Unveiling the Night: A Moonlit Adventure atop Irazu Volcano

In a twist that turns the tables on conventional daytime jaunts, the Central Conservation Area of MINAE-SINAC is gearing up to offer an extraordinary hike unlike any other. Mark your calendars for Saturday, March 23, 2024, as adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike are invited to ascend the lofty heights of Irazu Volcano National Park, right into the heart of its Craters sector. The journey kicks off at the unconventional hour of 4:00 p.m., aligning with the celebration of World Water Day. But that’s just the beginning of what promises to be an unforgettable evening.

A Sunset Like No Other

Imagine standing at a breathtaking altitude of 3,432 meters above sea level, enveloped by the serene beauty of the Central Volcanic Mountain Range. As the sun dips below the horizon, you’re not just watching a sunset; you’re part of a rare congregation witnessing this celestial spectacle from the highest point accessible in the area. This experience, traditionally shielded by the park’s 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. schedule, will be a reality for those daring enough to embark on this nocturnal adventure.

Moonlight Wanderings in Playa Hermosa

As darkness envelops the landscape, the adventure takes a thrilling turn with a night hike through the crater known affectionately as “Playa Hermosa.” Bathed in the glow of a full moon, this majestic site offers more than just a walk; it’s an immersive experience in one of nature’s most stunning theaters. Participants will be granted the privilege of enjoying the park under the moon’s watchful eye, a scene few have witnessed and one that promises to be etched in memory.

A Call to Adventure and Preservation

Reina Sanchez, the diligent Administrator of Irazú Volcano National Park, articulates the dual purpose of this event: to invite exploration of these protected terrains through legal pathways and to combat the adverse effects of illicit tourism. By weaving local community organizations, private entities, volunteers, and more into the fabric of this event, SINAC envisions a collaborative effort towards fostering environmental stewardship.

The Setting for our Moonlit Quest

Situated a mere 31 kilometers from Cartago, the Irazú Volcano stands as a sentinel over Costa Rica. Its rugged terrain, cloaked in low vegetation and often shrouded in mist, offers a mysterious allure. On days when the fog lifts, the summit serves as a vantage point for panoramic views that stretch from the Pacific to the Atlantic, across the national landscape, and even to Lake Nicaragua — provided you have a telescope handy.

Dominating the landscape at 3,432 meters, Irazú holds the title of Costa Rica’s tallest volcano. The climate here is a blend of humidity and chill, with temperatures oscillating between 5°C and 9°C throughout the year. As a stratovolcano with a unique subconical shape and five distinct craters, Irazú’s geological features are as captivating as the views it offers.

Joining the Expedition

For those eager to partake in this moonlit expedition, a registration fee of 10,000 colones covers not just the hike but also entrance to the Irazu Volcano National Park, parking, photographic memories, refreshments, and a few surprises along the way. Additionally, the event stands as a beacon of support for the Tierra Blanca Red Cross Auxiliary Committee, adding a layer of philanthropy to your adventure.

This March 23, as we stand on the cusp of night and day, the Irazu Volcano invites you to step into a world where the earth meets the sky, under the watchful gaze of the moon. It’s not just a hike; it’s an odyssey destined to dazzle, inspire, and unite.