The Wild Side of Heredia

The first impressions of Heredia, Costa Rica are always those of great beauty and tranquility: the city lies nestled among tropical forests and world-renowned coffee plantations, and it is normal to see farmers transporting their goods into town by ox-cart. Many people remark that their time spent in the city gave them the long-needed break that they had been looking for, and that the flexibility of programs offered by our Spanish school in Heredia means that everyone can find exactly what they are looking for in terms of learning and relaxation.     

But, Heredia does not only boast of the beauty to be found within the city itself, it also whispers of adventure close at hand. The Puan volcano, Costa Rica’s most famous volcano, and its surrounding national park are just a short ride away from Heredia. Visitors from all over the world flock to the Puan volcano, which stands at 2,708 meters (8,200 feet) above sea level. The volcano has two craters, one of which is 300 meters (900 feet) deep. Is the largest crater in the world, and at the bottom is a lagoon that spews sulfurous gases. The Puan volcano has a history of eruptions going back over 11 million years, but modern day visitors need not fear. It has been a long time since it has erupted anything more than sulfurous gas and ash.  

As impressive as the volcano, the surrounding lush tropical forests are a sight to be seen. The Puan Volcano National Park encompasses 5,600 hectares and is relatively untouched by humanity; visitors can explore the park’s different regions using the short, well-maintained trails that extend from the craters into the forests. The park is representative of the amazing natural biodiversity of Costa Rica: it encompasses four different habitats, including a cloud forest, and is home to over 79 species of birds. As if that wasn’t enough, visitors should keep a special lookout for the Puan green-yellow squirrel, which is only found in the park.   

So, filling the week with Spanish classes and cultural activities at our ViaSpanish partner school in the picturesque and relaxing city of Heredia means that one can then explore the wild beauty of the Puan Volcano Natural Park on the weekends! What better way could there be to experience the diversity of Costa Rica!