North Western Region Attractions
Arenal volcano
Parque Nacional Volcán Arenal
The national park is situated within the Arenal Conservation
Area, also known as 'the Energetic Heart of Costa Rica'. At its
centre is the 5,356ft (1,633m) Volcán Arenal, a typically
cone-shaped image despite being highly active, with some huge
eruptions and larva flows that killed thousands of people in 1968.
Although perpetually active the degree of activity is
unpredictable, ranging from rumbling and ground shaking to a
smouldering red glow best visible at night. Sometimes visitors are
treated to a fiery display of red-hot rocks being thrown into the
air. The park has some good trails that go through forests, passing
through the area that was flattened in the 1968 eruption, or across
lava fields, but fences are in place to stop people from venturing
too far up the dangerous slopes. There is also a good chance of
seeing some of the wildlife in the forest. The Visitor Centre has
video displays of the volcano's more exciting activity. It is not
possible to stay overnight in the park or visit it after dark
unless on one of the night tours from Fortuna.
Address: Seven miles (12km) from Fortuna;
Transport: A bus from Fortuna will drop visitors off at the park entrance, otherwise taxis are readily available;
Opening time: Daily 8am to 4pm;
Admission: US$6
