Central Valley:
The Northern Mountains

Volcanoes, waterfalls, coffee farms and picturesque landscapes

Costa Rica’s Central Mountain range surrounds a large valley, which is home to the country’s four largest cities, and approximately half of the population.  Climate conditions in the Central Valley make this an extremely pleasant place to live, with moderate temperatures year-round, beautiful mountain views and many interesting places to visit.

Four volcanoes stand guard over the northern valley; two of them, the Poas and Irazu are featured in day tours out of San Jose.  Next to the Poas Volcano is the renowned La Paz Waterfall Park, home to renowned Peace Lodge, with its large butterfly farm and five magnificent waterfalls.  To the west is the town of Sarchi, home to the country’s best known crafts and souvenir shops.  The Turu Bari Adventure Park is located nearby, in the Orotina Region.

To the east of the Central Valley lie the towns of Orosi and Cartago, which feature intriguing ruins and the country’s largest Catholic Church, built to honor the Virgin of Los Angeles, Costa Rica’s patron saint.  The area is also famous for its white water rafting rivers, including the Reventazon and the Pacuare, one of the world’s top three rafting rivers.  To the northeast, visitors will find the Braulio Carrillo National Park and the celebrated Rainforest Aerial Tram.

Lodging facilities are available in the mountains around the Central Valley. They offer an appealing alternative to those visitors who wish to stay near the capital but not in the city itself.

While in the Mountains North of the Central Valley

Take full advantage of the La Paz Waterfall Gardens Park, home to the Peace Lodge and enjoy the magnificent hikes, view the spectacular waterfalls, and visit the hummingbird gallery and butterfly farm.

Visit the Poas Volcano National Park and hike up to the crater’s edge, one of the largest on Earth.  Complete your visit with a 30-minute hike to the lagoon, located near the crater.

On the way down from the mountains, visit the Doka Coffee Plantation, to learn about the process that produces the world’s best coffee.

Go rafting on the Sarapiqui River. The river has Class III and IV rafting for adventure aficionados and Floating Safari Class II rafting for slower paced, nature lovers.  Both are excellent tour choices featuring amazing scenery, interesting wildlife and thrilling adventure.

Staying in one of the quaint boutique hotels in the Mountains of the Central Valley is a great starting or ending point to an active Costa Rica family vacation.  For a customized itinerary featuring one of the recommended Costa Rica hotels in the region, please call us toll free at (888) 928-3688 or email us at info@memorablecostarica.com.

Costa Rica is a tropical country with only two seasons: dry and green! Click here for forecast Exchange Rate for May 13 507.54 CRC for each USD 685.18 CRC for each EUR