Lake Arenal

Lake Arenal is located in the central part of Costa Rica, near the town of La Fortuna. The geographic position is between Panama and Nicaragua.

This tourist destination has to offer views that few other places around the world have. The territory of Arenal, is an active volcano. This is the fourth active volcano in the world and stands in sharp contrast against the backdrop of beautiful tropical forests of Costa Rica.

Adjacent to the volcano is located the same titled artificial Lake Arenal. The construction of the dam began in 1979. The lake is the main driver in the national hydroelectric project that now produces the majority of electricity throughout the country. Water depth generally ranges around 61 meters and the area of the lake is 85 square kilometers. Outstanding attraction for tourists is the fact that the bottom of the pond is an abandoned town that bears the same name - Arenal.

The area was declared a national park in 1991. The volcano towers over the eastern shores of the lake. Its height is about 1657 meters, a conical shape is the result of successive eruptions and deposits of ash, lava and rocks. Recent eruptions of the volcano began in 1968 after 400 years of being passive.

From November to April, strong winds here attract many lovers of windsurfing. According to some, Lake Arenal is the best place to practice this sport, in the world. It is during the dry season - from November to April, that the area here, is the full with visitors.

Tourists are attracted to not only the amazing tropical nature, but also the opportunity to practice active sports such as rafting, mountain biking, hiking and fishing. Another attraction are the caves which are everywhere in the reserve. Main point for these sports is the village of La Fortuna.

Venado Caves are located just an hour's drive south of town. They were formed for 7 million years ago, thanks to the watercourses. Only 3, 2 km away from La Fortuna is located one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Costa Rica.