VOLCÀN BARVA

The Braulio Carrillo National Park includes two sectors: Quebrada González and Volcan Barva. Barva is one of the two dormant volcanoes in the country. Therefore, it is constantly monitored. Its last scientifically confirmed eruption dates back 8,000 years! Both mystical and poetic, the various hiking trails are rugged to say the least (giant tree roots often cross the path!) and, if you're lucky (and quiet), you'll be able to see some of the 515 species of birds that the national park has. Often shunned by tourists, it is mostly visited by Ticos, who keep their little secret if they don't find themselves with a mass of new visitors! So don't neglect this sleeping giant, and if you want to take a somewhat difficult hike away from the crowds, this is the place to be! The hike begins at the park entrance, on the road to San José de la Montaña, and then it's a six-hour round-trip hike through a forest that is constantly rained on (with some respite between December and April) for the full loop to the Copey lagoon. It is also possible to climb only to the Barva crater, the most attractive part, at 2,906 meters above sea level. Therefore, bring good shoes for the muddy trails and good clothes against the humidity and coolness. In Sacramento (north of Heredia), inform the post guards of your hiking intentions. If the weather is not great, they will know and can warn you or advise you. In any case, plan to leave as early as possible in the day to get ahead of the afternoon fog and not be completely blind. At the top, it is possible to camp on the grounds provided for about 1,500 colones, but this implies to foresee and to bring the necessary material and provisions, and in particular water. To descend the northern slope, it is better to be trained, well equipped and have a compass and a good topographic map of the area. It takes a good four days to reach the edge of the La Selva reserve, at the northernmost point of Braulio Carrillo Park. Tell someone if you are going to try this adventure.

Cacho De Venado: 1 .9 km - 1.5 hours

Vara Blanca Viewpoint: 1 km from the main trail - 50 minutes (round trip)

The Crater of the Volcano Lagoon: 3 km - 2 hours (round trip)

Laguna Copey: 5 km - 3 hours (round trip)