With a height of 3432 meters above sea level, Irazú is the highest volcano in Costa Rica. It is possible to see both the Pacific Ocean and the Carribbean Sea from the summit, which is one of the few places in the country where that is possible, making Irazú a unique spot. The last major eruption happened in the 1960’s, impacting the daily life for several months due to the ash clouds. As of today, Irazú is relatively calm and offers beautiful views. It has a moon-like terrain and holds 5 craters. The main crater, Diego de la Haya, has a green crater lake.
When visiting the Irazú National Park, there are some fees upon entry.
Entrance fees
The stated prices are for non-residents (tourists / visitors who do not reside in Costa Rica)
Parking fees
Monday – Sunday 08:00 AM – 3:30 PM (including holidays)
It is a good idea to be well-prepared before visiting the Irazú National Park. Here are some aspects to think about
Wear comfortable hiking shoes and be mindful of the weather. If the day is clear, sunscreen and a hat should be brought. If the day is
cloudy or rainy, bring a coat. Warm clothing is always recommended as the average temperature at Irazú is usually between 5-10 degrees celcius (40-50°F)
Due to changing weather conditions, it is not guaranteed that you will see the craters as the visibility is directly impacted by the conditions. For best experience, call and ask about the conditions.
It is not allowed to enter with a pet. It is also not allowed to feed any wild animals in the National Park. There is a small possibility that animals such as raccoons might attempt to “have your food” when lunching in some areas. Keep an eye on this.