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At 1,633 meters (5,357 feet) above sea level, Arenal Volcano has been until recently the most active in Central America and was considered to be one of the world's ten most active volcanoes! As you can imagine this is a popular spot for anyone wanting to visit Costa Rica therefore you should be aware, in peak season especially, this is by no means the peaceful area it once was. Despite the coach loads it can draw it is a stunning part of the country and well worth including on a trip to Costa Rica.
Although the volcano is no longer delivering its sporadic eruptions it is a magnificent peak and there is plenty to do in the area. The volcano can be difficult to see, especially in the dry season as it is often shrouded by cloud but it's an incredible sight if you are lucky enough and the surrounding lava fields are also fascinating.
You can explore the area by combining a multitude of activities such as canopy walkways, horse riding, canoeing and walking. The nearby hot springs, though busy, make for a special experience bathing beneath the stars and the nearby Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge is well worth a day trip.
The volcano's growth over the ages has been characterized by a number of eruptions — the last major one of which occurred on 29th July 1968. This eruption blasted off the top of the volcano creating the volcano shape that can be seen today.
The nearby Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge is well worth a day trip. This is one of the most densely populated areas of Costa Rica but we have found some fabulous accommodation in this scenic and beautiful region.
who's been there
Start planning your tailor-made trip to Arenal Volcano by contacting one of our Costa Rica specialists
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Suggested itineraries featuring Arenal Volcano
Our itineraries will give you suggestions for what is possible when you travel in Arenal Volcano, and they showcase routes we know work particularly well. Treat them as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.
Places near Arenal Volcano
- Monteverde Cloud Forest 18 kilometers away
- Tenorio Volcano 42 kilometers away
- Caño Negro 49 kilometers away
- San Ramón 50 kilometers away
- El Silencio Lodge 52 kilometers away
- Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui 76 kilometers away
- San José & Central Valley 90 kilometers away
- Northern Pacific Coast 91 kilometers away
- Esterillos 107 kilometers away
- Central Pacific Coast 116 kilometers away
- Playa Potrero 118 kilometers away
- Golfo de Papagayo 125 kilometers away
- Tamarindo 125 kilometers away
- Turrialba 128 kilometers away
- Tortuguero & the Caribbean Coast 132 kilometers away
- Manuel Antonio 135 kilometers away
- San Gerardo de Dota 141 kilometers away
- Dominical 164 kilometers away
- Corcovado & Osa Peninsula 227 kilometers away
- Puerto Viejo de Talamanca 232 kilometers away
- Manzanillo 243 kilometers away
Photos of Arenal Volcano
Our expert guides to exploring Arenal Volcano
Written by our specialists from their own experiences of visiting Arenal Volcano, these guides will help you make the most of your time there. We share both our practical recommendations and the best ways to appreciate Arenal Volcano at its best.
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What to do in Costa Rica: our highlights guide What to do in Costa Rica: our highlights guide
What to do in Costa Rica: our highlights guide
One of the most biodiverse countries on the planet, Costa Rica attracts nature lovers and adrenaline seekers alike. Country specialist, Nik, picks out some of the country’s highlights, from white-water rafting to wildlife spotting in the cloudforest.
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Luxury vacations in Costa Rica Luxury vacations in Costa Rica
Luxury vacations in Costa Rica
Luxury in Costa Rica lies in the unrivaled wildlife that covers the country, from the Pacific to the Caribbean coast. With small hotels designed to make the best of the natural surroundings, this is barefoot luxury at its most pure.
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Family wildlife and adventure vacations in Costa Rica Family wildlife and adventure vacations in Costa Rica
Family wildlife and adventure vacations in Costa Rica
From the rainforests of Arenal Volcano to wildlife experiences in Tortuguero National Park and the surf breaks of Tamarindo, Costa Rica is ideal for families. Specialist Nik gives his advice on activities, hotels, and travel logistics for a family trip to Costa Rica.
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Honeymoons in Costa Rica Honeymoons in Costa Rica
Honeymoons in Costa Rica
Volcanic hot springs, cloudforest, beaches, rainforest reserves and white-water rivers: Costa Rica lends itself to couples seeking an adventurous, eco-conscious honeymoon with many chances to spot wildlife. Specialist Michael reveals where exactly to go, and the best places to stay.
