Central Valley
Costa Rica · Americas
About Central Valley
Costa Rica's Central Valley is the most populated region of the country; the capital city, San José, is there and so is the Juan Santamaría airport. The Central Valley includes charming small towns, towering volcanoes, and dense jungle landscapes like the huge Braulio Carrillo National Park.
Central Valley travel guide
Understand
The Valley of Pérez Zeledon is one of the most intensive cultivated areas of Costa Rica. Several indigenous communities, like Terraba or Boruca, inhabit and cultivate land in this region. Most of the factories and services industries companies are also in the area; therefore, a lot of sleeper towns and cities surround and permeate the Central Valley. Still, there are many historical sights and because of the small size of the country, this area is the starting point of the many adventures available in the rest of the country.
Getting there
By bus If coming from San Carlos (Nicaragua) a change of bus in Ciudad Quesada may be necessary.
By plane San José Juan Santamaria Airport SJO IATA in Alajuela is Costa Rica's premier international airport and offers a wide variety of connections.
Getting around
By train The Costa Rican railway network was never all that extensive and has suffered in the 20th century, but in the Central Valley government investment in the 21st century has helped build a small network mostly aimed at commuters.
Drink & nightlife
Agua Dulce - A common drink in the sugar-cane growing regions of Costa Rica such as the Central Valley. This is a sweet drink made from the cane and a favorite of children.
Go next
Limón Province North Costa Rica Central Pacific
Overview adapted from Wikipedia, travel guide fromWikivoyage (CC BY-SA)。Photography via Wikimedia Commons.