Things To Do
in Poás
Poás, Costa Rica sits high in the Central Volcanic Range, where lush cloud forests meet dramatic crater vistas. The town and surrounding parks offer cool, misty days, coffee farms, and nature trails just a short drive from San José. Visitors can hike near active craters, observe cascading waterfalls, and savor fresh Costa Rican fare in small towns along scenic roadways.
This region blends volcanic scenery with warm local hospitality, making it ideal for day trips and nature-focused getaways.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing hike through the lush trails of Poás Volcano National Park. As the mist rises, witness the stunning crater lake with its vibrant turquoise waters, a sight that will leave you in awe. Early mornings are ideal for birdwatching, so keep your eyes peeled for the diverse avian species that inhabit the area.
After exploring the main crater, venture to the park's visitor center to learn about the geology and ecology of the region through informative exhibits. Enjoy a packed lunch at one of the designated picnic areas surrounded by the sounds of nature. In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk along the trails to see the beautiful cloud forest and its unique flora and fauna.
As the sun begins to set, head to a nearby café to enjoy a traditional Costa Rican dinner, savoring local dishes such as 'casado' and 'gallo pinto.' Engage with locals and share stories about your day while enjoying the cool evening breeze. Conclude your day with a relaxing stroll under the starry sky, absorbing the tranquil atmosphere of the highlands.
Begin your day with a guided tour of a local coffee plantation, where you’ll learn about the coffee-making process from bean to cup. Participate in a hands-on experience of picking coffee cherries and see how they are processed. Enjoy a freshly brewed cup of coffee while overlooking the beautiful coffee fields.
After the tour, indulge in a gourmet lunch at the plantation cafe, featuring local ingredients and flavors that complement the coffee experience. Spend the afternoon exploring the scenic surroundings, hiking through coffee plantations, and enjoying breathtaking views of the mountains. Don’t forget to take photos of the stunning landscapes filled with vibrant greenery.
Return to your accommodation to freshen up before heading out for dinner. Treat yourself to a meal at a local restaurant known for its farm-to-table offerings, where you can taste the best of Costa Rican cuisine. Wind down with a leisurely evening walk in the quaint town of Poás, absorbing the charm of the area.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🚌Local transportation (bus/taxi) | $1-5 per ride |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel per night | $60-120 |
| 🥗Combo lunch/dish at a local eatery | $6-10 |
| ☕Coffee or specialty drink | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning volcanic and cloud forest scenery
- Cool, comfortable climate year-round
- Close to San José for easy weekend trips
- Friendly local culture and coffee heritage
- Limited nightlife and resort-style amenities
- Rural areas can have variable infrastructure
- Weather can change rapidly and trails may be muddy
- Crater accessibility can be weather dependent
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Perdón" - Excuse me / Sorry
Places to Visit in Poás
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic viewpoint over the steaming crater with striking mineral textures and shifting clouds.
A forested trail that leads to the emerald caldera lake of the other Poás crater, with misty surroundings.
Series of cascades and hanging bridges offering dramatic shots of waterfalls and lush greenery.
Highland cloud forest scenery with mossy trunks, ferns, and panoramic valley views.
Food in Poás
Poás Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Costa Rican breakfast of rice and beans served with eggs, sour cream, cheese, and plantains, widely available in local eateries.
Must-Try!
A complete Costa Rican meal: rice, beans, plantains, salad, and a choice of protein (often chicken or pork).
A flavorful black bean soup typically garnished with hard-boiled eggs and cilantro, great with fresh tortillas.
A popular bowl of beans, pork, rice, and pico de gallo served with tortilla chips for a satisfying snack or light meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling traditional market in nearby Alajuela where you can try fresh fruit, tamales, tortillas, and street-food snacks.
Small market stalls near Poás with fresh produce, homemade cheeses, and regional snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly, relaxed greeting; a handshake or light hug is common among friends; use courteous language.
Casual, modest clothing is typical; light layers are recommended due to cool highland climate.
Costa Ricans are generally relaxed about time. Small talk and compliments are appreciated; avoid discussing sensitive topics in first meetings.
Safety
Tipping in Poás
Ensure a smooth experience
In tourist areas, rounding up or leaving 5-10% at restaurants is common; smaller tips for guides and drivers; cash tips are appreciated.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops; cash (CRC or USD) is useful in rural areas and for smaller purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry season (roughly December to April) brings sunny mornings and clear skies, ideal for crater views; afternoons can still bring clouds and cooler evenings.
May to November sees tropical showers, often in the afternoon; mornings are typically more predictable, but trails can be slick and higher-risk during storms.
Poás at Night
Hiking in Poás
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible crater overlook and surrounding forest trails with varying lengths and moderate difficulty.
High-elevation forest hikes in Braulio Carrillo area offering mossy trees and panoramic views.
Protected trails around waterfalls with viewpoints and wildlife.
Airports
How to reach Poás by plane.
Main international gateway near San José; convenient to reach Poás by car or bus within about 30-60 minutes depending on traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of agricultural communities and town residents along the Poás corridor.
Visitors from Costa Rica and abroad exploring volcanoes and cloud forests.
Families managing small farms in the highland regions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Costa Rica; you’ll often see local games and community pickups in the towns nearby.
Popular outdoor activities given the region’s cloud forests and diverse birdlife.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Poás.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can rely on rice and beans, plantains, salads, and vegetable dishes; many places can customize dishes; request no meat or seafood and enjoy fresh fruit smoothies.