GENERAL INFORMATION

This is the highest volcano of Costa Rica, with an altitude of 3,432 ASL Due to its location, on a clear day you may observe both the Pacific ocean and Caribbean Sea.

The Irazú Volcano, formerly called Cartago’s volcano (no known reference) is a complex volcanic shield (500 km2) of an irregular, sub conic shape, whose temperature in situ varies between -3°C and 17°C.

In 1723 the main crater was responsible for a great eruption that caused a large number of earthquakes.

In August 9, 1962 the there was renewed volcanic activity, and by March of 1963 it received the status of a national emergency. This eruptive activity extended until 1965. The huge masses of ash coming from the Irazú caused enormous losses to agriculture and cattle ranching, beside harming the health of the inhabitants in the Central Valley..

Irazú’s eruptions have continued over the last several years; the last one produced an avalanche, sliding until it reached the waterway of Sucio River, on the Braulio Carrillo Highway.

For its geological characteristics it is an area of interest for students and scientists.

LOCATION

It is located on the northwest side of the Province of Cartago, county of Oreamuno, on the Irazú massif, which is part of the Conservation Area of the Central Volcanic Mountain Range.

MAIN ATTRACTIONS

The Irazú is formed by five craters: Main, Diego de la Haya, Playa Hermosa crater, the Lagoon and the Pyroclastic.

Around the craters you may observe low vegetation and there are distinguishable species such as the myrtle, poor man’s umbrella and papelillo (senecio oerstedianus).

The fauna is scarce, composed of coyotes, rabbits, squirrels, porcupines and different birds such as the volcano junco, acorn carpenter and mountain robin, among others.

SERVICES OFFERED

Paved road, parking area, look-out, cafeteria, restrooms, information office, and lunch area. For more information, contact: www.sinac.go.cr y www.minae.go.cr.

RECOMMENDATION

Do not feed the wild animals, as they have their own particular diet and thus harms their digestive processes

REGULATIONS

• The National Parks were created to preserve natural and cultural resources; the removal of any animal, plant, rock, or other item from the area is not permitted.
• If you need help or information, ask the park staff. They will be glad to help.
• For your own safety don't descend to the craters; their walls are unstable due to the activity of the volcano.
• Help keep the park clean. Deposit trash in its respective bin (cans and glass, plastic, organic).