The last eruptions of Cerro Chato volcano, at the SE end of the Arenal volcanic complex, took place about 3500 years ago. Phreatomagmatic explosions produced a crater at the summit of the volcano that is now filled by a lake. This 1983 aerial view from the east shows the densely forested summit of Cerro Chato, with the higher western rim rising above the crater lake.

Copyrighted photo by Katia and Maurice Krafft, 1983.

Copyrighted image used with permission. All Rights Reserved. Contact photographer for any usage requests.

Arenal