[2] The U-shaped volcanic edifice opens south towards the coastal piedmont, creating both cold and temperate climatic zones within a relatively small area.

[3] The volcano forms part of the Sierra Madre, hosting an abundance of endemic species such as the endangered Guatemalan Fir or "Pinabete" (Abies guatemalensis) and forming an integral part of one of the largest contiguous biological corridors of southwestern Guatemala.

[3] Bird species include the pink-headed warbler, black-capped siskin, highland guan, rufous-collared robin, white-breasted hawk, and rufous-browed wren.

[3] On clear days the ridgeline of the volcano has wide views of the surrounding area, from the city of Quetzaltenango, to San Marcos and the coastal piedmont, including views of volcanoes Santa Maria, Santiaguito, Tajumulco, and Tacana.

In 2009 the municipality of Concepción Chiquirichapa founded the Regional Ecological Park "Cacique Dormido" which offers hiking, camping, bird-watching, and cultural tours on the volcano.