This Is the Most Budget-friendly Spring Break Destination
"A nearby volcanic national park popular as a short day trip for visitors who want to see an active crater and cloud-forest surroundings." - Taryn White
Taryn White
Taryn White is a D.C.-based travel writer who covers a wide range of topics, including family travel, hotels, food, aviation, beaches, historical and cultural topics, and wellness travel. She can often be spotted around the world with her husband and two travel-loving kids.
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"Poás Volcano National Park Known by indigenous peoples as Sibú Mountain—a sacred name that means “Creator of Life and Wisdom”—Poás Volcano, which soars to 8,885 feet, cannot fail to impress. The active volcano is a perennial favorite with locals and foreigners alike, an easy 34-mile drive from San José. In addition to the majestic peak (the crater of which is among the world’s largest), you’ll find enchanting jade-green lagoons and some of the best scenic outlooks anywhere in Central America. The park offers great access to visitors of all ages all the way to the summit, including travelers with disabilities. By Travesías"
Cannot review based on the volcano, as it was closed. I wish there would’ve been warning closer to the bottom instead of just at the top. However, the drive up is long and windy but the views are absolutely breathtaking. Much cooler at the top, make sure you bring a sweater.
Lake Tahoe Pontoons
Google
Definitely a must see when you come to Puerto Rico. We got to see it active plus it's a short walk to the volcano from the parking lot. Then there's also a very small hike to a gorgeous volcano lake. You must come to see the volcano and the lake before 12 PM when the clouds come in.
Rene Oudejans
Google
Very interesting experience to visit an active vulcano. The smell of sulphuric acid and the sounds of the vulcano is crazy. Nice ride up to the location, beautiful roads and surroundings. Parking is close and requires a 500-700 meters walk up to the actual destination. They display you a short video about the vulcano and provide you with hard hats.
B - goalkeeper
Google
This was a stunning visit… At the beginning we could not see the volcano at all, because it was too cloudy. We waited about 20min and could then see the vulcano perfectly. It was a fantastic and impressive view. Never seen something like this before.
Also the walk from the parking area up to the platform was quite easy. It took us about 15min. Highly recommend experience!
Riddhi
Google
Seeing an active volcano up close was an absolutely breathtaking experience! The views were unreal, with the powerful volcano right in front of us, surrounded by lush landscapes and dramatic scenery. It’s easily one of the most photogenic spots, perfect for capturing stunning photos. The contrast of the rugged volcanic terrain with the vibrant greenery makes it a must-visit destination for any tourist.
Maya Hochman
Google
Short walk to something you could look at for hours. There were different hights you could look from to see it at different angles. They were prepared for if it erupted, and the museum was really interesting too.
Everything_gina_b _
Google
An hour and a half from SJ, depending on traffic and rain. Cannot enter unless you book online $15-20, parking fee is about $5-6, It is a short walk to the viewing area, however you won't see anything when it's a cloudy day. I took an extended hike and it is very steep and dangerous when it's raining. I was glad to make it out without getting hurt. Park closes at 4 pm, stops allowing anyone after 2 pm.
Janelle
Google
Amazing experience!! It's a very short trip from San José and there's a beautiful waterfall on the way there. Someone said the journey is scary and that's just a bit extreme lol. The roads are fine. It seems to rain a lot though and it's chilly so bring a poncho and jacket. Try to order your tickets online as it makes life easier when you get there. The last entry is around 2PM. If there's cloud cover when you arrive, wait a bit and it will clear even if just for a moment because that's what happened with us. Got there and it was just clouds but after about 10 or so minutes it cleared nicely. When leaving, you're going to see some trails, be careful because we ended up on one that was very long and very far and very difficult with lots of stairs and there's hardly any signs to guide you. By time we got to the end we were beat. Overall I'd definitely recommend this experience!