Arenal / North ZoneThe Arenal Volcano National Park has an area of 33 square kilometers, and its landscape has two distinct areas: one side is of the volcano is covered with lush vegetation and a variety of wildlife where visitors can see a wide array of orchids, ferns and palms and the other, a rugged zone with lava tracts and sand. The volcano offers daytime and nighttime viewing opportunities of its perfect conical shape, unliked any other volcano in Costa Rica. Those who visit this protected area should not miss, in addition, the lava flows that fell in 1992, the impressive ceiba tree with more than 400 years old and the trails along an extensive and authentic rain forest, where you can appreciate the wildlife and resources that the Park protects.
The summit of the Arenal Volcano, rising 1,633 meters above sea level, towers far above the Arenal Volcano National Park and northern plains overlooking a wind-swept lake and pristine cloud forests reserves. An incredibly diverse population of wildlife and a myriad of adventure activities awaits you in this part of Costa Rica. In addition, this area is known for its hot springs, which provide a unique relaxing environment surrounded by local nature. Nature-loving visitors can enjoy the region’s many riches of protected areas, lakes, lagoons, volcanoes, rivers and waterfalls. Thanks to frequent rains, the Northern Zone features wet and evergreen forests as well as fertile plains—natural environments that serve as sanctuaries for water birds, reptiles, mammals, and important sites of interest for wildlife-lovers. Adventure activities such as white-water rafting and nature-watching may be enjoyed on the region’s rivers—Peñas Blancas, San Carlos, Toro, Balsa and Sarapiquí—some of which are important navigational routes. The ideal way to visit this region is by ground transportation since the landscapes you’ll see as you drive along these twisting roads make for incredible photographs. 600 of the 850 bird species identified in Costa Rica are permanent residents of this region so don't forget the binoculars!! Driving along winding roads from San Jose, you climb higher into the surrounding mountains, where temperatures drop to a refreshing 70-75 degrees F. In the distance you’ll be able to observe the dark green and blue silhouettes of the Guanacaste and Tilaran mountain ranges. 
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Hotels in Arenal
Tours in Arenal
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Travel Tips
How to get there
Climate Lake Arenal is located in a tropical zone on the Atlantic slope at 400 meters above sea level. The weather here tends to characterize itself with warm daytime temperatures (low to mid 80's) and relatively high humidity. Rainy season occurs from mid April through December but wet weather can often occur during the dry months as well. There are intermittent rain showers that usually pass quickly and from late February until early May, the rain lessens in frequency which allows for fantastic skyscapes during sunrise and sunset. What to bring As in other areas, rain gear, and comfortable hiking shoes. Binoculars are highly recommended since there is excellent birdwatching. What to do
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Mysterious and imposing, in the very bowels of the Tenorio Volcano, manifestations of hidden power transform the union of the Buena Vista and Roble rivers into a sky blue stream.
A world-class spa which offers a variety of services: five amazing natural hot mineral water pools in temperatures ranging from 80 to 102 degrees F., an indoor turbulent hot tub, natural hot springs and waterfalls, all surrounded by incredible ecological gardens. In addition, there are massage and mud masks treatment available. Exotic cocktails and tropical drinks are served in its’ three bars, and exquisite Italian and Costa Rican cuisine is featured in the restaurant overlooking the volcano.
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