Turrialba Volcano National Park
The Turrialba Volcano National Park (Parque Nacional Volcan Turrialba) remains one of the least visited in the entire country. The volcano sits at 10,919 ft (3,328 m) along the southeast end of the Central Volcanic Corridor. From the summit on a clear day, the picturesque view includes the Atlantic coast to the east and other volcanoes such as Barva, Poas and Irazu.
Due to recent volcanic and seismic activity, the Turrialba Volcano National Park is currently closed. The most recent eruptions were a series of eruptions on March 12 that resulted in closing the SJO airport and spewed ash throughout the central valley. Turrialba erupted again on March, 13 forcing the SJO airport to remain closed. These eruptions were phreatic (which include ash, gas, and mud) and strombolian (which includes magna). Ash from the eruptions reached areas around San José and made it to the provinces of Alajuela, Limón, and Heredia.
Prior to this period of volcanic activity, the last major eruptions occurred in 1866. Fumarolic activity, however, has remained constant from the summit of the highest peak. There are three well-defined craters located at the top, the most profound of which measures 164 ft (50 m), giving the impression of a lunar landscape similar to that of the Irazu Volcano. In fact, many people call them twin volcanoes due to their similar characteristics and close proximity.
The beautiful volcano covered in dense vegetation looks out over approximately 3,900 acres (1,577 ha) of mostly montane rain forest. A large portion of Turrialba Volcano National Park is made up of primary and secondary forest, which is where it is most common to view the smaller wildlife scurrying around. Hiking along the trails allows you to see the various lava flows that give evidence to the once flowing rivers of hot magma. Once on the apex, various viewpoints along the well preserved trails around the rim of the summit give spectacular 360º views.
The city of Turrialba was once the gateway to the Atlantic coast. Now, it is a great starting point for many activities, especially visiting Turrialba Volcano National Park. The town of Turrialba is located approximately 44 miles (71 km) east of San Jose. From there the national park is just a short drive away. It is recommended to have a 4WD vehicle if you plan on accessing the park on your own. The town offers little in the way of services and admission to the park is approximately $7.
Where to stay in Turrialba Volcano National Park
From boutique lodges to luxury resorts, every Turrialba Volcano National Park accommodation is hand-picked by our local insiders for location, comfort, and character.
Turrialtico Mountain Lodge
The splendid Turrialtico Mountain Lodge is located in the central highlands of Costa Rica, just outside of the town of Turrialba. The charming town of Turrialba is conveniently located between San Jose and the Caribbean Coast, surrounded by fertile farmland and green mountain pastures.
Hotel Casa Turire
Hotel Casa Turire is situated in the central valley of Costa Rica, just two hours from San Jose. In the heart of the verdant Turrialba agricultural region, this beautiful estate is surrounded by the wild Reventazon River, with the imposing presence of the Turrialba Mountains forming a dramatic backdrop. A delicate balance has been maintained between agricultural development and ecological preservation so visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty and diversity of flora and fauna.
Hotel Suerre & Country Club
The Hotel Suerre & Country Club offers a comprehensive set of well-maintained athletic facilities and a modern hotel. An hours drive from San Jose in Guápiles, this Central Highlands resort sits in the lush tropical plains near the majestic Braulio Carrillo National Park.
Hotel Quelitales
Hotel Quelitales is located deep in Costa Rica’s lush central valley. Guests here get upscale rooms against a backdrop of tropical forest and musical birdcalls.
Pacuare Lodge
Situated within Costa Rica’s Caribbean region along the banks of the Pacuare River, the Pacuare Lodge is an experience in comfort, conservation and community. The lodge is nestled within a 25,000-acre protected area known as Pacuare, which begins near the town of Turrialba and descends down the Talamancan mountain range.
Orosi Lodge
Orosi Lodge is a small hotel located in the town of Orosi, part of Costa Rica's Central Valley. Situated one hour east of San Jose, Orosi is a colonial town with plenty of charm and culture, and is home to the oldest church in all of Costa Rica. Whitewater rafting, hiking, trout fishing and swimming are just a few of the activities available in Orosi, not to mention the two volcanic hot springs that lay in the center of town.
Hotel Bougainvillea
Hotel Bougainvillea is located in a quiet residential neighborhood in Santo Domingo de Heredia, just 15 minutes from downtown San Jose. Heredia is one of Costa Rica's most historical cities, boasting superb colonial architecture amidst vast coffee plantations and lush greenery. San Jose offers great shopping, some wonderful historic districts and all the amenities of a city.
Sleep Inn
The Sleep Inn is located in the heart of downtown San José. This hotel has ample facilities and an unbeatable location.
Balmoral Hotel San José CR, Historic District
Discover the charm of the Balmoral Hotel San José CR, Historic District, where modern amenities meet timeless elegance in the heart of San José. The hotel offers a 24‑hour fitness center, a leisure pool, and complimentary Wi‑Fi.
Hotel Presidente
Hotel Presidente is a large hotel with spacious rooms. There is plenty of entertainment at the hotel itself, as well as in the surrounding downtown area and in the central valley of Costa Rica.
Gran Hotel Costa Rica, Curio Collection by Hilton
The Gran Hotel is located in the capital city of San Jose, Costa Rica. San Jose is the largest city in the country and considered one of the most cosmopolitan places in Latin America. It's location in the Central Valley makes for a perfect hub to venture out and visit the rest of stunning countryside, beaches and mountains. Here you'll discover an abundance of great restaurants, bars, galleries, open markets, shopping and much more.
Hotel Grano de Oro
Situated on a shady street just off Paseo Colon, San Jose main thoroughfare, Hotel Grano de Oro is a true oasis, a sanctuary in the heart of a bustling city. San Jose is located in the Central Valley of Costa Rica known for its beauty, nature and richness in arts and culture. The city itself is considered the most cosmopolitan city in all of Central America; here you'll find unlimited shopping, international cuisine, several parks, cafes, and theatres.
Flora & fauna in Turrialba Volcano National Park
The wildlife and plant life you might encounter in Turrialba Volcano National Park, from iconic species to the rare finds our local insiders know where to look for.
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