Things To Do
in Cartago
Cartago is a charming city located in the Central Valley of Costa Rica. It was the former capital of the country before San Jose. The city is known for its historic sites, including the stunning Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels, a popular pilgrimage site.
Cartago also offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and is a great starting point for exploring nearby natural attractions.
- "Pura vida" - Pure life
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¡Adiós!" - Goodbye!
- "¡Hola!" - Hello!
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Basílica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles, a significant pilgrimage site. Enjoy the beautiful architecture and learn about its history.
Head to the Lankester Botanical Gardens, where you can explore diverse plant species and enjoy a peaceful walk. Pack a picnic to savor amidst the vibrant surroundings.
Dine at a local restaurant featuring traditional Costa Rican cuisine. Experience the local flavors and relax as the day comes to a close.
Set out for a hike in the stunning Irazu Volcano National Park. Enjoy breathtaking views and the unique volcanic landscapes.
After lunch, visit the nearby Orosi Valley for a scenic drive. Stop at the historic Orosi Church and take in the beautiful surroundings.
Return to Cartago and stroll through local markets. Sample street food and shop for souvenirs to remember your trip.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical significance, with landmarks like the Ruins of Cartago and the Basilica de Nuestra Señora de Los Ángeles.
- Beautiful natural scenery, surrounded by mountains and greenery.
- Cooler climate compared to other parts of Costa Rica, making it more comfortable for outdoor activities.
- Less touristy compared to coastal areas, allowing for a more authentic Costa Rican experience.
- Access to nearby attractions such as the Irazú Volcano and Turrialba Volcano.
- Less developed infrastructure compared to larger cities like San Jose.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options.
- Fewer international dining options, with a focus on local cuisine.
- Public transportation may be less frequent or convenient than in bigger cities.
- Risk of natural disasters like earthquakes given the area's tectonic activity.
Best Activities in Cartago
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and diverse wildlife in this beautiful national park located in the Cartago province.
Take a scenic drive or bike ride through this picturesque valley, dotted with coffee plantations, hot springs, and charming little towns.
Embark on a hike or drive to the summit of the Irazu Volcano for stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and its craters.
Discover the historical Ujarras Ruins, a colonial church dating back to the 16th century, situated in a serene and beautiful setting near the town of Ujarras.
Tours
Uncover the best of Cartago with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Cartago
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and on a clear day, both the Pacific and Atlantic coasts can be seen.
Provides a beautiful backdrop for photos with its stunning architecture and historical significance.
Features stunning landscapes, including mountains, coffee plantations, and the Reventazón River, making it an ideal spot for photos.
Food in Cartago
Cartago Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A quintessential Costa Rican dish made of rice and beans, often flavored with cilantro, onions, and peppers. It is commonly served at breakfast and accompanies many meals throughout the day. Sample this iconic dish at local sodas (small, casual eateries) like Soda Tapia or Soda El Tenedor.
Must-Try!
A hearty beef stew featuring cassava, corn, plantains, and a variety of vegetables, all simmered in a rich broth. You can savor this soul-warming dish at traditional restaurants such as Mirador Ram Luna, where it's prepared with authentic flair.
A delectable appetizer composed of seasoned rice, black beans, diced pork, pico de gallo, and a drizzle of Lizano sauce. Delight in this local favorite at La Calle or Antojitos de Maíz.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Cartago better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling farmer's market is a treasure trove of fresh produce, local cheeses, artisanal bread, and other gourmet delights. Make sure to savor the diverse array of fruits and grab a snack from one of the many food stalls offering empanadas, tamales, and tropical fruit smoothies.
Throughout the park, you'll find numerous street food vendors dishing up authentic Costa Rican snacks such as tamales, arreglados (sandwiches), and ceviche. Take a leisurely stroll to sample the diverse offerings and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Cartago, it's common to greet people with a friendly kiss on the cheek or a handshake, especially when meeting someone for the first time.
It's important to be mindful of personal space and to avoid standing too close to others, especially when interacting with people in Cartago.
Showing respect through the use of polite language and manners is highly valued in Cartago, so it's important to say 'please' and 'thank you' in conversations.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Cartago with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Cartago
Ensure a smooth experience
In Cartago, Costa Rica, tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated for good service. It is customary to leave a 10% tip at restaurants if the service charge is not included. Tipping for other services such as taxi rides and hotel staff is not expected but can be given as a gesture of appreciation.
Payment in Cartago, Costa Rica is primarily done in cash. Credit and debit cards are accepted in larger establishments, but it is advisable to carry cash for smaller purchases and in more remote areas. ATMs are available for withdrawing cash, and currency exchange services can be found in most tourist areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Cartago.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Cartago, Costa Rica with sunny days and minimal rainfall. Ideal for outdoor activities and exploring.
Expect frequent rainfall, lush vegetation, and fewer tourists. Good for experiencing the natural beauty of Cartago, Costa Rica.
Cartago at Night
Hiking in Cartago
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning park featuring the Irazú Volcano, which is the highest volcano in Costa Rica. The park offers several trails with breathtaking views of craters and surrounding landscapes.
This park includes trails that lead to the Turrialba Volcano, offering unique views of the volcano and lush tropical forests. It’s a great spot for hiking and observing diverse flora and fauna.
A local favorite, this trail is situated in the hills near Cartago, providing a moderate hike with beautiful views of the Central Valley and surrounding mountains.
A more challenging hiking destination, known for its beautiful landscapes and native pine forests. The trails offer opportunities to see unique wildlife endemic to the area's high elevations.
Offering several trails along the Orosi River, this area combines natural beauty with cultural history, featuring old landmarks and scenic views of the river and mountains.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Cartago through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Cartago by plane.
Located in Alajuela, about 20 km northwest of Cartago, this is the main international airport serving Costa Rica.
Situated in Liberia, approximately 215 km northwest of Cartago, this airport serves the northwestern region of Costa Rica.
Located closer to San José, about 25 km from Cartago, this airport primarily handles domestic flights but also some international traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population speaks Spanish, being the official language of Costa Rica.
The population primarily consists of Costa Rican nationals, representing the country's rich cultural heritage.
There are small communities of indigenous peoples, such as the Bribri and Cabécar, residing in and around the Cartago region.
A growing number of expatriates from various countries, including North America and Europe, have settled in Cartago.
A significant portion of the population is made up of young people, particularly due to the presence of educational institutions.
There is also a considerable demographic of elderly citizens, contributing to the community’s diversity.
The Soul of Cartago
Discover the essence of Cartago through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Cartago and Costa Rica, with a strong local presence and famous teams like C.S. Cartaginés.
Biking is a popular sport due to the scenic routes and mountainous terrain, with many events and competitions held in the area.
An increasingly popular sport in schools and recreational leagues, enjoyed by both men and women.
A widely played sport in Cartago, with local schools and amateur teams engaging in various tournaments.
Athletics are popular in schools, with students participating in various events like running, jumping, and throwing.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cartago.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Costa Rican cuisine heavily features meat, many restaurants in Cartago offer plant-based alternatives. Look for dishes like vegetarian casado (a typical meal with rice, beans, and plantains), vegetable stews, and fresh salads. Notable establishments catering to this dietary preference include Restaurante Quimbaya and La Casona del Cafetal.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can enjoy a variety of gluten-free options at eateries such as Café Azahar and La Fonda de Acosta, which offer gluten-free bread and pasta, as well as clearly labeled menu items to accommodate those with dietary restrictions.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Cartago with these cultural adventures.
