Poás is a canton in Costa Rica, in Central America, and it takes its name from the Poás Volcano National Park that lies within its borders. For many visitors, the canton is the gateway to one of the country's most striking natural landscapes.
The volcano and its crater lake
The park centres on Poás Volcano, which holds one of the world's largest active crater lakes. From the observation decks, visitors can look down on the lake and the volcanic activity that gives the site its character. The view changes with the conditions of the day, so it is worth going prepared for the scene to look quite different from one visit to the next.
Cloud forest and wildlife
Beyond the crater, the area offers cloud forests filled with plant and animal species that are specific to this high, misty setting. Walking through these forests is a quiet counterpoint to the open drama of the volcano, and it suits anyone interested in the natural life of the region.
Climate and setting
Because of its elevation, the canton has a cool mountain climate, which sets it apart from the warmer lowlands elsewhere in the country. A jacket is a sensible addition to any day plan, since the weather at altitude can change quickly.
Who it suits
- Nature enthusiasts who want to see an active volcano up close from safe viewing areas
- Visitors interested in cloud forest landscapes and their wildlife
- Travellers looking for a change from coastal and lowland destinations
Poás works best as a dedicated outing in its own right, built around the park and its surrounding mountain scenery.
