Overview
At 3,432m, Irazú is Costa Rica's highest active volcano, about 50km east of San José. It famously erupted during President Kennedy's 1963 visit. The main Diego de la Haya crater holds a mystical green lake, and on clear days you can see both the Caribbean and Pacific from the summit — a rare experience in Central America. The road reaches the crater rim, so no hiking is needed.
Opening Hours
Daily 08:00-15:30.
Travel Tips
Arrive before 08:00 for the best chance of clear views. It's very cold and windy at the summit — pack warm clothing without fail.
Hotels near Irazú Volcano
Hotels and guesthouses in San José, Irazú, Cartago Province
Other attractions in San José
National Museum of Costa Rica
A museum housed in a former fortress, with pre-Columbian stone spheres and a butterfly garden.
Mercado Central (Central Market)
A traditional market open since 1880, offering local food and souvenirs in one place.
National Theatre of Costa Rica
An 1897 European-style theatre - an architectural gem and a national cultural symbol.
Jade Museum (Museo del Jade)
A modern museum housing the world's largest collection of pre-Columbian jade artifacts.
Poás Volcano National Park
One of the world's largest active volcano craters, with a stunning emerald crater lake.
Barrio Escalante
San José's culinary hub — a hip neighborhood packed with Costa Rican fusion restaurants and cafes.
Pre-Columbian Gold Museum
An underground museum with 1,600 exquisite gold artifacts from Costa Rica's indigenous peoples.