The volcano not only provides the region with its name, it has also formed the area and continues to dominate the landscape, at least visually. At night, it is even more fascinating, and dramatic as the red hot rocks bounce down the slopes at up to 200 km/h. Lava flows out of the crater and, when it is raining, ends in a cloud of steam. Estimated to be less than 3,000 years old, Arenal is a geologically young volcano. During the various cycles of its life activity has been characterized by an alternating of an explosive, effusive phase with one of weak, explosive activity. Major events in recent history begin with the 1968 eruption.

After the last eruption of May 5, 1998, Arenal returned to its typical occasional rumblings. Authorities reported no unusual behavior and the national park was reopened the same week. Local volcanologists continue to keep a close watch on the volcano and park rangers continue to vigorously enforce the safety parameter.

  Costa Rica's geological origin is volcanic. The three mountain ranges are comprised of multiple volcanoes. Arenal volcano is located in the province of Alajuela, a three hour scenic drive from downtown San Jose. It rises to 1,600 meters -5,478 feet- and is the final point of the Guanacaste mountain range.

The separation between this and the Tilaran mountain range is marked by the Arenal depression and Arenal lake. In 1958 and 1993, the Arenal Volcano's activity increased significantly with almost daily explosions of rock and lava. Today, colossal lava rocks, that were spewed over the landscape, can be seen throughout the area. The grumbling of its inner activity can be heard almost every day and, at night, you can actually witness the spectacular liquid lava trail from the cone and see its explosions.

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