10 Things to Do in Poás Volcano National Park, San Jose Costa Rica
Poás Volcano National Park is one of Costa Rica's most popular tourist destinations, and for good reason. It's home to the second-largest active volcano in the world, with its 8,885-foot summit offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The park is also filled with lush green rainforest, an abundance of wildlife, and a variety of unique activities to explore. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day of sightseeing or an adventurous trek through the jungle, Poás Volcano National Park has something for everyone. Here are 10 of the best things to do in Poás Volcano National Park.
1. Take a Hike
Poás Volcano National Park offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, from easy trails to more challenging routes. The most popular trails include the Sendero Los Tres Volcanes, the Sendero Las Heliconias, and the Sendero Los Lagos. All of these trails offer spectacular views of the volcano, the surrounding rainforest, and the nearby crater lakes.
2. Visit the Crater Lakes
The park is home to two crater lakes, Laguna Caliente and Laguna Botos. Laguna Caliente is the larger of the two, located in the crater of the volcano. The lake is a popular spot for bird watching, as it's home to several species of waterfowl. Laguna Botos is a smaller lake, located in the crater of the nearby Cerro Chato volcano. Both lakes are filled with beautiful turquoise waters and are a must-see for anyone visiting the park.
3. Go Wildlife Watching
Poás Volcano National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including howler monkeys, white-faced capuchins, and coatimundis. The park also has a large variety of birds, including the resplendent quetzal, the great green macaw, and the three-wattled bellbird. Keep your eyes open and you may even spot a sloth!
4. Take a Boat Tour
If you're looking for a more relaxed way to explore the park, consider taking a boat tour. You can take a guided tour of the crater lakes, or rent a boat and explore the area on your own. This is a great way to get up close and personal with the wildlife without disturbing it.
5. Visit the Butterfly Garden
The Poás Volcano National Park is home to a variety of butterfly species, including the blue morpho, the great purple hairstreak, and the Costa Rican swallowtail. There is a butterfly garden located in the park, where you can observe these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat.
6. Explore the Waterfalls
The park is also home to several beautiful waterfalls, including the Catarata La Paz and the Catarata Los Chorros. Both of these waterfalls offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape, as well as a refreshing dip in the pool at the base of the falls.
7. Take a Night Tour
If you're looking for a unique experience, consider taking a night tour of the park. You'll have the opportunity to observe nocturnal wildlife, such as owls, bats, and kinkajous, as well as search for the elusive resplendent quetzal.
8. Visit the Poás Volcano Observatory
The Poás Volcano Observatory is located at the summit of the volcano and offers spectacular views of the crater and the surrounding landscape. The observatory also has a museum and visitor center, where you can learn more about the park and its history.
9. Go Horseback Riding
Horseback riding is a great way to explore the park and its surrounding areas. There are several horseback riding tours available, ranging from short rides to full-day excursions.
10. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride
For a truly unique experience, consider taking a hot air balloon ride over the park. You'll get a bird's eye view of the volcano, the crater lakes, and the surrounding landscape. It's an experience you won't soon forget!
No matter what you choose to do in Poás Volcano National Park, you're sure to have an unforgettable experience. From exploring the crater lakes to taking a hot air balloon ride, there's something for everyone in this beautiful park. So grab your camera and get ready to explore!