Arenal Volcano and La Fortuna
Many describe the Arenal Volcano area as being among Costa Rica's most beautiful destinations. This area is dotted with scenic hillsides and volcanoes, including the famous Arenal Volcano which is one of the most active in the world. La Fortuna is the closest town to the imposing volano, which erupts every five to ten minutes, Arenal Volcano is a constant reminder that Mother Nature is still hard at work and came roaring back to life in 1968 killing over 80 locals. Nuevo Arenal (translates to New Arenal) gained it's name appropriately in the late 1960's early 70's as people from the older town of Arenal relocated after their town was destroyed by the volcanic eruption. The beauty of this area is also accentuated by the scenic Arenal Lake and dam which provides electricty to most of the country.
The Location of Arenal Volcano is on the Northern Plains of Costa Rica. La Fortuna is approximately a 3 hour drive from San Jose, 3 1/2 hours from Manuel Antonio, 3 1/2 - 4 hours from Monteverde (Most choose Jeep Boat Jeep), 3 hours from Liberia and 4- 4 1/2 hours from Tamarindo. Please keep in mind that all drive times are approximate and depend on road conditions, as well as Costa Rica driving experience.
The Climate of the Arenal Volcano area is a relatively comfortable climate. During the months of December through April, one can expect temperatures to reach a high in the low to mid 80's and a low in the 60's with limited rainfall. From May through November, one can expect temperatures to reach a high in the low 80's and a low in the 60's with more prevalent rainfall. The rainfall in the Arenal Volcano area during this time of the year is generally limited to late afternoons and early evenings (though it can rain at any given time).
La Fortuna Tours are plentiful, as this is the closest town to the imposing Arenal Volcano. La Fortuna is a long time favorite of eco-tourists and considered by many to be the adventure capital of Central America. A variety of La Fortuna Tours are available including various forms of canopy exploration, whitewater rafting, canyoning, cave exploration, volcano hikes, hot springs, indigenous villages and many more...
Arenal Volcano Resorts and La Fortuna hotels are plentiful with accommodations for all price ranges. The Costa Rica vacation packages listed in our website utilize some of the area's most beautiful and unique Arenal Volcano resort options. We also offer a wide variety of alternative lodging options including Arenal bungalows, La Fortuna hotels and Arenal Lake lodges.
Entertainment is plentiful in the La Fortuna and Arenal Volcano area. This area is bursting with tourist geared activities including day spas, restaurants, bars, dancing, internet cafes, souvenir shops and a beautifully landscaped park. The following is a small percentage of the activities and local businesses that we recommend:
Activities:
Dancing, Internet Cafes, Bars, Central area park, Souvenir shops, Shopping.
Lunatica Art Gallery: Featuring Costa Rica Artists & Indigenous Arts& Crafts.
Ecocentro Danaus: Bio Park - Reptiles, Amphibians, Birds.
Day Spa: European Style Facials & Attention.
Shopping: Tiliches Souvenir Shop Souvenirs el Carpintero.
Inexpensive La Fortuna Dining: La Choza de Laurel, Lava Rocks Cafe, Luigi's Lodge & Pizzeria, Mi Casa Cafe, Soda Pito Pito, Super Pollo.
More Dining Options: Restaurant el Terruno, Restaurant Nene's, Restaurant Las Brasitas, Rancho la Cascada, Restaurant Don Rufino, Rainforest Cafe.
For more Arenal information call Toll Free 1-800-630-9126 or 1-866-853-9426