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Why you should consider self-drive in Costa Rica (and what’s so good about it) Why you should consider self-drive in Costa Rica (and what’s so good about it)
Why you should consider self-drive in Costa Rica (and what’s so good about it)
Mark from our Costa Rica team shares his experience exploring Costa Rica from behind the wheel, explains why this country is well-suited to driving trips, and offers tips for how to make the most out of your rental car.
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Accommodation choices for Arenal Volcano
We've selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit Arenal Volcano. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.
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Arenal Kioro
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Nayara Springs
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Arenal Springs Hotel
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Lomas del Volcan
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Nayara Gardens
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Amor Arenal
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Responsible ChoiceWe've hand-selected a range of tours and stays across the world that go above and beyond to be a force for good by supporting local businesses, educating staff, challenging local norms, or promoting conservation and biodiversity efforts. Your Responsible Choice helps increase the positive impact of your trip.
Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa
Arenal Volcano
Ideas for experiencing Arenal Volcano
Our specialists seek out authentic ways to get to know the places that could feature in your trip. These activities reflect some of the experiences they've most enjoyed while visiting Arenal Volcano, and which use the best local guides.
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Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge
Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge
The Caño Negro refuge itself is located 25 kilometers south of Los Chiles in the northern area of the Alajuela province, approximately a two-hour drive from Arenal. It has been declared a site of international importance for the nesting of migratory birds and occupies an area of 9,969 hectares in the Río Frío Basin.
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Arenal Volcano Hike Arenal Volcano Hike
Arenal Volcano Hike
This easy and manageable hike will allow you to enjoy the most extraordinary view of the Arenal Volcano as you walk along the base of this marvelous 'Mountain of Fire'. See recent lava flows and rock formations and learn about the big eruption of 1968.
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Cerro Chato Hiking Excursion Cerro Chato Hiking Excursion
Cerro Chato Hiking Excursion
Ascend through dense primary forest, which is home to a huge variety of flora and fauna, to the summit of Cerro Chato — Arenal Volcano's 'older brother'. Finish this half day walk with a refreshing swim at La Fortuna Waterfall.
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Arenal Volcano National Park Tour Arenal Volcano National Park Tour
Arenal Volcano National Park Tour
Embark on a journey of exploration through the beautiful Arenal Volcano National Park, spotting unique flora and fauna along the way and learning about the activity and history of the still-active Arenal Volcano.
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Peñas Blancas River Floating Peñas Blancas River Floating
Peñas Blancas River Floating
Drift silently along the Peñas Blancas River, which winds through lush, verdant forest, and see a huge variety of wildlife including monkeys, sloths, iguanas, tortoises, crocodiles and several types of birds.
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Eco Termales Hot Springs Eco Termales Hot Springs
Eco Termales Hot Springs
The Eco Termales hot springs are a beautiful sanctuary surrounded by nature. The smallest of the hot springs in the Arenal area, Eco Termales is perfect for privacy and relaxation.
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Arenal Hanging Bridges Natural History Tour Arenal Hanging Bridges Natural History Tour
Arenal Hanging Bridges Natural History Tour
Follow the hanging bridges through the Arenal rainforest canopy and the walking trails along the forest floor to spot numerous bird, animal and plant species. Clearings and open spaces in the forest canopy offer a glimpse of the magnificent Arenal Volcano in the distance.
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Lake Arenal Kayaking Excursion Lake Arenal Kayaking Excursion
Lake Arenal Kayaking Excursion
Take to the water of Lake Arenal in your own kayak and explore the shores to spot a multitude of different bird species, and perhaps hear the unmistakable call of a howler monkey.
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Arenal Rainforest Sky Tram and Trek Arenal Rainforest Sky Tram and Trek
Arenal Rainforest Sky Tram and Trek
Enjoy a peaceful gondola ride above the Arenal rainforest and take in the breathtaking views of the volcano and the still, blue lake. Choose to return to your starting point the same way or via the Canopy Tour; an exhilarating zip-line through the forest canopy.
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