Irazu Volcano National Park
Irazu Volcano, still active, last made international headlines when it erupted in 1963 on the day that former US President John F. Kennedy visited the country. The eruption decimated crops in the area but left the soil enriched for decades to come. The last noticeable activity came in 1996, and since then Irazu has been a quiet giant. Reaching upward of 11,260 ft (3,432 m), Irazu is the tallest volcano in Costa Rica .
The volcano has several craters, two of which are the principal attractions. The larger of the two delves 900 feet (275 m) deep, as steam rises up into the air giving visitors at nearby viewing stations an amazing sight to behold. The smaller crater, Diego de la Haya, dips below the surface 300 ft (91 m) as its mineral-rich lake astonishingly transforms its color from emerald-green to crimson-red. On a clear day, the Pacific and Caribbean are visible.
The landscape of Irazu Volcano National Park (Parque Nacional Volcan Irazu) flourishes on 5,705 acres (2,300 ha) of immaculate montane forest, mainly comprised of primary, secondary and cloud forest. Although the wildlife is often difficult to see because of the constant volcanic activity, many small animals make their home within the park&s perimeters. Coyotes, squirrels, armadillos, rabbits, foxes, owls, robins, woodpeckers, even the volcano junco and volcano hummingbird all manage to dwell here on this rugged terrain. The area around the crater is barren, lacking any vegetation as the ashy earth below gives evidence to previous volcanic eruptions.
The facilities include bathrooms, picnic tables and even a place to get food and warm drinks, which can be nice since the average temperature is a chilly 45ºF (7.2ºC). Upon visiting, it is not uncommon to see frost sprinkle the lunar-like landscape. To avoid the wettest months, the best time to visit is during March and April, although cool temperatures and high winds are common year round. The park is open seven days a week from 8 am to 3 pm and it is recommended to visit early in the morning as swirling clouds are known to engulf the summit later on in the day. The entrance fee is $7 and camping is not allowed.
From San Jose , head east 14 miles (23 km) to the nation's former capital, Cartago . From there it is 24 miles (39 km) to Irazu Volcano National Park. The roads are in good condition and signs mark the route clearly. The drive up through the hills provides an excellent opportunity to see the Central Valley below. The turnoff for Irazu is well marked and right before Tierra Blanca.
Irazu Volcano National Park itineraries from local insiders
Explore hand-picked Irazu Volcano National Park itineraries designed by local insiders who know every hidden corner. Each trip is completely flexible, customized to your pace, travel style, and budget.
Explore Costa Rica Relocation
Pura Vida!!! The people are very friendly the food is amazing the landscape is breathtaking.
Costa Rica
Experiences in Irazu Volcano National Park
Explore hand-picked Irazu Volcano National Park tours and experiences led by local insiders, from wildlife encounters to cultural deep-dives.
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Where to stay in Irazu Volcano National Park
From boutique lodges to luxury resorts, every Irazu Volcano National Park accommodation is hand-picked by our local insiders for location, comfort, and character.
Hotel Quelitales
Hotel Quelitales is located deep in Costa Rica’s lush central valley. Guests here get upscale rooms against a backdrop of tropical forest and musical birdcalls.
Orosi Lodge
Orosi Lodge is a small hotel located in the town of Orosi, part of Costa Rica's Central Valley. Situated one hour east of San Jose, Orosi is a colonial town with plenty of charm and culture, and is home to the oldest church in all of Costa Rica. Whitewater rafting, hiking, trout fishing and swimming are just a few of the activities available in Orosi, not to mention the two volcanic hot springs that lay in the center of town.
Turrialtico Mountain Lodge
The splendid Turrialtico Mountain Lodge is located in the central highlands of Costa Rica, just outside of the town of Turrialba. The charming town of Turrialba is conveniently located between San Jose and the Caribbean Coast, surrounded by fertile farmland and green mountain pastures.
Hotel Bougainvillea
Hotel Bougainvillea is located in a quiet residential neighborhood in Santo Domingo de Heredia, just 15 minutes from downtown San Jose. Heredia is one of Costa Rica's most historical cities, boasting superb colonial architecture amidst vast coffee plantations and lush greenery. San Jose offers great shopping, some wonderful historic districts and all the amenities of a city.
Sleep Inn
The Sleep Inn is located in the heart of downtown San José. This hotel has ample facilities and an unbeatable location.
Hotel Casa Turire
Hotel Casa Turire is situated in the central valley of Costa Rica, just two hours from San Jose. In the heart of the verdant Turrialba agricultural region, this beautiful estate is surrounded by the wild Reventazon River, with the imposing presence of the Turrialba Mountains forming a dramatic backdrop. A delicate balance has been maintained between agricultural development and ecological preservation so visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty and diversity of flora and fauna.
Hotel Balmoral
Hotel Balmoral houses an attached winery directly on its premises in central San Jose, Costa Rica. This 34-room hotel puts travelers within short walking distances of the capital's main museum quarter. Travelers bringing pets can arrange accommodations in designated rooms by contacting management before arrival.
Hotel Presidente
Hotel Presidente is a large hotel with spacious rooms. There is plenty of entertainment at the hotel itself, as well as in the surrounding downtown area and in the central valley of Costa Rica.
Gran Hotel Costa Rica, Curio Collection by Hilton
The Gran Hotel is located in the capital city of San Jose, Costa Rica. San Jose is the largest city in the country and considered one of the most cosmopolitan places in Latin America. It's location in the Central Valley makes for a perfect hub to venture out and visit the rest of stunning countryside, beaches and mountains. Here you'll discover an abundance of great restaurants, bars, galleries, open markets, shopping and much more.
Hotel Grano de Oro
Victorian architecture frames the 40 rooms at Hotel Grano de Oro, a family-friendly hotel in central San Jose, Costa Rica. A five-minute drive connects the property with major city landmarks, including the National Theater and the Museum of Costa Rican Art.
Crowne Plaza Hotel
Crowne Hotel offers 213 rooms just a short distance from the international airport and the city center — it takes about 30 minutes to get from the international airport. This hotel is a good choice for travelers who are prioritizing convenience.
Palma Real Hotel & Casino
Near downtown San José, the airport, and the notably beautiful Parque de la Sabana, this bright and cheerful hotel offers convenience as well as luxury.
Flora & fauna in Irazu Volcano National Park
The wildlife and plant life you might encounter in Irazu Volcano National Park, from iconic species to the rare finds our local insiders know where to look for.
Armadillo
Flora & Fauna
Chestnut-mandibled Toucan
Flora & Fauna
Coati
Flora & Fauna
Spiny Green Lizard
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Agouti
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Three-wattled Bellbird
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Insider-led Costa Rica Design & Concierge
Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.
