The Irazu Volcano and its mysterious green pull are must-sees for anyone visiting Costa Rica. This park is easily accessible and a great learning experience for young and old alike.

Irazu Volcano National Park is mainly a project in restoring the beautiful land that was destroyed during its latest eruption. This eruption has not left much of an environment for life to flourish in, but the views more than make up for this.

Once on the summit, visitors will see a chartreuse green crater lake and fumaroles. Both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean along with magnificent views of mountains in every direction can be observed when the weather permits. When coming upon the crater you will notice an unusual coloring of the rainfall, due to the amount of minerals in the atmosphere.

You may not camp in the park, but the trip is a short one from anywhere in the Central Valley. Visitors can make a stop at one of the nearby coffee plantations and botanical gardens on the way.

There are hiking trails in Irazu Volcano National Park through oak and pine forest with nice picnic areas. Admission is 10USD and the park is open from 8 - 3:30 pm Tuesday - Sunday.

Weather and packing list

Located in the cloud forest, the weather is fairly predictable. Expect cool and damp conditions and dress for rain. Daytime temperatures average in the low 70s with night time lows averaging in the upper 50s. The most consistent rain is experienced between the months of May through November with the heaviest rains September through November.

Visitors should pack shorts, tee shirts, appropriate shoes, rain gear, sun block. It is also advised to bring at least one pair of pants, a long sleeve shirt, and even a sweat shirt or light jacket. Check our packing list article for more ideas.

Fun Fact: Temperatures towards the summit of Irazu Volcano have been known to drop below freezing.

Nearby Destinations

Turrialba59 km
Heredia-Poas63 km
Alajuela72 km
San Jose 86 km
Grecia96 km

Location

Latitude: N 9° 59' 6.72"
Longitude: W 83° 51' 41.76"

Irazu Volcano National Park is mainly a project in restoring the beautiful land that was destroyed during its latest eruption. This eruption has not left much of an environment for life to flourish in, but the views more than make up for this.

Once on the summit, visitors will see a chartreuse green crater lake and fumaroles. Both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean along with magnificent views of mountains in every direction can be observed when the weather permits. When coming upon the crater you will notice an unusual coloring of the rainfall, due to the amount of minerals in the atmosphere.

You may not camp in the park, but the trip is a short one from anywhere in the Central Valley. Visitors can make a stop at one of the nearby coffee plantations and botanical gardens on the way.

There are hiking trails in Irazu Volcano National Park through oak and pine forest with nice picnic areas. Admission is 10USD and the park is open from 8 - 3:30 pm Tuesday - Sunday.

Weather and packing list

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