Central Valley Attractions and Vacations in Cartago

Cartago province is home to some of the best known historical churches in Costa Rica which date back to the Spanish colonial era, the best example of which is the Basilica de Nuestra Senora des Los Angeles. The provincial capital city of Cartago is the original capital of Costa Rica until 1823. Many of the architectural treasures of this historical city have been lovingly preserved; and to this day the city maintains a strong traditional aura which befits its world-heritage-site accolade.

Vacation Rentals and Lodges in Orosi Valley

Cartago province boasts several prominent Central Valley attractions including the Orosi Valley, Irazu Volcano National Park and Turrialba Volcano. Orosi Valley lodges and vacation rentals are located in close proximity to attractions and activities such as bathing in mineral hot springs, fishing for trouts and prawns in Cachi Lake, and visiting historical villages like Orosi and Ujarras, the first communities to be settled in the central highlands by the Spanish during the Colonial period.

Visiting Volcanoes in Cartago Province

Cartago vacation rentals offer a great base for hikers headed for Turrialba Volcano and Irazu Volcano. Irazu Volcano is one of five active volcanoes in Costa Rica and it is the highest volcano in the country with an elevation of 11,260-feet or 3,432 meters. On clear days, it is possible to see both the Pacific and Atlantic oceans from the summit. With a good paved road running close to the rim, three of Irazu Volcano’s craters are easily accessed by visitors, who also chance to see coyotes, squirrels, armadillos, rabbits, foxes, owls, robins, woodpeckers, the volcano junco and volcano hummingbird. Turrialba Volcano is not as touristy as Irazu, but visitors can hike or take a horseback ride to the summit.

River Rafting around Turrialba

Turrialba used to be an important railroad town due to its midpoint position between San Jose and the city of Limon. Nowadays Turrialba is famous for its coffee and cheese production and the hotels in Turrialba provide an ideal base for adventure seekers from all over the world who come to challenge the white waters of the Pacuare River and the Reventazon River.