The Most Famous National Landmarks in Costa Rica
The most famous national landmarks in Costa Rica take you on a whirlwind tour through the country’s long and illustrious history, showcasing the fact that Costa Rica is as rich in cultural and historical treasures as she is in nature-filled ones. From beautiful centuries-old cathedrals to opulent theatres, mysterious archaeological finds and incredible eco-tourism legacies, the following prominent landmarks beautifully complement the natural riches which have made this one of the world’s most revered travel destinations.
Include one, two or all on your next adventure vacation in Costa Rica, and make your journey a comprehensive, varied and immensely rewarding experience.
Week of Adventures was amazing. Fun River paddles, hiking , zip lining and rappelling waterfalls. Great guides on the water and land.
Wonderful country and people 💖
The accommodations were lovely, the activities and guides were all excellent and having the transportation pre-arranged was a huge convenience. Everyone was on time to the minute.
Particularly nice was that all activities (and even transportation) were private -- just me, my wife and the guide or driver. I wasn't expecting that, especially on a whitewater rafting trip! That made the activities feel more personal and special.
National Landmarks in Costa Rica
1. Museo Nacional de Costa Rica, San Jose
Housed within the protective walls of a late 18th-century fortress, the country’s largest and most important museum is as enthralling in content as it is in utter visual delight. Used during the civil war of 1948 (bullet holes are still visible) the Museo Nacional de Costa Rica offers a summarized glimpse into the history of the country from pre-Columbian times right up to the present day and hosts a wealth of beautiful historical artefacts, war memorabilia and more.
The fact that the Bellavista Fortress is an absolute splendor – and the addition of a stunning butterfly-filled garden together with English-language info-boards – make this an absolute must-visit for anyone traveling through the capital.
The National Museum houses Costa Rica’s most comprehensive pre-Columbian artifact collection alongside colonial and natural history exhibits. Permanent galleries include the Archaeological Hall with stone spheres and indigenous tools, the History Hall chronicling independence and abolition of the military, and the Natural History Hall featuring endemic species. The fortress architecture tells its own story; bullet holes are still visible in exterior walls from the 1948 civil war that preceded military abolition.
The third-floor Butterfly Garden hosts dozens of native species in a tropical setting. Bilingual signage throughout makes self-guided tours accessible, though English-speaking guides are available upon request. Located in downtown San José’s Plaza de la Democracia, the museum is easily reached on foot from most central hotels.
Plan 2-3 hours for a comprehensive visit. Admission remains remarkably affordable at $9 for adults. Upper-level galleries provide panoramic city views. The museum shop offers quality replicas and educational materials. Established in 1887, this institution has preserved Costa Rican heritage for over a century.
QUICK FACTS BOX – Museo Nacional:
- Location: Plaza de la Democracia, downtown San José
- Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 8:30 AM-4:30 PM, Sunday 9:00 AM-4:30 PM, Closed Mondays
- Entry Fee: $9 adults, $4 students, free for children under 12
- Time Needed: 2-3 hours
- Building: Former Bellavista Fortress (1917)
- Established: 1887
- Key Exhibits: Pre-Columbian artifacts, Butterfly Garden, civil war history
- Languages: Spanish and English signage
- Accessibility: Partial wheelchair access
- Nearest Landmark: Gold Museum (5-minute walk)
2. Museo de Oro pre-Columbino, San Jose
Concentrating on the pre-Columbian era, this ‘museum of gold’ gifts a fascinating look into the complex and unique attributes of Costa Rica’s ancient indigenous cultures. Found right next door to the abovementioned Teatro Nacional, the Museum of pre-Columbian Gold showcases an interesting, comprehensive and quite glistening collection of ancient gold dating back to 500AD. From animal statuettes to amulets, jewelry and coins, the collections here are incredibly interesting especially if you’re party to ancient history.
The Pre-Columbian Gold Museum, located beneath Plaza de la Cultura, houses over 1,600 gold artifacts representing the Americas’ most extensive collection. The underground galleries create an atmosphere of discovery, with strategic lighting highlighting intricate goldwork from 500 AD through the Spanish conquest. Artifacts showcase work from Diquís, Huetar, Chorotega, and Brunca cultures, including ceremonial figures, ornate jewelry, and shamanic tools.
