Geomorphological heritage inventory of Irazú Volcano, Costa Rica

Abstract

Volcanoes are part of the natural environment, and the interactions with humans are inescapable.
\nThe geoheritage studies in tropical regions, specifically tropical volcanos, are scarce despite
\nthe uniqueness, scientific value, and beauty of these features. We performed an
\nintegrated approach for the inventory and management of the geomorphological heritage of
\nthe Irazú Volcano National Park, one of the most visited parks in Costa Rica. We identified
\neleven geomorphosites including volcanic craters, hills, domes, lagoons, and caves. The average
\nin the assessment of scientific values of all the identified geomorphosites was 0.67. The site
\nthat rated the highest average between all the geomorphosites (0.94) was the Principal Crater.
\nOther geomorphosites with high average and similar conditions were Diego de la Haya Crater,
\nPlaya Hermosa Crater and Sapper Hill, which show outstanding characteristics. Irazú volcano
\nhas an exuberant geodiversity and this assessment shows its geological and cultural richness.
\nThis demonstrates the importance and value that the volcano poses for the geoheritage of
\nCosta Rica, Central America and tropical regions.