Shaped by the Pacific Ring of Fire
Born from crashing landmasses and a chain of underwater volcanoes, Costa Rica is still being shaped by the powerful forces beneath its surface. It sits along the Pacific Ring of Fire, where millions of years of activity have enriched the land, springing forth geothermal hot springs and steaming mud baths, and leaving behind dramatic volcano peaks – some active, others dormant. Six main volcanoes invite you to experience that diversity, whether you’re hiking through a cloud forest, soaking in naturally heated waters or standing before a crater carved by the earth.
Arenal Volcano
Near the town of La Fortuna, about 75 miles northwest of San José, a stunningly symmetrical cone rises over 5,300 feet above the rainforest. At about 7,500 years old, it's one of the youngest volcanoes in the region – once bursting with fire and steam for 42 years until it lay quiet in 2010. Hike across landscapes shaped by old lava flows in Arenal Volcano National Park, fly through the forest on a zip-line or by aerial tram, or walk over the wildlife-filled canopy on nearby hanging bridges; Lake Arenal at the base of the volcano is wide open for paddling, and the area’s geothermal hot springs are a perfect place to soak after an adventurous day.
Planning
Arenal Volcano National Park is open daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Entrance fees (not including VAT): Local adult resident ₡1,000; local child and resident ₡500; nonresident adult: US$15; nonresident child US$5. The best months to visit Arenal Volcano National Park for the driest weather are January through April; however, September and October are also appealing months with fewer crowds and mild weather. Check current hours, fees and reservation requirements.
Safety
There is a limit to how many visitors can be at the crater at any given time and a strict 20-minute time maximum. Pay attention to closures, including Botos Lagoon and certain paths. All visitors must wear safety helmets on the main trail to the crater overlook and the Sombrilla de Pobre trail. Those with breathing conditions may be affected by the gases emitted from the volcano, and visitors must stay within designated paths to avoid ejected material.
Irazú Volcano National Park
Standing over 11,000 feet tall, the tallest volcano in Costa Rica, Irazú Volcano is constantly exhaling, shifting and making its presence known. Its height means it often stands above the clouds, and on exceptionally clear days, the view from its top can stretch toward both the Pacific and Atlantic oceans, while five distinct craters reveal the mountain's volcanic past. Paths wind between craters, including its prime attraction, Cráter Principal, whose natural pool shifts between blue and green tones depending on the conditions. Irazú Volcano National Park is less than 20 miles northeast of Cartago and less than 35 miles east of San José.
Planning
The park is open daily from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Entrance fee: local adult ₡1000; local child ₡500; nonresident adult US$15; nonresident child US$5. Because of the volcano's elevation, visiting in the early morning and during the dry season between December and April is recommended. Check current hours, fees and reservation requirements.
Safety
This is an active volcano with the risk of explosions, debris and landslides. The park is closely monitored by rangers. Always pay attention to directions, stay on designated paths and obey signs.
Rincón de la Vieja National Park
About 14 miles from Liberia in the Guanacaste Province, this incredibly diverse region draws in outdoor enthusiasts from all over the world. Across the 34,000-acre terrain, geothermal activity is everywhere – boiling mud springs, steam vents and fumaroles. The terrain changes from dry forest to cloud forest to volcanic action, and climbers can tackle multiple trails in two sections, Las Pailas and Santa María. While conditions are clearest during the dry season between December and April, the waterfalls are most abundant during the green season between January and March.
Planning
Las Pailas is open Tuesday–Sunday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Santa María is open Thursday–Monday, 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Entrance fee: Local adult ₡1,000; local child ₡500; nonresident adult US$15; nonresident child US$5. Reservations must be made in advance. Check current hours, fees and reservation requirements.
Safety
This is one of Costa Rica's most active volcanoes. Access to the crater area may be restricted depending on volcanic conditions. Always follow park signage and ranger instructions.
