The strongest eruption since January

The volcano, which stands 1,916 meters tall, erupted at 3:03 a.m. on Monday, April 27. The Volcanological and Seismological Observatory of Costa Rica at the National University (OVSICORI-UNA) classified the event as moderate, although it noted that it was the strongest recorded at the site since January. The eruption was detected by seismic and acoustic instruments, but darkness prevented cameras from determining the height of the eruption column.

Despite the intensity of the event, authorities confirmed that no lahars, the volcanic mudflows that pose one of the greatest risks to nearby communities, were generated.

A change in the volcano’s behavior

“The volcano’s behavior has changed in recent weeks,” OVSICORI volcanologist Geoffroy Avard told local media. According to the expert, Rincón de la Vieja has once again entered a more eruptive phase following a period of relative calm in early 2026. OVSICORI currently records several low-intensity eruptions each week.

The April 27 eruption followed an earlier event on April 17 at 12:08 p.m., which reached a magnitude of 3.8 and produced a dense column of gas and ash above the crater. Another eruption on April 24 generated a gas plume that rose about 4,900 feet. Each event was briefly considered the strongest of the year before being surpassed by the next.

The interaction between groundwater and the volcano’s heat has triggered the recent phreatic activity, explained volcanologist Henriette Bakkar. Most of the material ejected consists of sediments from the crater lake and steam. For now, experts have ruled out lava emissions. Although the recent activity has caught the attention of volcanologists, the current events remain considerably smaller than the eruptions the volcano experienced in 2021 and 2023.

According to OVSICORI bulletins, the aviation alert level for Rincón de la Vieja remains at Yellow, the second of four levels.

Park access and visitor recommendations

Rincón de la Vieja National Park, part of the UNESCO-recognized Guanacaste Conservation Area, is located about 16 miles northeast of Liberia and is one of the most visited destinations in the region. Its two sectors, Las Pailas and Santa María, remain open to the public.

Visitors can hike trails leading to fumaroles, boiling mud pots, hot springs, and waterfalls such as La Cangreja and Las Escondidas. However, authorities have kept the Active Crater Trail, which leads directly to the volcano’s crater, closed since 2011 and continue to prohibit access to that area.

The National Emergency Commission (CNE) has advised nearby communities to avoid riverbeds that may carry volcanic sediment during periods of increased activity. Additionally, tourists staying in Liberia, on the Papagayo Peninsula, or at accommodations near Rincón de la Vieja are advised to check the park’s status with SINAC or their tour operators before visiting.

Also, it is recommended to stay tuned for updates from OVSICORI, especially regarding possible ash fall advisories.

Sensorial Sunsets

A natural… and strategic refuge

First documented by European explorers in the 16th century, Cocos Island quickly became a key stop along Pacific shipping routes. Its abundant fresh water, biodiversity, and sheltered geography made it an ideal place for ships to restock after long voyages. It is no surprise that pirates, buccaneers, and privateers used it as a refuge during the 17th and 18th centuries.

However, what truly made the island famous was not its practical use, but the stories that began to circulate about it.

The legendary treasure of Lima

The most famous of all these legends is that of the so-called “Lima Treasure.” According to the story, around 1820, during the wars of independence in South America, the Spanish viceroy in Lima decided to evacuate an enormous fortune to prevent it from falling into the hands of the revolutionaries. This treasure supposedly included gold objects, jewels, coins, and even a life-size statue of the Virgin Mary made of solid gold.

The cargo was trusted to Captain William Thompson, who was to transport it to a safe place. However, legend has it that Thompson and his crew murdered the Spanish guards, changed course toward Cocos Island, buried the treasure, and disappeared. Although Thompson was later captured, he managed to escape on the island before revealing the exact location of the loot. Since then, the treasure has never been recovered.

Expeditions, obsessions, and failures

During the 19th and 20th centuries, numerous adventurers attempted to find the treasure. Among them was August Gissler, a German who tried to colonize the island in the 1890s. Although his project failed, he remained there for years searching for the treasure without success.

Even well-known figures were drawn to the mystery. Former U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt visited the island several times during the 1930s. The British explorer Malcolm Campbell also funded an expedition, while other explorers claimed to have clues or maps that never led to any concrete results.

The pattern of these expeditions was almost always the same: high expectations, extreme conditions, and no significant discoveries. It receives more than seven meters of rain a year, has dense vegetation, and difficult terrain, making any excavation extremely difficult.

