Lying on the southern flank of Arenal Volcano, just 2.7 km (1.7 miles) away at an elevation of 735 m (2.411 ft) above sea level, and enjoying spectacular views over Lake Arenal, Arenal Observatory Lodge is the ideal place to DISCOVER the volcano, EXPLORE nature, and RELAX in the hotel. The hill on which the Lodge lies rises above Agua Caliente (Hot Water) river and Danta (Tapir) creek. This is a significant topographical consideration because it means no lava flows can breach these and come up the river banks.

The most typical dish in all Costa Rica is "Gallo Pinto", "red rooster", a rice and bean dish served with breakfast and sometimes lunch. Different recipes include herbs or garlic, but the basic ingredients are always black beans and rice, bell peppers and onions. Don´t pass up an opportunity to try Lizano, the Costa Rican imitation of English Worcestershire sauce. This piquant blend of vegetables, chiles, and sugar is used on almost everything, like ketchup. If you get addicted, it´s now available in the US on your grocer´s Spanish food shelf.

When traveling in the morning from San Jose to Arenal Volcano, and would like to enjoy the route to know more of Costa Rica, an excellent option is to visit the Poas Volcano National Park. The park offers parking, a history museum, hiking trails for a smooth fit for anyone where you can get to the viewpoint of the crater. There is also a path through the mountain that will take you to the Botos Lagoon is part of the attractions.

Cabo Blanco Aboslute Nature Reserve Located in the southern side of the Nicoya Peninsula, Cabo Blanco is a national park of 1172hectares of forest and many kilometers of dramatic coastline and is home to hundreds of animal and plant species. This is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the Nicoya Peninsula.

We know what you are thinking: What to do in La Fortuna? La Fortuna is an adventurous, nature-filled vacation spot that is fun for all ages. Welcoming tour guides and helpful locals make it a family-friendly location, while zip-lining and hiking trails make it ideal for thrill-seekers. Bring your camera and your rain poncho and get ready for Bird watching, howling monkeys, Arenal Volcano National Park and the time of your life.