Plains of the North

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The North Zone is in Costa Rica.

The North Zone is known for Arenal Volcano, but it has other gems that are not-so-hidden such as Lake Arenal and the Los Angeles Cloud Forest.

Arenal is the world's 3rd most active volcano and can be heard rumbling several times an hour. The lava flow changes frequently, but even without seeing the lava the mountain is impressive in size and shape.

The Los Angeles Cloud Forest is not as visited as the Cloud Forests in Monteverde, but the wildlife is abundant and the locals are extremely friendly.

[edit] Cities

• Fortuna (La Fortuna de San Carlos) - the town that sits at the foot of Arenal Volcano. La Fortuna is quaint and has a great local flavor complete with great restaurants and tons of tour companies offering Volcano tours, zip lines and Lake Arenal crossings.

• San Ramon - located just about 45 minutes north of San Jose by car. The town itself is a decent size where you can stop at the local sodas or market, but don't expect much in the way of tourism. It is mostly a stop on the way to Arenal or to the Los Angeles Cloud Forest.

• Tilarán

[edit] Understand

San Ramon is a moderately sized town that really only has one tourist attraction, the local church or cathedral. The church is large and in a state of repair but it is next to the town's central park which follows Japanese influence in its design.

[edit] Talk

To the locals. Find a good soda to frequent and meet the local Ticos or Ticas to better enjoy the region.

[edit] Get in

The best way to get to the North Zone is by car. There are also local buses that travel from Manuel Antonio and San Jose, but the car offers the most flexibility to stop and experience the local culture on your trip to the North.

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[edit] Get out