Arenal is a can't miss for a first timer's vacation in Costa Rica. Known as the Adventure Capital of Costa Rica - it has so much to offer - whether you're a hard core adventurer, or looking for calmer activities, gorgeous scenery, wildlife experiences or relaxation - Arenal truly has something for everyone.
Here are our Top 5 Reasons for Visiting Arenal:
Arenal Volcano National Park
This is the volcano that changed the tourism industry in Costa Rica and put this area on the world stage for tourism. The volcano was declared dormant in 2010, and volcanologists say that it won't resume for years - potentially for generations - so you won't see lava flow. BUT it's still a lush national park, and you can work your way through on the Las Coladas trail - winding your way through the forest and cooled lava field until you get to a clearing where you'll have a great view of the perfectly symmetrical volcano. (It should be noted that the quality of the view does depend on the weather).
Adventure!
Arenal is known as the Adventure Capital of Costa Rica. Popular options include canopy tours where you'll soar on cables that connect platforms and trees, and see the rain forest from a view that used to only be reserved for researchers. Zip lining, rappelling, and splashing your way through white water rapids will get your adrenaline pumping, and out of the box options like spelunking, waterfall jumping, and Tarzan swings are available as well. New adventure opportunities have popped up recently, and you can race against your family on obstacle courses that include twin ziplines, a tree-to tree ladder bridge, and free fall jumps. For those looking for more relaxed adventures - Arenal is home to one of the best Hanging Bridges parks in the country that still has the same eco tourism focus of the original owners who wanted to preserve the incredible wildlife and views of Arenal.
Hot Springs
Costa Rica has over 200 volcanic formations that have heated the groundwater for thousands of years. The result? Bubbling thermal pools and therapeutic mud which has led to hot springs and spas known for restorative qualities. Arenal and La Fortuna town sit at the base of the volcano - which feeds into the rivers creating the thermal pools. The area offers you the chance to sit in the forest, listening to the sounds of the birds while luxuriating in the warm water and in your surroundings. You can choose a resort with water slides - listening to the sounds of your kids splashing and having fine while you relax nearby. Or check in to a romantic adult-only hotel featuring thermal water plunge pools. The area is filled with options - we'll help you pick the right one for you!
La Fortuna
Ready to learn about the culture of the area? La Fortuna town, filled with farmers and farmland, used to be sleepy. But with the volcanic eruption came tourism - and this town has embraced it. When you walk down the street you'll encounter chocolate and coffee vendors - many of whom have been in farming for generations - ready and willing to sell to you and share their stories and knowledge of the area. You can tour through trails on horseback through pasture and rainforest with a chance at spotting toucans and monkeys until you emerge from the trees at the the La Fortuna Waterfall. Spend time at the Maleku Reserve with the Maleku Indian Tribe and learn how the smallest tribe in Costa Rica is keeping their traditions, culture, and language alive.
Incredible Resort Experiences
Arenal has some of the most luxurious resorts in Costa Rica - designed on the edge of the lush rainforest with volcano views in mind. Stay at a resort with secret pools and waterfalls spread throughout, or a truly stunning tented camp at the top of three resorts in the hillside. Or choose the one with a series of thermal hot springs pools that blend in with the rainforest - you can experience eco luxury at it's best.
Arenal is waiting for you! Schedule a consultation with us for your next trip.
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