Arenal had been active until 2010 and at present it has entered the resting phase, It is a top destination for many tourists. There is a national park surrounding this massive site which also features a number of hot springs and a famous lake caused by volcanic activity. It a year-round attraction, but travellers and tourism professionals say that September and October are the best months to get great views over the volcano.
Practical info
When is the best time to visit Arenal Volcano in Costa Rica?
September and October make the best time to visit Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica. During these months, the rain is less, and it's easier to see the volcano since the sky is mostly clear. Visitors also get to enjoy fewer crowds compared to the winter months. Costa Rica is an ideal year-round travel destination with plenty of activities to engage with, and the national park is located in Guanacaste region. Show more
Where is Arenal Volcano located and how to get there?
Arenal Volcano is situated in Arenal Volcano National Park in the Guanacaste region, Costa Rica. To get to Arenal Volcano from San Jose, visitors can opt for multiple means of transportation including private shuttle transfers, car rentals, and airport taxis. The nearest airport is about 10 km from the city center, and visitors can also take a guided tour that includes round-trip transportation. The drive takes approximately three hours from San Jose. Show more
What are the popular activities to do in Arenal besides visiting the volcano?
Besides visiting Arenal Volcano, the area has a myriad of activities to engage in. Tourists can relax and soak in the hot springs, and there are several resorts that offer Thermal Pool services. Visitors can also participate in hiking trails, white-water rafting, Zipline across the forest, and horseback riding. Additionally, birdwatching enthusiasts can visit the Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge, which has over 300 bird species for sighting. Show more
Are there any safety concerns to keep in mind while visiting Arenal?
Arenal is considered a safe and secure travel destination, but visitors must observe caution, especially around the volcano. Tourists should adhere to guidelines set by the national park staffs since it may be risky in some seasons. As such, trails close to the crater may be closed or restricted to prevent volcanic activity. Visitors should also watch out for winding roads, which requires careful driving. Having sunscreen and enough water is also imperative during the visit. Show more
Can visitors swim in the lake caused by volcanic activity near Arenal?
Lake Arenal, created from Arenal Volcano's last eruption in 1970, is an ideal swimming spot in Costa Rica. As the second-largest lake, it is a perfect location for swimming, fishing, and windsurfing. Visitors can also enjoy a kayaking tour of the lake provided by the surrounding resorts. However, swimmers need to observe restrictions such as swimming from designated spots only since the lake can be dangerous in some areas due to strong winds. Show more
