Twenty-three soils more developed than Andepts and derived from volcanic ash in Central America were studied. These soils had been previously classified by other authors as “Latosols.”Morphological, physical, and chemical properties in these soils are more uniform than in the Andepts. This reflects their warmer climate and older age. Base saturation, extractable Al, Ca, Mg, and K differ most; P, N, OM, and C/N ratio differ less; and pH, CEC, and clay content differ least. These soils have thicker sola, redder hues, heavier textures, clay illuviation, stronger structure, are more plastic and sticky, and have more Mg, CEC, extractable iron, and higher (Ca + Mg)/K ratios than the Andepts. They also have good physical properties, are moderately fertile and are suitable for cultivation. Sixteen of the 23 profiles classify as Ultisols (mostly Humults), three as Alfisols (mostly Udalfs), four as Inceptisols (mostly Tropepts), and none are Oxisols.