If you have never seen an active volcano, Arenal makes a spectacular first. This near-perfect 1633m volcanic cone rises majestically out of the lush pastures and forest at the eastern end of Lake Arenal. The mesmerizing features, which draw visitors to its base by day and night, are intermittent rumbling and explosions. Although, night is the best time for observing it, when you can clearly see a spectacular display of rocks spewing skyward and red-hot molten lava enveloping the top of the cone. The volcano is also frequently hidden in cloud cover, so you may have to stay more than one day to get in a good volcano-viewing session.
     Hiking is possible on the volcano's lower slopes, but definitely not higher up.
     The Arenal volcano was dormant from around 1500 until 1968, when it suddenly erupted and lava flows caused widespread destruction and wiped out 2 villages. Since then it remained one of the most active in the world, emitting gas, small explosions, and lava flows. At night glowing lava flowing down from the crater can frequently seen. Several lodges provide "doorstep" panoramic views at a safe distance, and the Arenal national park, formed recently in 1995, provides the opportunity to walk closer to the lava flows.
    Arenal volcano is at the southern end of Lake Arenal, Costa Rica's largest lake. It is man-made, formed in 1973 when the dam was built to provide hydroelectric power. The lake has great fishing and windsurfing, and offers a scenic drive around the eastern shore with excellent lake and volcano views. Boating, canoeing, riding, mountain biking and hiking are all possible. There are many lodges around the lake to provide accommodation.

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Hotels:
Platinum: Tabacon Hotel
Gold: Volcano Lodge
Silver: Eco-Lodge