including the popular Las Coladas Trail, which winds through lava rocks from past eruptions. El Ceibo Trail meanders through the rainforest to a giant, 400-year-old Ceiba tree. The Peninsula Sector provides gentler, flat trails with panoramic views of Lake Arenal and the volcano. Visitors can also enjoy views of the volcano from the scenic drive around its base or by taking a boat trip on Lake Arenal. The area around Arenal is also known for its natural hot springs, heated by the volcano's geothermal activity, offering a relaxing way to unwind after a day of exploration. The park is home to a wide array of wildlife, including monkeys, tapirs, snakes, parrots and deer, making it a prime location for wildlife observation.

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