Indigenous artisans perfected sophisticated techniques: lost-wax casting, hammering, embossing, and alloying metals. Interactive displays explain gold’s spiritual significance in pre-Columbian societies, representing power and religious connection rather than monetary value. The museum also features Costa Rican numismatics and colonial currency collections. Air-conditioned galleries provide relief from San José’s heat.
Combined tickets with the National Museum offer value for culture enthusiasts. The gift shop sells replicas of famous pieces and archaeological texts. English and Spanish descriptions accompany all exhibits. Photography is permitted without flash. Plan 1.5-2 hours for thorough exploration. The museum serves as an excellent introduction to Costa Rica’s indigenous heritage.
QUICK FACTS BOX – Museo de Oro
- Location: Plaza de la Cultura, downtown San José (underground)
- Hours: Daily 9:15 AM-5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: $15 adults, $13 students, free for children under 12
- Time Needed: 1.5-2 hours
- Collection: 1,600+ pre-Columbian gold pieces
- Cultures: Diquís, Huetar, Chorotega, Brunca
- Period: 500 AD – 1500 AD
- Temperature: Air-conditioned (bring a light jacket)
- Languages: Spanish and English
- Photography: Allowed (no flash)
- Combined Tickets: Available with the Jade Museum
- Nearest Landmark: National Theater (adjacent)
3. Cartago
Costa Rica’s first colonial capital is one enormous highlight and home to some of the country’s most revered national landmarks. Just a half hour’s drive south of San Jose, right on the foothills of Irazu Volcano at an altitude of more than 4,700’, Cartago was established in the mid-16th century and extensively damaged in several devastating earthquakes. Nowadays, Cartago is a striking walk-through outdoor museum, with pedestrian-only access around the ruins of the first cathedral, as well as the picturesque Our Ladies of Angels Basilica, quaint stone bridges and picturesque old houses. Fantastic eateries and plenty of hotel choices mean you could spend a couple of days exploring the town in great depth.
Beyond the Basilica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles, Cartago reveals multiple historical treasures. The Ruins of Santiago Apóstol Parish Church stand hauntingly beautiful in a garden square, destroyed by the 1910 earthquake and preserved as an open-air museum. Visitors walk through roofless stone walls where colonial services once occurred. Lankester Botanical Gardens, 5 kilometers east, protects over 800 orchid species across 11 hectares, with peak blooming March-April.
The historic Orosi Church (1743), Costa Rica’s oldest functioning church, sits nearby in the scenic Orosi Valley. Cartago’s location on Irazú Volcano’s foothills provided volcanic soil ideal for colonial agriculture. The city served as Costa Rica’s capital from 1563-1823 before the government moved to San José.
August 2nd brings the massive Romería pilgrimage when 1.5+ million faithful walk to the Basilica honoring La Negrita. Cartago’s cooler mountain climate (14-22°C) offers relief from San José’s heat. The surrounding region features coffee plantations, mountain viewpoints, and hot springs, making Cartago an excellent base for Central Valley exploration.
QUICK FACTS BOX – Cartago:
- Location: 22 km (14 miles) southeast of San José
- Founded: 1563 (Costa Rica’s first capital)
- Capital Period: 1563-1823
- Altitude: 1,435 meters (4,708 feet)
- Temperature: 14-22°C (57-72°F) average
- Population: ~150,000 (metro area)
- Key Sites: Basilica de Los Angeles, Parish Ruins, Lankester Gardens
- Drive from San José: 30-45 minutes
- Special Event: August 2 Romería (1.5+ million pilgrims annually)
- Nearby: Irazú Volcano (45 min), Orosi Valley
- Best Day to Visit: Weekdays (less crowded than weekends)
Religious Significance: Home to Costa Rica’s patron saint (La Negrita)
4. The Hanging Bridges of Arenal
The spectacular hanging bridges of Arenal may not be as old as Cartago but they are just as indicative of the country’s eclectic history as any ancient architecture. A superb 2-mile trail of 16 bridges – a few of which are hanging – take you on a whirlwind tour through the virgin rainforests of Arenal, as they transition from highland to lowland ecosystems, displaying flora and wildlife native to all. An interactive and unforgettable trip through the natural history of the region, the hanging bridges of Arenal offer an unrivalled chance to explore and admire more than otherwise possible from ground level.
