Central Highlands of Costa Rica

A thin belt of dramatic peaks which give way to impressive views extend from the town of Tilarán, in the northwest, down to the southeast and the Turrialba Volcano, outlining the spectacular Central Highlands. The uppermost peaks make up a dazzling skyline as they provide views that get better and better as you wind your way up the coffee-shrouded hills. The scenery is so spectacular that from many of the highest points it is possible to simultaneously view the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. The region is bordered by the Northern Lowlands to the north, the Central Valley to the south, the Caribbean to the east and Guanacaste to the west—encompassing an elliptical expanse full of dense green rolling hills which give rise to an explosion of jaw-dropping peaks and unparalleled biodiversity. Beautiful discoveries lie around every corner of the Central Highlands.

Many of the country’s active Volcanic peaks ascend along the Central Volcanic Mountain Range (Cordillera Volcánica Central), supplying ample resources for the nature-enthusiast and outdoor-lover. There is plenty of nature and wildlife to be explored, as the region is dotted with some of the most unadulterated and enthralling natural terrain. Volcanoes like Poás and Irazú are some of the most spectacular and, surprisingly, some of the most accessible in the country. Home to national Parks and protected Reserves, the Central Highlands boast superb wildlife havens and thriving lush vegetation which reaches up to altitudes as high as 11,260 ft (3,432 m). Very accessible from San José, many of the destinations found in the Central Highlands can be visited by day trips from the capital city and other major Cities nearby.

Many of the country’s most important rivers bellow from the heights of the Central Volcanic Mountain Range down to the fertile Central Valley, which neighbors to the south. Birthing from high atop the crisp mountain range, these rivers supply the Central Plateau (Meseta Central) with vital nutrients that give rise to the flourishing crops it is famous for and thrives on. These rivers slither their way down the upper slopes of the continental divide as misty clouds saturate oaks and pines decorated with epiphytes and mosses. Ferns lounge along the forest floors as the region is home to the intangible Three-wattled Bellbird and Resplendent Quetzal.

Serendipitous endeavors await all visitors of the Central Highlands which is accessed via the Pan-American (Interamericana). In route to your awaiting destination you'll experience the region's pure beauty as it unwinds along the highway in front of you. The immaculate views and stunning natural beauty may entice you to spend your entire vacation in the Central Highlands.