Volcanoes of Costa Rica

Arenal
Facts: Arenal is one of the most active volcanoes in the world, rising up 1,633 meters (5,366 ft.). Due to the high level of activity, Arenal grows on average six meters (20 ft.) each year. In the day it looks like a perfect cone sitting on the base of Lake Arenal, but at night you can see the glowing peak spewing forth lava making it one of the most spectacular displays of geothermal power on Earth. At times the earth in the surrounding area shakes and creaks with Arenal’s awesome power.

Attractions: The volcano is the centerpiece of this region, but there are many other attractions, too. A variety of vegetation, forests, and wildlife abounds. Visitors can bathe in the free thermal rivers that cross the area or enjoy the springs at the ultra-luxurious Tabacon Resort. Scenic overlooks and numerous mountain hikes offer breathtaking views of the volcano, but please be careful not to venture too close to Arenal, as there are frequent eruptions. Also, you can hike to Catarata La Fortuna – a 230-ft. waterfall tumbling into a pristine, frigid emerald pool. Additionally, the Venado cave system offers kilometers of underground exploration. Lake Arenal offers good fishing, swimming, boating, kayaking, and the best windsurfing in the world. Nearby, the Arenal Botanical Garden displays the area’s flora. You can also learn the process of harvesting the macadamia nut at a nearby farm. Arenal area has a tourist information center, restrooms, and a wide array of restaurants and lodgings, depending upon your budget.

Rincon de la Vieja
Facts: Often called “The Yellowstone of Costa Rica,” Rincon is an active volcano located in Guanacaste, reaching a height of 1,905 meters (6,250 ft.). The climate is humid, but the humidity fades away with the spectacular vistas. More than 300 species of birds can be seen, including the bobo bird (also known as the “mot-mot”).

Attractions: Rincon de la Vieja encompasses a vast network of environments and volcanic formations. The main crater still belches steam, and the surrounding land has several smaller craters, bubbling mud pots, fumaroles, mud cones, vapor geysers, lakes, and several other points of interest. The vista from the summit and the high hills are incredible. You can see the spacious Guanacaste Plain, the mountains of Nicoya, and at times even Lake Nicaragua. From there you can explore several hot springs, including the hot sulfur spring Los Azufrales, which reaches 108 F for the adventurous health seeker. From there you can investigate a series of four continuous waterfalls, tumbling 230 ft. The park has a camping area and restrooms.

Poas
Facts: Poas lies at a fresh altitude of 2,708 meters (8,884 ft.) and is just a short drive from San Jose. Poas’ active crater is one of the largest on earth, constantly spewing froth steam and worrying geologists by threatening eruption.

Attractions: There are several safe trails snaking through the park, leading to the emerald-colored lagoon, Botos, which is an old crater. You can observe a variety of vegetation in the rain and cloud forests with some 26 species of birds along the way. Horseback riding, hiking, camping, and picnicking are also available. In the surrounding areas you can observe the country lifestyle of the local farmers. Poas has a new visitors’ center complete with museum, parking area, picnic area, and a small café. Poas makes a popular outing from San Jose.

Irazu
Facts: Irazu Volcano is the tallest active volcano in Costa Rica, standing at a frigid 3,432 meters above sea level (11,259 ft.). There are five craters to observe in this desolate moonscape, with the main crater measuring more than 3,450 across and over 1,000 ft. deep.

Attractions: Irazu offers several types of craters, some containing small lakes. The park also protects 2,309 hectares of cloud and rain forest. There are several paths to explore leading to the craters and a majestic waterfall. From the highest point in the park, on a clear day, you can see both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea at the same time. Within the park is a scenic overlook, parking, bathrooms, an information office, and a small kiosk selling snacks near a picnic area. Bring warm clothes.