Arenal

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Synopsis

Arenal is at present one of the world's most active volcanoes, but it was not known to be an active volcano at all before 1968, when it started belching. Arenal hasn't stopped since.

Arenal is at present one of the world's most active volcanoes, but it was not known to be an active volcano at all before 1968, when it started belching. Arenal hasn't stopped since. Arenal is far too dangerous to be climbed, but it is possible to see its fiery eruptions from several vantage points, including the Arenal Observatory Lodge. There are beautiful hikes through the forested area all around Arenal and a popular resort, Tabacon, where you can swim in river waters heated by the volcano. The Arenal area is pleasant year round. The nearest town to Arenal is La Fortuna, but there are several places to stay near the volcano, the Arenal Observatory Lodge being my favourite. While in Costa Rica, make sure to visit Poas and Irazu, two volcanoes easily accessible from the capital, San Jose. If you have extra time, go to the more remote volcanoes Turrialba and Rincon de la Vieja.