As part of the “Pacific Ring of Fire”, Costa Rica is home to more than 100 volcanoes stretching the nation and aligned like pearls on a chain from Guanacaste in the north to the border of Panama in the south. Many of the volcanoes are dormant and in remote locations but six active volcanos keep visitors and scientists from around the world returning to Costa Rica year after year to get a closer look.

Volcano Arenal in the town of La Fortuna is one of the most active volcanoes of Central America. Since a major eruption in 1968, it has been in near-continuous activity building a lava dome and putting on a display for all to see. With a lush rainforest at its base, Arenal looms above, creating a picture perfect skyline for guests to fall in love with during day hikes while having all of the amenities of the tourist friendly town of La Fortuna.

If you’re looking to be transported back in time to ancient ruins, adobe homes, colorfully preserved residences and green fauna for as far as the eye can see, head to the Central Highlands for Volcano Turrialba. For visitors looking for a convenient day trip either on your way in or out of San Jose, the capital city, the Poas Volcano is just the ticket. Located in the Central Highlands, a mere 1.5 hours from San Jose, travelers can navigate their way though coffee and flower farms before emerging at the base of one of Costa Rica’s largest and looming volcano. Be sure to check out views of the crater’s rain-fed, sulfuric pool bubbles which emits photo worthy smoke.  Another option near the capital city is the Irazu Volcano, which is accessed via picturesque towns and windy roads. Stop along the way for some local fare. Hop on a guided horseback tour or take to the trails by foot and get your own glimpse of the volcanic formations that run along the Volcanic Corridor of Costa Rica.  In a country with this much volcanic activity, the traveler is sure to be impressed by so much beauty.