Poas Volcano National Park Guide
Witness the Majesty: Poas Volcano National Park Guide
Poas Volcano National Park is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Costa Rica. Home to one of the largest active craters in the world, the park offers breathtaking views of the volcanic landscape and surrounding cloud forest. The park is easily accessible from San José, making it a popular day trip for tourists seeking a glimpse into Costa Rica's volcanic heart. Be prepared for cooler temperatures and potential cloud cover, as the park is located at a high altitude. Poas Volcano has a rich history of eruptions and geological activity. The volcano has been active for centuries, with recorded eruptions dating back to the 19th century. The most recent major eruption occurred in 2017, which led to the park's temporary closure. The park has since reopened with enhanced safety measures, including limited viewing times and protective shelters. The volcanic activity has shaped the surrounding landscape, creating a unique and diverse ecosystem. Visitors to Poas Volcano National Park can enjoy a variety of activities. The main attraction is, of course, the crater viewpoint, where you can marvel at the immense size and steaming fumaroles of the volcano. There are also several hiking trails that wind through the cloud forest, offering opportunities to spot local wildlife, including birds, monkeys, and sloths. The park also features a visitor center with exhibits about the volcano's history and geology. Due to recent volcanic activity, viewing times at the crater are limited to ensure visitor safety.
Transportation
The most common way to reach Poas Volcano National Park is by car. From San José, take Highway 1 towards Alajuela, then follow signs to Poas Volcano. The drive takes approximately 1.5-2 hours. Alternatively, you can take a public bus from San José to Alajuela, then transfer to a bus that goes to Poas Volcano. The bus from Alajuela to Poas Volcano leaves from the bus station near the central market. Be sure to check the bus schedule in advance, as they may be infrequent.
Opening Hours
8:00 AM - 3:30 PM (Limited viewing times at the crater)
Ticket Price
$15 per person (Foreign Residents)