Volcanoes of Costa Rica
These are some of the most popular volcanoes in Costa Rica.
Poás, one of Costa Rica’s Volcanoes
It is one of the most popular volcanoes in Costa Rica because it is less than two hours from the capital, San Jose. It is also one of the most active and largest in the rest of the world. Its lagoon changes from aquamarine to green, giving a beautiful view. Poas Volcano has a 15,000 acre forest park, easy access trails, lookout points and an interactive museum that educates about the history of the volcano.
The Irazu
The name “Irazú” is derived from the indigenous language, meaning “thunder” or “place that shakes”. However, it is also known as “the Colossus” for its 23 volcanic eruptions since 1723. Today, it is considered stable and is a very popular tourist destination among foreigners and nationals. In this area, strawberries are grown and other agricultural activities and dairy products are produced. The volcano has several craters, among them, the Diego de la Hoya, green water crater lake. It also has places to get food and hot drinks and picnic areas.
Volcanoes of Costa Rica : Arenal
The iconic Arenal Volcano is located in La Fortuna, northwestern Costa Rica. It erupted in 1968 and has been active ever since. It is about 1,600 meters high and 7,000 years old. Being 90 km from San José, the Arenal Volcano is one of the most visited national parks in Costa Rica. Indeed, not only is its view breathtaking, but the hot magma underneath the volcano produces several hot springs sites where spa treatments and other activities take place. In addition, there is Lake Arenal, which accompanies such splendid scenery.
The Turrialba Volcano
This volcano is also not far from San Jose. To get there, you have to travel through the old city of Cartago and the sugar plantations of Juan Viñas, a unique and relaxing tour. The Turrialba volcano connects you with the local people and their mountains, besides being the home of the Guayabo National Monument, an important archaeological site in Costa Rica. On top of that, the Turrialbas volcano is known as the rafting capital of Costa Rica as it is surrounded by the Pacuare River, one of the best rivers in the world, the Reventazón River and the Pejibaye River.
Rincón de la Vieja Volcano
The Rincón de la Vieja volcano is located north of Guanacaste and is the largest volcano in the northwest of the country. It is 1895 meters high and has several craters surrounding it. To reach the summit, there are several trails around the park that can be done on foot or on horseback. In addition to the volcano itself, Rincon de la Vieja National Park offers many experiences and activities. This park brings together the Rincon de la Vieja and Santa Maria volcanoes, where you can see wildlife, camp, ride horses, visit fumaroles, mud pools, waterfalls and hot springs. Monica Gallardo for Sensorial Sunsets
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