How to Visit Turrialba Volcano: Read This Before You Hike

Are you thinking about hiking to the top of Turrialba Volcano in Costa Rica? You’re in for a fun adventure!

This active volcano offers one of the most unique hiking experiences in Costa Rica. I mean, where else can you trek to the edge of a massive active volcanic crater, take in sweeping views, and possibly spot some unique birds all before lunch?

We recently did this hike ourselves (after years of putting it off), and I’m so glad we finally made it happen. However, it’s definitely not an easy walk in the park. There’s altitude, changing weather, and volcanic gravel involved, but the payoff is worth it.

In this guide, I’ll explain exactly how to visit Turrialba Volcano National Park, what to expect on the hike, what to pack, and tips to help you have the best experience possible.

Let’s get into it!

How to Visit

Currently, the only way to visit Turrialba Volcano is with a guided hike. This is entirely for your safety. Turrialba is an active volcano, and the hike is pretty intense. 

The guides do this hike every day and are trained on how to help you with the altitude, can guide you if there are sudden changes in volcanic activity, and can make sure you get to safety if injured. 

Book Your Tour

There are three types of guided hikes available. These are:

• Day Hike (Most Common): This is offered daily starting at 6:00 AM. The last tour departs at 11:00 AM. Typically, these tours will be combined into one daily tour if people sign up for multiple time slots.  We suggest taking a tour at 6:00 AM or 7:00 AM for the best weather.
• Sunrise Hike: Offered twice a month. This tour departs at 2:00 AM. You can find the schedule here.
• Night Tour: Offered sporadically throughout the year.

Additionally, you can reach out to ICEtur (the tour company) at:

• WhatsApp +506 88849420
• Phone +506 25604842

Book Your Official Tour Here

If you won’t have a rental car, you can book a full-day tour with transportation included from San Jose here

Must Know Info

Cost

CR ¢22,500 per person (about $44 USD) for the guided hike (paid when booking) plus $13.56 USD for the national park fee (paid by credit card in person on the day of your hike).

There is also a CR ¢2,500 parking fee per car. 

Tours must be booked in advance. You can book online or contact the company via WhatsApp for questions or confirmation. Sunrise tours and weekends can fill up quickly!

Book Your Tour with the Official Operator Here

Driving Directions

The guided tour (as of writing this) meets at Base Camp Finca Monte Calas. There are two roads leading here.

The tour company suggests taking the road through the town La Pastora instead of the road through Santa Cruz.

In our experience, Google Maps automatically directs you through Santa Cruz. Ignore what Google Maps says and take the La Pastora route (highlighted in the map above) instead. 

The road is curvy but well-maintained throughout. We had no problems. However, I have heard the road through Santa Cruz is rough. 

Opening Hours

The first daily tour starts at 5 AM during the dry season.

In the rainy season, the first tour starts at 6 AM.

The last tour starts at 11 AM. 

However, they will typically combine tours if people sign up for multiple different time slots.

On the booking website, it states that there needs to be a minimum of 6 guests for a tour to occur, but on the day we went, Thomas and I were the only two hikers, and the tour still occurred.

Don’t forget to pre-book your tour! You can not just show up.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of year for clear views is during the dry season (from December until late April). During the rainy season, you will have a higher chance of unpredictable weather.

The best time of day to visit is usually as early as possible. The rain is more likely to roll in as the day goes on. 

Trail Distance & Elevation Gain

• Distance: The hike covers approximately 5 miles (8 kilometers) round trip.
• Elevation: The hike starts at 8,694 feet (2,650 meters) and ends at 10,909 feet (3,325 meters)
• Elevation Gain: You’ll ascend about 2,215 feet (675 meters) from the base camp to the summit.

What to Wear

When we did this hike, we experienced basically every weather possible within a four hour time period. 

I wore sneakers with warm socks, sports leggings, a tank top, a long-sleeved shirt, and a flannel shirt. 

Thomas wore hiking boots, hiking pants, a t-shirt, a sweatshirt, and a hat.

We also brought fleece jackets and our rain jackets. 

Just note, our shoes got wet on the drive back down. If you have waterproof hiking boots, it is a good idea to wear those.

