Visiting a volcano is always a fascinating adventure. Discover the wonders of the Arenal Volcano National Park and experience fun and nature simultaneously. This geological formation has been there for 7,000 years, and knowing it is a privilege that few have.
This article will discover some aspects of the volcano’s geology and when Costa Rica officially named it a national park. In addition, you will find the activities and attractions it offers, ranging from hiking to its hot springs on the slopes of the active volcano.
How was the Arenal Volcano National Park born?
To the north of Costa Rica is the province of Alajuela, where the park is located. It covers more than 12,000 hectares and is 1670 meters above sea level.
This volcano was active at least four times before its last eruption in 1968. In 1991, the State of Costa Rica decided to grant it the status of National Park to protect and conserve it. However, we had to wait until 2010 for the volcanic activity to cease before it could be opened to the public and promoted as an engine of national tourism.
Nature of the Arenal Volcano National Park
This geological wonder, with its conical shape and its slopes full of vegetation, is the center of an exuberant landscape. Although the volcano is not erupting, fumaroles and occasional small explosions can be seen. Experiencing these moments and being able to portray them is an experience that very few live.
Once you arrive at the park, you can enjoy howler monkeys, sloths, and even toucans. There is a considerable variety of bird species. In the case of its vegetation, the number of tropical plants and trees, some endemic, is vast, creating the perfect habitat for each species.
Activities and attractions in the Arenal Volcano National Park
A visit to the park is full of activities that all its visitors enjoy the most. Know how much excitement you’ll get in one place.
Guided hiking
This is the main activity of the place. The routes are very well marked, and you can travel with an expert guide, who will also offer you valuable information about the geology of the place.
Hot Springs
There is a significant concentration of hot springs on the volcano’s slopes. Some of them have a spa with all the services for the comfort of their visitors. These hot water pools in the middle of the tropical jungle are a total experience for all the senses.
Waterfalls
This park has several waterfalls that you will find along the walk, but the most special, due to its height, is La Fortuna. This imposing mass of water flows in free fall from 70 meters high. Visitors can take a refreshing swim in its waters.
Hanging bridges
It is one of the most remarkable attractions. The Arenal Volcano National Park has 19 bridges, 6 of them hanging. The photographs you can take from above are excellent. You will be on top of hectares of forest and jungle.
Lava paths
On this tour, the path is the lava flow from the 1968 eruption. This walk offers a dramatic, beautiful, and unexpected landscape. There is abundant vegetation in the surroundings of that long, dry lava pass. But, as you ascend, you begin to see the volcano in front of you and leave the forest behind.
Lake Arenal
To the west of the park is this lake, where it is possible to enjoy activities such as kayaking. This quiet environment is where you can listen to howler monkeys and many local birds. Did you know that this lake provides Costa Rica with about 40% of its hydroelectric energy?
Extreme proposals
For the adventurer who wants to live wilder experiences, you can also get them in the park itself. These are some of the extreme activities you can do when visiting the volcano:
- Rappel to the edge of a 40-meter waterfall
- You can jump from one waterfall to another
- Cliff jumps ranging from 3 meters
- White water rafting
- Cycling
- Paddle
To enjoy these activities, you must contract a plan to transport you to the site and provide you with the equipment.
How do you get to Arenal Volcano National Park?
Once in San José, it would be best if you took transportation that can take you to two places: the community of La Fortuna or El Castillo. The first has more movement, and the second is more exclusive and quieter. The estimated transfer time is two and a half hours from San José to La Fortuna and 3 hours starting from the same point but to El Castillo.
The simplest and most effective way to do all the activities this park has is to hire tour packages. These types of tours require a lot of planning, so it is more efficient to hire these services. You will find plans that range from a simple full day to complete packages that cover many activities.
Tips for your trip
Some times of the year when it is quieter to walk through the park, mainly in the non-rainy season. It runs from November to April, and the meteorological conditions are more pleasant. There is much to see and do in Arenal Volcano. So that you can calmly enjoy the experience, it is recommended that your stay be at least two days.
What to bring?
It is essential to wear comfortable, breathable clothing for those long walking tours. Plus, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a camera with plenty of battery and memory are available to photograph large, beautiful landscapes.
Discover the wonders of the Arenal Volcano National Park and create memories you will keep forever!
This National Park in Costa Rica is an excellent destination when you want to visit a moving and lovely place. Its imposing active volcano, its biodiversity, and the wide range of activities make it a charming destination where you will always have something to do and see.
If you want more details, visit our page that provides abundant and exciting information: Find out about Arenal climate news.