Costa Rica, the Central American nation smaller than the state of West Virginia remains a great setting for vacation. The country conserves and protects 23 percent of its land and maintains a sustainable eco-tourism industry. Lush tropical jungles, diverse plant and animal life, green central mountains, and two pristine coastlines makes for an adventurous holiday.
Whether tourists spend six days or six weeks traveling in Costa Rica, one adventure is difficult to pass up: the chance to witness an erupting volcano. The opportunity to watch lava trickle down a mountainside and then take a soak in thermal hot springs captivates your soul.
Most international flights to Costa Rica land in San Jose (SJO), the capital city. From there you can catch a bus or rent a 4×4 SUV to cross the mountainous terrain to the town of La Fortuna and board a tour to Mount Arenal volcano. With the volcano the dominant attraction, nearly every Costa Rica hostel, hotel and tour operator offers a package deal. The choices, options, and combinations are abundant and bargains exist for those willing to negotiate.
I stood eagerly awaiting the dissipation of the cloudy weather so I could start an afternoon tour of Mount Arenal. After a 90-minute hike through the national park enjoying colorful birds, plant life and unsuccessfully searching for native howler monkeys, we came to a clearing in the forest. Now with the sun starting to set, my tour marched towards the viewing vantage point. There, I gazed upon faint light red streaks trickling down the mountainside. Boulders tumbled down with a roar unlike any sound I heard before. Mother nature spoke and we listened.
Maintaining a safe distance, guides shared their binoculars to enhance our view. As darkness descended the lava intensified in color. Amazing and vibrant red flashes delighted the crowd until the cloud cover intensified.
My tour included one more stop – the Baldi Hot Springs. Here a soak in the many pools, two with swim-up bars, made for a fine end to the day. Then already satisfied with the tour, my Imeprial beer began to taste even better. The sky cleared, stars shined and the summit of Mt. Arenal appeared to exhibit a remarkable red glowing peak.
Don’t be discouraged by a grey day in Costa Rica – once you’re here, the first thing you’ll notice are the clouds covering the mountain summit; attracted like metal to a magnet. In fact, it is so rare to catch a clear view that the entire town will pause all activity to observe the picturesque postcard site. Locals believe such a site brings good luck or rather good fortune to all those who witness it.
Costa Rica flight: There are many direct flights from the U.S. to Costa Rica. We found cheap flights to Costa Rica starting as low as $258 from New York.
Costa Rica hotels: The area surrounding Mt Arenal offers the full spectrum of
accommodations, from a shared room and bunk beds to four-star
properties that pamper guests with all the modern amenities. For budget travelers, Gringo Pete’s Hostel in La Fortuna is only $5 USD a night. If you’re looking for something a little more luxurious, the famous Tabacon Spa starts at $150 USD per night.
© Cheapflights Ltd Craig Zabransky
