When most people think of Costa Rica, they picture sandy beaches, lush rainforests, and incredible wildlife. And while Costa Rica does have all of those things in spades, there’s so much more to this Central American country than meets the eye.
Take Arenal Volcano National Park, for example. This hidden gem is a must-see for any traveler looking to get off the beaten path and explore everything that Costa Rica has to offer.
Five reasons why Arenal Volcano National Park should be at the top of your list.
History of Arenal Volcano
Arenal Volcano is a massive stratovolcano that stands at 1,633 meters tall. It was first studied in 1875, but the first eruptions that were recorded started in 1843. It is one of the most active volcanoes in Costa Rica, erupting a total of 37 times since 1828.
The most recent eruption occurred in 2010. While the volcano is active and can be quite dangerous, it is still possible to hike to the summit. While the climb is strenuous, it’s definitely worth it for those who want an unforgettable view of Arenal Volcano National Park from the top. The History of Arenal Volcano.
What Makes Arenal Volcano So Special?
The centerpiece of Arenal Volcano National Park is, of course, the towering Arenal Volcano. At over 5,300 feet tall, this active volcano is a sight to behold.
But it’s not just the volcano itself that will take your breath away; the whole park is teeming with natural beauty. From verdant rainforests to babbling brooks and nearby waterfalls, Arenal Volcano National Park has it all.
Trust us, it’s worth braving the crowds for a chance to see this place for yourself!
Hiking, Hot Springs, and Zip-lining
No matter what your interests are, you’ll find something to love at Arenal Volcano National Park. Adventure seekers can go hiking or rafting through roaring rivers; nature lovers can take a dip in one of the park’s many hot springs, and history buffs can brush up on their Costa Rican trivia at the lava museum located inside the park boundaries.
No matter how you choose to spend your time here, you’re guaranteed to have an unforgettable experience.
Great Value for Money
Visiting a national park may not seem like an inexpensive proposition, but Arenal Volcano National Park is quite affordable. You can easily find hotels and hostels in the area starting at around $130 per night.
Entrance into the park costs just $15 + Tax for adults and $5 for children under 12 years old. The visitor center is open daily from 8 am to 4 pm.
The cheapest time of the year to visit is December to May with daytime temperatures in the upper 70s F (22-23 C). It can rain at times as is normal in any rainforest. Best to pack a mack or poncho for moments when you are all caught in the open.
When you compare that to other top tourist destinations around the world, Arenal Volcano National Park is definitely a bargain! It is also super popular for good reasons.
From Nature Lovers to Adventure Seekers
Whether you’re looking to spend some quality time with your family, reconnect with a significant other, or just get away from it all, Arenal Volcano National Park is an excellent choice.
The area is home to excellent hotels, restaurants, and activities for the whole family. You can also take advantage of the area’s natural beauty by hiking or mountain biking along one of many trails in the park.
One of the best things about Arenal is that it’s perfect for any kind of vacation. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or simply a chance to get away from it all, you’ll find what you’re looking for here.
If you’re looking for adventure, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy. You can go hiking or mountain biking along one of the many trails in the park, go ziplining through the forest canopy or take a nature tour to spot some of the park’s many species of birds.
If you’re looking for a relaxing vacation, the area is filled with places to unwind. You can go swimming in one of the many natural pools or hot springs in and around the park, or simply lounge on the beach and soak up some sun.
Great Place to Take the Kids
With an abundance of attractions, Arenal Volcano National Park is a must-see for families with children of all ages. The park has several excellent hotels, which can provide you with comfortable accommodations and plenty of amenities.
The most popular places in the park for kids are the pools at the La Fortuna Waterfall and the Arenal Hanging Bridges. The hanging bridges are a series of suspension bridges that allow visitors to walk across the forest canopy.
The La Fortuna Waterfall is a series of three waterfalls that are easily accessible for viewing. Other popular attractions in the park include the hiking trails, which offer many great opportunities to spot wildlife and take photos of the park’s natural beauty.
You can also head to the Arenal Observatory Lodge, which is located on a hill in the park. The lodge offers great views of the volcano and surrounding forest and a chance to spot wildlife in its natural habitat.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or simply a chance to get away from it all, Arenal Volcano National Park should be at the top of your list.
With its unmatched natural beauty, a diverse array of activities, and budget-friendly price tag, there’s nowhere else quite like it in the world.
So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!
Sources: THX News, My Tan Feet, Trip Advisor & Arenal.