Hello faithful readers!  Here it is the moment you have all been waiting for, the long anticipated Arenal Report!  My stay in Costa Rica has given me the opportunity to see all the tourist hot spots and the hidden jewels of the country yet to be discovered.  This mega popular country is known by many, but has only been experienced first hand by few.  I seek to give the world the real scoop on what is going on in Costa Rica, where to go, what to do, and what to see.

Costa Rica Travel — Volcano Arenal

The Arenal Volcano is the third most active volcano in the world!  The volcano was dormant until July 29, 1968 when it erupted for the first time in over 400 years, from then on the volcano has erupted (minor eruptions) consistently multiple times per hour each day.  For those staying in a hotel with a good view of the volcano lava can be seen spurting out of its crater at night time, if you’re lucky you may see bright red lava flowing down the side of the volcano too!

Where is the volcano?  In the province of Alajuela and just outside of the small town named La Fortuna is where you will find this beast of nature.  Located in the center of the country, a two and a half hour drive North from San Jose, from Liberia it is also a two and a half hour drive but Eastward.

 What is there to do?  The popularity of Arenal Volcano with tourists has produced the rise of many tourism agencies in the town of La Fortuna.  There are a lot a nature themed adventure Arenal tours to be had including; nature hiking through the nearby rain-forest, whitewater rafting (class 4 rapids), canopy tours, horse back riding, waterfall repelling, and the famous hot springs (Tabacon is the most famous and picturesque, but there are many others for example Baldi which is gaining the reputation as being the party hot springs).  If you have any energy left in your system to get out and enjoy the Arenal nightlife there is only one place to go, Volcan Look, a massive club where djs will be spinning international jams and local favorites.

Where should I stay?  A lot of new hotels and cabins are popping up in this area right now because of the increasing demand.  As of right now the best place to stay is hands down Arenal Kioro, this is the area’s best hotel, a true 5 star (with its own hot springs being developed as you read), Lost Iguana is another great place which gives a more natural vibe, the newest and my personal favorite is Mountain Paradise where you will have your own Spanish style casa, a hot-tub with great view, and a waterfall for a shower!  If you are planning on coming to Arenal on your next vacation to Costa Rica book early because hotels fill up fast!

Arenal is a must see for travelers to Costa Rica, and when you do come stay here for at least 2 nights, many all-inclusive resorts offer day trips to the volcano this is a mistake, you will be spending 9 hours in a tour bus, do yourself a favor and book a hotel around Arenal Costa Rica for a couple nights then head to the beach. 

Travel On!

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Filed under: Travel on September 29th, 2007