National Parks, Biological Reserves and Botanical Gardens:
Other Points ofInterest:
Cerro de la Muerte
Orosi Valley, Cachí Reservoir & Dam
This valley is very famous for its outstandingviews and its picturesque roads. It is located approx. an hour’s drive southeast of San José. The fastest way to get there is driving through the city of Cartago, follow the road that takes to Paraíso and then turn left towards Ujarrás. This old village lies on the North shore of Cachí Lake and hosts the ruins of the first colonial church built in 16th century (1560).
The oldest Costa Rican church still in use though,is the San José of Orosí which was built in 1735 and has outstanding timber roof and terracotta tiles. From the villages of Ujarrás and Orosí it is possible to admire breathtaking views of the Reventazón River Canyon. In the area it is possible to enjoy trout fishing or riverside picnics surrounded by picturesque, pastoral landscapes.
Close to the Dam is worth stopping by “La Casa del Soñador” (The House ofthe Dreamer), a tiny, curios wooden house entirely carved by sculptor Macedonio Quesada and his sons Hermes and Miguel.
Stopping at the Cachí Hydroelectric Dam one can peer over the retaining wall to the Reventazón River down below. Approx. 6.5 miles (10 km) south of Orosí is the Tapantí National Park. The entire valley is dedicated to coffee plantations although the area of Ujarrás produces large quantities of chayote (green squash).
Reventazón & Pacuare Rivers
Originating in the Talamanca Mountains, these two rivers pour their waters into the Caribbean Sea. They are both excellent for white water rafting and kayaking, being the Reventazón the most visited in the Country for this purpose.
The Pacuare on the other hand, is considered to bea Wild and Scenic River. For rafting lovers it is possible to have an 18.5 miles (30 km) down river run having the chance of camping for at least one night on the river’s banks.
LankesterGardens (click herefor “National Parks, Biological Reserves and Botanical Gardens”