Self Drive Lake Arenal Volcano and Monteverde Rainforest

Self Drive Tour of the Arenal Volcano and Monteverde 5 days / 4 nights

A walk through the Monteverde cloud forest reveals a lush green garden of mosses, ferns, flowers and epiphytes growing thickly on every tree. Clouds drift in and settle among the slopes, giving the continuous moisture required for such exuberant plant growth. Arenal Volcano overlooks Lake Arenal and is part of Arenal Volcano National Park. The country's most active volcano, the volcano is surrounded by clouds near the tip, and it is touted as good luck to see the whole volcano without clouds.

Costa Rica Tour Details

Tour Day 1

Your Costa Rica tour begins with a  pick up of your 4x4 Car Rental for scenic drive to Arenal Volcano.Overnight at the Arenal Observatory Lodge. From the Observatory, which is situated only 1.6 miles south of the volcano, visitors have an impressive view of this "giant which rumbles" and erupts with spectacular displays of vapor and lava. The Arenal Observatory Lodge is the only lodge situated within the Arenal Volcano National Park.

Day 2

Free day at the Arenal Observatory Lodge to drive around and check out the area or to enjoy the grounds that include a spring fed swimming pool and Jacuzzi and self guided trails. You may also participate in one of the many optional tour activities offered in the Arenal area. Overnight Arenal Observatory Lodge. (B)

Day 3

In the morning, join other guests from the Lodge, for a guided hike inside the Arenal Volcano National Park for a close-up exploration of a lava flow.In the afternoon you will drive over to Montevede passing by the impressive Arenal Lake. Your drive around to the Monteverde Cloud Forest will take a few hours so make sure you take your time to enjoy the views and stop at local merchants to see what memories you can bring back. Overnight at Hotel Fonda Vela or similar. (B)

Day 4

Today you could hire a guide to take a  hike in the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve viewing the misty forest with its dense vegetation and majestic trees, or you can do it on your own. Don't forget your camera and lots memory cards. Ask around to see if anyone has seen the resplendant Quetzal. Overnight at Hotel Fonda Vela or similar. (B)

Day 5

Leave either early in the  morning or early an afternoon back to San Jose or whever else in Costa Rica you may be visiting. (B)