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Costa Rica Area Info : Central Valley : Things to Do Last Updated: Nov 28th, 2008 - 11:40:40


Orosi Valley, San Jose Day Trip, Costa Rica
By Explore Costa Rica Staff
Aug 1, 2008, 13:02

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Orosi Valley, San Jose Day Trip, Costa Rica

If your looking for things to do while in Costa Rica's Central Valley, be sure to take in the scenery in Orosi Valley. You can have a full day trip by including the quaint town of Cartago, Irazu Volcano, Lankester Orchid Gardens and have lunch on a coffee plantation.

Orosi Valley Costa Rica


The Orosi Valley, southeast of Cartago and visible from the top of Volcano Irazu on a clear day, is generally considered one of the most beautiful valleys in Costa Rica. The Reventazon River meanders through this steep-sided valley until it collects in the lake formed by the Cachi Dam. There are scenic overlooks near the town of Orosi which is at the head of the valley, and in Ujarras, which is on the banks of the lake.

Named after a Huetar Indian chief who lived in the region before it was colonized by the Spanish.  This quiet Costa Rica town is a nature lover’s delight.  In town of Orosi itself, you can see the church of Iglesia de San Jose Orosi built in 1734. This church sits on the west side of town and has a masterfully crafted wooden altar that is definitely worth a look. Also near the church is a small museum that displays many of Costa Rica’s old Spanish-influenced religious artifacts.

Cachi Dam, Orosi Valley
Near Ujarras are the ruins of Costa Rica's oldest church (built in 1693), whose tranquil gardens are a great place to sit and gaze at the surrounding mountains. In the town of Orosi itself, there is yet another colonial church and convent, built in 1743. A small museum here displays religious artifacts. Near the town of Cachi, you'll find La Casa del Sonador (The House of the Dreamer; tel. 2577-1983), the home and gallery of the late sculptor Macedonio Quesada and his sons, who carry on the family tradition.

From the Orosi Valley, it's a quick shot to the entrance to the Tapanti National Park (tel. 2552-4823), where you'll find some gentle and beautiful hiking trails, as well as riverside picnic areas. The park is open daily from 8am to 4pm; admission is $6 (£3).

Restaurant La Casona del Cafetal
Stop for lunch at La Casona del Cafetal Restaurant (tel. 2577-1414) located on a coffee plantation. The well manicured grounds overlooks the river and offers stunning views. Open 7 days a week, they specialize in fresh fish such as trout, chicken and beef dishes and have a great all you can eat buffet on Sundays.

If you're interested in staying in the Orosi Valley, check out the charming little Orosi Lodge (tel. 2533-3578), which is located right next to some simple hot spring pools. In the area you can stop and soak your tired bones inthermal baths of Los Balnearios and Los Patios.

Getting to Orosi Valley

Costa Rica Coffee
If you're driving, take the road to Paraiso from Cartago, head toward Ujarras, continue around the lake, and then pass through Cachi and on to Orosi. From Orosi, the road leads back to Paraiso. It is difficult to explore this whole area by public bus because this is not a densely populated region and connections are often infrequent or unreliable. However, there are regular buses from Cartago to the town of Orosi. These buses run roughly every half-hour and leave the main bus terminal in Cartago. The trip takes 30 minutes, and the fare is 60¢ (30p). There are also guided day tours of this area from San Jose.

Orosi Valley
Orosi Valley Self-guided Tours
Paraiso
Ujarras
Lankester Orchid Gardens
Escazu
Grecia
Turrialba
San Jose the Capital City
Zarcero
Heredia
Grecia


Costa Rica Area Info: Central Valley: Costa Rica Hotels: Things to Do:
San Jose: Central Valley Hotels: Central Valley Restaurants 
Costa Rica Hotels: Central Valley: Places to Eat

San Jose Guide:

San Jose, the Capital of Costa Rica, is the hub of all transportation in Costa Rica. For that reason, it is usually the first place you will visit while in Costa Rica. It lies between three Costa Rica volcanoes. There is a large variety of Costa Rica hotels, parks, restaurants and attractions for visitors. The first thing noticed about San Jose is the local friendliness. The city is set up on a pretty logical grid system. When on foot and touring the capital, Costa Ricans, also known as Ticos, are always willing to lend a hand with directions. Always remember though, locals use landmarks not street names for directions, and if you just can't figure out where you are, find a local church. Every church in Costa Rica faces west. While in the Capital, you have access to the best public transportation in all of Central America
 

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