Spanning almost 30,000 acres of rainforest, cloud forest and volcanic landscape, Arenal Volcano National Park is a diverse geological paradise for nature enthusiasts and lovers of the great outdoors. Famed for its towering volcano - which was once one of the most active in the world - as well as its rich biodiversity and alluring hot springs, there is no shortage of exciting activities to enjoy here. Red Savannah has compiled a guide to ensure you get the best out of your stay in this magical region of northern Costa Rica.
IS ARENAL VOLCANO ACTIVE?
Arenal Volcano has been dormant since 2010 following one of the longest eruptions in history - which started in 1968. While you are unlikely to see billowing pillars of smoke and glowing lava seeping from the crater, the sight of the volcano with is steep cone and towering peak is nevertheless a mesmerising spectacle when conditions are clear. The park's rangers continue to monitor the volcano regularly, ensuring safety for all visitors.
BEST TIME TO VISIT ARENAL VOLCANO NATIONAL PARK
There are generally two seasons in which to visit the national park: both of which reward visitors with something different. The dry season runs roughly between December and April and is the ideal time to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, ziplining, white water rafting and wildlife watching. With less cloud cover, it also presents the best opportunities to observe the volcano in all its glory. With areas of tropical rainforest surrounding the volcano, there is every chance of encountering an afternoon shower even during the dry season. However, most visits start early in the day and tend to avoid most of the wet weather.
Meanwhile, the wet season - also known as the 'green season' - runs between May and November. Despite the much higher likelihood of rain, this is still an excellent time to visit as it flourishes with lush foliage. There are still ample opportunities to explore the park and watch wildlife during this season - while also taking advantage of the more competitive hotel rates.
BEST THINGS TO DO NEAR ARENAL VOLCANO
Hiking trails & hanging bridges
Arenal Volcano National Park delivers excellent opportunities for trekking with its range of twisting trails. The 1968 Trail offers a glimpse into the region’s distinct geology as you pass through rocky lava fields - a remnant of past eruptions. Some of the best vantage points can be enjoyed on the Los Miradors Trail, from which you can observe the Arenal Volcano piercing the clouds as well as looking out across the placid Lake Arenal. El Ceibo, meanwhile, forms a circuit through the rainforest which is fantastic for those looking to admire the region’s bountiful plant life. The chance to get eye-level with howler monkeys and birdlife is also a captivating experience, made possible owing to the network of suspension bridges which weave between the canopies.
Wildlife viewing
As part of one of the most biodiverse countries on Earth, Arenal Volcano National Park is brimming with wildlife. Spot the abundance of tanagers, hummingbirds and toucans with their distinctive colourful bills, which make up just a small portion of the park’s 300 bird species. Leaping from branch to branch, be sure to also keep an eye out for the park’s howler, white-faced and spider monkeys. Much less active but equally as endearing are the two-toed and three-toed sloths who can be seen lazily hanging from the canopies. To witness a different side of the park, venture out on a night walk to spot bats, frogs and insects who remain hidden during the day. We recommend exploring the park with a guide as the wildlife can be somewhat elusive without a well-trained eye.
Hot springs
Make the most of Arenal’s unique geology with a visit to the many hot springs dotted around the park. Heated by the volcano, these enticing baths are the perfect way to soak your muscles following a day’s trekking. While there are several options catering to a range of budgets and group sizes, the best springs tend to be developed as part of luxury resorts. One of the best is Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa, an eco-conscious resort with five enticing pools of varying temperatures that are open to both guests and the public.
Adventure activities
As one of the best places in Costa Rica to enjoy adventure activities, Arenal is rife with opportunities for getting the adrenaline pumping. For unfettered views of the park, try ziplining over the treetops and enjoying the vistas as you soar along the tropical breeze. Meanwhile, the network of winding rivers is perfect for those looking to try their hand at white-water rafting. For a more relaxed adventure, go riding through the tranquil El Silencio reserve, which is fantastic for unobstructed views of the volcano as well as bizarre rock formations formed during previous eruptions.
Lake Arenal
A sprawling body of turquoise water at the base of the volcano, there are few more remarkable places to enjoy watersports than Lake Arenal. Absorb the soothing rainforest ambiance as you glide over the water by kayak or paddleboard, or remove the work altogether by hopping on a relaxing lake cruise. Responsible for 12% of Costa Rica's hydroelectric energy, the lake is just as crucial to the country as it is to the local ecosystem.
BEST PLACES TO STAY NEAR ARENAL VOLCANO
More than just a hot spring, Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa is an indulgent slice of luxury nestled into the park. Alfresco spa treatments under the canopies and tantalising meals celebrating the flavours of Costa Rica make it one of the most stylish ways to experience Arenal. Furthermore, Nayara’s three properties on the edge of the park are equally alluring. Nayara Springs is an adult-only resort with volcanic baths tucked into the lush tropical surroundings, ideal for couples seeking a peaceful hideaway. Nayara Gardens is much more family-oriented and boasts beautifully landscaped gardens that showcase its rainforest location. Finally, Nayara Tented Camp is a luxury camping experience that truly connects guests with the surrounding nature. Perched on the hillside above its two sister resorts, it is primed for absorbing views of the volcano as well as the sloths hiding in the trees who are residents of Nayara’s sloth sanctuary.
