5 Must-Visit Costa Rica Volcanoes

Costa Rica is home to some of the most active volcanoes in the world. So if you’re looking for an exhilarating way to spend your vacation, consider visiting one (or all!) of these five must-visit Costa Rican volcanoes.

From the bustling city of San Jose to the laid-back beach town of Puerto Viejo, there’s something for everyone. So do not miss time to start planning your trip today!

Irazu Volcano

Nestled in the majestic Central Mountain Range, Irazu Volcano National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone on Costa Rica’s Caribbean Coast. Ira u Volcano, spanning over 11,000 acres, this protected park is home to the dormant volcano Irazú, towering nearly 12,500 feet above sea level and one of the country’s highest peaks.

While Irazu remains inactive today, it holds great historical significance as the epicenter of an eruption in 1994. Inside its boundaries, you will find several diverse ecosystems, including expansive grasslands, cloud forests filled with abundant flora and fauna, and beautiful birds such as orange-bellied trogons and ornate hawk eagles. So no matter your interests, a visit to this unique national park won’t disappoint!

Arenal Volcano

Arenal Volcano National Park is one of the most popular natural attractions in Costa Rica, located in the Alajuela province near La Fortuna.

An active volcano with a distinctive conical shape, Arenal stands surrounded by lush tropical forests that are home to over 500 species of animals and plants. Aside from its spectacular views, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and wildlife spotting.

Just 65 miles away lies Puerto Viejo, an off-the-beaten-track coastal village on the Caribbean coast that offers visitors a rich cultural experience full of music, art galleries, and delicious local cuisine.

Rincón de la Vieja Volcano

A must-visit for any severe volcano enthusiast, Rincón de la Vieja Volcano boasts the country’s most active crater, with the last significant eruption occurring in 2001.

Located near the town of Liberia and just a few hours north of Puerto Viejo on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast, lush jungle vegetation surrounds this spectacular volcano and offers incredible views from its summit.

Climbing to the top can take several days as hikers traverse through the thick rainforest before encountering a barren lunar-like landscape near the peak. However, the journey is well worth it, as Rincón de la Vieja features bubbling mud pools and hissing steam vents due to its previous eruptions.

Poas Volcano

Situated in central Costa Rica, Poas Volcano is a must-visit for any traveler seeking an adventurous experience. Located just 50 miles from San Jose, this well-preserved national park offers breathtaking views and diverse scenery year-round.

The volcano’s summit is over 8,600 feet tall, and its two craters contain one of the world’s most active acidic volcanoes. Visitors can observe geysers, boiling sulfur pits, and striking landscapes on the hillside.

With trails that lead through lush cloud forests full of exotic wildlife, a trip to Poas Volcano provides an enriching contrast to the nearby beaches of Puerto Viejo on the Caribbean coast.

Turrialba Volcano

Turrialba Volcano is a magnificent sight to behold and should not be missed by those traveling through the Caribbean Coast of Costa Rica. This majestic volcano stands tall at 3,340 meters and towers over the borders between Cartago and Heredia provinces. It has been active since October 2014 and is home to many unique sites and scenery, such as its lush green forests, incredible views of the valley below, and stations that provide remarkable scientific research opportunities.

Whether you’re striving for a fresh, all-new adventure or looking to capture some beautiful aerial photographs — a tour of Turrialba Volcano should be on your must-visit list while touring around Puerto Viejo.

Costa Rica’s unique volcanoes offer incredible sights and adventures for visitors. Irazu Volcano National Park, Arenal Volcano National Park, Rincon de la Vieja National Park, Poas Volcano National Park, and Turrialba Volcano National Park all make unforgettable vacation destinations and are must-visit places for anyone looking to explore this scenic and culturally rich country.

From walking through a vivid colored landscape at Rincon de la Vieja to exploring the pristine Costa Rican rainforest at Turrialba, there is something for everyone in Costa Rica—even white-sand beaches in Puerto Viejo on the Caribbean Coast. No matter which volcano you visit during your trip to Costa Rica, you will surely make memories that last a lifetime.

About Us

If you’re looking for the best places to stay in Costa Rica, Puerto Viejo, Le Cameleon Boutique Hotel should be top of mind when booking your trip.

With a scenic beachfront property and gorgeous suites overlooking the vast, beautiful ocean, Le Cameleon is every traveler’s dream stay.

While here, you can enjoy our unique, custom-made GoFit & Engage program, participate in exclusive nutrition & well-being workshops, and enjoy private tours of this picturesque town. Call us at +506 2750 3096 or visit our website to reserve your dates.