Protection and the current reality

Over time, the Costa Rican government decided to put an end to the unregulated excavations that were damaging the ecosystem. Today, Cocos Island is a protected national park where excavating or disturbing the environment is strictly prohibited. Most visitors are divers drawn to its extraordinary marine life, including hammerhead sharks, whale sharks, and manta rays.

Myth or reality?

The authenticity of the Treasure of Lima remains a subject of debate. Some historians believe the story is an exaggeration or even a fabrication, due to the lack of colonial records supporting the transfer of such wealth. Others, however, argue that the very absence of documents could indicate that it was a secret operation.

Regardless of its authenticity, the legend has been powerful enough to stand the test of time, inspiring books, documentaries, and theories.

Sensorial Sunsets

The new bridge is 137.8 feet long and rises up to 65.6 feet above the forest floor. Its pedestrian deck consists of 54 clear glass panels, each 0.79 inches thick, designed to support more than 204.8 pounds per square foot, allowing visitors to enjoy a direct view of the cloud forest beneath their feet. The suspended structure weighs nearly 6,000 pounds and is supported by two main cables, each one inch thick.

The Glass Bridge: the new attraction

The project follows a complete renovation of a previous structure on the site. According to Treetopia, the bridge was redesigned following a structural analysis aimed at improving safety, performance, and aesthetics. Materials such as stainless steel were used to ensure durability in Monteverde’s humid and demanding conditions. The total investment for the project amounts to $400,000.

The opening of the bridge adds a new attraction to a park already established as one of Monteverde’s most renowned adventure destinations. Treetopia’s Sky Walk trail continues the tradition of suspension bridge tourism in Costa Rica, which began in 1997, and currently features six suspension bridges along approximately 1.7 miles of trails. The longest bridge spans 774 feet.

Monteverde Sky Walk

The glass bridge is included in the standard Sky Walk admission ticket, with no additional charge. This is particularly important in Monteverde, where visitors often compare parks based on the number of experiences they can enjoy in a single visit. In addition, Treetopia operates the TreeTram cable car, described as the only one in the Monteverde cloud forest, along with the Sky Trek zip-line circuit and the tree-top adventure course.

In Monteverde, this new attraction enhances the area’s signature blend of wildlife viewing, cloud forest scenery, and adventure experiences. The attraction stands out for offering a unique perspective: walking directly above the treetops on transparent glass.

The opening coincides with Holy Week, one of the busiest periods for domestic tourism. Treetopia invites both local residents and international visitors to experience the new bridge as part of its offerings in Monteverde, confident that the combination of panoramic forest views and the sensation of walking over the void will be a unique selling point in one of Costa Rica’s most competitive adventure destinations.

• Website: www.treetopiapark.com
• Reservations: +506 4000-7292
• WhatsApp: https://wa.me/50684101234
• Email: info@treetopiapark.com

Sensorial Sunsets

Geological origin and characteristics of the terrain

Isla Pájaros está compuesta principalmente de piedra arenisca y comparte los mismos minerales y sedimentos que la cercana Isla Guayabo. Su origen se debe a los movimientos tectónicos que dieron lugar a la formación de este abismo marino, creando un conjunto de islas de gran valor geológico y paisajístico.

The terrain is similar to that of Guayabo, featuring a landscape that combines rocky surfaces, patches of grass, and low-growing vegetation. The island is home to a low-lying forest dominated by species such as the guísaro shrub, guanacaste, higuerón, and manteco.

A privileged climate

The climate is warm and sunny for most of the year. The rainfall is scarce and mainly concentrated between the months of May and November. These climatic conditions favor both tourism and the presence of numerous species of flora and fauna.

Flora and fauna: a haven of biodiversity

Isla Pájaros is part of a group of four islands—Guayabo, Negritos (two islets), and Pájaros—that constitute an important refuge for seabirds. The islands of Guayabo and Negritos were declared reserves by Executive Decree No. 2858-A of February 28, 1973, and are part of the Tempisque Conservation Area.

Among the most representative birds are:

• The Magnificent Frigatebird
• The Laughing Gull
• The Brown Booby
• Fregata magnificens
• The Brown Pelican
• The Yellow-naped Amazon

During certain times of the year, migratory birds also arrive to feed and reproduce. Species such as the peregrine falcon and the White-tipped Dove (Leptotila verreauxi) have also been recorded. In addition, reptiles such as the garrobo (Black Spiny-tailed Iguana) inhabit the island.

