Cultural Activities in Limón

While the most densely concentrated area of cultural activities lies in the capital of Costa Rica, the province of Limon is home to a very eclectic lifestyle that can't be seen in many other areas of the country. Limon is located along the Caribbean Coast, which is why the province is home to a large Afro-Caribbean population. Additionally, Limon is a great place to go if you plan on brushing up on your Spanish language skills. Simply because of the unique and diverse culture in Limon, it's a great place for travelers to visit to see the wide spectrum of locales in Costa Rica.

Ethno Historic Museum

The Regional Museum, or ethno historical museum, in the city of Limon is located in the Central Market and is a must see for any traveler. The museum is home to both temporary and permanent exhibits that document the culture and day-to-day life of Limon locals. Visitors will be able to meander through collections that depict the numerous ethnic variations seen throughout the country, including Chinese, Indian, African-Limon and more.

Afro-Caribbean culture

You can also learn a lot about the people of the area just by taking a walk around town. Travelers may want to plan a visit to the Central Market to look through local foods or attend an event, like the Limon Carnival, which is a 12-day Caribbean street festival. This extensive festival features open-air concerts, vibrantly hued costumes, dancing, parades, calypso music and much more. The festival takes place in October, although the dates vary each year. Fireworks initiate the start of the event every afternoon, which locals call "bombetas." At the end of the night, there is another firework show to signal the closing of the festivities.

One of the best ways to experience culture in a city is by trying the local food. In Limon, southern Caribbean delicacies like jerk chicken, rondon and pan bon are must tries. Indigenous people of the Limon include Bri Bri and Cabecar, so you can expect a truly eclectic mix of culture here.

Map of Limón

Click to enlarge map - Limon Region Map

If you're a chocolate fan, be sure to head to a Chocolate Tour. Here, you can explore the ancient art of making chocolate in the same style as the Bribri and Cabecar tribes have for hundres of years. Best of all, you can enjoy the delicious end result!

Education

Limon is home to several language schools, all of which put people right in the middle of all the action in the city. IPED Languages Plus is a popular option that is located in the town of Puerto Viejo, Limon. Many people choose this location because of its proximity to some of the area's best nature and wildlife refuges, as well as the city of Limon. Other options include Cahuita Spanish School and Instituto Caribeno de Idiomas.