A Journey Through the Clouds

As a seasoned traveler and surfer, I’ve always been drawn to the raw beauty of nature. So when I heard about the Costa Rica Volcano Tour that promised an adventure through two of Costa Rica’s most impressive volcanoes, I knew I had to experience it for myself. My wife and I, both lovers of the great outdoors, were eager to explore the volcanic landscapes of Irazu and Turrialba.

Our day began with a pickup from our hotel, and as we drove through the bustling streets of San Jose, we noticed a sea of people walking in one direction. Our guide, Alexander, explained that we were witnessing a major annual pilgrimage to the Basilica in Cartago. With millions of people participating, we decided to take a detour and visit a colonial church in Cartago instead. The church, with its rich history dating back to the 1500s, was a fascinating start to our journey.

The Dance of the Volcanoes

Leaving the city behind, we wound our way up the mountain roads, enveloped by dense clouds and lush jungle. The landscape was a tapestry of terraced farmland and vibrant greenery, a stark contrast to the volcanic terrain we were about to explore. As we hiked through private farmland, we encountered the remnants of old landslides and trees scorched by volcanic gases. The hike was moderately challenging, and while I opted to stay back and capture the stunning scenery, my wife and son continued to the highest point.

Standing amidst a field of tree debris, I marveled at the sight of Irazu’s peaks shrouded in clouds, while Turrialba’s peak stood clear against the sky. The ever-changing weather added an element of unpredictability to our adventure, with moments of fog, sun, and wind creating a dynamic backdrop for our exploration.

Frozen in Awe

Our journey continued to Irazu, where the cold wind swept the clouds through the craters, revealing breathtaking views. The landscape here was a stark contrast to Turrialba, with fields of ash sands and newer craters creating a lunar-like environment. We drove to the high point overlook, where one side offered a view of endless clouds, and the other side revealed the distant Sarchi lake and hydroelectric project.

Despite the freezing temperatures, we were elated by the beauty that surrounded us. As the day came to a close, we warmed up with delicious food and coffee, reflecting on the incredible sights we had witnessed. The Costa Rica Volcano Tour was a highlight of our trip, a reminder of the awe-inspiring power of nature and the joy of exploring it together.