To the East of San Jose we find the province of Cartago, home to large coffee plantations, a bustling downtown, and some of Costa Rica's oldest structures & buildings. Prior to European settlement, the region was central to Costa Rica and home to the indigenous communities responsible for creating the country’s most significant archaeological monument, now known as Guayabo National Park.
In 1563, Juan Vasquez de Coronado founded Cartago city, which was the country’s first capital. Today, Cartago is a quiet colonial town, and host to the Basilica de Los Angeles, one of Costa Rica’s most important religious sites.
Traveling out into the surrounding mountains, the province boasts several natural wonders, including Irazu Volcano, Turrialba Volcano, and Chirripo National Park. You can find adventure, hot springs, and unparalleled natural beauty in the Orosi Valley.
