The mighty Arenal Volcano is undoubtedly one of Costa Rica’s best known attractions, and a hike up the neighbouring Cerro Chato offers fabulous views, before reaching a shimmering lagoon in the sunken crater at the top. The town of La Fortuna on Arenal’s eastern slope is the main jumping off point for visiting the area; after the eruption of 1968, eager photographers flocked here to catch a glimpse of the glowing lava streams. The region remains a popular hub for its exhilarating adventure activities, cascading waterfalls and bubbling hot springs, though the volcano is no longer active.
Don’t miss the world-famous Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, a major ecotourism destination in Costa Rica and an amazing place to try zip-lining; soar over the jungle canopy teeming with wildlife, and navigate wooden suspension bridges in the mountains. It’s a magical place with coffee plantations, chattering monkeys, and the misty mountain views are breathtaking.
Just north of the cloud forest is an area of great seismic activity covering a spectacular 35,000 acres. The trails over the Tenorio Volcano and Rincon de la Vieja National Parks traverse fascinating ecosystems rich in both flora and fauna. With over 300 bird species and providing a great chance of spotting the two-toed sloth, hike through the lower cloud forests to the bubbling hot springs located on the volcanic slopes, whilst keeping an eye out for the diverse birdlife and slow moving mammals.
