Arenal Volcano National Park

The park spans 29,692 acres across diverse ecosystems including rainforests, montane forests, and wetlands at the base of Arenal Volcano at 1,619 meters elevation.

The volcano remained dormant from 1500 until July 29, 1968, when a massive explosion created lava rivers that destroyed three villages and caused 78 deaths.

The park maintains eight life zones between Guanacaste and Tilarán mountain ranges, representing essential elements of Costa Rica's natural heritage and geological formation.

Visitors can access multiple hiking trails totaling 6 kilometers from La Fortuna, with entrance fees of $15 and options for guided tours focusing on wildlife or geology.

The park contains a second volcano called Chato with an inactive crater containing a lagoon, dormant for 3,500 years since Arenal's emergence.

Location: Alajuela Province

Inception: 1991

Elevation above the sea: 1,619 m

GPS coordinates: 10.46306,-84.70306

Latest update: May 11, 2025 11:33