In terms of terrestrial fauna, the island is home to raccoons, numerous hermit crabs, fiddler crabs, mud crabs, oysters, and scallops. The surrounding waters are especially rich in marine life, with fish species such as:

• Pacific red snapper (Lutjanus)
• The Spotted Rose Snapper (Lutjanus guttatus)
• The Yellow Snapper (Lutjanus argentiventris)

It is also possible to observe populations of dolphins, tuna, and mackerel in the surrounding waters.

In particular, the nearby Guayabo Island is an important nesting site for the Brown Pelican (Pelecanus occidentalis), with populations that can reach up to 300 individuals.

Ecological importance

The ecological importance of Isla Pájaros lies in its role as a habitat and breeding ground for abundant populations of seabirds, as well as a refuge for species characteristic of the tropical dry forest and marine ecosystem of the Gulf of Nicoya.

With no tourist infrastructure, trails, or visitor facilities, it remains a priority conservation area. For this reason, camping is not permitted on the island, and visits require authorization from the Tempisque Conservation Area.

Traveling

The only way to get a closer look at the reserve is by hiring a boat. Access is via the village of Costa de Pájaros, located 21 kilometers from the Inter-American Highway, north of Puntarenas.

From Puntarenas, the approximate distances by sea are:

• Guayabo Island: 5 miles south
• Negrito Islands: 10.3 miles south
• Isla Pájaros: 7 miles to the northeast

The distance from San José is approximately 73 miles by road and boat.

Sensorial Sunsets

For what is Puntarenas known?

Known as the paradise of the Costa Rican Pacific, the province stands out for its extensive beaches ideal for surfing, especially in Santa Teresa, as well as for excursions to islands in the gulf such as Tortuga Island and San Lucas Island.

Among its main natural attractions are Manuel Antonio National Park, Corcovado National Park, Ballena Marine National Park, and the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve. It is also a prime destination for whale watching, sport fishing, mangrove tours, and sunset catamaran cruises.

Imagine strolling along the waterfront, enjoying fresh ceviche, or savoring a traditional Churchill by the sea. The port city retains its coastal charm.

Cities to visit in the province of Puntarenas

• Puntarenas City: Built on a narrow strip of sand, it is known for the Paseo de los Turistas, its ceviche stalls, and its traditional Churchills. Ferries depart from here to the Nicoya Peninsula.
• Quepos: The gateway to Manuel Antonio National Park, combining white-sand beaches, wildlife-filled trails, and a modern marina.
• Santa Elena: Center of the Monteverde region, ideal for canopy tours, suspension bridges, and night walks in the cloud forest.
• Santa Teresa and Mal País: Surfing towns with a bohemian atmosphere, long beaches, and a strong culture of wellness and yoga.
• Puerto Jiménez: Main access point to Corcovado National Park and starting point for exploring the rainforest and staying in remote ecolodges.

What to see in Puntarenas, Costa Rica, in one day?

• Discover the Paseo de los Turistas
• Visit the Marine History Museum
• Contemplate the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart
• Enjoy yourself in Blanca Beach

What to see in Puntarenas, Costa Rica, in two days?

• Visit Manuel Antonio National Park
• Escape to Los Negritos Island
• Trip to San José
• Discover the Pacific Marine Park

As one of the most visited regions in the country, there is plenty to see and do in Puntarenas, Costa Rica. Despite the small size of the city of Puntarenas, you will find several important places to visit.

Sensorial Sunsets

Location and how to get there

Playa Ardilla is located near the popular Potrero and Flamingo beaches on the northwest coast of the country. From Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) in Liberia, the drive takes approximately one hour. If you are traveling from San José, you should allow between four and five hours on Route 1, passing through the distinctive landscapes of Guanacaste.

Driving route (recommended):
From Tamarindo, take the main road north (Route 155 or paved coastal roads), passing through Playa Grande and Brasilito, until you reach the Flamingo and Bahía Potrero area. Access to Playa Ardilla is near Potrero; you can park in a public area or near a hotel, such as in the vicinity of Bay del Sol.

From the access point, you will need to descend around 70 steep steps along a path surrounded by jungle vegetation and palm trees until you reach the beach. Sturdy footwear is recommended.

To make the journey easier, you can use Waze or Google Maps to search for “Playa Ardilla, Bahía Potrero” (approximate coordinates: 10.45° N, 85.68° W). The final stretch of the road is dirt or gravel, so a high-clearance vehicle may be a good option.

Features of the beach

Playa Ardilla is distinguished by its crystal clear turquoise waters, white or beige sand, and generally calm waves, making it ideal for swimming and relaxing. Its secluded location and relatively difficult access contribute to it being a less crowded spot.

