Cerro Chato Volcano Hike

Over the few rainy days, I got to know the people in the tiny town, and relished the fog lifting to show off the view of Lake Arenal and the Arenal volcano, which last erupted in 2010 and is illegal to climb.

Arenal Volcano

Instead, I chose to hike Cerro Chato volcano (3740 ft, which last erupted 38,000 years ago). It’s said to be about a 4 hour round trip walk. Though less hiking time, that was about right with all my picture taking! The hike starts out on the lovely grounds of the Arenal Observatory Lodge. White-nosed coati, or pizote as they are called in Spanish, roam freely. More on them as they are frequently seen.

Pizote in Spanish or White-nosed coati in English

I was lucky enough to spot the less frequently seen anteater. He greeted me with open arms;-)

Anteater or Oso Hormiguero

The Cerro Chato trail is more like a narrow path sometimes a foot deep and wide enough only for one foot. I was glad the rains of the past couple days had ceased, or this would be slippery!

Deeply rutted Cerro Chato Volcano Trail

Caterpillar not to be messed with

It was definitely steep and a good workout in the humidity. When I got to the top, the view of the crater lake was socked in, so I hiked down the muddy trail to take a swim in it! When I came back up, the fog had lifted enough to reveal the beauty of the laguna.

Happy post swim in the Cerro Chato crater lake. Thanks to David, Maria for the photo

Espejito or Glasswinged Butterfly

Cerro Chato Hike

I descended with David and Maria who were on their honeymoon. We shared the steep descent, waterfall side tour, howler monkey show and baby coatis on the run. They so kindly offered to give me a ride back to  where I was staying since the bus wouldn’t be coming for a while and it would be making a long detour first.

Happy Honeymoon Hikers David and Maria giving perspective to the rutted trail

Again, today I was grateful for the kindness of fellow travelers. A family of four gave me a ride from the hotel to the trailhead in the morning, which allowed me to leave an hour earlier. I was amazed and happy to see them at the top of the volcano with their young kids about ages 4 and 6. And David and Maria told me they got a good view of the Arenal volcano after they dropped me off, so it was a great day for all!