Costa Rica - Monteverde or Arenal?
Jul 12th, 2014, 10:15 AM
#1
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Costa Rica - Monteverde or Arenal?
We're heading to Costa Rica at the beginning of August and were hoping to see both but didn't realize they are 3 hours from one another so it looks like we will need to choose one or the other. Any recommendations on which? And where to stay?
Thanks for any advice!
Thanks for any advice!
Jul 12th, 2014, 06:02 PM
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I think it really depends on what you want to do and see and what kind of climate you like. Monteverde has the cloud forest, quetzals, and is nice for hiking and birding. Arenal has the volcano, lots of adventure activities, rafting, the waterfall, and the natural hot springs like Tabacon and Eco Termales. Arenal is easier to get to and the roads are in better condition. Monteverde has a cooler climate; we wore sweatshirts at night when we were there; there are some good night hikes in that area. My personal preference is the Arenal area; we've been several times and still haven't seen and done it all. What are you looking for in the way of accommodations?
Jul 13th, 2014, 05:16 AM
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This is a great comparison, thank you!
We're looking for higher end boutique, romantic accommodations with views if you have any great reco's in either area.
I had been so into seeing the volcano until it entered into the resting phase, but I know there's so much else to do!
We're looking for higher end boutique, romantic accommodations with views if you have any great reco's in either area.
I had been so into seeing the volcano until it entered into the resting phase, but I know there's so much else to do!
Jul 13th, 2014, 05:33 PM
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Sure, you're welcome - the Arenal area has more options in the way of higher end places; Monteverde tends to be more rustic. You might like Nayara in the Arenal area - it's smaller and very high end. We also like The Springs Resort and Spa - wonderful amenities and gorgeous views plus it's fun having all the hot springs on site and their Club Rio. If you wanted rustic jungle, then the Lost Iguana is fun - it's away from town out by the lake. The volcano is still fun to see even if there's no current lava flow - it really dominates the landscape and makes for some great photos. We stayed at Fonda Vela in Monteverde and liked it - not really romantic but it was very comfortable and had a good restaurant on site. We liked it because it was one of the hotels closest to the Reserve.
Aug 13th, 2014, 12:05 AM
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The arenal is a very beautiful national park you should not miss! Check out these awesome pictures of the volcano:
http://explorecostaricaonyourown.blo...osta-rica.html
http://explorecostaricaonyourown.blo...osta-rica.html
