Arenal Volcano

IntoLa Fortuna is one of Costa Rica’s most breathtaking destinations, nestled in the northern region of the country in the province of Alajuela. This small town sits at the base of the iconic Arenal Volcano, one of the most famous and recognizable volcanoes in the world. Rising dramatically above the rainforest, its nearly perfect cone shape dominates the skyline and draws visitors from around the globe.

For decades, Arenal Volcano was one of the most active volcanoes in the Western Hemisphere. After a powerful eruption in 1968, the volcano entered a long period of activity that lasted for more than 40 years, regularly sending lava flows down its slopes and glowing red at night. While scientists consider the volcano to be in a resting phase since around 2010, geothermal activity continues beneath the surface. Visitors still experience the area’s volcanic energy through natural hot springs, steaming vents, and mineral-rich thermal waters throughout the region.

When we visited in August 2025, the mountain still carried that unmistakable sense of power and presence. Even without dramatic lava flows, the volcano feels alive—its slopes wrapped in mist, clouds drifting across the summit, and the rainforest humming with life all around it.

Beyond the volcano itself, La Fortuna is one of the most biodiverse regions in Costa Rica. The surrounding Arenal Volcano National Park and nearby reserves are home to an extraordinary variety of wildlife and plant life. Dense rainforest shelters howler monkeys, sloths, toucans, parrots, frogs, and countless species of butterflies and orchids. Waterfalls cascade through the jungle, including the famous La Fortuna Waterfall, where water plunges nearly 250 feet into a lush canyon below.

La Fortuna perfectly captures what makes Costa Rica special—dramatic landscapes, thriving ecosystems, and a deep connection between land and life. Whether you come for the volcano, the wildlife, or the healing waters of the hot springs, it’s a place where nature truly takes center stage. 🌋🌿