10 Things to Do in Poas Volcano National Park, Santa Cruz Costa Rica
Poas Volcano National Park in Santa Cruz Costa Rica is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. Located just an hour’s drive from the capital city of San Jose, the park is home to two majestic volcanoes, Poas and Barva, as well as a wide variety of flora and fauna. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day in nature or an exciting adventure, Poas Volcano National Park has something for everyone. Here are 10 things to do in Poas Volcano National Park.
1. Take in the View from the Crater: Poas Volcano is one of the most active volcanoes in Costa Rica, and it’s also one of the most accessible. Take a short hike up to the crater and marvel at the spectacular view of the bubbling crater lake and the surrounding landscape.
2. Explore the Trails: Poas Volcano National Park offers a variety of trails for all levels of hikers. Explore the rainforest trails and take in the sights and sounds of the jungle. You might even spot some of the park’s wildlife, such as sloths, toucans, and coatis.
3. Visit the Waterfalls: Poas Volcano National Park is home to several beautiful waterfalls, including La Paz Waterfall and La Paz Waterfall National Park. Take a refreshing dip in the cool waters or simply admire the cascading water from the observation deck.
4. Visit the Visitors Center: Before you start exploring, be sure to visit the Visitors Center and get acquainted with the park’s history, geology, and wildlife. The center also has a gift shop and café.
5. Go Birdwatching: Poas Volcano National Park is home to over 200 species of birds, including toucans, hummingbirds, and parrots. Bring your binoculars and look for some of the rarer species.
6. Take a Guided Tour: If you’d rather have a guide show you around, there are several tour companies in the area that offer guided tours of Poas Volcano National Park.
7. Take a Nature Walk: Poas Volcano National Park is a great place to take a leisurely nature walk. Explore the park’s trails and take in the sights and sounds of the rainforest.
8. Visit the Butterfly Garden: The Butterfly Garden at Poas Volcano National Park is home to over 20 species of butterflies, including the Blue Morpho and the Giant Swallowtail.
9. Go Fishing: Poas Volcano National Park is home to several lakes and rivers, making it a great place to go fishing. Bring your own gear or rent some from one of the local tour companies.
10. Take a Night Tour: For a truly unique experience, take a night tour of Poas Volcano National Park. Look for nocturnal animals such as owls and bats, and admire the stars in the night sky.
No matter what you choose to do when you visit Poas Volcano National Park, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience. From the stunning views of the crater to the abundant wildlife, Poas Volcano National Park is a must-see destination in Costa Rica.