The
area of the Central Valley is composed by the capital: San José and
other three important cities: Alajuela, Cartago and Heredia.
The first gateway into Costa Rica is the Juan Santamaría International
Airport, located in the city of Alajuela, at a close distance from San Jose
(only 20 minutes), as well as the other cities in the Central Valley. Many
International airlines fly to Costa Rica, including American Airlines, Continental
Airlines, US Airways, Grupo Taca, KLM, Martinair, among others; thus, it is
easily accessible from almost any part of the world.
The average daytime temperature is about 75° Fahrenheit. The rainy season
begins in May and lasts through October with showers mostly during the afternoon.
Mornings are fresh and dew laden.
Some sights of interest in San José are: Fidel Tristán Jade
Museum that boasts a large collection of jade, jewelry, utensils and other
artifacts. Pueblo Museum proffers a recreation of traditional settings found
throughout the Costa Rican countryside. The Simón Bolívar Zoo,
the National Theater, the Gold Museum, the Central Market are among the main
attractions. In Heredia you can find the Inbioparque a natural “museum”
where visitors can experience, at first hand, a sample of all the different
ecosystems in the country. Also in Heredia is the well known Café Britt’s
Coffee Tour, during which one gets to learn about this important crop and
the way it has had an important impact in the ways of life of the Costa Rican
people. In Alajuela, there’s the Butterfly Garden, the International
Airport, the Poás Volcano, among other sites of interest. Finally,
the city of Cartago holds a very important place in the history of Costa Rica,
as it was it’s first capital. Here visitors will find some historic
sites such as the church of La Basilica de los Angeles (patron of the country),
Orosi, Cachi and Ujarrás. The Irazu Volcano is one of the natural landmarks
of this city, too.
For traveling in the city, stick to comfortable lightweight cotton clothing.
Long pants and long-sleeved shirts are interchangeable with shorts and tees,
but carry a light jacket. A rain poncho is essential when visiting during
the rainy season. Keep shoes as comfortable as possible for those walking
city tours.
CENTRAL VALLEY HOTELS:
Picture
Hotel
Category
Description
Info Req.
Vesuvio
Budget
Economic and well located B&B, blocks away from downtwon San Jose.
More info...
A cozy lodge located in the picturesque Valley in the highlands of
San Jose. The perfect place for those who wish to discover the cloud forest
and the birds of costa Rica, at a 90 min drive from the city. More
info...
Built in a 4500 sqm property, and with a unique type of architecture
it provides a tropical atmosphere, surrounded by costarican trees and
exotic gardens.. More info...
In Turrialba, luxurious hacienda surrounded by tropical gardens, exquisit
rooms and excellent restaurant service, to enjoy the beauties of the lowland
Caribbean valley. More info...
Combined visit of the Poas Volcano & Sarchi town for souvenir
shopping including the famous Costa Rican oxcarts (Crafts & fine woods
by local artisans). Recommended for: all ages. More
info...
Visit the Poas Volcano & the private Watefall gardens, where you
can admire the amazing Magia Blanca & La Paz Waterfalls. Recommended
for: all ages/ hiking skills. More
info...
Fully comprehensive day tour, visits sights of major tourist intrest,
including Poas Volcano, Waterfall Gardens & a boat trip in the Sarapiqui
River. Recommended for: all ages. More
info...
A trip of magical beauty, recommed for more experienced rafters and
those in very good physical condition. Recommended for: Over 14
years old. More info...
HONEYMOON &
The
area of the Central Valley is composed by the capital: San José and
other three important cities: Alajuela, Cartago and Heredia. 