It has no tourist infrastructure or services, which reinforces its rustic and natural essence.

Tips for your visit

The best time to visit Ardilla Beach is during the dry season, between December and April, when weather conditions are more stable and the trails are in better condition. During the rainy season, the trails can become slippery and access more difficult.

Since there are no services on the beach, it is important to bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and everything else you need for a comfortable and safe stay.

Other modes of transport

• Taxi or private shuttle:
  From Tamarindo, the approximate cost is between $50 and $80 USD per trip. The journey takes around 1.5 hours and can be booked at hotels or local agencies for door-to-door transportation.
• Public bus: You can take a bus from Tamarindo to Huacas or Playas del Coco (approximate cost of $2 to $3 USD, duration of 45 minutes) and then continue by taxi to Potrero or Flamingo. The total trip takes about 2 hours and is the most economical option, although it requires transfers.

There are no buses that go directly to Playa Ardilla, as the final access is exclusively pedestrian.

Sensorial Sunsets

During World War II, in 1943, Doña Else arrived at the greenhouses of Ludwig Kientzler, who had established the nursery on October 15, 1904, in Germany. Thanks to its specialized operation, the greenhouse gained recognition for the quality of its young plants in different regions of the country.

In this context, Else met Ludwig Kientzler’s only son, who had the same name and had returned from the war. Then, in 1945, after his release from prison, they married and started a family with three children: Ludwig, Helmut, and Iris.

In 1949, Ludwig Kientzler Sr. passed away at the age of 69. His son, who had been trained in the field, took over responsibility for the business. However, on March 19, 1960, Ludwig Kientzler Jr. died at the age of 45. Unexpectedly, the management and maintenance of the project fell to Else, who had to simultaneously assume her role as mother and head of the company.

From that moment on, Else devoted herself to managing, cultivating, and organizing the site, continuing the family project and laying the foundations for the space that is now known as the Else Kientzler Garden.

Spaces and routes

The garden covers 7 hectares of land, divided into different types of gardens, with more than 2,000 tropical plants and areas set aside for relaxation, meditation, and social activities.

Among its attractions is a flower with a labyrinth design that allows visitors to take an internal tour. The site also has several trails, one of which leads to a small lake. There is also a children’s play area and open spaces where you can lay out blankets for activities such as picnics.

The garden offers restaurant service, although you are allowed to bring your own food.

Activities and services

The Else Kientzler Garden is available for photo shoots, recreational activities, educational tours, workshops, lectures, and events such as weddings, depending on availability.

Other nearby attractions in Sarchí, such as Eloy Alfaro’s Wagon Workshop and the large wagon located in the town’s central park, can be added to the tour.

Practical information

Address: 800 meters north of Eliécer Pérez Conejo Stadium
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/JvoV4CRjhqW9YRTZA

Pets: Yes
Restaurant: Yes
Parking: Yes
Difficulty: Low

Hours: Monday through Sunday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

What to bring: Comfortable clothing, sunscreen, and a sun hat.

Costs

• Adults: ¢3,500
• Children (ages 3 to 12): ¢2,500
• Students: ¢2,700
• Seniors: ¢2,700

Contacts: 2454-2070 / 6121-9161

Sensorial Sunsets

An area surrounded by nature

Las Nubes is characterized by its cool climate, lush vegetation, and panoramic views that encompass valleys, mountains, and, on clear days, even part of the Central Valley. It is precisely this combination of natural landscapes and tranquility that attracts visitors seeking outdoor activities.

Featured restaurants and attractions

One of the main reasons to visit Las Nubes is its mountain restaurants, which combine spectacular views with traditional Costa Rican cuisine.

• Entre Nubes Restaurant: Ideal for those who enjoy a cozy atmosphere and traditional dishes. Its cuisine showcases local flavors and offers perfect options to enjoy in a setting surrounded by trees and fresh air.
• Mirador Rancho Samaná: Known for its grilled meat cuts, its privileged view, and its areas for resting and exploring. Many visitors choose it for short hikes, enjoying the viewpoints, and spending the day in contact with nature.

These spaces offer not only cuisine, but also experiences: trails, picnic areas, scenic viewpoints, and activities for the whole family.

Rural lodging alternatives

For those who wish to extend their experience, Las Nubes also offers rural accommodations that allow guests to enjoy the silence of the mountains and wake up to the sound of birds singing. These options are typically cozy, surrounded by greenery, and perfect for weekend getaways.