Multiple hanging bridge parks operate around Arenal, each offering unique experiences. Arenal Hanging Bridges Park features 15 bridges (6 suspension) spanning 3.1 kilometers through primary and secondary rainforest. The longest bridge stretches 98 meters with clearances reaching 45 meters above the forest floor, providing true canopy-level wildlife viewing. Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges and Sky Walk offer similar experiences with varying trail lengths and bridge designs. Bridges accommodate all ages and fitness levels with well-maintained trails combining suspension bridges and solid ground paths.
Safety features include sturdy cables, non-slip decking, and regular structural inspections. Early morning visits (7:00-9:00 AM) maximize wildlife encounters when animals are most active. Naturalist guides dramatically improve spotting success for sloths, toucans, monkeys, and poison dart frogs hidden in dense foliage.
The suspension bridge engineering minimizes environmental impact through tree-anchoring techniques that preserve forest structure. This Costa Rican innovation has been replicated in eco-tourism destinations worldwide. Photography enthusiasts appreciate unique angles for capturing wildlife and volcano vistas. Combination packages pairing bridges with zipline canopy tours provide both contemplative and adrenaline-filled experiences.
QUICK FACTS BOX – Hanging Bridges:
- Location: La Fortuna/Arenal area, multiple operators
- Primary Parks: Arenal Hanging Bridges, Mistico Park, Sky Walk
- Trail Length: 2-3 km with 6-15 bridges
- Bridge Heights: 15-60 meters (50-200 feet) above ground
- Duration: 2-3 hours including wildlife viewing
- Entry Fee: $25-30 adults, $15-20 children
- Best Time: 7:00-9:00 AM for wildlife; dry season for comfort
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate (some inclines)
- Accessibility: Many trails are wheelchair accessible (check specific park)
- Guided Tours: Highly recommended for wildlife spotting
- What to Bring: Binoculars, camera, rain jacket, insect repellent
- Combo Packages: Bridges + Zipline available
5. Ancient Stone Spheres
The country’s most mysterious national landmarks are mystical granite sphere of varying sizes, found in various locations. Their exact date, use, and the culture which built them are unknown to this date, making them all the more appealing. Found primarily in the Diquis Valley, as well as Caño Island and even some of the remotest parts of the Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica’s enigmatic ancient spheres – some of which weigh up to 15 tons – are mostly found in their original locations although, on Caño Island, some were moved to an ancient cemetery by the indigenous Boruca people.
Over 300 documented stone spheres range from centimeters to 2.57 meters in diameter, with the largest weighing approximately 15 tons. Many exhibit near-perfect sphericity achieved through controlled heating/cooling, pecking, grinding, and polishing; techniques requiring months or years per sphere. Created bythe Diquís people between 600 and 1500 AD, the spheres’ purpose remains mysterious. UNESCO designated four archaeological sites (Finca 6, Batambal, El Silencio, Grijalba-2) as World Heritage Sites in 2014.
Theories range from astronomical calendars to territorial markers, social status symbols to ceremonial objects. Some arrangements show geometric patterns suggesting sophisticated spatial planning. Materials include gabbro, granodiorite, and limestone sourced from specific quarries. Agricultural development has destroyed or displaced many spheres, though conservation efforts now protect key sites.
The Boruca indigenous people maintain oral traditions about the spheres marking important pathways. Visible locations include Finca 6 near Palmar Sur (guided tours available), Caño Island, and San José’s National Museum. The Diquís Delta region offers the most authentic viewing in original rainforest contexts. Mystery and precision combine to make these artifacts uniquely compelling among pre-Columbian achievements.
