Lagos Las Morenas

The ecology of the Valle de las Morrenas (Moraine Valley) and Lagos Las Morrenas is defined by its unique high-altitude location within Chirripó National Park, specifically the rare páramo ecosystem. This environment is a critical "sky island" of biodiversity, distinct from the lowland tropical forests of Costa Rica.

Páramo Ecosystem: This is the northernmost example of the páramo life zone, an alpine grassland/shrubland ecosystem more typical of the high Andes in South America. The harsh climate features high winds, intense solar radiation, and significant diurnal temperature shifts (warm days, freezing nights), which dictate the type of life that can survive here.