Description
On July 29, 1968, after centuries of apparent calm, Arenal Volcano awoke with an eruption that transformed the region forever. For the next four decades it was one of the most active volcanoes on Earth, and its lava flows carved the slopes you can now explore on foot. This hike is the best way to understand, up close, the force that gave birth to La Fortuna.
The outing begins with a scenic drive through forest and cattle farms to the base of the volcano. From there, an easy trail winds through secondary forest growing over the 1968 lava, a living lesson in how nature heals itself. Your guide shares the story of the eruptions, explains the geology of the cone and points out heliconias, cecropia trees and orchids colonizing the rock.
The highlight is the 1992 lava flow, a field of dark, porous rock you can walk right across. The view from here is breathtaking: Arenal's near-perfect cone rising to about 1,670 meters, Lake Arenal shimmering in the distance and the silhouette of Cerro Chato, the volcano's dormant neighbor. It is a dream setting for photographs.
Along the way you will often hear howler monkeys, see coatis crossing the path and spot birds such as oropendolas, tanagers and, with luck, toucans. Choose the morning departure for cool, fresh air or the afternoon option for golden light. Available as a group or private tour, it is an accessible experience perfect for the whole family.
