Costa Rica National Parks

Poas Volcano National Park

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	Area		Approx. 16,000 acres
	Max. Elevation		8,900' above sea level
	Temperature		45ºF - 70ºF
	Precipitation		140 inches annual average
	Location		Alajuela Province, 40 miles N of San Jose
	Date of Creation		25 Jan 1971

Park Attractions

Poas is an active volcano with frequent small geyser and lava eruptions. The last major eruptions at Poas Volcano were from 1952-54. The visitors center has interactive educational presentations and activities.

Although its activity is considerably different than Arenal Volcano, Poás is another of Costa Rica's most active volcanoes. The colorful summit craters comprise a popular attraction, and are accessible by vehicle.

The 2,708 meter stratovolcano lies within two vast calderas. The southernmost of two summit crater lakes, Botos, is cold and clear, and last erupted about 7,500 years ago. The other is warm and acidic and has been the site of frequent eruptions since the first was reported in 1828. Eruptions often feature geyserlike ejections of lake water.

Driving Directions

From San Jose, take the highway to Alajuela. From there, take to road to Itiquis and Fraijanes, following the signs to the volcano.

Park Facilities and Hours

The visitors center is open from 8am to 4 pm. It has a cafeteria, souvenir shop, and auditorium. An autoguided trail system winds through the cloud forest to Botos Lake.