For over forty years, the Arenal Volcano was the most active volcano in Costa Rica (until recent events where Turrialba and Poas volcano are fighting for the first place). Since 2010, the volcano has been in a dormant period (a process that is natural for active volcanoes), and has become one of Costa Rica's most popular tourist destinations.

The largest eruption in recent memory took place on July 29, 1968. Prior to this date, the Arenal Volcano had been inactive for 450 years.

Since the 1960s, authorities have taken steps to assure the safety of locals living in the vicinity and the groups of national and international tourists who come to visit the volcano. The Arenal Volcano's symmetry and beauty, plus the abundance of hiking, thermal waters and other outdoor activities in the area, have made it an unmissable stop in any Costa Rica expedition.

The volcano is located about 90 kilometers from San José in the Arenal Volcano National Park. Surrounded by thick forests and abundant wildlife, the area is also an important water reservoir for the country where you can also take a boat ride or practice some water sports.

Although Arenal has been inactive for several years and visitors are unable to watch the much-loved explosions, that could change within a matter of months or years, geologists say this is only a temporary resting period. The volcano could erupt again at any time but for now we can continue to be mesmerized by its presence.