|
The
Arenal Volcano is one of the most active volcanoes in the world today.
Peaking out at an elevation (currently) of 5300 feet high, this 4000 year
old fire brand has a lot of growing to do. It is estimated that Arenal has
erupted eight or nine times since its birth with its last eruption in
1968. For the moment it entertains us with smoke and booms, occasional
lava flows and a truly awesome sight (cloud cover and rain permitting).
Getting
from Monteverde to the Arenal Observatory Lodge, which is just 1.5 miles
from the cone, requires navigating an obstacle course called a Costa Rican
road. For about $100 US you hire a guide and his 4-wheel drive SUV and
bounce over bumps, through pot holes as big as the vehicle, ford rivers
and, perhaps about 5 hours later you may have completed the 20 mile trip. |
The
trip, however, is absolutely fascinating. Animals, birds, reptiles, etc., are everywhere.
Your guide will educate you and will stop frequently to allow you to see the
many sights better. Arenal Lake (an impoundment), which you will pass en route, is
very beautiful and, as you will see, seems to be a powerful magnet for the wind surfers. They
say the wind here is usually like a constant gale.
This
side trip may sound formidable but those that have experienced it claim
that it is really well worth it. Folks in the know recommend that you visit one of the preserves, first, to attain a better
acquainted with the great variety of life in these cloud forests.
More
on volcanoes: Volcán
Arenal
|
