Known as the Costa Rica’s most active volcano, Arenal Volcano is also characterized as one of the top ten most active volcanoes in the world. It’s a stratovolcano which means it’s tall and almost perfectly shaped and formed by layers of ash, rock and lava. With a height of approximately 5,300 ft., it is still considered quite a young volcano but is carefully making a name for itself in the area of tourism.

Located in the district of La Fortuna, Alajuela, it is currently the center of attraction in the heart of the Arenal Volcano National Park. Offering more than its nearly impeccable shape and historical eruptions, the Arenal Volcano of Costa Rica is now known to be one of the must-sees in this coastal Latin American country.

Going Beyond the 1968 Eruption

Considering that it was quiescent for hundreds of years, the Arenal Volcano suddenly erupted in the year 1968, leaving 78 people dead and three villages buried in ashes. The volcano became active with expulsions and eruptions over the next years, only being declared as indefinitely resting in October 2010.

Despite being relatively dormant, the Arenal Volcano continues to be flocked by tourists worldwide because of the various activities and sights to see around the conical wonder.

The Arenal Volcano National Park

Given the park’s size of about 12,000 hectares, the Arenal Volcano National Park offers a multitude of ‘things to see and do’. Nature lovers, thrill-seekers or just simply wanderers are in for an outdoor treat once they’ve discovered the beauty of this Costa Rican tourist spot.

Nature Sight-Seeing

Apart from the volcano itself, cloud forests–a more humid and elevated type of forest and untouched woodlands await those who’re interested in exploring nature in its purest form. Over the course of your trekking, expect to find widespread species of animals such as fish, reptiles and mammals. In fact, 53% of the entire local bird population can be found in this park.

The Cano Negro Wildlife Reserve is one place wildlife enthusiasts need to visit. It is home to various species of reptiles and animals protected by the refuge.

Activities and Tours

After basking in the natural wonder of the Arenal Volcano, those who have more of an adventurous taste in traveling and exploring can enjoy a myriad of outdoor activities. The choice starts from the most common ones such as horseback riding and cave tours and extends to the more daring ones like sky-trekking, rappel and raft adventure as well as La Pradeara ATV Tour–to name a few.

Hot Springs All-Year Round

After a long day of hiking or discovering the natural surroundings of the Arenal Volcano, hot springs are around the corner for you to bask in and relax. Tabacon Hot Springs in the La Fortuna area, Arenal Volcano Hike and Hot Springs as well as the Titoku Hot Springs are all around the vicinity for you to indulge in.

Hotels and Lodging

La Fortuna has a lot of hotels, inns and lodges that give guests a panoramic view of the Arenal Volcano. Whether you are on a budget or luxurious trip to the Arenal area, this part of Costa Rica has the best places for accommodations.

Now more than an active volcano with an unforgettable conical curve for all sight-seekers, Arenal Volcano has expanded its range of sights and activities for everyone to maximize.