Parque Nacional Volcán Poás is a wonderful natural attraction in Costa Rica, featuring one of the world’s largest active volcano craters. To visit the volcano itself, visitors must book a timeslot in advance online, as access is carefully regulated to protect both the environment and visitors’ safety. This system ensures a more organized and less crowded experience while exploring the otherworldly landscape of the crater and its surrounding areas.
Even if you don’t make it to the crater, driving through the Poás region is a breathtaking experience in itself. The winding roads and lush vegetation create an atmosphere reminiscent of the Alps, but with a tropical twist. Visitors are treated to spectacular views of towering ferns and impressive giant leaves of local bushes that line the roadways. As you journey through this picturesque landscape, you’ll come across the famous La Paz waterfall, a majestic cascade that perfectly complements the area’s natural beauty.
Strawberries and Queso Palmito
The Poás region is not only known for its volcanic wonders but also for its agricultural significance. The fertile volcanic soil supports dairy farming and strawberry cultivation, with roadside eateries offering fresh, locally-grown strawberries to passersby. The milk from local cows is used to produce various types of cheese, with Queso Palmito being the most iconic. Queso Palmito is a unique Costa Rican cheese that resembles a knotted ball of string cheese. It has a light, salty flavor and a stringy texture similar to mozzarella. This cheese is formed into a distinctive knot-like configuration (resembling the shape of a palm heart) and is often enjoyed as a snack or used in traditional Costa Rican dishes, making it a must-try for visitors to the region.
Parque Nacional Volcán Poás
Costa Rica
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