About Central Valley
Costa Rica’s breathtaking Central Valley comes alive with lush landscapes, towering volcanoes and impressive cultural destinations. Nearly two-thirds of the country’s citizens inhabit this fertile region.
Explore Costa Rica
Overview
Costa Rica’s capital city of San José, in the heart of the Central Valley, is home to around 333,000 people. The city is a great starting point to explore the country’s diverse natural wonders, from the towering Arenal Volcano in the north to the sensational Pacific and Caribbean coastlines to the west and east.
The cultural hub of Costa Rica, San José, is home to museums, restaurants, entertainment and colorful markets. Two of the country’s main volcanoes, Poás and Irazu, lie amid this immense region. Irazu last erupted during President John F. Kennedy’s visit on March 19, 1963, and has been active ever since. Be sure to make your way to Irazu’s summit, which affords magnificent views of both the Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean on a sunny day. The warm, mild climate of the Central Valley is ideal for any vacation.
What To Do
Trek amid the 2,500-foot high crater and deep green Botos Lagoon of nearby Poás Volcano, and visit some of the coffee plantations that dot the Central Valley.
Explore the glorious La Paz Waterfall and Gardens, and wonderful wildlife refuge. View the impressive Nuestra Señora de la Limpia Concepción ruins, constructed from limestone during the late 17th century, on the north shore of Lago Cachi in the Orosi-Cachí Valley.
Stroll through the colorful shops, museums, parks, outdoor plazas and restaurants along San José’s bustling Avenida Central (Central Avenue). Watch an entertaining performance in the city’s ornate 19th century, neo-classically designed National Theatre (Teatro Nacional).
When to Go
It is no wonder so much of the Costa Rican population lives in its lovely Central Valley. It holds the country’s mildest climate, with temperatures that range from 64 F to 85 F, and average around an ideal 73 F. The rainy season lasts from May until November, but the weather reaches near perfection between December and April.
Fast Facts
San José and the Central Valley sit around 3,809 feet above sea level. Orosi Valley’s marvelous Bride’s Veil Waterfall is one of the tallest in Costa Rica. Escazú, located just a few miles west of San José, is known as the “Beverly Hills of Costa Rica,” due to its abundance of sophisticated shops.
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