Poás Volcano
Spectacular Crater and Artisan Traditions
About this Tour
Explore one of the most impressive craters in the world at Poás Volcano and discover the artisan traditions of Sarchi, famous for its colorful Costa Rican carts.
Poás Volcano is unique in Costa Rica for its accessibility and spectacular nature. Its main crater, 1.3 km in diameter, is home to a turquoise acid lagoon that constantly changes due to volcanic activity. The sulfurous vapors that emerge create a fascinating natural spectacle.
In Sarchi, known as the "Cradle of Costa Rican Handicrafts", we will visit the workshops where the famous ox carts are created, declared Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. You will see artisans working with traditional techniques passed down from generation to generation.
Tour Gallery
Tour Highlights
Detailed Itinerary
Pick up at your hotel
6:30 AMDeparture from San José to the highlands of Alajuela
Poás Volcano National Park
8:30 AMWalk to the crater viewpoint, observation of the acid lagoon and volcanic vapors
Sarchi - Cart Factory
10:30 AMVisit to artisan workshops, demonstration of traditional painting
Lunch
12:00 PMTypical food in a local restaurant with products from the area
Strawberry Plantation
1:30 PMTour of high-altitude crops, tasting of fresh strawberries
Zarcero - Topiary Art
3:00 PMVisit to the central park with living cypress sculptures
Return
4:00 PMReturn trip to San José (arrival approx. 5:30 PM)
What to Bring
Volcanic Activity and Safety
Poás Volcano Facts
- Elevation: 2,708 meters
- Crater depth: 320 meters
- Last eruption: 2017-2019
- Acid lake pH: 0-1 (battery acid)
- Temperature: 40-70°C
Safety Measures
- Real-time gas monitoring
- Emergency evacuation routes
- 20-minute visit limit
- Mandatory helmets provided
- Safety briefing included
Artisan Heritage of Sarchi
Sarchi has been the heart of Costa Rican craftsmanship for over 100 years. The tradition of oxcart painting was declared UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2005.
Traditional Crafts:
- Hand-painted oxcarts
- Miniature souvenirs
- Wooden furniture
- Leather goods
Painting Techniques:
- Geometric patterns
- Floral designs
- No stencils used
- 100% hand-painted
Strawberry Farming in the Highlands
Mountain Agriculture
The cool climate at 2,000+ meters elevation creates perfect conditions for strawberry cultivation:
- Temperature range: 12-18°C ideal for berry development
- Harvest season: Peak December to March
- Greenhouse technology: Protection from rain and pests
- Organic practices: Many farms use natural pest control
Visiting Tips
Book volcano tickets 2-3 days in advance through SINAC website. Mornings before 10 AM offer best crater visibility. Clouds typically roll in by noon.
Weather Advisory
Temperature drops significantly at the volcano. Bring warm layers even on sunny days. Rain gear essential year-round as weather changes quickly at high altitude.
Up to 48 hours before the tour
Includes:
- Private transportation with A/C
- Certified naturalist guide
- Entrance to Poás Volcano National Park
- Visit to Sarchi artisan workshops
- Typical Costa Rican lunch
- Visit to a strawberry plantation (depending on the season)
- Tour operator insurance
Does Not Include:
- Alcoholic beverages
- Tips
- Souvenirs and crafts
- Personal travel insurance
Best Time to Go
All year round. Dry season early mornings (December-April) offer the best crater views.
