Central Volcanic Cordillera Conservation Area

Costa Rica National Parks

Poas Volcano National Park





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Poas Volcano National Park Costa Rica

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




Poas Volcano Costa Rica National Park
 








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.








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