Poás Volcano National Park has been closed to tourists until further notice due to ongoing volcanic activity, the National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC) announced Tuesday.

The most recent eruption occurred on March 25 at 10:45 a.m., according to the Volcanological and Seismological Observatory (OVSICORI). The eruption sent a column of gas and ash into the air, while sustained earthquakes with frequencies between 0.6 and 11 Hz were detected during the event.

Additionally, the National Emergency Commission (CNE) has raised the volcano’s risk alert level from 2 to 3, signaling a potential threat to nearby communities. Authorities have urged residents and local officials to remain on high alert.

This heightened caution allows experts to closely monitor increased eruptions, gas emissions, temperature changes, seismic activity, ash fall, acid rain, and hazardous gases.

Tourists who purchased tickets for the park during its closure may reschedule their visit or request a refund. To do so, they should contact SINAC via email at poas.info@sinac.go.cr.

To reschedule, visitors must include their preferred date and time. Refund requests require a copy of the ticket, proof of payment, a valid ID, and bank account details for the transfer.

The main crater, measuring 950 feet wide, remains highly active, regularly producing geyser-like eruptions and lava outbursts. The park also features two smaller craters: Von Frantzius and Botos. The Botos Crater is a popular tourist attraction, known for its striking green lake with a diameter of 1,200 feet.

In addition to its volcanic landscapes, the park is home to a diverse range of plant and animal species. Birdwatchers may spot the clay-colored robin, quetzal, hummingbirds, tanagers, flycatchers, and toucans. Mammals found in the park include pumas, coyotes, rabbits, and marmots among many others.

OVSICORI is a research institute at the National University of Costa Rica that monitors seismic and volcanic activity.


CNE coordinates emergency preparedness and response efforts across the country.


SINAC manages Costa Rica’s national parks and protected areas.

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