Cabuaya National Parks

Arenal Volcano and La Fortuna Costa Rica Information

If you get the chance to visit the nearby region, including the charming town of La Fortuna, what waits for you is a stunning visual exhibition. Currently best seen from the north and west on a clear night are red-hot lava rocks spewing down the steep slopes of the almost perfectly conical Arenal Volcano. Watching the skyline explode to life is truly something to remember. The majestic, symmetrical volcano sits to the north of the 29,960 acre (12,124 ha) Arenal Volcano National Park (Parque Nacional Volcán Arenal). Encompassing 4 different life zones, the park is made of mostly primary rain forest as the various habitats harbor a tremendous amount of flora and fauna.

The park is open from 8 am to 6 pm and an entrance fee of $6 applies.

Close to ¾ of the 850 total species of birds identified in Costa Rica can be found in the area, including the endangered Resplendent Quetzal. That’s a lot of birds. Also found here are moose, Jaguar, sloths, white-faced monkeys, Coati, deer, and snakes like the infamous fer-de-lance, parrot snake and boa constrictor. The plant life includes guayabo de monte, laurel, cirri, and various species of palms, orchids, heliconias, ferns and bromeliads, among others. Arenal’s smaller sibling, the Chato Volcano (Volcán Chato), reaches heights up to 3,609 ft (1,100 m) as its water filled crater lays inactive.
Visit www.anywherecostarica.com for more information.

Turrialba Volcano National Park Information
The last major eruptions occurred in 1866, however, fumarolic activity remains constant from the summit of the highest peak. There are three well-defined craters located at the top, the most profound of which measures 164 ft (50 m), giving the impression of a lunar landscape similar to that of the Irazu Volcano. In fact, many people call them twin volcanoes due to their similar characteristics and close proximity.

The beautiful volcano covered in dense vegetation looks out over approximately 3,900 acres (1,577 ha) of mostly montane rain forest. A large portion of Turrialba Volcano National Park is made up of primary and secondary forest, which is where it is most common to view the smaller wildlife scurrying around. Hiking along the trails allows you to see the various lava flows that give evidence to the once flowing rivers of hot magma. Once on the apex, various viewpoints along the well preserved trails around the rim of the summit give spectacular 360º views.

The city of Turrialba was once the gateway to the Atlantic coast. Now, it is a great starting point for many activities, especially visiting Turrialba Volcano National Park. The town of Turrialba is located approximately 44 miles (71 km) east of San Jose. From there the national park is just a short drive away. It is recommended to have a 4WD vehicle if you plan on accessing the park on your own. The town offers little in the way of services and admission to the park is approximately $7. Visit www.anywherecostarica.com for more information.