QUICK FACTS BOX – Stone Spheres:
- Location: Primarily Diquís Delta, southern Costa Rica
- Period: 600-1500 AD (Diquís culture)
- Total Documented: 300+ spheres
- Size Range: A few cm to 2.57 meters in diameter
- Largest Weight: ~15 tons (33,000 lbs)
- Materials: Gabbro, granodiorite, limestone
- Precision: Near-perfect sphericity (millimeter accuracy)
- UNESCO Status: World Heritage Site (2014)
- Purpose: Unknown (theories: astronomical, ceremonial, territorial)
- Best Viewing: Finca 6 (Palmar Sur), National Museum (San José), Caño Island
- Access to Finca 6: Near Palmar Sur, guided tours required
- Also Found: Osa Peninsula sites
Current Threats: Agricultural development, looting, and weathering
6. Guayabo de Turrialba
Often rated as the most impressive national landmark in Costa Rica, Guayabo de Turrialba is its most prominent archaeological site and home to some of the above-mentioned spheres, as well as ancient plazas, stone carved streets, bridges, aqueducts and housing projects, some of which date back almost 3,000 years. Used as a ceremonial center, as well as being a thriving city for over two millennia, Guayabo is where some of the gold showcased in the pre-Columbian museum was found. The national monument is hidden within the luscious canopy of the rainforest flanking Turrialba Volcano, and restoration works, as well as exploratory excavations, are still ongoing and probably will be for years to come.
Advanced water management systems demonstrate Guayabo’s engineering sophistication. Stone-lined aqueducts channeling spring water through the city still function after 3,000 years. Archaeologists estimate peak populations of 10,000-20,000 around 800 AD, making this Costa Rica’s largest pre-Columbian city.
The settlement featured residential zones, ceremonial plazas, and burial mounds in complex urban planning. Its strategic location on Turrialba Volcano’s southern slope provided valley views and positioned the city along trade routes connecting the Caribbean and Pacific coasts.
Artifacts from diverse origins confirm extensive trade networks. The city’s mysterious abandonment around 1400 AD shows no violence evidence, suggesting peaceful migration. Only 10% has been excavated; vast areas remain buried beneath the forest. The 232-hectare national monument protects the cloud forest surrounding archaeological zones. Trails wind through primary forest where visitors spot toucans, trogons, hummingbirds, and occasionally howler monkeys.
The on-site museum displays pottery, stone tools, and gold ornaments, explaining daily life. Combining archaeology with nature makes Guayabo unique among Costa Rican monuments. Rough road access requires high-clearance vehicles, preserving an authentic, uncrowded experience. Guides are essential for understanding structural significance and historical context.
QUICK FACTS BOX – Guayabo:
- Location: Near Turrialba, Cartago Province, 19 km northeast of Turrialba
- Size: 232 hectares (573 acres)
- Period: 1500 BC – 1400 AD (peak 300-1400 AD)
- Peak Population: 10,000-20,000 estimated
- Entry Fee: $6 adults, $2 children
- Hours: 8:00 AM-3:30 PM daily
- Drive from Turrialba: 45 minutes (rough roads, 4×4 recommended)
- Drive from San José: 2-2.5 hours
- Excavation Status: ~10% uncovered, 90% buried
- Key Features: Aqueducts, stone roads, plazas, petroglyphs
- Trail Length: 2-3 km interpretive trails
- Time Needed: 2-3 hours
- Altitude: 1,100 meters (3,600 feet)
- Guide: Highly recommended (essential for understanding)
- Facilities: Museum, restrooms, picnic areas, visitor center
- Best Time: December-April (drier trails)
7. Megalithic Monuments at Rivas
A colossal collection of ancient pottery, musical instruments and more have been discovered in an archaeological site which dates back to the Chiriquí period in the first millennia CE. The megalithic site at Rivas, close to the capital San Jose, is a fantastic place to explore on a day out of the city and is one of Costa Rica’s most picturesque national landmarks. The modern town of Riva sits just north of the confluence of two rivers and is framed by a supremely scenic landscape. In this valley region, there have been over a dozen archaeological sites discovered dating back to the Chiriquí period and although much of the area is now covered in farming plots, there are still plenty of ruins to discover on foot. A wonderful stop-over on the way to Chirripo.
Excavations reveal sophisticated Chiriquí period settlements (800-1500 AD) with extensive trade networks. Elaborate pottery, jade ornaments, stone metates, and tools from imported materials indicate both local craft mastery and long-distance commerce. Marine shells and shark teeth prove coastal trade connections despite the mountain location. The Rivas settlements practiced advanced agriculture, including terracing and irrigation, maximizing mountainous terrain productivity.
