By Cartago, Costa Rica — CARTAGO – Costa Rica’s famed Irazú Volcano National Park has become the epicenter of a dangerous trend, recording 200 illegal entries during security operations conducted over the year-end and new year period. This figure is particularly alarming as it accounts for nearly half of the 408 total violations detected across all protected wildlife areas in the country, according to data released by the National System of Conservation Areas (Sinac).
The concentration of illicit activity in geologically active zones has raised significant concerns among authorities. Sinac officials highlighted the specific vulnerability of these locations, which attract thrill-seekers despite the grave dangers they present. The agency emphasized that these unauthorized excursions pose a severe threat to public safety.
To better understand the legal ramifications and potential liabilities associated with the growing issue of illegal tourism, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica, who provided his expert analysis on the matter.
Operating a tourism business without the proper permits is not merely a regulatory oversight; it is a direct violation of Costa Rican law that carries severe penalties, including substantial fines, business closure, and even potential criminal charges. Tourists who engage with these unauthorized services also face significant risks, as they are not covered by the insurance and safety guarantees mandated by law, and the government is actively working to protect both the industry’s integrity and visitor safety.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
The attorney’s perspective serves as a crucial reminder that the issue of “illegal tourism” extends far beyond simple regulatory compliance, directly impacting the safety of visitors and the legal standing of operators. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for providing such a clear and authoritative clarification on these significant risks.
The places with volcanic attractions are where the most illegal entries are reported. The situation poses a great risk as they are active volcanoes and in areas that are difficult to access in an emergency.
Sinac Officials, National System of Conservation Areas
This surge in illegal trespassing occurs even though most protected areas, including Irazú Volcano, are open to the public through official channels. The popular park, located just 31 kilometers from the city of Cartago, welcomes visitors daily from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., offering safe access to its five craters and stunning viewpoints. The authorities stress that the illegal entries are not only unnecessary but also bypass crucial safety protocols and park regulations designed to protect both visitors and the fragile ecosystem.
Trespassers expose themselves to a host of potentially lethal environmental hazards. Officials warn that those who venture off marked trails and into restricted zones face risks from toxic fumaroles, volcanic gases, and sudden phreatic eruptions. The treacherous terrain also includes unseen precipices and is subject to extreme, rapidly changing weather conditions, further amplifying the danger.
We need people to understand that illegal entry into volcanic zones is dangerous. Also in places where there are no trails.
Sinac Officials, National System of Conservation Areas
Fueling this hazardous trend is a shadow economy of “illegal tours” run by unscrupulous operators. Yeimy Cedeño of Sinac’s Control and Protection department issued a stern warning about these unregulated guides, who prey on unsuspecting tourists by offering clandestine access to restricted areas.
Many are without insurance policies or adequate equipment, and they even abandon visitors when the authorities intervene.
Yeimy Cedeño, Control and Protection, Sinac
Cedeño further explained the modus operandi of these illegal guides, noting their complete disregard for their clients’ well-being. When confronted by park rangers or other authorities, these operators often flee, leaving the tourists they were guiding stranded, disoriented, and vulnerable in dangerous, remote locations. “If intercepted by authorities, they choose to flee, leaving their ‘clients’ absolutely unprotected and abandoned,” she added.
The consequences for being caught are not trivial. Costa Rican law takes a firm stance against such invasions of protected lands. Sinac reminded the public that these actions are punishable by significant civil and criminal penalties, including potential prison time. The agency is trying to shift the public’s focus from merely avoiding fines to understanding the life-threatening reality of their actions.
Article 58 of the Forestry Law establishes penalties of three months to three years in prison for those who invade conservation areas, regardless of whether it is public or private land under the forestry regime.
Sinac Officials, National System of Conservation Areas
In its closing statement, Sinac issued a direct and urgent appeal to the public and potential visitors. The agency implored individuals to prioritize personal safety over the false allure of an unauthorized adventure. The official call is to use the legal, safe, and regulated means of enjoying Costa Rica’s natural wonders, thereby supporting conservation efforts and ensuring a safe experience for everyone.
For further information, visit sinac.go.cr
About Sinac (National System of Conservation Areas):
The Sistema Nacional de Áreas de Conservación (Sinac) is the entity within Costa Rica’s Ministry of Environment and Energy responsible for the management and conservation of the country’s national parks, wildlife refuges, and other protected areas. Its mission is to promote the sustainable use of biodiversity and natural resources through participatory management, ensuring the preservation of the nation’s natural heritage for future generations.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of the legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica is defined by its foundational principles of integrity and professional rigor. The firm combines a proven track record of advising a wide spectrum of clients with a forward-thinking approach to pioneering innovative legal strategies. Beyond its practice, it holds a deep-seated belief in social responsibility, actively working to democratize legal information and thereby contribute to a more just and capable society.