Natural views and outdoor living

The main attraction of the area is its natural scenery. Among the mist that frequently covers the mountains, green meadows, and hidden trails, Las Nubes is the ideal place for activities such as:

• Family hikes
• Landscape observation
• Nature photography
• Peaceful walks outdoors

It is a destination that invites you to slow down, appreciate your surroundings, and reconnect with what is essential.

Real estate investment opportunities

Besides being a charming place to visit, Las Nubes has also sparked interest among those looking for lots or rural properties. Land is available in the area, some with access to public services, which facilitates residential or tourism projects.

Sensorial Sunsets

Hiking trails and routes

The Cerro Dantas Wildlife Refuge has two main trails that allow visitors to explore different areas of the forest.

The Expedition Trail, approximately 3.5 kilometers long, crosses part of the cloud forest and includes a visit to one of the refuge’s waterfalls. It is ideal for those looking for a short hike, with moderate slopes, ancient bridges, and muddy areas that add a touch of adventure. From the point where vehicles are usually left to the reception area, the initial ascent is steep and provides an excellent introduction to the mountainous terrain of the area.

The Paja de Agua Trail, approximately 6.5 kilometers long, is designed for more experienced hikers or those in good physical condition. This internal route crosses wetter and steeper areas of the forest, with significant elevation changes and demanding sections, especially during the rainy season. The trail allows you to venture into the most untouched areas of the refuge.

Besides, the traditional hike to reach the shelter from the parking lot can be about 10 kilometers round trip, taking approximately four to five hours, depending on the visitor’s pace. This route includes slopes, muddy areas, and bridge crossings, combining flat sections with steep descents and ascents typical of the mountain rainforest.

Those who combine the access route with the internal trails can complete up to 15 kilometers of walking, with an intermediate level of difficulty and an estimated duration of between four and six hours.

Waterfalls and scenic spots

One of the main attractions of the lodge is the Velo de Novia waterfall, located near the reception area. This waterfall surrounded by vegetation is perfect for enjoying the scenery and taking photographs. Its easy access makes it a must-see for those hiking the short trail or visiting the lodge for the first time.

Cloud forest flora and fauna

The cloud forest of Cerro Dantas is home to a remarkable diversity of species. Along the trails, you can see centuries-old trees, giant ferns, wild orchids, bromeliads, and lichens that thrive in the constant humidity. The refuge is also home to numerous birds, including toucans, trogons, and hummingbirds, as well as amphibians, insects, and small mammals. Occasionally, lucky visitors may spot larger species such as pizotes or tapirs, which give the refuge its name.

Sensorial Sunsets

Pavones: more than just surf

Pavones Beach is distinguished by its dark gray sand and waves. The beach stretches continuously for more than 800 meters, creating long, unforgettable waves. In addition to its international fame for surfing, this destination offers activities such as sport fishing, zip-lining, hiking, and, of course, surfing lessons for beginners.

In the surrounding area, visitors will find rustic hotels, hostels, small restaurants, and local supermarkets, allowing them to enjoy an authentic experience.

The legendary surf: the endless wave of Pavones

Pavones is renowned for offering a legendary left-hand break that can stretch for almost a kilometer on optimal days. This spot is especially popular with goofy-foot surfers, as it allows them to ride long, smooth, and consistent sections that flow into Golfo Dulce.

The vibe in the town of Pavones is different from other busier tourist destinations like Tamarindo: it’s peaceful, rustic, and relaxed.

Best time for surfing

The ideal surf season in Pavones runs from May to October, when swells from the south and southwest bring the most consistent and powerful waves of the year. During these months, the lefts reach their peak, offering rides of up to 1,000 meters and walls up to 12 feet high, ideal for intermediate and advanced surfers.

During the dry season (November to April), the sea is usually calmer, with small, less consistent waves, which is more suitable for those looking for quiet sessions or for longboarders. For those who want variety, nearby Punta Blanco offers good alternatives when Pavones is calm.

Nature and adventure in the area

To complement the experience, less than 60 km from Pavones is the Golfito National Wildlife Reserve, home to birds, mammals, reptiles, and ceiba trees, known for their white, fluffy seeds. Their steep trails are an ideal challenge for hikers, with walks that can last up to two hours.

How to get there

Reaching Pavones is part of the adventure. Although it is possible to get there by standard car, the gravel road requires caution, especially during the rainy season. Another convenient option is to take a domestic flight to Golfito Airport, located approximately 1 hour and 35 minutes from Pavones by road.

Sensorial Sunsets