River confluences provided reliable water, and volcanic soil enriched by nearby peaks. This abundance supported substantial populations and sophisticated ceremonial traditions. Megalithic monuments include stone foundations, ceremonial platforms, and geometric-patterned carved stones. Agricultural development overthe centuries damaged many structures, though conservation efforts now protect significant sites.
The valley’s farming communities coexist with ancient remains, some farmers maintaining access paths. The Chiriquí cultural influence extended from southern Costa Rica into Panama, representing crucial Central American prehistoric links. Combined with nearby Chirripó National Park (Costa Rica’s highest peak), Rivas offers cultural and natural exploration.
Limited tourism infrastructure preserves the authentic archaeological character. Visitors exploring these sites gain perspective on Costa Rica’s pre-Columbian diversity beyond better-known Diquís and Central Valley cultures. Local guides in San Isidro de El General facilitate site access.
QUICK FACTS BOX – Rivas:
- Location: Near San Isidro de El General, south of San José
- Period: Chiriquí (800-1500 AD)
- Distance from San José: ~140 km (87 miles), 3-4 hours drive
- Cultures: Chiriquí (southern Costa Rica and Panama influence)
- Key Finds: Pottery, jade ornaments, stone metates, musical instruments
- Sites: 12+ archaeological locations in the valley
- Access: Some sites are accessible with local guides; inquire at San Isidro
- Combine With: Chirripó National Park (Costa Rica’s highest peak)
- Best Time: December-April (dry season)
- Altitude: 700-1,000 meters (2,300-3,300 feet)
- Current Status: Partially protected; many are on private agricultural land
- Tourism Infrastructure: Limited; requires a local guide or research
- Major Collections: Regional and national museums display artifacts
Landscape: Scenic mountain valley with river confluences
8. Petroglyphs of Cacao
Chocolate petroglyphs, you ask? Nooo!! The petroglyphs of Cacao Volcano in the Guanacaste Province are almost as mysterious as the granite boulders. Petroglyphs number in their hundreds and have been discovered near El Pedregal, with more discovered only recently.
An extensively larger collection of megaliths and petroglyphs have been unearthed all over Costa Rica and, although the country never boasted a powerful indigenous mega-culture (such as the Incas or Aztecs) when the Spaniards arrived, it’s clearly evident it nevertheless was home to many different ancient cultures, dating back thousands of year.
Hundreds of petroglyphs near El Pedregal in Guanacaste feature geometric patterns, anthropomorphic figures, zoomorphic designs, and abstract symbols carved into boulders across several square kilometers. Archaeological debate continues regarding meanings: astronomical observations, territorial markers, spiritual symbols, or historical records. Unlike portable artifacts, petroglyphs remain fixed, providing crucial archaeological context.
The Cacao volcano area, though less famous than Arenal or Poás, played important roles in pre-Columbian settlement and trade routes connecting the Pacific lowlands with the highlands. Volcanic soil supported agriculture in this strategic location.
New discoveries continue, with significant 2017 finds near documented sites. Conservation challenges include weathering, vandalism, and agricultural development. Some landowners voluntarily protect petroglyphs, recognizing cultural value, though systematic protection remains incomplete.
The University of Costa Rica’s archaeology department conducts ongoing research and occasional educational tours. Visiting requires local knowledge as most sites lack formal infrastructure.
Remote locations preserve authentic archaeological experiences for dedicated cultural travelers. Accessing many sites requires 4×4 vehicles and guides. The Guanacaste area offers less-visited alternatives to famous sites like Guayabo for those seeking off-path cultural exploration.
