Cartago Province, founded in 1563, is located in the central part of Costa Rica. Almost completely destroyed in an earthquake in 1910, today’s Cartago Province is abundant with farms that produce all kinds of products derived from the agriculture.
Some of these products are coffee, sugar cane, macadamia nuts, vegetables, pejibaye (these grow un clusters and are similar to miniature coconuts except that they are red or yellow), potatoes and ornamental plants. Weather is usually pleasant in Cartago because it sits 1,435 meters above sea level, therefore, there is no bad season to travel to Cartago.
Guayabo National Park is Costa Rica’s largest archeological site. Take vacations on ancient trails, see some 3,000 year-old petro glyphs and discover old homesteads from 1,000 BC. This 218 hectare park has only partially been explored and is like stepping back in time. Another spectacular park is the Irazu Volcano National Park with a still-active volcano. Crater Principal Lake is famous for the kiwi-green color of the water which is caused by rain falling down the canyon walls and dissolving minerals. Enjoy walking in a moonscape scene caused by volcanic activity and wind.
Visit Our Lady of the Angels Basilica for impressive Byzantine architecture. Roughly 1.5 million people make a pilgrimage to Our Lady every August beginning their pilgrimage with a 22 kilometer walk. With a tile floor in a rainbow of colors, decorated wooden columns and beautiful stained glass, a visit to Our Lady is an experience to remember.
Orchid lovers will enjoy the Lankester Botanical Garden. Sitting on 11 hectares, the Lankester Garden promotes conservation of orchids and has an orchid collection of almost one thousand species. The Lankester houses more than 3000 types of plants, with a large portion devoted to orchids and bromeliads. Visitors also get the chance to see several species of cacti, succulents, palms, bamboos, conifers and heliconias. The gardens are open to the public and run by the University of Costa Rica.
Costa Rica vacations are not complete without a taste of local color (and food) so take a walk through the Cartago Farmer’s Market. Stalls are filled with vegetables like cabbage, cauliflower, chard, green beans, tomatoes, gourds and celery. Fruit stalls display cantaloupe, honeydew, watermelon and pineapple. Buy some fresh eggs and try a freshly-made (on a grill) cheese tortilla as you chat with the friendly locals.
More adventure waits at Tabacon Hot Springs and Savegre Reserve. Or try white-water rafting, zip-lining with a canopy tour group, eco-tours in a rainforest, bird watching or hiking. Visit Cartago for your next vacations and take home memories that will last a lifetime.
