Pozo Verde is a volcanic-origin lagoon known for its emerald green waters and a depth of 15 meters. Located in the popular “Water Park” near Sucre, it’s a magical hidden gem perfect for a nature escape, hiking through cloud forest, and ending with an unforgettable swim.

How to get there?
In Sucre town, between Zarcero and Ciudad Quesada. The trail starts before the park gate, to the left. Walk about 3 km through a Monteverde-style cloud forest, cross a small wooden bridge, and continue on the wide trail until you reach the lagoon.
👉 with Waze

What to bring?
Comfortable clothes, trail shoes, swimwear, repellent, and sunscreen.

Food?
Snacks and water. Pick up some cheese on the way for a picnic once you get there.

Hike: 6 km round trip. Easy, low slope.

Difficulty: Low.

Our adventure to Pozo Verde

As usual, we knew the destination — Pozo Verde — but had no clue how to get there. After some thorough Googling, we set off from San José ready for the journey.

How to get there

Through Zarcero

We took the General Cañas highway toward Naranjo de Alajuela. Along the way, we stopped for snacks and stretched our legs in the Zarcero park, walking among the iconic cypress trees.

Cheese stop in Sucre

We continued to a small dairy town called Sucre, turned right and drove uphill for about 30 minutes on a 97.5% decent road. Along that road, we found a little wooden house surrounded by farm animals (pig, turkey, dog, cat, goat). That’s where we met don Gerardo and saw the sign: “SE VENDE QUESO” — maybe the best Turrialba cheese we’ve ever had!

The hiking trail

With cheese in hand, we drove 10 more minutes until we hit a gate and wild forest. We parked there and started the trail.

The path begins after a small bridge to the left. It's wide, shaded, and easy to follow. We walked about 3 km through Monteverde-style cloud forest, crossing mystical pastures with mossy rocks and small clear springs.

Discovering the lagoon

A sign confirmed we were on track. After a short descent and a left turn at a fork, it suddenly appeared — the emerald-green Pozo Verde lagoon, right in the middle of the forest.

Picnic and return

The temptation was too much. We jumped in, swam, then enjoyed a picnic on a grassy hill with our fresh cheese. (Hot tip: don’t forget mosquito repellent!)

Full and happy, we hiked back along the same route, changed clothes at the car, and returned to civilization, totally recharged.