Arenal Volcano

Our last couple of days in Costa Rica were spent in the shadow of Arenal volcano in the northern part of the country. Although only about 150 kms from San Jose, due to the windy and busy roads, it took us over 4 hours to get to Arenal.

This part of the country is great for two things: natural hot springs and zip lining. Up until about 6 years ago, Arenal volcano was still ejecting hot gas and lava down its slopes. It was so active that it claimed lives and injured many over the years. In recent years, however, it has calmed down to the point where it emits merely a small plume of vapour/gas/smoke out of its top, as if it were puffing on a cigarette.

Even so, the sizeable underground activity brings forth rivers of hot volcanically heated springs which the local resorts do well to tap, literally. Our resort, Los Lagos, has a series of hot pools, all which vary in thermal intensity, with in which you can laze around sipping piña coladas. Alternatively, you can spend your time rushing down a number of surprisingly fast water slides. Hours of fun.

For those that enjoy an aerial view of the surrounding area along with the freedom of travelling through the jungle in a way even Tarzan would have enjoyed, zip-lining is the thing to do. Its great fun shooting through the jungle high above the floor, tethered only by a couple of caribenas.

Thanks Jared, Melissa and family for a fun week!