On 29 July 1968 The Arenal volcano, which had been dormant for hundreds of years, erupted destroying three villages and killing 87 people as a result of rapid pyroclastic flows. The area had been fertile farming land with a small number of farmers unaware of the possibility of eruption. Arenal continued to be active until 2010, being one of the most active volcanoes in the world by duration since 1750. The surrounding area became a National Park in 1991 and is now a major tourist area due to the volcano, thermal waters and rain forests.
The volcano, being in a rain forest, is often entirely or partially covered in cloud. This was the case the day we hiked to the “viewing point”. We did, however, enjoy the hike in beautiful surroundings with plenty of wildlife. Our best view of the volcano was from lunch in our hotel after the hike !
Shilli-Fully Travels 