Skip link for screen readers

Considered as "the place to see", Arenal National Park is well-known for its volcanoes, its lake and abundant wildlife.

Arenal National Park is located about 2 hours north of San Jose, and is best known for its volcanoes and lake, which have made it one of the most visited destinations in Costa Rica. The park has two volcanoes: Chato, whose collapsed crater contains an emerald lagoon surrounded by forest, and the perfectly conical peak of Arenal. The park is most directly accessed from the town of La Fortuna where many hotels can be found.

Arenal Volcano has been considered one of the most active in the country, and was previously been believed to be dormant until a major eruption in 1968 which destroyed a local town. It neighbours Lake Arenal, a picturesque man-made lake built to provide water the the country's largest hydroelectricity project, the Arenal Dam. Arenal is one of the most popular tourist areas in Costa Rica, meaning that there is an excellent choice of hotels, activities and local services, although those looking for peace and seclusion may find it quite busy. Arenal also offers its visitors a wide variety of activities such as hiking at the volcano, walking on the hanging bridges, hot springs (of which many hotels have their own), zip-lining and horseriding opportunities as well.

  • When to Visit
  • Flora & Fauna

When to Visit

The area is covered by lowland rainforest, and the weather is often hot and humid (usually between 20-30°C, reducing with altitude). The rainy season lasts from May to December while the dry season runs from January to April. Please note that the volcano is often covered by clouds and getting to see the peak is a matter of luck (the dawn hours are best, before the clouds roll in; seasonally, you stand a reasonable chance in dry season, and less than favorable odds in rainy season).

Flora & Fauna

While exploring the Arenal Volcano National Park, you might spot deer, tapir, howler monkeys, white-faced capuchin monkeys and snakes, or birds like parrots, orioles and brown magpies. Plants include various species of palms and bromeliads, ceiba, cirri, laurel, higuerones, fungi, orchids, and ferns.

Arenal Volcano
Volcano Hike
Bird 309
Arenal Volcano 03

Specialist Advice & Ideas

Since 1999, we focus on carefully crafting unique and authentic travel experiences in Latin America and beyond.

Create Your Perfect Tour

Your holiday is tailored by our specialist advisors to fit your preferences using our extensive kowledge of each destination

The Best Local Guides

We have developed an extensive network of expert local guides, hand-picked to provide exclusive excursions and authentic insights.

Travel with Confidence

Our local guides are your hosts providing support, information and so you visit the main sites and experience life like a local.

X

READY - 20 JANUARY 2025

LANDMARK TOURS - Multi-Country Itineraries

TESTIMONIALS - Happy Discerning Travellers

HONEYMOONS & CELEBRATIONS - "en Tete-a-Tete"

MANAUS, AMAZON - Tours with direct flights, comfortable Lodges, Expeditions Cruise & Adventures in the Rainforest

GUATEMALA & BELIZE - Culture, Ancient Pyramids, Local Markets, Weavings, Rainforest & Caribbean Barrier Reef

PERU TOURS during Harvest: best in March/April/May/June

TRAVEL INSURANCE essential cover including COVID