Cartago
Costa Rica · 1435 m
Description
Cartago is the former capital of Costa Rica and one of the country’s most important historical and religious centers. The city lies in the fertile Central Valley at the foot of Irazú Volcano and is best known for the Basílica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles, home to the revered image of “La Negrita”, Costa Rica’s patron saint. Cartago combines colonial history and deeply rooted religious traditions with the agricultural landscapes of the surrounding highlands. The nearby Orosi Valley, imposing Irazú Volcano, and Lankester Botanical Garden, renowned for its orchids, also make this historic city an ideal base for exploring the diverse surrounding region.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 1 to 2 days (optimal 1 day)
Travel season
Best time to visit: December – April
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels (Basílica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles)
- Irazú Volcano National Park(Day trip)
- Orosi Valley & colonial church(Day trip)
- Ruins of Santiago Apóstol Parish
- Lankester Botanical Garden
- Tapantí National Park(Day trip)
- Ujarrás Ruins(Day trip)
- Orosi Valley coffee farms(Day trip)
- Cachí Reservoir(Day trip)
- Casa del Soñador(Day trip)
- Prusia Forest trails(Day trip)
- Guayabo National Monument(Day trip)
- Turrialba Volcano National Park(Day trip)
Getting there
- Train stations:
- Cartago, Los Ángeles, Oreamuno