Volcano Country Region
The Volcano Country Region encompasses Arenal Volcano and its forests along with the wetlands of Cano Negro Wildlife Refuge and Tenorio National Park. Several other river basins in the area such as Penas Blancas, San Carlos and Toro contribute to the richness of this tourism region. Safari boat rides and rafting trips wind through these diverse river basin ecosystems, offering excellent wildlife viewing and adventure opportunities.
read more closeArenal Volcano is Costa Rica's most active volcano (also one of the ten most active in the world) and puts on quite a show most nights. Lava flows change direction every six to eight months but typically favor the southwest and/or northwest flanks of the cone. The volcano is 11 miles west of La Fortuna, which is an excellent base for exploring the Arenal region.
Activities include bird and wildlife watching, canyoning, volcano hikes, horseback riding, canopy tours (zip lines and hanging bridges), whitewater rafting, tranquil river floats and fishing on nearby Arenal Lake. The area is renowned for several thermal resorts featuring volcano-heated hot springs. Arenal Lake is also the best windsurfing spot in the country, with winds up to 50 mph.
Wildlife is abundant in this region with more than 600 of the 850 bird species found in Costa Rica along with many mammal, butterfly, reptile and plant species. From relaxing soaks in volcano-fed hot springs, to wildlife watching among the wetlands of Cano Negro Wildlife Refuge, this tourism region has a thrilling variety of sights and activities.
This Region is Best Known For:
Volcano-Fed Hot Springs
Lava-viewing and hiking around Arenal Volcano
Adrenaline Pumping Canopy Tours
Fishing for bass on Arenal Lake
Caving in the Venado Caverns
Celeste River in Tenorio National Park
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