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Visiting the Volcanoes of Costa Rica

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Posted by Your Guide on May 10, 2006 4:58 PM

Costa Rica has a backbone of mountains that divide the country. Within these mountain ranges are several volcanoes that are both active and dormant. Because Costa Rica is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, there are volcanoes that are actually spewing magma currently which can make for breathtaking views. There are two National Parks that are the most popular sites for tourists who wish to explore these magnificent volcanoes: Arenal National Park and Poas Volcano These locations are popular because the surrounding areas provide a variety of activities in addition to hiking trails around the volcanoes themselves. If you have 3 to 4 days in the country, you should be able to see both areas.

The Arenal Volcano region is about a 3.5-hour drive from San Jose and could be one of the most beautiful places you will ever see. To do and see all that the area has to offer, you will need 2-3 days. It is also a good idea to spend some time here if you are particularly interested in seeing lava spit from the volcano, as some days the cloud cover is too dense to see the peak at all. Spending extra time here maximizes your chance to see the magma on a clear day.

Arenal has been constantly erupting since 1968 and is the country’s most notable volcano. Plan to take a tour of the volcano in the evening so that the brightly-colored magma pops against the background of the dark sky.

Inside the volcano the Tabacon River forms and flows through the base of the volcano to the Tabacon Springs, forming a natural hot spring. When the river splits as it meets with cooler waters from several other rivers, the result is the formation of several small pools that vary in shape, size and temperature. This natural wonder is known as the Tabacon Hot Springs and draws visitors from around the world. The waters throughout the park are therapeutic and a great way to relax. The center of the hot springs has a wonderful waterfall that guests can sit under and relax. The main pool offers a swim-up bar while the smaller pools also offer some type of lounge, smaller waterfalls and cozy hidden tubs. But didn’t you come to see a volcano? Don’t worry – the Tabacon Hot Springs offer amazing views of the erupting Arenal volcano. There aren’t many places in the world where you can sit in a warm pool, drink a frozen drink and watch an active volcano all at the same time!

In addition to the hot springs, the Arenal area also offers hiking trails all around the volcano, but because of the dangers of the flowing magma, hiking on the volcano is not permitted. The hiking trails will take you through lush rainforests and to a 20-foot high wall of lava that is totally void of vegetation. At the top is a moonscape that gives spectacular views of the volcano on one side and Lake Arenal on the other. Also in the area are canopy tours that take visitors through the treetops of the surrounding rainforests. These tours put you eye-to-eye with the animals and plant species that are indigenous to the region and can be very informative and exciting. Zip lines in the tops of trees maneuver tourists from platform to platform on these tours, and they are becoming one of the most popular tourist attractions in all of Costa Rica.

Besides the volcano and rainforests, Lake Arenal is also a popular spot for sightseeing and activities. The lake offers great fishing and boating as well as horseback riding and is in close proximity to the Venado Caves.

If you wish to visit a volcano where you can get closer to the crater, Poas may be the area you wish to see. This volcano is located only an hour from San Jose. Like Arenal, the surrounding area has many activities in addition to the spectacular sights the volcano has to offer. There are hiking trails that are mapped out for you at the Welcome Center, the world’s largest butterfly observatory and the La Paz River that is home to five magnificent waterfalls. After you work up an appetite, there is a restaurant located in the town of La Paz which is about 30 minutes from the gardens on the slope of the mountain.



Next Page: Visiting the Rainforests of Costa Rica

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