Written by:undefined undefined
Published: 29-11-2021
Costa Rica is blessed with some incredible natural wonders. From pristine, picture-perfect beaches to lush, tropical rainforests; from conical volcanoes to thunderous waterfalls, there are a plethora of outstanding landscapes for visitors to explore. One of the main attractions in the country is the Poas Volcano National Park, home to an enormous and active volcano as well as some fascinating geothermal additions. Visitors can enjoy geysers, hot springs, and fumaroles in abundance in the Poas Park, but its central feature of course, is the volcano and its magnificent crater.
Magnificent Crater lake at Poas
What to Do
The volcanoes crater is the largest open volcano in the world, reaching over 1.5 km in diameter and with an abyss that reaches far into the ground. At the heart of the crater are two small lakes formed from rainwater, one of which is geothermally heated from the volcanic activity just below the surface. The view of the crater´s rim is impressive that will stay in your mind for a long, long time.
Poas Volcano crater
While the main attraction is the volcano´s crater, there are a number of other things to do in the area, such as bird spotting some of the fascinating bird species, like the fire throated and tan hermit hummingbirds, the quetzal, and the grey-breasted wood wren. The Park is also the habitat of larger animals such as coyotes, weasels, and armadillos. The Park entrance is restricted and it is necessary to book tickets in advance. You can buy the tickets on-line, where you should choose the date and exact time for your entry.
Magnificent Poas
Hiking
Previously, there was an array of hiking trails through the Poas Volcano National Park, allowing visitors to explore its natural delights on foot. In 2017, many of the trails were closed to visitors due to the danger of exposure to noxious fumes and gases, emitted from the active crater. The only trail that is always open is the short 500-metre path that leads out to a view point on the rim of the crater. Gas levels are monitored daily and depending on the readings, other trails around the park may also be open.
Lively, active Poas Volcano!
Get to the Poas Volcano park about 10 minutes before your scheduled time in order to queue up and be ready to go when the guide calls you. From there, you simply follow the guide along the trail to see this incredible volcano in all of its glory. The trail only takes about 10 minutes to walk its entire length and you will find benches along the way for those who want to stop and take a break or just want to sit and enjoy the surroundings. At peak times, the walkway can get crowded, so bear this in mind when planning your visit. The rangers and guides are excellent at keeping people moving along but considering the location, you can't blame visitors for wanting to stop and appreciate the magnificent setting around them! At the end of the trail, visitors will find a large observation deck that provides mind-blowing views of the massive crater. It is difficult to describe the enormity of the crater; let´s just agree on the fact there are few other places on the planet that offer this type of experience, which includes a free whiff of sulphur hanging in the air. The experience is so unique and special that it is easy to understand why it ranks as one of the top things to do in Costa Rica.
Flora and butterfly of the poas national park
How to Get There
The Poas Volcano National Park is located just 50 km north west of San Jose, making it easy to get to. The route, which takes you north out of the city through Alajuela, is well-marked. From Alajuela, stay on Route 712 and follow the sign posts. While the roads are nicely paved and don't require a four-wheel drive vehicle, though there are a few curves along the way.
If you don't have a vehicle or have hired a car, there's also a public bus that leaves from the station in the centre of Alajuela and goes to the national park entrance. The Alajuela city centre is close to the San Jose International Airport.
Viewing point at Poas
Accessibility
The main trail that leads to the rim of the volcano with the sweeping views of the crater is paved and wheelchair accessible. There is also a visitor's centre with some geological information about the park and how it was created.
Tips for Your Visit
Plan on getting to the park early, possibly even before it opens. This can help you to not only beat the crowds, but also enhance your chances of seeing the crater before the skies cloud over.
If you are in Costa Rica during the peak season (December-April), make sure you to get your tickets to the national park well in advance, as tickets usually sell out early.
There is no drinking water available inside The Poas volcano national park, so bring a bottle or two with you.
Fungi in the Poas park
While it may be warm and comfortable in San Jose, the temperatures can be surprisingly cool at the volcano. Pack an extra layer to help keep you warm. Remember a shower of rain is always a possibility, so bring a raincoat!
Poas Volcano National Park is open all year round. Plan to go early for the previously mentioned reasons and when the sky is generally clear. In the afternoon, clouds surround the crater and can often reduce the amazing views of the volcano.
