Irazú Volcano: The Volcanic Roof of Costa Rica

At about 3,432 meters above sea level, Irazú Volcano, in Cartago, is the highest active volcano in Costa Rica. Its summit looks like another planet: grey sand, rocks, little vegetation and an impressive silence.

A lunar landscape

Irazú’s craters form an almost lunar landscape. The best known is the main crater, deep and with steep walls, which at times has held a green lake. Next to it is the Diego de la Haya crater, older and with a softer shape.

A historic eruption

Between 1963 and 1965 Irazú went through a long eruptive period that covered the Central Valley with ash. The activity began in March 1963, right during the visit to Costa Rica of U.S. President John F. Kennedy. Many Costa Rican families still tell stories about roofs covered in ash.

Two seas at once

One of the most beautiful stories about Irazú is true: on very clear mornings, from the summit you can see the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea at the same time. It does not happen every day, but when it does, it is unforgettable.

Tips for your visit

• Go up very early: clouds cover the summit quickly.
• Bring a jacket, a hat and sunscreen; the sun burns at this altitude even when it is cold.
• Walk slowly: the altitude can make you tired or dizzy.