Things To Do
in Turrialba
Nestled in the highland valley of Cartago, Turrialba sits between verdant coffee hills and the active Turrialba Volcano. The town blends rural Costa Rican charm with access to dramatic rivers, lush cloud forests, and cacao and coffee culture. Visitors come for outdoor adventures, authentic regional cuisine, and a slower pace that feels worlds away from the capital.
It’s a gateway to both volcanic landscapes and community-driven experiences in central Costa Rica.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Costa Rican gallo pinto. Afterward, take a stroll through the charming streets of Turrialba, admiring the colonial architecture and vibrant murals. Visit the Central Park where locals gather for morning conversations and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
After lunch at a nearby sodas, explore the Turrialba Cathedral, an iconic landmark with stunning stained glass windows. Spend the afternoon at the Turrialba Archaeological Museum, where you can learn about the region's rich indigenous history and view ancient artifacts. Engage with locals at the artisan markets, where you can find handmade crafts and souvenirs.
As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant renowned for its Costa Rican cuisine, where you can enjoy dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the town to soak in the evening ambiance, with street vendors and musicians adding to the charm. Cap off the night with a coffee tasting at a nearby café, experiencing the rich flavors of Turrialba's coffee.
Start your day with an early breakfast at your accommodation before heading out to a local coffee farm. Join a guided tour where you can learn about the coffee-growing process from bean to cup, and enjoy the beautiful landscapes of lush green hills. Participate in the harvesting process if you're there in season, experiencing firsthand the effort that goes into producing this beloved beverage.
After a coffee-tasting session, enjoy a farm-to-table lunch at the coffee plantation, featuring local dishes paired with the freshest coffee. In the afternoon, take a hike through the coffee fields, where you can spot various bird species and other wildlife that inhabit the area. Your guide will share insights about the local ecosystem and sustainable farming practices.
Return to Turrialba for dinner at a restaurant specializing in dishes with coffee-infused flavors. Spend your evening relaxing at a local bar, enjoying the ambiance of the town and perhaps trying a cocktail made with Turrialba rum. Reflect on your day as you mingle with locals and fellow travelers, sharing stories of your adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥗Lunch for two | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee at cafe | $2-5 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-80 |
| 🚎Local transport (short ride) | $1-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Access to volcano scenery and dramatic rivers
- Relaxed pace with authentic Costa Rican culture
- Excellent opportunities for coffee and cacao experiences
- Varied outdoor adventures in a compact region
- Limited nightlife compared to major cities
- Volcanic activity can affect crater hikes and visibility
- Some services cater mainly to local or regional clientele
- Remote areas may require longer travel times to reach
- "Hola" - Hello
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Una mesa para dos, por favor" - A table for two, please
- "¿Aceptan tarjetas?" - Do you accept cards?
- "Necesito ayuda" - I need help
- "¡Buenos días!" - Good morning
Places to Visit in Turrialba
Visit one of these nice places.
Elevated vantage point to observe the active crater and distant valleys, best at dawn or late afternoon if weather allows.
Rugged river canyon with dramatic green walls and white-water action; access viewpoints along the riverbanks.
Historic streets, colorful storefronts, and the surrounding hills offer classic Costa Rican town photography.
Food in Turrialba
Turrialba Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Rice and black beans sautéed with onions, peppers, and cilantro; often served with eggs or meat for breakfast.
Must-Try!
A classic plate with rice, beans, plantains, salad, and a protein such as chicken, fish, or beef.
A savory beef and vegetable stew enriched with corn, cassava, and plantains.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering fresh produce, local cheeses, tropical fruits, and informal stalls with inexpensive bites.
Grab tamales, empanadas, and other street-side bites from small vendors around the market area.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly hello and a handshake are common; maintain polite conversation, especially with elders and hosts. Use
Keep noise respectful around neighborhoods and natural areas; avoid littering and follow local guidelines when visiting farms and reserves.
Safety
Tipping in Turrialba
Ensure a smooth experience
In sit-down restaurants, a tip of 10–15% is customary if service is not included. Small cafés may round up the bill or leave change as a courtesy.
Most tourist-oriented places accept cash in Costa Rican colones and US dollars, and many larger establishments also take credit/debit cards. ATMs are common in town; carry small denominations for street vendors and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Generally sunny mornings with warm days; humidity rises in the afternoons and evenings, but rainfall is limited. Great for outdoor activities and clear volcano vistas, though mornings can be cool in the higher elevations.
Afternoons bring frequent showers; mornings are often brighter before clouds roll in. Lush green landscapes, vibrant photography opportunities, and fewer crowds, but plan for slippery trails and quicker changes in weather.
Turrialba at Night
Hiking in Turrialba
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Crater-facing trails with panoramic views; check current volcanic activity and park closures before hiking.
Forest trails along the river can offer birdwatching and lush rainforest scenery; commonly accessed through rafting outfitters.
Archaeological site with surrounding forest paths that reveal ancient ruins and nearby nature trails.
Airports
How to reach Turrialba by plane.
Costa Rica’s main international gateway near San José; drive about 2–3 hours to Turrialba depending on traffic and route conditions.
Alternative international gateway in Guanacaste; longer drive to Turrialba but useful for certain itineraries or domestic connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of rural farmers, small business owners, and families; strong coffee and dairy industries shape daily life.
A growing number of visitors and long-term travelers who contribute to tourism-focused services and cultural exchanges.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular activity on the Pacuare River drawing visitors seeking adrenaline and scenic jungle environments.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Turrialba.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many main dishes can be adapted; look for rice and beans, fresh salads, plantains, framed fruit plates, and veggie options at most restaurants.