QUICK FACTS BOX – Cacao Petroglyphs:
- Location: Near El Pedregal, Guanacaste Province, northwest Costa Rica
- Estimated Age: 500-2,000 years (varying estimates by site)
- Number: Hundreds documented; new discoveries ongoing
- Styles: Geometric patterns, anthropomorphic, zoomorphic designs
- Culture: Pre-Columbian Chorotega and other indigenous groups
- Documentation: Extensively mapped late 20th century; research continues
- Access: Requires local guides; many on private land
- Best Time: December-April (dry season for access)
- Infrastructure: Minimal tourism facilities
- Closest Towns: Cañas or Bagaces (Guanacaste)
- Research: University of Costa Rica ongoing studies
- Conservation: Variable; some protected, others at risk
- Photography: Allowed with cultural respect
- Combine With: Palo Verde NP, Rincón de la Vieja Volcano
- 4×4 Required: Often necessary
- Preparation: Water, sun protection essential
9. Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
Voted one of Costa Rica’s Seven Wonders in 2007, Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve protects 10,500 hectares of pristine cloud forest in the Cordillera de Tilarán mountains. Established in 1972 by Quaker settlers and the Tropical Science Center, this reserve draws 70,000 annual visitors experiencing unique ecosystems where low-hanging clouds condense on vegetation.
Six distinct life zones harbor over 2,500 plant species, including 500+ orchid species; the world’s largest single-location collection. Monteverde is renowned for resplendent quetzals, three-wattled bellbirds, and all six Costa Rican cat species (jaguars, ocelots, pumas, though rarely seen).
More commonly observed: white-faced and howler monkeys, coatis, 400 bird species, 100 mammal species, and 120 reptile/amphibian species. Eight miles of maintained trails range from easy walks to challenging hikes.
The Continental Divide Trail offers panoramic views on clear days. Naturalist guides dramatically improve wildlife spotting using telescopes for canopy animals. High altitude creates cool temperatures averaging 24°C (mid-70s°F).
Dry season (January-April) brings reliable weather, though rain remains possible. The green season (May-November) features lush landscapes with afternoon rain concentration. Thick moss and lichens coat every surface, creating an ethereal atmosphere. This globally-recognized cloud forest epitomizes Costa Rica’s conservation commitment.
QUICK FACTS BOX – Monteverde:
- Location: Puntarenas Province, 3 hours northwest of San José
- Size: 10,500 hectares (26,000 acres)
- Entry Fee: $25 adults, $12 students, $12 children
- Hours: 7:00 AM-4:00 PM daily
- Best Time: January-April (drier); year-round for lush greenery
- Altitude: 1,200-1,800 meters (3,900-5,900 feet)
- Temperature: 18-24°C (64-75°F) average
- Annual Visitors: ~70,000
- Established: 1972
- Trail Length: 13 km (8 miles) maintained trails
- Life Zones: 6 distinct ecosystems
- Species: 2,500 plants, 400 birds, 100 mammals
- Famous For: Resplendent quetzals, world’s largest orchid collection
- Guide Recommended: Highly (essential for wildlife spotting)
10. Tenorio Volcano National Park & Río Celeste
Tenorio Volcano National Park protects the legendary Río Celeste, whose brilliant sky-blue waters create one of nature’s most spectacular optical illusions. Established in 1995, this 12,810-hectare park encompasses the dormant Tenorio Volcano and surrounding rainforest ecosystems in the Guanacaste Volcanic Mountain Range. The star attraction, Río Celeste Waterfall, plunges 98 feet into a vivid turquoise pool.
Costa Rican legend says God dipped his paintbrush here after painting the sky. Scientists reveal the truth: at El Teñidero (The Dye Shop), two clear rivers, Quebrada Agria and Río Buena Vista, merge. Aluminosilicate particles suspended in water create light scattering, producing the ethereal azure hue.
The 7-kilometer round-trip trail (3-4 hours) passes multiple natural wonders: the waterfall, El Teñidero color transformation point, Laguna Azul, Los Borbollones (volcanic hot springs), and scenic viewpoints. Elevation ranges from 600-1,900+ meters create diverse habitats from tropical rainforest to cloud forest.
Wildlife includes pumas, tapirs, howler monkeys, agoutis, peccaries, and 300+ bird species. Swimming is prohibited within park boundaries (ecosystem protection), though spots exist upstream/downstream outside limits. The trail becomes extremely muddy during the rainy season (May-December), requiring hiking boots. Advance online booking through SINAC is mandatory.