What to Bring

• Multiple layers of clothes
• Rain coverage for yourself and your backpack
• Plenty of water
• Snacks
• Something with electrolytes (I like these packets or even just bring a Gatorade from a local shop)
• SPF 50+ Sunblock
• Bug spray
• Sunglasses
• Cell phone for pictures (I don’t suggest bringing any big cameras because you’ll want to travel light)
• Tissues or toilet paper (there wasn’t any in the bathrooms)
• Credit card (for the national park entry fee at the ranger station)
• ID, such as your passport, for when signing the waiver
• A flashlight or headlamp (if doing the 5 AM tour or sunrise tour)

We also brought gloves and winter hats. We didn’t end up needing them, but it can occasionally be very cold here. 

Physical Requirements

This hike is only open to people age 12 and older.

This hike is definitely challenging and not for everyone.

You’ll be reaching elevations up to around 10,800 feet (3,300 meters), so if you’re prone to altitude sickness, this might not be the best choice.

If you have knee or back issues, recent surgeries, severe diabetes, asthma or respiratory conditions, or any significant physical or health limitations, it’s probably best to skip this one.

Anyone with blood pressure, blood sugar, or other health conditions should always bring and monitor their medication closely.

On-Site Facilities

At the base station, there is a simple bathroom, picnic tables, free WIFI, and some drinks and snacks that your guide can sell to you.

You will hike by the ranger station when you are about 1km from the top. At the ranger station, there is another basic bathroom.

Our Experience Hiking Turrialba

When we first moved to Costa Rica in 2016, we lived in downtown San José. At the time, Turrialba Volcano was actively erupting, and I vividly remember waking up some mornings to a thin layer of volcanic ash covering all our plants.

It probably wasn’t the healthiest thing to breathe, and I’m convinced it contributed to some nasal blockage issues I still have today. But, well, that was just life then.

Fast forward several years, and Turrialba had finally calmed down enough for visitors to hike to the summit. We have talked about doing this hike for a while, but truthfully, I wasn’t totally sure if I was up for it.

Thomas and I are both in decent shape, but given my breathing struggles (thanks again, Turrialba!), I was worried about how I’d handle hiking uphill at high altitude.

Then again, I survived a hike at Lake Titicaca in Peru, which sits even higher, at 12,500 feet (3,810 meters) so maybe I’d be fine?

Plus, I really wanted to be able to write this guide for you all, and since we were already in the Turrialba area, we decided to book the tour.

Admittedly, we booked pretty last-minute (just one day before our hike). Part of me was hoping they’d decline our booking, since the website mentioned they needed at least 6 people signed up for the tour to proceed, and we were the only two registered for the 7 AM slot.

After booking, we got an email requesting payment, but it also said the tour could still be canceled if not enough people signed up.

I was a bit uncertain about how easy refunds would be, so I found a WhatsApp number on their booking page and messaged them to confirm if the tour was definitely happening before paying.

Thankfully, they quickly responded, confirming the tour was on. So I paid, and we were good to go.

The next morning, we headed out early from our accommodations. On the drive up, I was curious if our all-wheel-drive vehicle would handle the steep, winding roads. I had read some bad reviews on the roads, but I think that was from taking the Santa Cruz route. The La Pastora route was totally fine.

The instructions said to arrive at least 30 minutes early, which we did. When we got there, though, the guide hadn’t arrived yet, and we couldn’t access the parking lot.

It wasn’t a big deal, but I had a moment of mild panic, wondering if I’d somehow booked the wrong day.

Fortunately, about 15 minutes later, our guide arrived. He let us into the property, checked our payment, had us pick out walking sticks for the hike, and handed us each a helmet to be worn at the top of the volcano.

Then off we went!

The first kilometer of the hike was intense. Honestly, I wasn’t sure I was going to make it. It wasn’t extremely strenuous physically, but my breathing was definitely struggling. Luckily, our guide was excellent. He took frequent breaks, never rushed us, and made the ascent feel manageable.

About 0.6 miles (1 km) from the top, we reached the ranger station, where we took a longer break, paid the park entry fee, used the basic bathrooms, and put on our helmets for the final climb.

The last stretch up to the crater was pretty steep, but the moment we reached the summit made it all worth it. The crater was incredible, and our guide shared some interesting facts before giving us some time to explore on our own. He even snapped some photos of us on my phone.

The hike back down was a bit rougher than expected, especially because the gravel trail consisted of loose volcanic rocks.

At one point, I slipped and ended up with a pretty gnarly bruise that stuck around for weeks.

To top it off, the weather turned unpredictable. It quickly shifting from sunny skies to rain and back again.

Eventually, we made it back to the base camp, packed up our things, and started the drive down.

