Chato Volcano 3.52

Chato Volcano, sometimes called "Cerro Chato", is an inactive volcano in north-western Costa Rica north-west of San José, in the province of Alajuela, canton of San Carlos, and district of La Fortuna. It is southeast of the nearby Arenal VolcanoIt is believed Cerro Chato first erupted 38,000 years ago during the Pleistocene period and last erupted about 3,500 years ago. One of the lava flows is now the route for La Fortuna Waterfall. The hill has two peaks, named Chatito and Espina . A crater about wide is filled with green water, making the Laguna Cerro Chato.HikingIt is possible to hike the Cerro Chato up to and inside the crater, but it is considered a difficult hike and only recommended for hikers of good physical condition. There are two possible routes, one beginning from near the La Fortuna Waterfall and one from The Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa on the west slope. It is possible to ascend on one side and descend on the other, but this makes for a longer hike. When it rains, the path becomes muddy and can make it even more treacherous, especially when descending into the crater itself. Due to certain minerals in the water, swimming is not recommended, but many locals swim in it regardless. The water is fairly cool.