Its mile-high peak towering over the surrounding countryside, Costa Rica’s Arenal volcano put on a magnificent show during its last major eruption in 2010. Spewing geysers of lava and ash high into the air, the volcano sent rivers of molten rock flowing down its steep, conical slopes. A major tourist attraction and the centerpiece of one of Costa Rica’s most popular national parks, Arenal sleeps now, a plume of smoke occasionally emanating from its crater a reminder that it could reawaken at any time.
A Costa Rica vacation is a journey to a tropical paradise of immense beauty and incredible biodiversity. Most vacationers come to play on the Central American country’s gorgeous sandy beaches or enjoy Costa Rica’s acclaimed surfing and diving opportunities; but a trip into the country’s interior exposes visitors to an entirely different world where monkeys and sloths populate the trees, lush vegetation covers the ground and colorful parrots and parakeets flit through the air.
Arenal National Park showcases the compelling beauty and surreal landscapes of Costa Rica’s interior. Dominated by the stark conical peak of Arenal volcano and covered by rainforest, the park features innumerable rivers, picturesque waterfalls and relaxing thermal hot springs. Marked hiking trails meander through moonscape lava fields, tall grass canyons and lush rainforest. At the base of the volcano sits beautiful Lake Arenal which produces a third of the country’s electric power.
Arenal National Park is just one of many in Costa Rica’s impressive national park system, including several conveniently located on the west coast near Costa Rica vacation rentals. (Click here for a complete list of Costa Rica national parks and the attractions and amenities available at each park.)
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