Costa Rica

Chato Volcano

The enormous Chato Volcano is located in Arenal Volcano National Park. Approximately 3,609 feet high, El Chato sits in the shadow of Costa Rica's most famous volcano, Arenal. Scientists believe that Chato first erupted during the Pleistocene period 38,000 years ago. Now dormant, experts estimate that the volcano was last active some 3,500 years ago.

El Chato belongs to the Cordillera de Tilaran mountain range. It covers an area of 6.2 miles, and is comprised of two peaks: Chatito and Espina. Mount Chato Lagoon, a mammoth water-filled crater, stretches 1,640 feet in diameter. The oblong body of water is roughly 820 feet north to south and 492 feet east to west, with a maximum depth of 616 feet. An arduous yet rewarding four to five hour hike to this dream-like lake passes through transition forest and up steep hills. Hikers to Chato's summit are rewarded with amazing views, and a slice of tranquility thanks to its infrequent visitors. 

Hiking:

Their are two ways to access Chato Volcano. The first trailhead departs near the entrance to La Fortuna Waterfall, where hikers must pay the $10 entrance fee at the visitor center before registering and beginning the hike. The trail is about 4.5 miles long and takes between four and five hours round-trip. Most of the trail is incredibly steep, and parts can be very slippery during the rainy season. A guide is not needed, as the trail is clearly marked, and leads to the crater rim, where the adventurous can hike down to the lagoon for a swim.  It's best to start the hike early in the morning, as clouds roll in quickly making the descent somewhat challenging.

A second trail to Chato leaves from the Arenal Observatory Lodge, and is about four to five hours round-trip. It is almost entirely uphill, and ends at the greenish-blue reflective waters of the El Chato Lagoon. Guided tours can be arranged in the town of La Fortuna.

Flora and Fauna:

Wildlife watching is top-notch at El Chato and the surrounding Arenal Volcano National Park. Howler and spider monkeys, white-nosed coati, sloth, deer, boa constrictors, parrots, trogon, hummingbirds, motmots and toucans are all known to inhabit the park. Plant life includes ferns, heliconia, mountain guayabo, freijo, rosewood, and chicle and balsa trees.

Facilities:

Other than a visitor center near the La Fortuna Waterfall trailhead, neither entrance to Chato has facilities. A ranger station and restrooms are located at the entrance to Arenal Volcano National Park. Trail maps are available at the ranger station.

Getting There:

Car: Drive east from the international airport toward San Ramon, then north to Bajo Rodriguez. Continue through La Tigra, Chachagua, and finally on to La Fortuna. From La Fortuna, drive west toward Tabacon Resort and continue 1.2 miles past Tabacon. Turn left on a hard-packed dirt road, following signs to Arenal National Park.

Bus: From San Jose, the bus takes about fours to reach Arenal. $4; 6:15 a.m., 8:40 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. Departs from the intersection of Calle 12 and Avenida 7. 2255-0567.

Nearby Destinations

• Arenal