Tenorio Volcano National Park
In a Guanacaste volcanic mountain range – just a day trip away from La Fortuna – Tenorio Volcano is more famous for its natural surroundings than the inactive volcano itself. The brilliantly turquoise Río Celeste is the star, plunging over a rocky cliff before winding past steaming volcanic features and El Teñidero, where the river's remarkable color emerges. The trail continues through dense forest to Laguna Azul. Tenorio Volcano National Park transforms between different terrains, from rich lowland rainforests to cloud forests, and is home to a variety of birdlife and wildlife.
Planning
The park is open daily from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Entrance fee: Locals ₡800; nonresidents US$12. Reservations are required in advance. Check current hours, fees and reservation requirements.
Safety
Although visitors come primarily for the forest and Río Celeste rather than the summit, Tenorio is a volcanic landscape with active geothermal features. Trails can be muddy and slick, so wear sturdy shoes and remain on designated paths. Swimming is prohibited in the park (though a free-swimming spot is located just outside the park entrance).
Turrialba Volcano National Park
About 15 miles from the city of Turrialba, the volcano here is the second highest in the country, standing nearly 11,000 feet above sea level. This area is only accessible by a vehicle or an extreme hike, and the trails here are rustic. If you're up for the challenge, you'll be rewarded with astonishing views of the central highlands and its sculpted volcanic landscape mixed with pockets of rainforest. A hugely diverse wildlife population includes howler monkeys and white-faced capuchins moving through the tree canopy, along with other favorite birdlife like resplendent quetzals and toucans.
Planning
This is the least accessible of the major volcanoes in Costa Rica. It is open from 5 a.m. to 10 a.m. during the dry season, and 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. during the green season. Entry fees: local adults ₡1000; nonresident adults US$12. Guided tours are required to explore the park and must be booked in advance. Check current hours, fees and reservation requirements.
Safety
This park may be closed due to landslides and other hazardous conditions. Hiking to the summit is prohibited. Go with a guide and stick to the trails.
Poás Volcano National Park
In the central highlands, reached from Alajuela by way of Poasito, Poás Volcano rises to 2,708 meters (about 8,885 feet) above sea level. A viewpoint on the rim looks into a main crater roughly 1.5 kilometers across, where steam rises over a pale crater floor and a turquoise lake. Cloud forest trails lead through the park, including the way to Botos Lagoon, a cold, rain-fed lake that drains toward the Caribbean.
Planning
The park opens at 8 a.m. Tickets must be reserved in advance through the SINAC reservation system, daily visitor capacity is limited, and weekends and holidays fill first. Check current hours, fees and reservation requirements.
Safety
Poás is an active volcano. Only a small group may be at the crater viewpoint at one time, for no more than 20 minutes. Helmets are required on the main trail to the crater overlook and on the Sombrilla de Pobre trail. Access can be restricted or closed at short notice depending on volcanic activity, so follow ranger instructions and stay on designated paths.
More to Explore
National parks
It’s an honor to be able to protect natural wonders as beautiful as ours. Majestic volcanoes, tranquil beaches, tropical forests, exhilarating jungles and incredible marine habitats are yours to explore.
Hiking
The advantage of being in a country that protects 26% of its land, and holds 5% of the world's biodiversity, is the endless scenery you can admire while on a hike.
Zip lines, cable cars and walkways
For those who enjoy adrenaline-pumping experiences, ziplining, sky tram tours, and high hanging bridges offer intense experiences with views to match.
Wellness and hot springs
Costa Rica’s commitment to holistic well-being is clear. Preserving nature is a core value, and those serene spaces create the ideal backdrops for yoga retreats, hot springs spas and other wellness vacations.
Birdwatching
Costa Rica has long been famous among serious bird watchers and many people who never before had an interest change their mind when they encounter the country's spectacular avian diversity.
Sustainable tourism
Costa Rica is a global leader in environmental protection, decarbonization, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable tourism.
Northern Plains
Arenal Volcano, lakes, lagoons, rivers and waterfalls define this region, where nature lovers find adventure sites and the rich biodiversity of the Sarapiqui canton.
Build Your Volcano Itinerary
Combine craters, hot springs and rainforest with beaches, wildlife and culture.