Adventure Of The Month
Action in Arenal | Costa Rica
Costa Rica is an extraordinary place to stay and travel around. Based in the Central American region it is relatively safe and easy place to travel for both independents and groups. Costa Rica can be explored either as a single country or as part of a Central America trip, due to the short flights to other neighbouring countries such as Panama, Belize and Guatamala.
Possibly the best area to explore if you are after an adventure thrill, is the volcanic area of Arenal. The active volcano that towers over the valley can be seen from miles away on a clear day. If you are lucky on a clear night you can also see the volcanic lava steaming out of the giant crater. This volcano has remained active and has erupted every day since 1968 each eruption lasts between 2 -45 minutes. Naturally, this area attracts many tourists, because you can actually walk around the base of the volcano and be close enough to hear the rocks falling and the lava hissing. The national park walk around the base does advise you not to ascend high than where the vegetation ends. This is a wise move considering volcanoes can sometimes be pretty unpredictable!
Around this area, there are many activities from rope bridge walks to 200ft plus aerial runways (SkyTram & SkyTrek). There are also some very professional companies offering waterfall rappelling, (basically abseiling down tumbling waterfalls) which are excellent fun, but not for the fainthearted! One particular company (Pure Trek Adventures) offers a unique half day rappelling adventure, which includes transport, rappelling and lunch. The journey alone up to the waterfalls is as exhilarating as the actual abseiling itself! The company usually accepts small groups and couples, and it is a good way to meet like minded travellers.
After a long day exploring the many exciting activities, an excellent way to end the day is to soak yourself in one of the natural hot outdoor springs at Tabacon (this also has a hotel attached). This is enjoyed by both locals and tourists, and has a great atmosphere. The pools are all heated by the volcano and each pool varies in temperature, some are very steamy 40 degrees others are much cooler. There is also an interesting swim up bar in the middle of the main pool which you can order a few drinks whilst soaking.
One of the recommended places to stay in this area is the newly opened Lost Iguana Resort. It is an independent hotel, with beautifully and locally designed interiors. Each room has a view of the volcano and a bath on the balcony, which makes it quite unique. Just remember to use some bug spray if you intend on bathing during the twilight hours, as the mosquitoes will attack! The hotel also has a small outdoor swimming pool and an excellent restaurant serving local and international cuisine.