Arenal Volcano

Famed for its impressive firework displays, the perfectly coned Arenal Volcano is one of the country’s real highlights and to see orange molten rocks tumble down its flanks at night is an incredible sight.

Why visit Arenal Volcano ?

  • Hike in the forested foothills of Arenal’s stunning volcano
  • Soak up the views whilst relaxing in the hot thermal pools
  • Go bird watching in the forest canopy from the ‘Hanging Bridges’
  • Head out onto Lake Arenal for a morning’s serious kayaking
  • Spot the Howler monkeys and sloths in Cano Negro Wildlife Refuge

This area is also home to some of the most spectacular scenery in the country with its forests, rivers, hot springs, botanical gardens and National Parks. The area offers all visitors a huge variety of activities and trips to explore the area including white water rafting on the Sarapiqui River; horse back riding; hiking around the slopes of the Arenal volcano; canopy & ‘Hanging Bridge’ tours in the forests to see the flora and fauna or merely relaxing in the hot mineral-rich waters of the Tabacon springs.

The nearby Cano Negro Wildlife Refuge, which stretches to over 100 sq kilometres is a fascinating reserve for those interested in birdwatching with huge numbers of resident and migratory birds (January to March is particularly good) including such notables as the roseate spoonbill, olivaceous cormorant and the Nicaraguan grackle. The reserve is also home to a wide variety of other wildlife including tapir, monkeys, alligators, sloths and even cats such as pumas and jaguars still live in the area although these are much rarer and harder to see.

The damming of Lake Arenal in 1974 flooded a few small local towns and their inhabitants were relocated to what is known today as La Fortuna, which is the main town in the Arenal area. The lake is well known for its superb windsurfing and sailing as well as some excellent fishing.

LOCATION

COSTA RICA KEY INFO

Visa

No Visa is required for UK passport holders.

Health Requirements

No mandatory vaccinations are required.

Time Difference

GMT - 6 Hours

Flight Time

11.5 hours Direct

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