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Anyone planning their Costa Rica vacations seeking to experience the most extremes that nature has to offer should consider a volcanic route. That is, Costa Rica is home to a handful of incredible and active volcanoes that should not (and in many cases, cannot) be ignored. The lush jungle country arguably would not exist or at least have its current range of natural diversity if it weren't for its volcanoes whose eruptions have helped to saturate the land with vital minerals that wildlife and vegetation count on for survival.

Today, of the about 100 volcanoes that have signs of activity, only 5 are truly considered active. Panoramic views from the tops of these grand formations are absolutely breathtaking and sure to be unforgettable moments on your Costa Rica trips. Here are the 5 active volcanoes that Costa Rica has to offer.

1. Arenal Volcano

This is the most famous volcano in Costa Rica due to its consistent activity. The activity is usually a consistent puffing of hot gases and steam though it has not fully erupted since the late 1990s. Looming over the sparkling Arenal Lake Reservoir, Arenal is considered most picturesque due to its perfect conical outline.

2. Irazu Volcano

Irazu Volcano in the Central Volcanic Range is a place you won't want to visit without your camera. Views from the top offer vistas into both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans; what a treat! Below, the volcano has blessed the land with much fertile soil, making the area idyllically green and picturesque. As well, a number of exotic wild creatures such as tapirs, tanagers, and graceful flying birds call this area their home.

3. Poás Volcano

Poás is also located in the Central Volcanic Range about 50 miles southeast of the Arenal Volcano and stands 8,884 feet above sea level. It has the largest crater of an active volcano in the world with a staggering 1 mile diameter. Trails leading visitors to the top also include detours through cloud forests that have been stunted with the effects of acid rain clouds that linger in the high altitudes. The glorious Lake Botos fills one of Poás' two extinct craters and is a great place for a relaxing rest while taking in the wonderful view.

4. Orosi Volcano

This is the first volcano to welcome you to Costa Rica if driving in from Nicaragua. Visitors are not allowed to climb to the top for safety reasons, but the area around the base has been turned into gorgeous expanses of crop and cattle farms. Visits to the nearby Guanacaste National Park can be easily paired with this destination.

5. Ricon de la Vieja

This delightful volcano, which means "corner of the old lady," is surrounded by countless freshwater lakes, waterfalls, hot springs, geysers, and boiling mud pools. Yes, travelers may pay a small fee to bathe in hot mud pools enriched with volcanic matter. It is also actually a series of 4 peaks and includes the property of 4 national parks: Parque Nacional Rincon de la Vieja, the Parque Nacional Santa Rosa, the Parque Nacional Guanacaste, and the Zona Protectra Miravalles. Clearly, this is the perfect corner for nature lovers.