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Turrialba Volcano National Park: A Volcanic Majesty

Discover Costa Rica's volcanic heart at Turrialba Volcano National Park: witness nature's power and explore diverse ecosystems.

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Turrialba Volcano National Park, located in Costa Rica's Cartago Province, offers a unique experience centered around the active Turrialba Volcano. The park showcases the raw power and beauty of volcanic landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and opportunities for wildlife viewing.

A brief summary to Turrialba Volcano National Park

Local tips

  • Book your guided tour in advance, as access to the park is currently restricted to guided tours only.
  • Wear appropriate clothing and shoes for hiking, and bring sunblock.
  • Bring food and water, and use reusable packaging to reduce waste.
  • Be prepared for cool temperatures due to the high elevation.
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Getting There

  • Car

    The most convenient way to reach Turrialba Volcano National Park is by car. From San José, the drive is approximately 2.5 hours, covering about 70 kilometers. Take Route 10 towards Turrialba. Once in Turrialba, follow the signs to the national park. Note that the road to the park can be narrow and winding. A 4WD vehicle is recommended, especially for accessing the Tapojo sector via Finca Monte Calas (Route 20). Alternatively, the La Pastora de Santa Cruz sector does not require a 4WD. Parking is available at the park. Driving from Turrialba to Turrialba Volcano National Park is approximately 57 minutes, covering 32 km, and costing $4 - $7.

  • Public Transport

    While there is no direct public bus to the park entrance, you can take a bus from San José to Turrialba. From the Turrialba bus station (Terminal de Buses Turrialba), you can take a bus towards La Suiza. Check schedules in advance as services may be infrequent. From La Suiza, you may need to hire a taxi to reach the park entrance. The bus from San José to Irazú Volcano National Park operated by Buses Metrópoli costs $4–7 and takes 1h 40m. The bus from Turrialba town to Turrialba Volcano National Park costs around 1,000 to 2,000 CRC ($2-$4 USD).

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in Turrialba and can take you to the park entrance. A taxi from Turrialba town to the volcano typically ranges from $15 to $30 USD, and the drive takes approximately 30 minutes. A taxi from Turrialba to Turrialba Volcano National Park costs $65 - $80.

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Discover more about Turrialba Volcano National Park

Turrialba Volcano National Park, situated in the Cartago Province of Costa Rica, is a captivating destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The park's centerpiece, the Turrialba Volcano, stands tall as an active stratovolcano, reaching approximately 10,958 feet (3,340 meters) above sea level. The park has a rich history of volcanic activity, with major eruptions occurring between 1864 and 1868. After a long period of dormancy, the volcano's activity increased in 2014, resulting in ash clouds and temporary closures of nearby airports. The park was closed to tourists from 2012 to December 4, 2020, during which time emergency shelters were built, the visitor center was renovated, and railings were added at lookout points. Despite the volcanic activity, Turrialba Volcano National Park boasts diverse ecological zones and abundant wildlife. The park is home to over 84 bird species and 11 species of mammals, including toucans, howler monkeys, and armadillos. Visitors can explore the park's lush rainforests, observe lava flows, and enjoy panoramic views of the Caribbean plains, Turrialba valley, and Talamanca mountain range. Visitors can currently only access the park through guided tours. These tours typically involve moderate to high difficulty hikes around the summit, offering 360-degree views on clear days.

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