Volcanoes of Costa Rica
In Costa Rica almoast all mountain ranges are volcanic and the vacationers can easily visit many of these areas. In Cartago province, not far from the capital San Jose, you'll find Irazu. With 3,432 meters, Irazu is Costa Rica's highest volcano. It's one of the most active volcanoes from Costa Rica, with a history of frequent eruptions recorded from 1723, the last one dating from 1963-1965. Irazu's crater contains a small lake.
Poas, located in Alajuela province, is also one of the most active volcanoes and it has one of the largest active craters in the world. The colorful craters are a popular attraction and are accessible by vehicle. The 2,708 meter high volcano lies within two vast craters, which host now lakes. The southern crater's lake, Botos, is cold and clear, the other is warm and acidic.
Volcano Arenal
In addition, volcano Arenal, in the northwestern region, delights each year thousands of travelers with a constant stream of hot lava tumbling down its slopes. Arenal is the only volcano from Costa Rica constantly active and it's considered one of the ten most active volcanoes in the world!
Located in the southeast region of Costa Rica, Turrialba is a large and densely forested volcano. Three well-defined craters lie in the upper section of the mountain. Turrialba has been quiet since a series of explosive eruptions in the 19 century.
Rincon de la Vieja, the largest volcano in the northwest area of the country, is actually a remote volcanic complex in Guanacaste. At least nine eruptive vents are located within a 15-kilometer-wide crater!
Miravalles is a volcano with relatively young lava flows, covering its western and southwestern flanks. The only historical reported eruption was a small steam explosion in 1946.
Mountain biking
How about getting dropped off at a magnificent 10 000 feet high volcano, and biking down a 7 mile descent to the foothills of the volcano next door?
Mountain biking in Costa Rica is full of these and other exciting rides. The routes feature active volcanoes, very high mountain passes, lush tropical, sub-tropical and temperate forests, waterfalls, and river crossings. As most of Costa Rica's roads are dirt, the country easily lends itself to exploration by mountain bike. The country is also extremely hilly, with many heart-stopping descents! Costa Rica has many trails suitable for riders just starting out, as well as experienced bikers looking for a challenge.
Your Costa Rican adventure can start with a guided drive up to the top of the Irazu Volcano at 11,000 feet. Descend to 1,500 feet through miles of lush, green scenery and end the ride in the small town Santa Cruz de Turrialba. The dirt road takes you through fertile dairy and farm land, cutting its way between Irazu and Turrialba volcanoes. A support van, with a driver and a guide-mechanic are available with extra bikes, food, and a first aid kit. While biking in Costa Rica is more adventurous riding on your own, the conditions often make the presence of a guide preferable.
If you want to combine mountain biking with other great adventures you'll find tours that include snorkeling the reefs of the Caribbean coast, river rafting on the many great rivers, or just hiking with beautiful views and scenery.