Thursday April 4, 2024.

Poás Volcano National Park Sets Date to Reopen Following Recent Activity 

Poás Volcano National Park, home to the largest active craters in the world, has recently been making headlines due to increased volcanic activity. With eruptions recorded on March 31 and April 2, authorities took the precautionary measure of temporarily closing the park to ensure public safety.  

How to Get to Poas Volcano 

Poas is approximately a five-hour drive from Las Catalinas. If you are flying in or out of the San Jose airport, it can be a fantastic half-day trip before or after your flight, or can be turned into a full-day activity when combined with the nearby La Paz Waterfall Gardens. The region is much cooler than Guanacaste, so remember to pack a sweater and hiking shoes. 

Volcanic Activity in Poas 

Today, emergency authorities in Costa Rica have announced plans to reopen Poás Volcano National Park next Monday, April 8th, while ensuring strict adherence to established safety protocols. The Minister of Environment and Energy, Franz Tattenbach, highlighted the park's comprehensive protocol, which includes increased safety measures such as helmets, limited capacity at viewpoints, and gas monitoring systems. 

An eruption reaching 200 meters (about 656.17 ft) above the crater was observed, with ongoing ash emissions and a plume rich in water vapor, gases, and aerosols. The Volcanological and Seismological Observatory of Costa Rica (OVSICORI) reported significant gas emissions, fine ash, and strong sulfur odors emanating from the volcano over three days impacting surrounding areas due to prevailing climatic conditions such as winds. Despite the ongoing activity, authorities anticipate the volcano's activity to subside gradually, with the onset of the rainy season expected to alleviate volcanic emissions. 

The decision to reopen the park follows a thorough assessment by experts from the National Commission as Poás Volcano National Park prepares to welcome visitors once again, stringent safety measures and vigilant monitoring will remain paramount, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience amidst the natural wonders of Costa Rica.  

For more information, you can contact Poás Volcano National Park Office via phone (506) 2482-2165 between 7 a.m. at 2 p.m. or e-mail: info.acc@sinac.go.cr.