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Published Friday, November 20, 2020
Turrialba Volcano Park reopens
By the A.M. Costa Rica staff
After eight years of being closed to the public due to the risks of eruptions, the Turrialba Volcano National Park, located in Cartago Province, will reopen its doors to visitors on Dec. 4.
The opening occurs after complying with all the safety guidelines ordered by the National Emergency Commission since 2018, according to Rafael Gutiérrez, director of the National System of Conservation Areas, SINAC.
"Once the Turrialba volcano decreased its activity considerably, the reopening of the National Park, together with the support of other organizations, has been responsibly sought to promote the reactivation of local economies through tourism," Gutiérrez said.
Claudia Dobles, the first lady, was the promoter of the reopening of the Turrialba Volcano National Park. "This area is full of tourist attractions and the National Park comes to expand and strengthen the offer, so we hope to see economic growth in nearby communities," Dobles said. "I invite the Costa Rican population to visit Turrialba starting December 4 and enjoying this experience again."
To ensure safe access to the park, an agreement was reached with the owners of the neighboring properties. This is because the main access to the volcano, via route 417, is currently under a legal process, as the owners of the land have claimed the entrance to the park as part of their property.
To date, there has not been a resolution by the court, so the alternate route #10, through the road known as Montecalas, to reach route #230, will guarantee access to the park, authorities said.
Among the main improvements that have been made in the park are: the remodeling of the entrance, the booth for the attention of visitors, the repair of restrooms for visitors, the rest and security zone installed for visitors.
Also, railings were built in the area of the panoramic viewpoint and seven protected areas, which cover the ascent path from the visitor service booth to the crater viewpoint and the path known as Chusquea.
Eight years ago, in 2012, the Turrialba Volcano quickly increased its activity with phreatic eruptions of moderate intensity. The National Emergency Commission authorities recommended the total closure for visitors and maintaining a minimum number of park rangers within the perimeter of two kilometers around the active crater.
As of 2016, the volcanic activity decreased, allowing a period of improvements in the facilities for the care of tourists and park rangers.
The reopening will have park rangers and park workers helping visitors to maintain sanitary measures to avoid contagion of covid-19.
Online tickets can be purchased on the SINAC website, beginning Dec. 4. A tutorial on how to buy tickets can be found on the SINAC YouTube Channel.
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What other tourist areas should be reopened to the public? We would like to know your
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