Mirador de Volcán Arenal

Tip

Clouds often build up after midday, so views are usually clearer early.

Be careful

If it is on a roadside, park fully off the road and watch for traffic.

Places nearby

• Arenal Observatory Lodge & TrailsDay Passes & Hot Springs · takes 3 h–4 h · from $10The only lodge inside Arenal Volcano National Park, with a 350-hectare private reserve that day visitors can explore on 11 km of jungle trails.
• Restaurante El Patio al CarbónFood & CoffeeCharcoal-grill restaurant in El Castillo, busy with locals' cars out front and the smell of grilled meat in the air.
• Restaurante La Mesa de MamáFood & CoffeeFriendly family kitchen in the village of El Castillo serving homemade Costa Rican food from breakfast to dinner.
• La Ventanita (El Castillo)Food & CoffeeMotorcycle-themed restaurant in El Castillo with 80s music, big burritos, chalupas and tico bowls, and views over Lake Arenal and the volcano; a go-to after the butterfly garden or a hike.
• Butterfly Conservatory El CastilloParks & WildlifeSmall butterfly and frog garden in the village of El Castillo, 800 m up the cement road, with a life-cycle demonstration, an insect museum and a short guided tour; open every day of the year.
• Sky Adventures ArenalTours & Adventure · from $46Family-run park at El Castillo on Lake Arenal with ziplines, hanging bridges and an aerial tram overlooking the volcano.