QUICK FACTS BOX – Río Celeste/Tenorio:
- Location: Guanacaste Province, near Bijagua, 1.75 hours from La Fortuna
- Size: 12,810 hectares (31,659 acres)
- Entry Fee: $12 adults, $5 children (2-12)
- Hours: 8:00 AM-4:00 PM (last entry 2:00 PM)
- Best Time: December-April (drier trails); June-December (lush)
- Trail Length: 7 km (4.3 miles) round-trip
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours average
- Altitude: 600-1,916 meters (1,968-6,286 feet)
- Key Attractions: Rio Celeste Waterfall, El Teñidero, Laguna Azul
- Waterfall Height: 98 feet (30 meters)
- Swimming: Prohibited inside the park
- Advance Booking: Required via the SINAC website
- Trail Difficulty: Moderate (includes 253 steps to the waterfall)
11. Braulio Carrillo National Park
One of Costa Rica’s largest national parks, Braulio Carrillo protects 47,689 hectares of pristine wilderness just 20 kilometers northeast of San José. Ironically, the park owes its existence to development, created in 1978 to protect the forest from Highway 32 construction linking the capital to the Caribbean coast.
Named after Costa Rica’s third head of state (1837-1842), the park showcases the country’s most extreme elevation gradient: 36 meters at La Selva border to 2,906 meters at Barva Volcano summit. This dramatic range creates extraordinary habitat diversity: lowland tropical rainforest, montane rainforest, cloud forest, and elfin forest. Over 90% consists of primary forest representing 6,000+ plant species, half of Costa Rica’s documented species.
Highway 32 bisects the park through the spectacular Zurquí Tunnel, providing breathtaking views for drivers emerging into dense jungle canopy. This accessibility makes Braulio Carrillo the most-viewed park, though few venture beyond roadsides. Wildlife viewing opportunities are exceptional: 515 bird species, 135 mammal species, including howler monkeys, white-faced capuchins, coatis, peccaries, and northern tamanduas.
Big cats (jaguars, pumas, ocelots) inhabit the park but remain elusive. Two public sectors: Quebrada González Station (most visited) offers three rainforest trails; Barva Volcano Sector features cloud forest trails and volcanic crater access. The famous Rainforest Aerial Tram operates on the eastern flank.
QUICK FACTS BOX – Braulio Carrillo:
- Location: Heredia/San José Provinces, 20 km northeast of San José
- Size: 47,689 hectares (117,842 acres)
- Entry Fee: $12 adults, $5 children (2-12)
- Hours: 8:00 AM-3:30 PM daily
- Best Time: December-April (drier conditions)
- Sectors: Quebrada González (main), Barva Volcano
- Elevation: 36-2,906 meters (118-9,514 feet)
- Habitats: 5 distinct life zones
- Wildlife: 515 birds, 135 mammals
- Annual Visitors: ~12,000
- Drive from San José: 30-45 minutes to Quebrada González
- Trail Types: Well-maintained to rustic
- Primary Forest: 90%+ of park
- Key Feature: Highway 32 bisects park (scenic views)
12. Irazú Volcano National Park
Standing 3,432 meters (11,260 feet), Irazú Volcano claims Costa Rica’s highest volcano title and ranks among the most accessible. Located 55 kilometers east of San José in Cartago Province, visitors drive directly to the summit for close-up views of multiple volcanic craters, including the famous Diego de la Haya crater with its emerald-green mineral lake.
Irazú derives fromthe indigenous “Istarú,” meaning “hill of tremor and thunder.” Documented eruptive history dates to 1723, with the most famous eruption coinciding precisely with the U.S.
President Kennedy’s March 1963 state visit blanketed San José in ash for two years. Last significant activity occurred in 1994; today, only minor fumarolic activity persists. The 2,309-hectare park (established 1955) protects five distinct craters: Principal Crater (deepest at 900 feet/275 meters), Diego de la Haya with color-changing mineral water (emerald to crimson depending on conditions), Playa Hermosa, and La Laguna.
Access is remarkably easy; a 500-meter paved path from the parking lot leads to panoramic viewpoints. On exceptionally clear days, both the Pacific Ocean andthe Caribbean Sea are visible. The moonscape terrain features scorched volcanic rock, gnarled trees, and mineral-stained pools.