Overall, the experience was intense, but I felt super accomplished afterward, and I’m genuinely glad we did it!

Info About the Volcano

A Brief History

Turrialba Volcano is one of Costa Rica’s most impressive natural landmarks and has a fascinating past. 

After being dormant for over 100 years, the volcano reawakened in 2014. It then frequently erupted ash clouds that occasionally reached as far as San José. 

Standing at 10,958 feet (3,340 meters) tall, it’s Costa Rica’s second-highest volcano (just behind its neighbor, Irazú).

Its name, “Turrialba,” comes from the indigenous words Torre Alba which means “White Tower”.

This refers to the volcano’s summit, which is often wrapped in clouds and ash.

Geology & What Makes the Landscape Unique

As you start your hike, you’ll be surrounded by lush green rolling hills.

As the altitude increases, you’ll notice a distinct shift in scenery, from dense greenery to barren volcanic rock formations.

The volcanic terrain is dramatic and stark. It features multiple craters and expansive ash fields that create a unique, almost lunar landscape.

Our guide said that on clear days, you can sometimes see both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea from the summit.

Wildlife You May Encounter

Despite the volcanic terrain, Turrialba Volcano is home to a variety of wildlife. What you’ll actually see on your hike can really vary depending on the time of day, weather, and luck.

The area is part of the Turrialba Volcano National Park, which hosts over 80 species of birds and several types of mammals. Some of the species that live here include:

• Birds: Keep an eye out (and an ear open) for hummingbirds, tanagers, hawks, and more!
• Mammals: Wildlife like rabbits, coatis, and even coyotes roam the area, but they tend to be shy and are more likely to be spotted early in the morning or around dusk.
• Reptiles and Insects: You might also spot some lizards, butterflies, and highland insects along the trail.

That being said, we personally didn’t see much wildlife during our hike (except for the very enthusiastic cows grazing near the start of the trail). They were surprisingly curious and followed us for a bit like we were the day’s entertainment.

Cultural Significance in the Area

Turrialba Volcano significantly influences local culture and daily life in the area.

The surrounding region benefits from fertile volcanic soils. It is ideal for agriculture and is famous for producing some of Costa Rica’s best cheese and coffee.

The volcano is also woven into many local stories and traditions.

What to Do After

Truthfully, you’ll probably be exhausted after your hike and be ready for a nap. However, if you have a few days in the Turrialba area there are plenty of other fun things to do.

A few of our favorites are: 

• Visit The Guayabo National Monument: This is one of Costa Rica’s most important archaeological site and a fascinating place to explore. You can walk along forested trails that pass over ancient aqueducts, petroglyphs, and stone roads built by pre-Columbian civilizations. It’s a peaceful, educational, and underrated spot.
• Go Paragliding: The company Para Libre offers paragliding tours with experienced guides. No experience necessary and epic views are guaranteed! Find out more
• Take a Coffee Tour: Aquiares is a beautiful coffee farm located in the Turrialba area. Here you can take tours or even just stop by to buy some local coffee. Find out more
  • Pro Tip: This place also has a beautiful hotel on site. You can book it here
• Buy Some Cheese: This area is known for producing the traditional Turrialba cheese. This cheese comes in a block and is usually eaten as a side with breakfast. It has somewhat of a spongy texture like a feta or a haloumi, but the flavor is very mild. You can find it at local shops or roadside stands.

Where to Stay Nearby

• Guayabo Lodge: Simple rooms that can accommodate multiple people. We like that this place gives you a taste of the local culture.
• Cabañas el Bosque: These cabins are perfect if you’re looking for quiet, forest vibes. There’s not much in terms of luxury, but they’re cozy and clean. Plus, there is a pool on the property.
• Vista Turrialba Lodge: A peaceful eco-lodge with stunning mountain views, friendly hosts, and a relaxing atmosphere.

Final Thoughts on Hiking Turrialba Volcano

If you’re looking for a unique, off-the-beaten-path adventure in Costa Rica, hiking to the top of Turrialba Volcano is definitely one to consider. It’s not the easiest activity, and it is a bit pricey, but if you’re up for the challenge, the experience is incredibly rewarding.

Just be sure to go prepared and pace yourself. If you’re anything like us, you’ll end the hike feeling tired, a little sore, and totally accomplished.

Let us know if you have any questions in the comments section below. Or, if you do the hike, we’d love to hear how it went for you!

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