Lago Arenal

Represa del Arenal, 20 km al oeste

Volcano view
Surrounded by nature

Photos

About Lago Arenal

The reservoir that flooded two villages in 1979 and today generates a good share of the country electricity. You drive its shore road, with viewpoints towards the volcano, and you get on the water by kayak, by catamaran, or crossing it on the way to Monteverde. The afternoon winds at the western end are among the best in the world for windsurfing.

What to expect

The lake tripled in size with the 1979 dam, at its eastern end.
You drive the shore road, stopping at viewpoints facing the volcano. Go early: it usually clouds over by mid-morning.
On the water: kayaking between islands, a catamaran with lunch, a slide and a diving board, or simply crossing it on the way to Monteverde.
Around it there are trails, cycling routes, birdwatching and horseback riding.

Additional information

From November to April the wind at the western end is close to guaranteed, and that is when the windsurfers and kitesurfers arrive: it is rated among the best spots in the world for it. Gear rental is available locally.
Catamaran tours need booking ahead.