The flawless silhouette of Arenal Volcano is an awe-inspiring sight for any traveler. Rising 1,633 meters on the horizon, its loud rumblings and frequent explosions of lava and ash are a sight not to be missed by any visitor to Costa Rica. Although its last explosion rocked Costa Rica back in 1969, it has never quite settled back into its slumber. The volcano is known to rumble quite loudly, often several times a day.
Area residence are quite used to the spectacle and enjoy watching awestruck visitors. Alter nightfall, the red glow of flowing lava is dramatic and can be seen easily from several vantage points in the area.The Arenal Observatory Lodge has an excellent view as do many of the surrounding hills near the highway that winds past Arenal. The emerald green hills surrounding tiny Lake Coter give you a different perspective, perfect for watching sunsets or setting up a few camera shots.
Heading northwest from the volcano, you'll wind through country side with rolling hills and green pastures on one side and the sparkling blue waters of Lake Arenal on the other. You'll feel a strong wind that whips up white caps and makes this one of the fastest lakes in Central America for wind-surfing.The man-made lake, more than 40 square miles of it, provides water for a hydroelectric plant and is a popular destination for travelers and Costa Ricans.
It lies nestled between gently rolling hills that are carpeted with stunningly lush vegetation. Activities on the water are varied. Kayaking and fishing tours are offered by local outfitters, but the most popular adventure sport practiced here is windsurfing. Arenal's winds blow at world-class speeds. Gales have been clocked as high as 100 kilometers per hour. For peak wind season, visit the lake during the months of November through April.
Geographical Division 
