Costa Rica's natural beauty and attractions have been enhanced by the active volcanic region where it lies. There are over 112 volcanic formations across the country, seven being currently active (lava flows, incandescent rocks, fumaroles, ash columns and so on). All this has highly contributed to the country's rugged terrain and the overwhelming landscape of the outdoors.
The country's backbone is formed by four Cordilleras or mountain ranges, each showing special and distinctive features. From west to east they are: Cordilleras Guanacaste, Tilarán, Central and Talamanca. So far only ten volcanoes are listed as tourist destinations, so you may find a whole new world to discover. Volcanic activity has contributed to the fertile soils that underlies most of the national territory.
But sudden eruptions have also been the cause of much death and destruction in the past, reminding us of nature's breathtaking power. Nowadays, visiting volcanoes is fairly safe if you follow instructions posted at each site.
Some of Costa Rica's volcanoes have been protected by the National Parks System (Turrialba, Irazú, Poás and Rincón de la Vieja), while others are part of a Conservation Unit (Arenal), or comprised within a Protection Area (Miravalles and Tenorio). Some volcanoes allow visitors to climb to the top and have a close overlook of the craters, while others must be appreciated from the distance.
Ecotourism and Nature 
