The Arenal Volcano (Spanish: Volcán Arenal) is an active andesitic stratovolcano in north-western Costa Rica (10.5N, 84.7E), about 90 km north-west of San José, in the province of Alajuela. Once locally known as Mount Arenal (Cerro Arenal), Arenal was presumed extinct until July 29, 1968 when it erupted after approximately 400 years of dormancy. It has been in continuous eruption since then.

Arenal rises 1657 metres above sea level and overlooks Lake Arenal; both are part of Arenal National Park. The country's most active volcano, Arenal's eruptions are strombolian in type, being frequent but moderate. This constant activity makes Arenal a popular tourist destination, especially at night (See image). The last major eruption of Arenal occurred on August 23, 2000.

Volcán Arenal is one of seven historically active Costa Rican volcanoes: Poás, Irazú, Miravalles, Orosi, Rincon de la Vieja [complex], and Turrialba.

References (external links)

• Overview of Arenal, Costa Rica (http://www.arenal.net/arenal-volcano-overview.htm)
• Volcanoes.ca: Arenal (http://volcanoes.ca/Arenal.html)
• Arenal, Costa Rica - descriptions and pictures of volcanic activity (http://volcano.und.nodak.edu/vwdocs/volc_images/north_america/costa_rica/new_arenal.html)