El Parque nacional Volcán Arenal se encuentra en la provincia de Alajuela. Tiene una extensión de 12,124 hectáreas. Está conformado principalmente por dos cerros, a saber, el Volcán Arenal y el Cerro Chato. Se ubica en el Área de Conservación Arenal Huetar Norte (ACAHN)
El parque es visitado por miles de turistas que acuden cada año en busca de alojamiento, aguas termales y puntos estratégicos para observar la actividad volcánica y la abundante fauna que habita en el bosque lluvioso.
It is recommended to arrive at the place with a 4x4 vehicle. The reserve allows you to walk in several types of terrain, in the dense and moist forest, in the area of basalt stones with a view of the volcano, and in a neat path that leads to a view of Lake Arenal. Along the trails you will encounter a wide variety of birds, insects and reptiles and you will feel part of nature. It is recommended to take the long route.
Not like going to Yosemite or anything, so don’t expect refined services, lodging, shops, etc. The entry fee was approx USD 15 per adult and USD 5 per child. So my family was a little costly at $40 just for some simple hiking trails. We did the Heliconias trail, which continued as the Coladas trail to the base of the 1992 lava flow. We had good weather and nice views. It was an easy trail for kids, even young kids as young as 5. We didn’t see much wildlife beyond butterflies and lizards. Trail was decently maintained with mostly gravel track. Only a few places where it was muddy.
Beautiful nature! We were there during the week and only a few hikers were there with us. Note: the 15 $ entrance fee will also allow you to visit the peninsula in the lake Arenal. The 400 years old tree which you will find after walking for approximately 3.5 km was especially impressive.
A must see place whilst visiting Costa Rica just a 3-4 hour drove from Tamarindo and 3 1/2 hours from San José. The local food in La Fortuna us both delicious and fairly affordable. The souvenirs shops were a bit too over price but you can find local selling them on the side of the road and small markets for 4x cheaper the the shops. There’s loads of activities to do both recreational and interactive. Perfect for families, couples and friends looks for some adventure in the jungle or the volcano.
If you are lucky enough to see the peak it is majestic. Highly recommend making the hike
Beautiful rainforest, clouds, lava flow and hiking. I just love the hot springs so beautiful. I would love to go back and see Mountain Arenal again. I just love visiting Costa Rica.
A little pricey for foreigners and unlike in the past the price for foreigners wasn't posted. Very SUS.