Arenal Volcano

volcano, Costa Rica

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June 18, 2026

Quick Summary

The Arenal Volcano is an active volcano located in northwestern Costa Rica. It is part of the Cordillera de Guanacaste range and is a stratovolcano, characterized by steep, cone-shaped slopes built by both lava flows and pyroclastic eruptions.12

In 1968, Arenal Volcano erupted, covering the surrounding area with hot ash, destroying villages, and causing significant damage to livestock. While still active, it is considered less threatening today. Arenal Volcano National Park offers visitors the chance to observe lava flows and falling rocks.1

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Cordillera de Guanacaste
The Arenal Volcano erupted in 1968, covering the area with hot ash, destroying pasture, wiping out two villages, and forcing the slaughter of about 100,000 head of cattle. The volcano is still active but less threatening. A visitor’s centre in Arenal Volcano National Park offers the…
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The Arenal Volcano erupted in 1968, covering the area with hot ash, destroying pasture, wiping out two villages, and forcing the slaughter of about 100,000 head of cattle. The volcano is still active but less threatening. A visitor’s centre in Arenal Volcano National Park offers the…
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Costa Rica
Relief
Arenal Volcano (5,358 feet [1,633 metres]), about 56 miles (90 km) northwest of San José, is the country’s youngest stratovolcano. Its last major eruption, in 1968, destroyed two villages, and the volcano continued to spew lava and breccia into the early 21st century.
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Arenal Volcano (5,358 feet [1,633 metres]), about 56 miles (90 km) northwest of San José, is the country’s youngest stratovolcano. Its last major eruption, in 1968, destroyed two villages, and the volcano continued to spew lava and breccia into the early 21st century.
Read More