General Information:
Location: 80 miles northwest of San Jose
Weather: Moderate days and cool evenings. The rainy season runs from May-November.
Temperature: 67-88° F year round, see La Fortuna climate
Altitude: 350 feet above sea level
Learn more about the Northern Tourism Region
Read our Arenal adventures on our travel blog
About:
Soaking in natural hot springs and lava viewing are just some of the attractions around Arenal Volcano. Located in the fertile Northern Region, Arenal and La Fortuna are a three-to-four-hour scenic drive northwest of San Jose. From top-notch windsurfing and fishing on Lake Arenal to canopy tours in the cloud forest, this unique area offers adventure sports for visitors of all interests.
The bustling town of La Fortuna, with its explosive view of Arenal Volcano, is a hotbed for ecotourism. Wildlife encounters are common on hikes through the nearby Arenal Volcano National Park, where local guides enlighten visitors about the native flora and fauna. Numerous tour operators specialize in adventure sports, such as canyoning, horseback riding, mountain biking, and exploring the limestone caves of the Venado caverns. Volcano-heated hot springs offer travelers the opportunity to soak weary muscles while enjoying an awe-inspiring view of the volcano.
 If a zip line canopy tour sounds a little too daunting, the slow and steady aerial tram is an excellent option. Birders and wildlife enthusiasts will also enjoy the hanging bridges of Arenal where visitors cross a series of suspension and fixed bridges that gradually meander through the treetops, offering panoramic views of Arenal Volcano.
Lava viewing can be hit or miss, with unpredictable clouds rolling in at a moments notice, obscuring Arenal's near-perfect cone. This is most common during the wet season, May through November, although clear nights are still possible. Visitors that desire a perfect, cloudless evening are encouraged to stay at least one week. With no shortage of activities for both the adventurer and wildlife enthusiast, this shouldn’t be a problem.
|
