Located between the Tilaran mountain range and San Carlos plains in Costa Rica, Arenal area is definitely a must for all travelers who visit Costa Rica to enjoy its natural richness.  Arenal area is home to the impressive Arenal Volcano, which is one of the most active volcanoes in Costa Rica and the world.  Rising 5,300 feet above sea level and with its beautiful conic silhouette, the volcano offer visitors a spectacular view which is enhanced at night when eruptions and lava rivers can be observed providing a natural firework show.

Arenal area is also recognized for its diversity on natural attractions as well for a great variety of activities catering to the most diverse likings of visitors to Costa Rica. Natural history walks at the Arenal Volcano National Park or private reserves, relaxing natural hot-springs, bird watching excursions or adventure tours featuring whitewater rafting, canopy tours, horseback riding and rappelling are just a few among the extensive list of options.

Highlights

Arenal Volcano
The impressive Arenal Volcano rises 5300 feet above the sea level and is located between the Tilaran mountain range and the San Carlos plains of Costa Rica. For more than 400 years the volcano remained dormant until 1968 year in which it started a constant activity until this day. When night falls visitors in the area may observe (weather permitting) a natural firework; the ground tremble and ash shoots into the sky as blazing lava flows down the cone.  This spectacle can safely be watched from the road or many restaurants and hotels in the surrounding area. The Arenal Volcano lies within the Arenal Volcano National Park, where visitors can hike through short trails between 2-3 kilometers passing through secondary forests and old lava fields from previous large eruptions. Park Rangers are constantly monitoring the volcano activity for visitor’s safety.

Arenal Lake
This 48 square mile man-made lake is located to the north near to the Arenal Volcano.  This reservoir was formed by enlarging a small lake in the area and was finished back in 1979 with the completion of a dam.  Lake Arenal has become a favorite of windsurfers seeking the rush of the Caribbean airstreams that reach up to 60 miles per hour.  Fishermen are also attracted to the area in search of rainbow bass machaca and mojarra.  

Arenal Hot Springs
Heated in the volcano’s core, warm waters flow down the volcano mound creating phenomenal hot springs surrounded by the rainforest, tropical gardens and waterfalls. Just as an exotic spa, a dip in the natural pools will rejuvenate your body and soul. The mineral-rich water renews your skin, the steam cleanses your bode pores and the stream force will massage your back and relax your muscles.  You may coordinate either during the day or night for visitors to enjoy from a variety of options and locations in the area to visit the Arenal hot springs.