Near a continually active volcano is the small town of La Fortuna. This was the first stop after departing San Jose. La Fortuna as a town mainly serves the purpose of being a base for the tourist activity in the area. The main attraction is the volcano - La Vulcan Arenal. While in town the volcano will occasionally rumble, quake the ground and belch fumes. It can be a little unnerving at first, but it wound up being one of the things I remember most from that place.

From this place numerous tours of Arenal Volcano depart. You can also find rafting, caving and horse tours. We took a foot tour through the rain forest that ended at an overlook with a good view of the volcano. Unfortunately the top of the volcano was shrouded in clouds entire time we were in the area. However, we did happen to spy lava flows rolling down the side of the volcano beneath the cloud deck.

Heading out from San Jose		First signs of wildlife
Trailside near Arenal Volcano		Arenal Volcano, semi obscured by clouds
Trails end, days end		Old lava flow
Exploring the volcano on horseback		Rio Fortuna Waterfall and a ROUS