Two popular places people like to visit in the Turrialba area have reopened after being closed for more than a week because of heavy rain and concerns about uncertain conditions. Turrialba Volcano National Park and Guayabo National Monument reopened yesterday after officials determined that weather conditions had improved and access roads were safe for vehicles.
The Ministry of Environment and Energy and the National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC) closed both sites beginning August 18 as Costa Rica dealt with heavy rainfall associated with Tropical Wave 33 and an orange weather alert. At the time, saturated soil raised concerns about landslides, falling material and other problems that could put visitors and park employees at risk.
Officials said inspections carried out before the reopening found that the two most recent tropical waves had not caused significant damage in the area. Roads leading to the attractions have also been cleared for traffic. The reopening is welcome news for travelers heading to the Turrialba region, which has been among the areas affected by Costa Rica’s unusually active rainy-season weather in recent weeks.
Guayabo National Monument is Costa Rica’s most important protected archaeological site. About 20 hectares, or 49 acres, contain pre-Columbian stone structures, roads, aqueducts and other remains dating from roughly 1000 B.C. to 1400 A.D. The site is also recognized as an International Historic Civil Engineering Landmark because of the engineering techniques used by its early inhabitants.
Turrialba Volcano National Park gives visitors access to the slopes of one of Costa Rica’s best-known active volcanoes. The park reopened to tourism in recent years after spending long periods closed because of volcanic activity. Visitors should still keep an eye on weather conditions before traveling. SINAC warned that operating conditions can change quickly if heavy rain or other safety concerns return, and visitors should follow instructions from park staff.
Authorities announced that both protected areas had returned to normal visitor service. Anyone planning a trip to Turrialba Volcano should confirm the day’s opening hours before leaving, particularly during the rainy season.
