Mountains & Volcanoes

The climate in the region goes a long way in making the northern plains so special. Misty cloud forest environments, verdant rolling hills and a fantastically fast lake make the region a must on any visit to Costa Rica. The ideal way to visit the region is by car. The landscapes as you drive along twisting roads make for incredible photographs. The mild 70F weather you'll find here is refreshing, especially when arriving from the coast.

A striking characteristic of this area is the dramatic contrast in topography. The Cordilleras, or ranges, of Tilarán and Guanacaste set off the beauty of the Guatuso, San Carlos and Tortuguero Plains. Several small and medium-sized rivers that range throughout the plains make the region very fertile. Fruit trees, rice paddies and cattle ranching are practiced by the residents. Yet there are many expanses of protected areas dotting the region. Of the 850 bird species identified in Costa Rica, 600 are permanent residents in this region. Don't forget the binoculars

Lake Arenal

As soon as you see shimmering waters being sliced through by windsurfers, you'll know you're on the shores of Lake Arenal.

Not only is the man-made lake spectacular but the surroundings just can't be beat. Photographic opportunities are available ad infinitum. Emerald carpeted sloping hills with dense copses of forest run throughout. he mornings are dew laden and the days are perfect for filling with adventure.

There are several hotels and cabins in the area that range in both price and availability. There are many that cater to the windsurfer crowd and offer everything from equipment to transportation.

Winds have been clocked at up to 40 miles per hour. These gales account for the sleek, aerodynamic windmills you may spot on slopes high above the lake. For a drier approach to speed, hike the index with a ride through the forest canopy.

The land around the lake boasts numerous trails for both hiking and mountain biking. Travelers interested in these sports can hook up with any one of the outfits that operate in the region. Trekkers will enjoy the bird watching opportunities that are plentiful.

Arenal Volcano

It rises 1,633 meters above sea level and casts an almost flawless silhouette on the land below it. Arenal's last explosion was in 1969 but this volcano is far from dormant. Its constant rumblings are Arenal's most popular characteristics. Often spewing ash and smoke, the volcano provides a striking backdrop for photographs and video. There are several excellent look out points along the highway and several resorts and spas that have developed in the area.

After nightfall the spectacle of Arenal's bright red lava coursing its way down from the cone is an awesome sight indeed. Many visitors to the area enjoy the show from the luxurious surroundings of a local hot springs resort.

La Fortuna

This is a quaint picturesque town and is an ideal place to stop when driving to Arenal Volcano. Fortuna offers many small hotels and restaurants that offer typical Costa Rican fare. There are numerous tour operators offering worthwhile jaunts throughout the area. Horseback rides to cascading waterfalls and hiking through surrounding forests should satisfy even the most discerning traveler.

After taking on a day trip, take a few hours to explore La Fortuna. The residents are friendly and hospitable. The town square is an ideal place to sit and practice your Spanish since many locals gather here to exchange news of the day's events.

Tilarán

The small, picturesque town of Tilarán lies on the southwestern tip of Lake Arenal and offers a variety of hotel and restaurant options. Tours in the area include mountain bike trips in the surrounding hills.

Fishing on the lake is also offered along with the opportunity to rent your own small boat. The Arenal area is great for bird watching. Kingfishers, hawks, and swallowtailed kites are commonly sighted, as well as smaller winged residents such as tanagers and hummingbirds.

The area is reminiscent of the English countryside for some and for others holds a special attraction all its own. The hills roll into the horizon and form a perfect border for the shining waters of Lake Arenal. The verdant slopes seem to meld into the blue waters that are topped with whitecaps.

While several tour operators offer transportation to the area of Tilarán, many travelers opt for getting there on their own. Armed with a map, a camera and binoculars, your trip through the area will prove fascinating and worthwhile. The roads winding through the area are in good condition and will take you through impressive landscapes.

Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge

Found in the Alajuela province, Caño Negro is the perfect place to enjoy natural sightseeing. Since the refuge is found in the low-lying northern plains, water is the key word. During the area's dry season, the refuge can be accessed by a road, but during the wet season - boats are the answer. Locals offer launches and are quite knowledgeable about the wildlife. They will be quick to point out a snake that is making its way through high grasses as well as a crocodile as it retreats from the bank into the depths of the river.

Caño Negro lake does a disappearing act during the dry season but is quick to come back once the rains start. In the area of the lowlands keep on the look out for sloths and anteaters in the treed areas, while blinders will find a variety of subjects for their binoculars. White cranes and ducks abound in the shallows along the rivers.