Elevation 1,140 m Mountain range Cordillera de Guanacaste | Last eruption ~3500 years ago First ascent 12 March 2011 Parent range Cordillera de Guanacaste | |
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Similar Arenal Volcano, Poás Volcano, Miravalles Volcano, Volcán Tenorio, Irazú Volcano | ||
Chato Volcano, sometimes called "Cerro Chato" (Spanish for, literally, "Flat Hill"), is an inactive volcano in north-western Costa Rica north-west of San José, in the province of Alajuela, canton of San Carlos, and district of La Fortuna. It is southeast of the nearby Arenal Volcano
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Map of Chato Volcano, Alajuela Province, San Carlos, Costa Rica
It is believed Cerro Chato first erupted 38,000 years ago during the Pleistocene period and last erupted about 3,500 years ago. One of the lava flows is now the route for La Fortuna Waterfall. The hill has two peaks, named Chatito (little Chato) and Espina (Thorn). A crater about 500 metres (1,600 ft) wide is filled with green water, making the Laguna Cerro Chato.
HikingEdit
It is possible to hike the Cerro Chato up to and inside the crater, but it is considered a difficult hike and only recommended for hikers of good physical condition. There are two possible routes, one beginning from near the La Fortuna Waterfall and one from a park center on the west slope. It is possible to ascend on one side and descend on the other, but this makes for a longer hike. When it rains, the path becomes muddy and can make it even more treacherous, especially when descending into the crater itself. Due to certain minerals in the water, swimming is not recommended, but many locals swim in it regardless. The water is fairly cool.
The hike to the crater is decently long (taking approximately 4 hours with a guide) and very steep. It begins in lower farmlands with few trees, but quickly ascends to a much steeper climb through the thick rain forest. The ascent from the park center has a good view over the town of La Fortuna.
While guided tours are available, individuals can pay $12 per person at either entrance and hike without a guide.