Nature Field Guide
Arenal Volcano
- Spanish name
- Volcán Arenal
- Scientific name
What Do Pico & Tati Think?
Join Pico and Tati to discover Volcán Arenal and learn how volcanoes help shape Costa Rica.
Species overview
About the Arenal Volcano
Arenal’s cone is one of Costa Rica’s recognizable landscapes. The national park protects rainforest, old lava flows and water resources that feed the Arenal reservoir. Old lava can become a place where plants establish themselves over time.
Identification
Key Features of the Arenal Volcano
A steep cone-shaped silhouette.
Gray volcanic rock above green slopes.
Old lava formations along designated park trails.
Habitat & range
Near La Fortuna de San Carlos, Alajuela, in the northern plains.
Local observations
A Costa Rican volcanic landmark. This educational profile does not describe live eruption status or guarantee visitor access.
When to observe
Explore in daylight only when the site is open and conditions permit. Ask an adult to check official access information, weather and volcanic advisories before a visit. Clouds can hide the landscape.
Conservation & care
Explore with an adult. Follow staff instructions, authorized trails, barriers and closures. Leave rocks, plants and wildlife in place and carry out litter. Do not climb the volcanic cone or enter its restricted surroundings.
Observation activity
Draw Arenal’s silhouette. Label the cone, forest and old lava rocks using a reference photograph.
Plan Your Visit
Arenal Volcano National Park — main visitor entrance
Getting There
From La Fortuna, follow Route 142 toward Lake Arenal and the signed national-park entrance. Start your walk at the ranger entrance and use the marked visitor trails.
Before You Go
This destination is the national-park visitor entrance. It is not a summit trail. Confirm current entry arrangements and open trails with SINAC.
Visit information reviewed October 8, 2026. Confirm current access before travel.