Fortuna

Fortuna is the nearest village to the spectacular Volcan Arenal (1633 meters), which looms six km to the west. The volcano was dormant until 1968; in that year huge explosions triggered lava flows that killed several dozen people. Despite this massive eruption, the volcano retains its almost perfect conical shape, and with its continuing activity, Arenal is everyone's image of a typical volcano. The best night time views are from the north and west side of the volcano, The degree of activity varies from week to week; sometimes there is red hot lava flowing and incandescent rocks flying through the air.

The Parque Nacional Volcan Arenal was created in 1995 but visitor services are minimal. You can see the eruptions from outside the park just as well and save the US$6 entrance.

Many local hotels and tour operators will arrange night tours to view the phenomenon prices are US$5 to US$20 per person. This is a very popular trip. Many of these tours include a dip in the Tabacon hot springs after the volcano visit, Other tours include horseback rides to local waterfalls (La Catarata de Fortuna) or all day rides to Monteverde (US$65, more interesting than taking the bus) and visits to Cano Negro (US$25 to US$45). All of these are worthwhile tours. You can walk to La Catarata it's about six km and is signed . Admission for the path to the base is US$1.50. Hotels change US dollars. This is a small town ask around for what you need.

Places to Stay

Senderos Los Lagos

Cabinas Charlie
Cabinas Jerry
Cabinas Andrea
Cabinas Elsy
Cabinas Manuel
Cabinas Sissy
Cabinas Grijalba
Cabinas La Amistad
Cabinas El Bosque
Cabinas v Soda El Rio and Cabinas Karen. Clean Cabinas Carmela