This refuge is located in Los Ángeles Sur de Río Cuarto, the newest canton in the province of Alajuela. The Hule, Congo, and Bosque Alegre Lagoons are three wetlands that are part of the refuge and the Central Volcanic Mountain Range Conservation Area.
They are situated 11 km south of Poás Volcano and 8 km from the town of Cariblanco.
The largest of the three lagoons is the Hule Lagoon, well known for the incredible view from its lookout point. It is 1,150 meters long and over 26 meters deep, located at an altitude of 400 meters above sea level.
The second largest is the Congo Lagoon, with a depth of 14.6 meters and an area of 15 hectares. To reach it, you must take the path to the right of Hule Lagoon, which is about 3 km through a densely forested and somewhat muddy trail. This lagoon has a distinctive greenish color, perfect for photography.
In third place is the Bosque Alegre Lagoon, the smallest of the three. It does not have a trail leading to it, so it is rarely visited.
Around these lagoons, you can find a great diversity of wildlife. You might encounter animals such as armadillos, white-faced capuchin monkeys, and howler monkeys. Additionally, there are around 170 species of birds in the area.
Activities you can enjoy here include fishing, kayaking, camping, hiking, and even taking a refreshing swim.
Near the lookout, there is also a restaurant where you can have lunch, or you can bring your own picnic to enjoy by the shores of Hule Lagoon.
Don’t forget:
Comfortable or trail shoes, a waterproof jacket, a swimsuit, a towel, sunscreen, insect repellent, and snacks for the hike.
What are you waiting for? Bring your family and friends and explore this place—you won’t regret it!
How to get there:
To visit these lagoons, take Route 126, which connects Varablanca-Cinchona and Cariblanco. Once you arrive in Cariblanco, continue for 6.5 km on a gravel road towards Los Ángeles. This turn-off is through the community known as “Nueva Cinchona.” You can leave your vehicle at the Bosque Alegre Lookout Park; from there, it’s just a 500-meter walk to Hule Lagoon. We recommend using your preferred navigation app to guide you from your starting point.
