Fast-forward to today, and you’ll find that the town of La Fortuna is more popular than ever, no thanks to volcanic eruptions. Residents like Ricky and I bid adieu to those spectacles after the Arenal Volcano suddenly stopped erupting in 2010. If you were lucky enough to see the volcano while it was noticeably active, you witnessed a piece of history. Volcanologists don’t anticipate it will erupt again for several more years, possibly generations. Today, only a small amount of smoke can be seen escaping from the volcano’s crater, if any. This means you’ll need to find a different reason to warrant spending time and money in La Fortuna, especially if you plan to visit the Arenal Volcano National Park.
Though there’s no shortage of tourism in La Fortuna today, reasons to visit the town have shifted away from seeing an active volcano toward experiences that include ziplining, canyoning, touring hanging bridges, soaking in hot springs, and other activities. The Arenal Volcano National Park, which houses the Arenal Volcano, remains open for tours. Still, it’s important to realize that the chances are slim you’ll witness an eruption during your visit. If seeing an eruption is your main reason for visiting the Arenal Volcano National Park, perhaps this particular Costa Rica national park isn’t for you. If you’re curious to know why some visitors (and locals like us) choose to visit the Arenal Volcano National Park despite the Arenal Volcano not having the same appeal that it used to, continue reading below.
The Arenal Volcano is the youngest in Costa Rica, being less than 7,500 years old. It is classified as a stratovolcano, meaning that it forms the typical conical shape. For many years, it had been considered a dormant volcano with no historical records of eruptions ever occurring. This sleeping giant, however,r awoke from its slumbers abruptly on 29th July 1968 with a huge series of eruptions resulting in the destruction of nearby towns and the loss of 78 lives. For decades following the 1968 eruption, the volcanic activity continued with frequent smaller eruptions and lava flows. Since 2010, the activity has subsided,d and no new lava flows have occurred. It is howeve,r an undisputed fact that this is still an extremely active volcano likely to erupt violently at any time. The height of the volcano varies with activity but is currently around 1,633 m above sea level.
The Arenal Volcano is a beautiful sight, and La Fortuna, as a tourist destination, has plenty to offer. That being said, in our opinion, visiting the Arenal Volcano National Park nowadays isn’t a must-have Costa Rica experience. It’s a great experience that appeals to many people (us included), but because it no longer offers an opportunity to witness an eruption, it fails to impress everyone. Though the attraction may have lost some of its allure, here’s why we continue to visit the Arenal Volcano National Park.
The Arenal Volcano hike is generally safe, provided you follow park regulations and stay on marked trails. The trails are well-maintained, and the park staff monitors volcanic activity. Always check for any advisories or closures before your visit.
The difficulty of the Arenal Volcano hike varies depending on your chosen trail. Trails like Los Tucanes are relatively easy and suitable for all ages, while trails like Sendero Las Coladas offer a moderate challenge with uneven terrain and elevation changes. Hikers should assess their fitness level and choose a trail accordingly.
Yes, several tour operators offer guided hikes in Arenal Volcano National Park. These tours can range from half-day excursions to full-day adventures and often include additional activities such as hot springs visits or canopy tours. Guided tours are a great way to learn about the Park’s natural history and wildlife.
Arenal Volcano National Park is home to a diverse array of wildlife. Common sightings include howler monkeys, capuchin monkeys, sloths, coatis, toucans, and various reptiles and amphibians. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the presence of species like the keel-billed toucan and the great curassow.
In addition to hiking, Arenal Volcano National Park offers a range of activities to enhance your visit. Popular options include:
Hot Springs: The Park and surrounding area are famous for geothermal hot springs, perfect for relaxing after a hike.
Canopy Tours: Experience the forest from above with zip-lining and canopy tours.
Wildlife Tours: Join specialized tours focused on birdwatching or night walks to see nocturnal creatures.
Arenal Lake Activities: Enjoy kayaking, fishing, or boat tours on Lake Arenal.
Numerous accommodation options are near Arenal Volcano National Park, ranging from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hostels. Many hotels offer stunning views of the volcano and convenient access to the Park. It’s advisable to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Arenal Volcano National Park’s weather can be unpredictable, even during the dry season. Mornings are usually straightforward, but afternoons can bring rain showers. It’s essential to dress in layers and bring rain gear. Humidity is high, so lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing is recommended. Check the weather forecast before your hike, but be prepared for changing conditions.
Yes, Arenal Volcano National Park has basic facilities for visitors. There are restrooms and picnic areas near the park entrances. However, there are no food services within the Park, so bring your snacks and water. Some trails have informational signs about the Park’s flora, fauna, and geology.
The duration of your visit to Arenal Volcano National Park depends on your interests and the activities you plan to do. A day trip can be sufficient for hiking and enjoying the scenery. However, consider staying for two or three days to experience additional activities like hot springs, canopy tours, or exploring nearby attractions.
Ecoterra Costa Rica Local Tour company in Arenal was created with more than 20 years of experience in Costa Rican tourism. Our personalized services with small groups and added values assure our clients that when traveling with us, they will be enjoying a true contact with nature. We invite you to discover the wonders of the natural beauties of Costa Rica with us. Our experienced team awaits, with open arms, to make your visit a unique and unforgettable experience.
Born and raised in Costa Rica, Claudio Granados is a local travel expert dedicated to sharing the true essence of ‘Pura Vida’ with EcoTerra readers. With years of first-hand experience exploring the Arenal region—from the volcanic trails to the Peñas Blancas River—Claudio provides authentic, boots-on-the-ground advice. His goal is to help travelers skip the tourist traps and discover the rich culture, hidden wildlife spots, and unforgettable adventures that La Fortuna has to offer
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