Irazu Volcano Facts for Kids

Quick facts for kids Irazú Volcano National Park
IUCN Category II (National Park)
Irazú volcano crater
Location	Costa Rica
Nearest city	Cartago
Area	20 km²
Established	9 August 1955
Governing body	National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC)

Irazú Volcano National Park is home to one of Costa Rica's most active volcanoes. It is located in the central mountains, about 31 km northwest of the city of Cartago. The volcano stands tall at 3,435 meters above sea level. Its last major eruptions happened in 1963 and 1965.

This amazing park features many different craters. Some of these craters even hold small lakes. The park also protects 2,309 hectares of beautiful rainforest. On a clear day, if you stand at the highest point in the park, you can see both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea at the same time!

Exploring the Volcano's Craters
- The Main Crater Lake
- Diego de la Haya Crater
Nature and Reforestation Efforts
- Protecting the Forests
- Diverse Plant Life
Images for kids
See also

Exploring the Volcano's Craters

The Irazú Volcano has several interesting craters. Each one has its own unique features.

The Main Crater Lake

The lake in the Main Crater is very special. Its water often looks a greenish-yellow color. This happens because rainwater dissolves minerals from the crater walls. Sometimes, the lake can even change to a rust-red color. This depends on the different minerals found there.

Diego de la Haya Crater

Right next to the Main Crater is the Diego de la Haya crater. This crater is no longer active and is usually dry. It is mostly filled with volcanic ash.

Nature and Reforestation Efforts

The park is a special place where nature is being carefully looked after.

Protecting the Forests

After past eruptions, parts of the area were damaged. Now, a big project is working to plant new trees and bring the forest back to life. This effort is called reforestation. The new forest includes different types of trees, both native and those brought from other places.

There is also a natural forest in the park. It is mainly made up of oaks and alder trees. This forest is very important because it helps protect the water sources of the Reventado River.

Diverse Plant Life

Even though the volcano has erupted many times, the plants in the park are very beautiful and varied. The eruptions have changed the landscape, but life always finds a way to grow back.