Poas Volcano is one of the most popular active volcanoes in Costa Rica. The volcano is in the Central Valley of Costa Rica near the capital, San Jose (approximately an hour and a half). The amazingly dense forest park that surrounds the two craters makes it an oasis close to the city! Volcan Poas has one of the largest active craters in the world. The crater lake measures over a mile wide and over 900 feet deep. There are two crater lakes near the summit of Poas. The National Park consists of nearly 15,000 acres that encompass at least four different habitats. This is another testament to Costa Rica’s amazing biodiversity. The bubbling crater lagoon of Costa Rica’s Poás Volcano is one of the country’s most thrilling attractions. The color of the lagoon varies from aquamarine to green. A truly magical place!
Highlights
Poas Volcano One of the best aspects of Poas is its accessibility. The park features a paved road that goes all the way to the crater’s edge. The national park is one of the few in Costa Rica that is almost entirely wheelchair friendly. Therefore, even more tourists are able to adore the beauty of the Poas Volcano. Few volcanoes anywhere in the world allow you to drive right up to the rim. However, Poas allows you to get within 300 ft of the edge. At over 8000 feet above sea level, it offers amazing views of the surrounding countryside and the beautiful crater lakes. The Volcano is a powerful symbol of the geothermal forces that formed Costa Rica.
Hiking trails
Poas Volcano EntranceThe National Park features easy access to beautiful trails, awe-inspiring lookout points and an interactive museum that details the history of Poas Volcano National Park. Scenic hiking paths wind through cloud forest landscapes. There are three main hiking trails, which are ideal for travelers of all ages and abilities. The popular Botos Lake Trail leads to a stunning lagoon in the dormant Botos crater and is an easy half hour trek from the main lookout point. There are trails to each of the three crater lakes which offer uniquely different environments. One of these crater lakes is over 1000 feet deep, making it the largest volcanic lagoon in the world. Poas Volcano tours make for terrific day trips from the San Jose area. Depending on the excursion, it may include visits to other attractions including waterfall parks or even coffee plantations and the lowland rainforest of Sarapiqui. Without a doubt, Poas Volcano earns its reputation as one of Costa Rica’s most spectacular natural attractions.
Biodiversity of Poas National Park
Poas Volcano LagoonThe dwarf or stunted forest is particularly spectacular. It includes Bonsai sized trees and ferns whose growth is thwarted by the acid rain. Furthermore, the crater of the Poas has Geysers which can spew up to 600 feet, making it one of the highest geysers worldwide. Verdant foliage covers most of the park and is primarily made up of cloud forest and humid low mountain forest. The lower slopes of the volcano are covered with coffee plantations and ornamental plant farms. You can see that crater vicinity is mostly barren with windswept shrubs. Hundreds of epiphytes dangle from moss-laden trees, and the park is dotted with tons of poor man’s umbrella plants which are also known for their gigantic leaves.