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Finca Monte Calas: Gateway to Turrialba Volcano

Hike to the Turrialba Volcano through Finca Monte Calas for stunning views and unique wildlife encounters in Costa Rica's Cartago Province.

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Finca Monte Calas serves as the base camp for guided hikes to the Turrialba Volcano National Park, offering access to stunning volcanic landscapes and diverse wildlife. It's a starting point for exploring the natural beauty of the Turrialba region.

A brief summary to Finca Monte Calas

  • 263R+5JH, Turrialba, Cartago Province, CR

Local tips

  • Book your guided tour in advance, especially for sunrise hikes or weekend visits, as spots fill up quickly.
  • Wear appropriate hiking shoes for the steep and rocky terrain.
  • Bring layers of clothing as the temperature can change rapidly at high elevations.
  • Arrive at Finca Monte Calas at least 30 minutes before your scheduled tour.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Turrialba, head north following signs for Turrialba Volcano National Park. The drive to Finca Monte Calas takes approximately 1 hour, covering a distance of about 24 kilometers. The road is partially paved, with the final stretch being a gravel road. It is recommended to take the route through La Pastora, as the road through Santa Cruz is more suitable for 4x4 vehicles. Parking at Finca Monte Calas costs 2500 colones per day.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in Turrialba and can take you to Finca Monte Calas. Negotiate the fare in advance. A taxi ride from Turrialba to Finca Monte Calas will cost approximately 8,000-12,000 CRC. The journey takes around 1 hour depending on road conditions.

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Discover more about Finca Monte Calas

Finca Monte Calas is the primary access point for exploring the Turrialba Volcano National Park, located in the Cartago Province of Costa Rica. This hiking area serves as the base camp for guided tours to the volcano's crater, which had been closed for many years due to increased volcanic activity but reopened in December 2020. The finca itself is situated at an elevation of 2,657 meters (8,694 feet), and the hike to the crater lookout point ascends to approximately 3,340 meters (10,958 feet). The trail covers a distance of about 4.5 kilometers (2.8 miles) each way, making it a 9km (5 mile) round trip. The terrain is steep and can be challenging, with loose material underfoot, so appropriate footwear is recommended. Visitors to Finca Monte Calas can expect to see diverse high-altitude bird species, including the Resplendent Quetzal. The hike offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and, on clear days, it is possible to see the Caribbean Sea. The finca provides basic facilities such as restrooms, potable water, and snacks. Parking is available for a fee. Access to the park is only permitted with a certified guide, ensuring visitor safety due to the active volcano. Tours typically start early in the morning to take advantage of the best weather conditions. It is recommended to book tours in advance, as they can fill up quickly, especially for sunrise hikes and weekend visits.

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