Volcán Cacho Negro, Dormant volcano in Braulio Carrillo National Park, Costa Rica.
Volcán Cacho Negro is a dormant volcano in Braulio Carrillo National Park that reaches approximately 2,150 meters in elevation with a classic cone shape marked by deep ravines. A crater opening faces northwest, and the slopes are covered in dense forest crossed by mountain streams.
Formation of this volcano began roughly 1.5 million years ago during the Pleistocene period, when geological forces shaped the landscape we see today. This deep history makes it a key location for understanding volcanic development in the region.
The volcano serves as a living laboratory where visitors observe diverse plant and animal life that thrives on its slopes within the protected landscape. Travelers often spot birds and wildlife adapted to the cloud forest environment as they move through the forest.
Visitors need a local guide to explore the forest trails leading to the volcano, as routes vary in difficulty depending on the season. During rainy months the paths become slippery and visibility decreases, so proper gear and preparation are important.
The southern flank of the volcano contains a smaller cone at about 1,915 meters elevation, adding geological complexity to the terrain. This secondary cone offers observant hikers an additional summit area to explore beyond the main peak.
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