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
Important
Access to the Poás Volcano crater requires prior online reservation through the SINAC system. A maximum of 50 visitors with 6 guides are allowed per shift. Weather conditions can affect the visibility of the crater. The temperature at the volcano ranges between 10-15°C.
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.
