Top 5 Lakes in Venado
Best lakes in Venado are often found within a landscape shaped by volcanic activity, featuring several crater lakes. This region is characterized by its natural monuments and diverse aquatic environments. Visitors can explore lakes formed by volcanic eruptions, offering unique geological insights. The area provides opportunities for various outdoor activities, from challenging hikes to scenic viewpoints.
Best lakes in Venado
- The most popular lakes is Cerro Chato Crater Lake, a lake that requires hikers to bring enough water due…
Last updated: July 19, 2026
Swimming Spot at the Crater Lake (Parque Nacional Volcán Arenal)
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Cerro Chato Crater Lake
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Green Lake
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Los Patos Lake
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Arenal Lake Viewpoint
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Popular around Venado
Tips from the Community
It's included in the Arsenal National Park entrance fee and is far less visited. You can see quite a bit of wildlife. The approach via the unpaved road from Arsenal should definitely be avoided with a 2WD, and in my opinion, with a 4WD.
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This green lake contrasts with the rest of the park because it is surrounded by slightly less dense vegetation and a little higher up there are meadows with humped cows.
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We had to pay the 12 USD per person at the waterfall lodge and didn't even get to the crater lake. We were intercepted beforehand by the rangers who sent us back. They told us again that it was illegal for the lodge to charge entry into this area, that the trail was not their property. Call the tourist police. The lodge is getting richer and it is also a thorn in the side of the rangers and the tourist police.
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Lago Los Patos (Duck Lake) was formed during the eruptions of the volcano.
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Closed for the time being due to many poisonous snakes on the way.
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Bring enough water to the hike taking into account the way back, as the path can be exhausting and it takes longer than 1.5-2 hours (which is what the locals told us).
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It is not possible to get there anymore. Halfway through, there was a sign that said „do not enter“ and we had to find a way back down.
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Interesting view of the lake. The volcano is not visible from here.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of lakes can I expect to find in Venado?
Venado is known for its unique geological landscape, featuring several crater lakes and lakes formed by volcanic activity. These natural monuments offer diverse aquatic environments to explore.
Are there any challenging hikes to reach the lakes in Venado?
Yes, some lakes, like the Cerro Chato Crater Lake and the Lagoon of Chato Volcano, involve challenging paths. For Cerro Chato, hikers are advised to bring enough water as the path can be exhausting and take longer than expected. The way up to the Lagoon of Chato Volcano is also very demanding, requiring sturdy footwear.
Can I swim in the lakes of Venado?
There are opportunities for bathing, such as at the Lagoon of Chato Volcano. However, for the Swimming Spot at the Crater Lake (Parque Nacional Volcán Arenal), access has become problematic, with rangers intercepting visitors and stating that charging entry for this area is illegal.
What should I know about visiting Cerro Chato Crater Lake?
The Cerro Chato Crater Lake is currently closed due to the presence of many poisonous snakes on the way. If it reopens, be prepared for an exhausting hike and bring plenty of water.
Are there any lakes with unique colors or features?
Yes, Green Lake is notable for its distinct green color, which contrasts with the surrounding park. It's also situated near meadows where cows graze.
What kind of views can I expect from the lakes in Venado?
Lakes like Green Lake and Los Patos Lake offer interesting viewpoints. While Los Patos Lake provides a unique perspective of the lake itself, the volcano is not visible from this specific location.
What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes in Venado?
The region around Venado's lakes offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous MTB trails, cycling routes, and running trails, ranging from easy to difficult, allowing you to explore the volcanic landscapes and scenic viewpoints.
Are there any specific running trails near the lakes?
Yes, you can find several running trails, such as the 'Mirador Volcán loop from Informacion de Parque Nacional Volcan Arenal' or the 'Arenal Volcano loop from Volcano Lodge'. These are part of the broader running trails in Venado.
What should I wear when hiking around the lakes?
Given the challenging and often muddy/slippery conditions, especially with clouds and light rain, sturdy footwear is essential for many trails, particularly those leading to crater lakes.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes in Venado?
Visitors appreciate the unique volcanic landscapes and the diverse natural monuments. The komoot community has shared many photos and upvoted various highlights, indicating a strong appreciation for the region's natural beauty and the opportunities for challenging outdoor exploration.
Are there any cycling routes that offer views of the lakes?
Yes, there are several cycling routes in the area, including those that offer views of Lake Arenal, such as the 'View of Lake Arenal loop from La Roca Bistró Arenal' or 'View of Lake Arenal loop from Volcano Lodge'. You can find more options in the cycling guide for Venado.
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