The Ministry of Environment and Energy (MINAE), through the National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC), has issued a stern warning to both local and international tourists: unauthorized entry and the destruction of official signage at Poás Volcano National Park must stop immediately.
Critical Update: Recent reports indicate that nearly 50 strategic safety signs
have been vandalized, removed, or destroyed in high-risk sectors of the park.
A Battle Against Vandalism
In an effort to ensure visitor safety and protect state-owned natural heritage, park administration recently installed approximately 50 signs in strategic locations. These markers are designed to delimit authorized paths and warn of the extreme dangers associated with restricted volcanic zones.
Unfortunately, park rangers have discovered a disturbing trend. In sectors such as Bajos del Toro and Quemaderos, signs are frequently found destroyed or thrown into the brush. These acts of vandalism not only damage public property but also put human lives at significant risk by removing vital safety information.
Legal Consequences: Fines and Sanctions
Entering a National Park through non-authorized points is no longer just a safety risk —it is a legal offense. SINAC reminds the public that national legislation penalizing unauthorized entry into Protected Wilderness Areas is now in full effect.
Individuals caught bypassing official entrances or damaging park infrastructure can now face:
- Significant legal fines.
- Police detention and criminal reports.
- Permanent expulsion from protected areas.
Official Statement from MINAE
“Respecting signage and regulations within our Protected Wilderness Areas is not
optional. These measures exist to safeguard human life, protect our ecosystems,
and guarantee responsible tourism. Today more than ever, we call for collective
awareness.”
— Franz Tattebach, Minister of Environment and Energy
How to Visit Responsibly
To enjoy the majestic beauty of Poás Volcano without legal trouble or physical
danger, visitors are urged to:
*Only use official, marked trails.
*Pay close attention to all safety instructions and signage.
*Report any acts of vandalism to park authorities immediately.
*Purchase tickets only through official channels
