Table of Contents
About Cartago
Cartago was the first capital of Costa Rica, founded by the Spanish governor of the time in 1563. The city is located close to Irazu Volcano in one of the most breathtaking valleys of the world.
Cartago is one of the oldest settlements in the area. Unfortunately, the enormous eruption of the Irazu Volcano in 1723 destroyed most of this beautiful town, and the capital was moved to San Jose. However, nature did what it does best and gave life to this beautiful town again.
Surrounding the Central Valley and Orosi region, the rich soil of Cartago allows it to be an agricultural center. Abundant in onions, potatoes, and many orchid species, they have become the most prominent crops in the region.
While most of Cartago’s attractions are historic, Museo Municipal de Cartago is technologically advanced sites with entertainment such as live performances, multimedia exhibitions, and a digital library.
Getting there
Fly into San Jose in Costa Rica to get to Cartago. You can arrive at either Tobias Bolanos International Airport or Juan Santamaria International Airport.
Once in San Jose, you can take a 45 min bus ride for as low as $1.00 with Autotransportes Lumaca, S.A, or Transtusa. You can also take the train for $2.00 and be there within 52 min with the Instituto Costarricense de Ferrocariles.
Alternatively, if you are more of a private person, you can also get a taxi for around $45.00 or drive there yourself and cover only your gas expenses. By car from San Jose, Cartago is 27 min away.
Best time to visit
Depending on the type of weather you prefer, there are certain months in which it might be better for you to visit Cartago. Bear in mind that the area is temperate; therefore, average temperatures barely vary at all with a fair chance of rain during half of the year.
For example, if you are looking for very hot weather with high temperatures of 29 ˚C during the day and 19 ˚C during the night, the months of April, May, and June are your best option. On the other hand, if you are looking for a bit of cooler weather, with highs on 23 ˚C during the day and lows of 18 ˚C at night, then October to February is your best choice.
In addition to the temperature, you may want to take into consideration that dry season in Cartago happens from December to April. Coincidently, those months are also the peak tourist season months since they overlap with cold weather of North America and Europe.
Last but not at all least, if the weather is not your priority you may want to reconsider visiting during high season (December to April). Since this is the most expensive season, you could potentially stay as far away as possible so you can find cheaper options, better deals, and more privacy in a highly touristic, incredibly unique area.
Things to do
Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels
Built back in 1639 and partially destroyed by an earthquake, holding itself proudly high, the statue is known as “La Negrita,” “Reina de Cartago” (Queen of Cartago), or “Black Madonna” is found. Every year on August 2nd, thousands of faithful followers come from neighboring countries to visit and receive a full pardon for their sins.
The Roman Catholic Basilica is defined as astonishingly beautiful, a definite must-see for everyone, believers and non-believers equally.
Lankester Botanical Garden
Hundreds of exotic orchid species await for you at the 10.7 hectares of Lankester Botanical Garden, the most important botanical Garden in Latin America.
Currently operated as a research center by the University of Costa Rica, the thousands of plants present mean you can see blooms all year long. Keep in mind that some orchids may only flower for a day or two during the year, so having open access to blooming orchids all year long is unique and worth seeing.
Pacuare River
Running from the Caribbean Coast inland to Cartago for approximately 108 Km, the Pacuare River is a wonderful location for exciting activities such as white-water rafting, white water kayaking, and river boarding.
As if that is not attractive enough, the Pacuare River was named as one of the top ten rivers in the world; it is home to exceptional wildlife like colorful toucans, morpho butterflies, parrots, frogs, and much more.
It contains rapids of class III, IV, and V but regardless of the white-water activities, the scenery itself is breathtaking and worth visiting.
Ruins of the Church of Carthage
Dating back to the 16th century, these remarkable ruins are the remains of many earthquakes, the last one dating back to 1910. Right in the middle of the city and with unique black-lava stone, the ruins are simply impressive.
Enjoy the view of beautiful birds and flowers while diving into the astonishing history of Cartago.
Turrialba Volcano National Park
Three craters, two cones, the second tallest volcano in Costa Rica with two different types of forest make the Turrialba Volcano National Park a wonderful attraction.
Although it has been closed since 2015 due to eruptions, rumors of resuming official tours and hikes have been around since February 2020. It is one of Costa Rica’s most famous attractions, with the finest trails and breathtaking sceneries.
You can get as close as 2 Km from the entrance which may not seem enough, but even so, you can still catch a great view of the volcano.
Irazu Volcano National Park
The tallest volcano in Costa Rica, Irazu Volcano is by far the most impressive natural attraction in the country. Since there has been no noticeable activity in the volcano since the 1990s, the National Park has become the perfect attraction for both visitors and locals. The park runs around 2,300 hectares although it is not all completely open to the public.
The conveniently paved trails will make it easy for you to enjoy the National Park and see 2 out of the 4 present craters. Make sure you make your way there early since gates close immediately at 3:30 pm. Delight yourself with the view of incredibly emerald and turquoise-colored lakes with spectacular mountain views.
Restaurants
Local Tico Restaurants – Sodas
If you are looking for an affordable and cheap meal, sodas will be your best option. You can find pizzas, burgers, and Tico grubs in these small restaurants. You can see many sodas while you are walking in the city center.
Andiamo LA
Andiamo La is an Italian restaurant located in Cartago, Costa Rica. If your budget is not too low, you should try the amazing meals and wine in Andiamo La. This restaurant also offers you vegetarian and vegan options that you can choose from.
Restaurante Ton Hoi
If you are looking for Thai or Chinese food, Restaurante Ton Hoi is your go to. However, the prices are a little high for Costa Rica standards. Restaurante Ton Hoi is located at 159m East, from San Rafael de Oreamuno, Cartago.
Where to Stay
Cabaña Vista Verde
Cabaña Vista Verde is located in Cartago. Irazú Volcano is within your reach and is 41 km away. Also, the Basílica de Nuestra Señora de Los Àngeles will be just 10km away from your position. If you like hiking, these cabins are the best accommodation for you. You can benefit from free parking and walk in the botanical gardens.
There are 2 bedrooms with flat screen TV units available for you in the apartments. You will also have your private bathroom and a fully equipped kitchen during your stay.
Tobías Bolaños International airport is the closest airport, which is 38 km from your apartment, you can also use a paid shuttle service to get to your accommodation.
Grandpas Hotel
You have access to free Wi-Fi and parking space in Grandpas Hotel, Cartago. You can find flat-screen TVs and private bathrooms in your cabins. There is also a garden for you to walk and relax in Grandpas Hotel.
You can reach Irazú Volcano in a 30 minutes’ drive. The nearest airport is Juan Santamaría International which is 50km from your cabin.
Cabaña Cerro Verde
If you want to enjoy amazing city views during your stay, Cabaña Cerro Verde is just the right pick for you. It also provides a garden and a patio if you like walking. There are private parking, room service, and free Wi-Fi options for you in this chalet. Breakfast is a la carte every morning. Also, you can use the barbecue during your stay!
The nearest airport to the accommodation is Tobías Bolaños International, 39 km, and there is a paid airport shuttle service offered by the property.
