Costa Rica’s iconic Poás Volcano is once again off-limits to visitors, after two significant eruptions on the morning of April 8, 2025. The National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC) confirmed the park’s closure, citing safety concerns due to increased volcanic activity that continues to pose a threat to both locals and tourists.

A Sudden Shift in Volcanic Behavior

The Poás Volcano had already shown signs of unrest in recent weeks, but Monday’s events marked a dramatic escalation. Between 6:49 a.m. and 10:33 a.m., two powerful phreatic eruptions were recorded, launching ash columns as high as 1,500 meters into the sky. Volcanologists from OVSICORI (Costa Rica’s Volcanological and Seismological Observatory) reported that gases and ash were detected as far as the surrounding towns of Grecia and Sarchí.

While such eruptions are typically brief, their explosive nature and unpredictability have prompted authorities to take immediate action. According to scientists, Poás has entered a persistent and unstable phase, requiring close, continuous monitoring.

Park Closure and Public Safety Measures

The SINAC announced the immediate and indefinite closure of Poás Volcano National Park. The decision follows safety protocols already triggered by an earlier closure in late March, which was lifted only briefly before this latest wave of activity. Now, with an orange alert level in place for the region, all access to the park is suspended until further notice.

Officials are urging the public to stay away from the area, warning against illegal tours and unauthorized access through back routes such as those in Bajos del Toro. Entering the park while it is closed is not only dangerous—it also carries legal consequences under Costa Rican environmental law.

Health Concerns for Nearby Communities

Beyond the immediate volcanic risk, local residents are facing potential health hazards. The recent eruptions have released significant amounts of sulfur dioxide (SO₂) and other volcanic gases that can irritate the respiratory system and eyes. The Ministry of Health advises affected communities to use N95 masks, limit outdoor activities, and seek medical attention if they experience symptoms such as coughing, eye irritation, or shortness of breath.

Impact on Tourism and Local Economy

The closure of Poás represents a blow to tourism in the Central Valley, where many small businesses rely on visitors to the national park. This interruption, though necessary, highlights the delicate balance between promoting ecotourism and ensuring public safety in volcanic regions.

While the park remains inaccessible, travelers are encouraged to explore other attractions throughout the country—from cloud forests in Monteverde to the beaches of the Nicoya Peninsula.

What Comes Next?

Experts from OVSICORI continue to monitor the volcano around the clock, but it remains unclear how long this phase of activity will last. As phreatic eruptions are difficult to predict and can occur without warning, the reopening of the park will depend on sustained reductions in gas emissions and seismic activity.

Until then, the message is clear: caution first.

Poás Volcano is a natural wonder that has long captivated visitors with its dramatic crater and geothermal power—but this same power demands respect.