The Arenal Volcano is probably the most spectacular attraction in all of Costa Rica. There is much that can be said about the Arenal Volcano and since its 1968 eruption it has been very active. The volcano is one of the 10 most active volcanoes in the world and has built the La Fortuna area into one of the busiest tourist attractions in the country. The town of La Fortuna is now home to some great places to eat and souvenir shops up and down a small strip. The town has the church in the center and one of the prettiest parks you can find in all of Costa Rica. On a clear day there is a great view of the volcano from the park. You can also find a pharmacy, 24 hour clinic, and a supermarket if you need to get anything in the area. If you are looking for a nice night out with a good meal then we often suggest Don Rufino’s, right in the center of La Fortuna, which is one of the best places to eat in all of the country.

The area of the Arenal Volcano really lends itself to tourism as there are rivers that can be rafted, ziplines, hotsprings, and even canyoneering tours.

After seeing a number of different volcanoes in Costa Rica you will arrive at the Arenal Volcano and see exactly what you imagined when your guide mentions volcanoes. There are many volcanoes in Costa Rica but only the Arenal is the perfectly cone-shaped volcano that is erupting on a daily basis often showing a little mushroom cloud explosion and some lava pouring down it’s side.

The word “Arenal” comes from the Spanish word “arena” which means “sand”. To many the volcano looks like a pile of sand. The volcano is always changing and can be seen in many different forms over the last 40 years but one thing has stayed the same for sure and that is, it is still very active. Seeing the Arenal Volcano on a clear day is truly one of the most rewarding moments on a Costa Rican vacation.