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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.

 Watch the Arenal National Park & Hot Springs Video

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Bird Cr 088

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Caribbean, Central & Pacific Eco-Systems

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Alajuela - Bajos del Toro - Arenal - Osa Peninsula - Manuel Antonio

A curious capuchin monkey peers through jungle leaves in the lush forests of Sarapiqui.

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Quality Time for Families

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San Jose - Arenal - Esterillos Beach

Golden hooded tanager

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Birdwatching for Experts

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San José - Tortuguero - Sarapiqui - Gulf of Nicoya - San Gerado de Dota - Turrialba Volcano

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panama, guatemala, costa-rica, belize

Chapina Tour

35 Nights from £9,621

Panama - San Jose - Tortuguero - Sarapiqui - Arenal - Corcovado - Turrialba - Antigua - Chichi - Lake Atitlan - Tikal - Mountain Pine - Ambergri…

Brilliant red feathers and a piercing gaze - this scarlet macaws stands out against the rainforest canopy.

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Birdwatching, Wildlife and Rainforests

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San Jose - Tortuguero National Park - Osa Peninsula - Arenal National Park

Arenal Volcan

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Arenal Volcano & Highlands In-Depth

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San Jose - Arenal / Various Excursions - Manuel Antonio

Golden sand beach with turquoise waves and lush rainforest on the coast of Costa Rica.

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Habitats of Costa Rica

14 Nights from £4,112

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Bird 41

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Pachira Tour

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Top Attractions in Arenal Volcano National Park

Frequently Asked Questions

Every journey is unique, and questions are part of the process. This FAQ covers the most common topics to help you prepare, while our advisers are always on hand for more personal guidance.

Best time to visit Arenal

When is the best time to visit Arenal?

The best time to visit Arenal is during the dry season from December to April, when sunny weather provides excelelnt conditions for hiking, wildlife wathcing and outdoor adventures. The green season from May to November also offers lush landscapes, fewer visitors and excellent widlife sightings.

Top things to do in Arenal

What are the top things to do in Arenal?

Top experiences in Arenal include exploring Arenal Volcano National Park, relaxing in natural hot springs, walking across hanging bridges, spotting wildlife in the rainforest, and enjoying such a zip-lining, kayaking and waterfall hikes.

Why visit Arenal

Arenal is one of Costa Rica's most iconic destinations, renowned for its impressive volcano, rich biodiversity and wide range of outdoor activities. Combining adventure, relaxation and spectacular rainforest scenery, it is a highlight of any Costa Rica holiday.

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