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When you think of Costa Rica, you probably immediately picture dense rainforests, hidden waterfalls and colorful toucans. But did you know that this small country is also a hotspot for volcanoes? Literally. That’s because Costa Rica lies on the Pacific Ring of Fire, a geologically active zone where the earth’s crust moves and volcanoes form as a result of colliding tectonic plates. The result? More than 60 volcanoes, quite a few of which are still active.
For adventurous travelers, that’s good news. In Costa Rica, you can relatively safely come face to face with these smoking giants – from steaming craters to lava fields. And no, you don’t have to worry here that you’ll have to run away from a lava flow at any moment. In Costa Rica, the situation is constantly monitored to ensure that national and international visitors to these national parks can safely enjoy these impressive natural phenomena.
What exactly is a volcano? In simple terms, it is an opening in the earth’s crust from which molten rock (magma), gas and ash rise to the surface. When that comes to the surface, we speak of lava. Some volcanoes are explosive; others quietly spew steam and gas. And Costa Rica has a bit of everything. Here are the most famous volcanoes you may encounter during your trip:
The Poas volcano has recently become quite active again. It has been on code red alert since late March 2025, after several eruptions in which steam, gas and ash were blown into the air. The national park is therefore closed for the time being, and the situation is being closely monitored by the CNE (Comisión Nacional de Emergencias).
Still, Poas remains one of the most impressive places in the country. The main crater looks straight out of a science fiction movie: a giant, smoking bowl with an azure crater lake. You can normally get a close look at this from a safe platform – once it reopens, definitely recommended. Check out live images of the crater here.
Also see more information on the current situation our Poas blog.
Anyone who thinks of volcanoes in Costa Rica probably thinks of Arenal: perfectly cone-shaped and for years one of the most active volcanoes in the world. Between 1968 and 2010, it spewed lava almost daily, making it wildly popular with travelers. Thanks to its striking, symmetrical shape and relatively flat surrounding landscape, Arenal is also one of the most photographed volcanoes in the world. An imposing silhouette that creates an almost surreal image at sunrise or sunset.
Today Arenal is at rest, but the surrounding area is still a true paradise. Think hot springs, jungle walks, suspension bridges and breathtaking views. In the nearby town of La Fortuna, there is plenty to do. From guided hikes to relaxing spa days in geothermally heated pools. Read more about 4 fun activities in La Fortuna.
Turrialba volcano is Poás’ slightly less polished, but certainly no less impressive brother. This volcano recently had a small eruption, spewing a plume of ash high into the sky. Active, but not inaccessible.
What makes Turrialba unique is that (if safe and accompanied) you can even climb the volcano. A helmet for the last stretch is mandatory. Contact us if you would like to do this. You will hike past petrified lava fields, cloud forests and spectacular vistas. Sometimes during increased activity, the area is temporarily closed and tours are cancelled. The minimum age to visit the volcanic crater is 12 years old. Watch this volcano live via this webcam.
Located just an hour and a half drive from San José, Irazú Volcano, at 3,432 meters, is the highest active volcano in Costa Rica. On clear days, you can see both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea from the summit. Quite a rare phenomenon.
Unlike Turrialba, you don’t have to spend hours climbing here. You can just drive your car up to the park entrance, and within five minutes you’ll be at the crater rim. This makes Irazú ideal for a day trip from both the capital and Turrialba. Also with children or for travelers who like to take it a little easier. The volcano has been relatively quiet for decades, but remains a fascinating destination.
Tenorio volcano itself may not be the biggest draw, but the region around it is a true fairy tale. Its greatest asset? The Río Celeste, a bright blue river whose color seems almost unnatural. This magical color occurs where two bright white rivers meet and enter into a chemical reaction, something that only happens because of the volcanic minerals in the soil.
The area around Tenorio is a paradise for hikers, nature lovers and photographers. You’ll find cloud forests, waterfalls and countless wild animals, from sloths and tapirs to colorful frogs. Read more about it in the blog about Bijagua and Rio Celeste.
The Rincón de la Vieja is one of Costa Rica’s most versatile volcanoes. Located in the national park of the same name in the north of the country, this active volcano offers a spectacular landscape of bubbling mud pools, steaming fumaroles and lush jungle. You can hike beautifully here on well-marked trails. The volcano consists of several craters, some of which are still active. The geothermal activity makes this area popular not only with hikers, but also with lovers of wellness and adventure.
With volcanoes you might think of risk, but in Costa Rica safety is top priority. The CNE and scientific institutes such as OVSICORI monitor volcanic activity 24/7. If there are increased risks, parks are closed immediately and the public is notified through official channels. As a traveler, you mostly have to follow the directions of park rangers and guides. And if you’re curious, you can watch yourself here via OVSICORI’s webcams. That way you don’t miss a thing, without risk.
A visit to a volcano, of course, is not an adrenaline rush like an amusement park. In fact, it is an intimate encounter with the earth’s primal power, overwhelming nature and spectacular views. Whether you are gazing at Arenal under a starry sky, watching vapor rise from the crater of Poás, or standing on the summit of Irazú gazing across two oceans – it is an experience that will stay with you.
Be amazed, be curious, and remember: in Costa Rica, you are not admiring danger, but the impressive balance between nature and man.