The weather is harsh and unpredictable due to the extreme elevation. Temperatures average 5-9°C (41-48°F) with fierce winds. Early morning visits (before 10 AM) offer the best views before clouds arrive. Weekend crowds can create 1.5-2 hour entrance lines.
QUICK FACTS BOX – Irazú:
- Location: Cartago Province, 55 km (34 miles) east of San José
- Elevation: 3,432 meters (11,260 feet) – CR’s highest volcano
- Entry Fee: $15 adults, $5 children (2-12)
- Hours: 8:00 AM-3:30 PM daily
- Best Time: December-April; arrive before 10 AM
- Drive from San José: 1.5 hours via Cartago
- Trail Type: Paved, wheelchair accessible
- Walking Distance: 500 meters (5-10 minutes)
- Temperature: 5-9°C (41-48°F) average
- Key Feature: Diego de la Haya Emerald Crater Lake
- Last Major Eruption: 1963 (Kennedy visit)
- Last Activity: 1994
- Notable View: Pacific and Caribbean visible on clear days
- Crowds: Extremely busy weekends; weekdays recommended
- What to Bring: Warm jacket, long pants, windbreaker
Visiting a few national landmarks in Costa Rica on your adventure tour of the country will certainly grant you the chance to explore the historical and cultural side of this marvelous country. For more info on comprehensive and eclectic adventure tours of Costa Rica, simply contact us.
Frequently Asked Questions About Costa Rica’s National Landmarks
What are the most famous landmarks in Costa Rica?
The top landmarks are Arenal Volcano, Manuel Antonio National Park, Monteverde Cloud Forest, Guayabo archaeological site, and the Diquís stone spheres. Cultural highlights include San José’s National Theater and Cartago’s Basilica. Natural wonders like Río Celeste’s blue waterfall and Corcovado’s biodiversity also draw visitors worldwide.
How many days do I need to visit Costa Rica’s main landmarks?
Plan 10-14 days for comprehensive coverage: 2-3 days each in Monteverde, Arenal/La Fortuna, and Pacific coast areas, plus 1-2 days in San José. With only 7 days, focus on 3-4 landmarks in one region. Travel between destinations takes longer than expected due to mountainous terrain.
Which Costa Rica landmarks are best for families with children?
Best family options: Arenal Hanging Bridges (easy walks), Manuel Antonio (beaches + wildlife), Monteverde’s gardens, and Irazú Volcano (minimal walking). San José’s museums have interactive exhibits. Avoid Corcovado’s demanding hikes and Cocos Island’s expensive diving trips with young kids.
Do I need a guide to visit Costa Rica’s national landmarks?
Guides are essential at archaeological sites like Guayabo to understand what you’re seeing. Wildlife areas (Monteverde, Corcovado, Braulio Carrillo) benefit greatly from naturalist guides who spot hidden animals. Self-guided works fine at Irazú Volcano, Arenal Hanging Bridges, and San José museums. Most parks offer both options.
What’s the best time of year to visit Costa Rica’s national landmarks?
The dry season (December-April) offers the best weather for most landmarks. Green season (May-November) brings fewer crowds, lower prices, and afternoon rains. Visit Río Celeste in the dry season for the clearest blue color. High-altitude sites like Irazú work year-round but clouds are more common in rainy months. Cocos Island: December-May for calm seas, June-December for hammerheads.
Are Costa Rica’s landmarks accessible to travelers with mobility challenges?
Highly accessible: Irazú Volcano (paved paths), San José museums (elevators, adapted restrooms), Cartago Basilica. Partially accessible: Monteverde and Manuel Antonio have some paved trails. Not accessible: Guayabo, Río Celeste (253 steep steps), Corcovado, Cocos Island. Contact parks in advance for specific accommodation options.
Can I visit multiple landmarks in one day?
Feasible day combinations: Irazú + Cartago, Braulio Carrillo + Sarapiquí, or San José’s three museums. Most natural landmarks need full days: Monteverde (3+ hours), Río Celeste (4+ hours with drive), Arenal (full day), Manuel Antonio (half to full day). Trying too much means rushed experiences and excessive driving time.
