Irazú Volcano
THE HIGHEST VOLCANO OF COSTA RICA
Located in the Central Volcanic Mountain Range, 31 kilometers from the city of Cartago, Irazú is another of the active volcanoes, and the highest in the country, reaching 3,432 meters above sea level. Its name has indigenous origin (Istarú) that means “Hill of Tremor and Thunder.”
It is protected by the figure of National Park and has four craters and two lagoons. The Irazú volcanic complex also includes the Turrialba volcano, which is why they call it twin volcanoes. In its surroundings, you can find various attractions such as ornamental flower plantations, trout fishing sites, the old Durán Sanatorium, the colonial church of Quirkot, among others. In addition, in this area you can visit the Guayabo National Monument, which is an archaeological site of great importance for the country, recently declared a World Heritage Site.
The park, with an area of 2,000 hectares, protects the colossus of Irazú, which has a long history of eruptive cycles. The protected area’s geological resources are diverse, including the craters Playa Hermosa, El Principal and Diego de la Haya, as well as the Sapper formation, the highest point of the massif and from which the Caribbean and the Pacific of Costa Rica can be observed.
The Irazú Volcano National Park has two sectors of impressive scenic beauty: Craters and Prussia. From the viewpoint in the Craters sector, located at the highest point, you can observe the craters’ area that form part of the Braulio Carrillo National Park, the Turrialba Volcano National Park and the Caribbean coast, provided weather conditions allow it. In the Prussia sector, it is possible to travel the paths La Cajeta and El Bajo de La Laguna, where the spring of the Reventado River is located. It is an ideal area for family enjoyment, as well as organized groups, whether for educational or recreational purposes.
The park offers information for visitors, park rangers house, trails, health services, signage, cafeteria, parking and several natural viewpoints.
GEOPOSITION
Emberá Querá Village
San Felipe Castle
Lake Yojoa
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