Boasting more than 200 volcanic formations, Costa Rica’s dramatic landscapes and eco attractions lure more than two million tourists every year. In total, the country has six volcanoes that are considered active – Arenal, Rincon de la Vieja, Poas, Turrialba, Irazu and Orosi. If you’ve ever dreamed of peering into the depths of a boiling crater lagoon or watching red lava rocks crash down volcanic slopes, then a visit to these three popular volcanoes is must on your next Costa Rica vacation.
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Visiting Arenal Volcano
Flanked by verdant countryside, Arenal is considered one of the world’s top ten most active volcanoes, though it recently entered a more restful phase. Still, the 7,000 year-old wonder amazes tourists with huge plumes of smoke, loud rumbles and the occasional spurt of red lava rocks. The constant geothermal activity lends itself to numerous volcanic hot springs, which offer a healing respite after a long day of adventure tours in La Fortuna Costa Rica. Arenal Volcano is one of the most visited areas is Costa Rica and offers plenty of things to do and tours while on vacation. Take a hike through Arenal National Park, a 30,000 acre tract of protected cloud forest and rainforest, one can go horseback riding, zip line through tropical rain forest canopy, or simply enjoy the volcano views from one of several hot spring resorts that frame this looming giant.
Visiting Poas Volcano
At an elevation of 8,900 feet, Poas Volcano lies 35 miles from Costa Rica’s capital – San Jose. This is one of the Central Valley’s most famous attractions, and for good reason. Poas has the world’s second largest crater, measuring nearly one mile from end to end. Inside, a boiling lagoon churns with steamy waters that are deep aquamarine blue. There are plenty of family tours and activities that feature paved trails, easy hiking paths and an interactive museum. Poas Volcano National Park is an ideal day trip for tourists of all ages and interests. Try and visit early in the day for the best chances of spectacular crater views.
Visiting Irazu Volcano
Costa Rica’s tallest volcano at 11,260 feet, Irazu peers over Cartago, the Orosi Valley and parts of San Jose. The shining star of this volcano is its 3,445-foot wide main crater which is filled with bright green waters that change color depending on the season. The volcano is thought to have been active for the past 500 years and its last major eruption took place in 1963 – on a day made famous by a visit from President John F. Kennedy. Tourists are able to see both the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans from the peak of Irazu on perfectly sunny days. The park is host to both cloud forest and sub-alpine paramo habitat and owing to its elevation, temperatures frequently dip into the 40’s. Be sure to wear warm clothing and pack a jacket if taking an Eco tour to this awesome natural wonder while on your Costa Rica vacation.
If you are interested in visiting any of these locations, Escape Villas offers several vacation homes for that romantic getaway, large groups, or family vacations. Check us out at www.villascostarica.com or call toll free at 1 888 771-2976 for more information.
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