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Arenal Volcano & Lake and Northern Region, Costa Rica
 Considered by many to be one of the most spectacular regions in the country, the Northern Lowlands and Arenal Volcano area are Costa Rica’s hottest tourist destinations. The Arenal Volcano is one of the ten most active volcanoes in the world and presents a truly majestic sight, as it spews molten rocks and ash from its summit on a daily basis. With regular eruptions, you can hear the rumbling and see steam rising as lava flows down the sides of the volcano.
One of the best places to take in the Arenal Volcano’s awe-inspiring fireworks is at
La Fortuna, a tiny town located near the foot of the volcano. The perfect place to kickback and enjoy the area’s superb beauty, La Fortuna is a touristy place that retains much of its original Tico charm. There are also many natural hot springs here as well as resorts where one can pamper themselves taking a long relaxing soak amidst beautiful orchid gardens.
Across from the Arenal sits the sparkling Arenal Lake, a delight for sports fishermen and avid windsurf enthusiasts. One of the best places in the world to go windsurfing as the breeze here is very consistent, this lake transforms into a windsurfer’s paradise from December to April with an unbelievable view of the Arenal Volcano in the distance. This lake is also home to many freshwater fish including the Rainbow bass locally known as guapote that can weight up to 4 kg. or about 8 pounds.
For nature lovers, the Arenal region also offers numerous hiking and trekking trails near the volcano where one can see some stunning waterfalls, gushing rivers, and beautiful plant and wildlife. Just north of this area lies the Caño Negro Nature Reserve that is also definitely worth a visit.
Nuevo Arenal is a picturesque and quaint town with close proximity to the beautiful Lake Arenal, this town is known for its breathtaking vistas and superb mountain and volcano views.
Lying some 30 minutes from the town of Tilaran on the north east side of Lake Arenal, Nuevo Arenal can also be easily accessed from the town of La Fortuna de San Carlos as well. The best way to get here is to either fly to the San Jose International Airport or the Liberia International Airport and then drive out to Nuevo Arenal. Located at an altitude of 620 meters above sea level, the weather here is great as the climate remains cool and fresh all year long. Created in 1973 when a dam was built in the region, Nuevo Arenal or New Arenal came into existence when the waters of the lake rose and the former town of Arenal disappeared underwater. Built on higher safer ground, Nuevo Arenal is a small town with all the basic necessities that one needs.
Found in town are a number of banking services, a health clinic, grocery stores, mini-markets, a gas station, restaurants, hotels, resorts, bars and plenty of souvenir shops. The nightlife in Nuevo Arenal is quite active as well. When in town, do remember to stop at the German bakery for some delicious local delicacies and snacks.
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