📍 How to get there? From San José, take Florencio del Castillo Highway to Cartago. Continue to Tierra Blanca, then drive 2 km northeast toward Irazú Volcano. Take the left turn and continue approximately 4 km. Waze : https://waze.com/ul/hd1u2ehp3n 📌 Key Information - Distance : Up to 16 km of trails - Difficulty : Moderate - Accessibility : Accessible - Vehicle : Automobile - Parking : Yes - Pets : Not allowed - Camping : Not allowed - Opening hours : 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. - Contact : SINAC - Cost : ₡1000 (Nationals) / $5 (Foreigners) 🎒 What to bring? Comfortable clothes, good jacket, trail shoes or hiking boots, sunscreen, insect repellent, water, snacks, extra clothes and a great attitude.
🌳 Our experience at Prusia’s Magic Forest
🗓️ Date of visit: September 2023
After almost 7 years, we returned to the Irazú Volcano National Park – Prusia Sector, also known as Prusia’s Magic Forest for how stunningly beautiful it is.
We bought our tickets online via SINAC. We arrived around 8:30 a.m., with cloudy skies hinting at a chilly day. Parked the car and began our hike.
🚶♂️ Walking through pine trees and enchanted trails
We chose the longer loop trail that borders the park. Just take right turns at every intersection. You can also enjoy a picnic without hiking much.
The trail starts uphill, and after about 2 km you’ll feel it. Look for the “Sendero de los Abuelos” (Grandparents Trail) to find the red pine forest, where sunlight creates a magical glow. You’ll also find the haunted tree, unique among the rest, and end at a beautiful viewpoint of Cartago.