Right Time, Almost the Wrong Place – Arenal, Costa Rica
During one of my trips to Costa Rica, I headed up to Arenal and the hot springs at Tabacón. What I expected to be a more relaxing time (just hanging in the spa-like waters), turned out to be one of the most adrenaline filled moments I can remember. The day started out quite normal, a little breakfast with the family – gallo pinto and lots of coffee. For our little afternoon trip, we decided to head on over to the Arenal observation area to get a better view of the volcano – only about a 10 – 20 minute trip from the hotel.
Once we arrived at the observation area, we got as close as we could (which was still quite some distance) and I couldn’t believe my ears. I distinctly remember the sound, but words cannot accurately describe what I heard. The best way I can describe it is the sound that a rock makes when it is being split by tremendous pressure or force. Deep, powerful and dark. Did you ever watch Lord of the Rings when they were by the big moutain / volcano thing? It sounded like that looked. That should have been my first clue.
The entire time we were there, you could see gas escaping from the side of Arenal; little wisps of steam rising and disappearing. And all of the sudden, the noises stopped. It was so surreal. Almost like being on a noisy sidewalk and getting into your car and shutting the door. The absence of noise was so sudden, that it was jarring. That should have been my second clue.
My family and I talked for a bit and my mother-in-law made the suggestion that we should be heading back since there was really nothing more to see. I distinctly remember saying, ‘I would like to wait a few minutes more and hear that sound again” since it was so unique. No more than a few seconds later, I watched the top of Arenal spew forth a jet of ash several hundred meters in the air. A few seconds more, BOOOOM!
My jaw dropped. I was paralyzed for a few seconds; completely in shock. I turned to my family and, wouldn’t you know it, I only saw their backs since they were already running for the car. I was the dumb gringo standing, looking, watching. I’ll never forget that moment.
The good news is I am still here. The bad news is that on this particular day I didn’t have my camera with me. I have been back several times since then, and as you can see, I have my camera at the ready each and every time. While not a regular event, minor eruptions do happen in Costa Rica. You never know when adventure will ’strike’; be ready.
I should also say that the days before and after at the hot springs were completely relaxing. Every time someone asks me what to do when they go to Costa Rica, I suggest Arenal. It is a little bit of a trek, but worth it. You never know what you will experience. While I didn’t do the following activities in Arenal, I know you can go ATVing, Zip Lining, and even waterskiing / wake boarding at Lake Arenal.
When you visit Tabacon and wander thru the lush vegetation and enjoy the hot springs and ponds, you are so relaxed. And then you turn a corner and Arenal looms above you! It is awesome!
All of the aspects are unique and memorable. Be sure to enjoy the spa services at the end of the day – a massage right in the middle of the rain forest is unforgettable.