About Arenal
Explore Costa Rica
Overview
Once considered dormant, the Arenal volcano proved everyone wrong in 1968 when it suddenly erupted. Since then, the region has become one of Costa Rica’s hottest attractions. From its perfectly formed cone-shape to its majestic forests and waterways, the Arenal Volcano is considered one of the world’s most stunning volcanoes, dormant or active. Formed more than 7,000 years ago, the volcano still towers above the lush countryside at 5,437 feet.
The nearby man-made Lake Arenal offers stunning views of the Arenal Volcano. The town of Nuevo Arenal was created along the lush northeast shore of Lake Arenal to house some of the region’s local inhabitants.
Soothing hot springs pepper the landscape, warmed by the geothermal activities of the volcano. Other indigenous creatures, such as monkeys, sloths and parrots, continue to find their own homes amid the myriad forests and waterfalls of the sublime Arenal region.
What To Do
Hike amidst the lava trails and forests of Arenal Volcano National Park.
Soak in the region’s many natural hot springs.
Kayak or take a romantic sunset cruise on Arenal Lake. Ride a 4x4 jeep into La Fortuna’s stunning rainforest and rappel down the picturesque La Fortuna Waterfall.
Go horseback riding through the mountains or explore a mysterious underground cave.
Walk on hanging bridges more than 70m high and be dazzled by abundant flora and fauna amid lush green forests with views of Arenal Volcano.
When to Go
The best weather in Arenal and La Fortuna arrives between December and April, and from July to the first week of August. The rainiest months are typically September and October. During the summer months, temperatures around the Arenal Volcano remain in the 80s F. Part of the Costa Rican central mountain range, the area remains delightfully warm year-round.
Fast Facts
Ecotourism is alive and well in Costa Rica, a country that protects nearly 26 percent of its land.
The Arenal Volcano remained silent for nearly 450 years until it erupted on July 29, 1968, creating three distinct craters. Today, the lava flows change direction every six months or so, favoring either the southwest or northwest slopes.
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