In the Northern Plains the majestic Arenal Volcano stands as a captivating presence, a “must-see” attraction that draws more visitors than any other destination in Costa Rica.

Though in a resting phase since 2010, the fabled bursts of fire and smoke from its perfect symmetrical cone made Arenal one of the most active, studied and photographed volcanoes in the hemisphere. Thanks to frequent rains, the  region features wet and evergreen forests as well as fertile plains—natural environments that serve as sanctuaries for water birds, reptiles, mammals and important sites of interest for wildlife-lovers.

This incredibly scenic environment and has become an active adventurer’s dream. There are mountains to hike, rivers to run, waterfalls and canyons to rappel, lakes to fish and exuberant rainforests draped in canopy ziplines and hanging bridges that allow visitors to immerse in nature’s bounty from the treetops down. A soak in one of the many natural thermal hot springs fed by the volcano is the perfect end to any active day.