Hotels in Cartago

Attention thrill-seeking, nature-loving travelers that want to experience Costa Rica history and culture without the hustle and bustle of big cities: welcome to Cartago. This province in Costa Rica may be one of the least traveled regions, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t beautiful. In fact, this region in the Central Valley is arguably one of the most beautiful in Costa Rica, and also offers visitors a rich culture and history. This canton has a rich culture and history dating back to 1563, when the city of Cartago was named the capital of Costa Rica by the then Spanish Governor Juan Vasquez de Coronado. Also worth a mention is that this area is home to the largest active volcano in Costa Rica – the Irazú Volcano.

Cartago Highlights

While staying in Cartago don’t forget to visit the Basilica de Nuestra Señora de Los Ángeles, home of the miraculous La Negrita or Black Madonna statue. A quiet and picturesque town, Cartago City is a wonderful place to spend a few days away from the hustle and bustle of San Jose. Cartago’s Orosi Valley is the ideal place for those looking for a more rural vacation. Turrialba sits just east of Cartago and is renowned for its incredible white water rafting.

Budget Accommodations in Cartago

Travelers that are looking to save on their stay so that they have more budget to play will be delighted with the accommodation options that they can find. The namesake city of Cartago has limited accommodations, but you should be able to find affordable places if you reserve in advance. This area is also home to one of Costa Rica’s most famous religious shrines, the Virgen de Los Angeles.

You can also find a number of cabins in the Orosi Valley, which is just southeast of the city of Cartago. These accommodations are great for the budget traveler, and the area itself offers a more relaxing, rural Costa Rica experience. Don’t confuse ‘rural’ with boring though, there are plenty of opportunities for travelers to explore in this area, they will just get to escape the crowds of more commercial city areas.

Adventure-seekers may want to stay in the (unofficial) white water rafting capital of Turrialba, situated just east of the city of Cartago. A great place to hunker down for a few days of rafting, this town is small but has plenty of affordable accommodations.

Luxury Accommodations in Cartago

If you are making Turrialba your base camp for a few days, you might want to consider staying in an upscale mountain lodge at least one night. The luxury accommodations might be better suited to help you rejuvenate with spa services like massages, and a great night’s rest, after a rough day out on the water!

All-Inclusive Accommodations in Cartago

If you are the type of traveler that doesn’t want to worry about much other than booking your hotel and heading out on adventures, then it sounds like an all-inclusive stay is what you need. Orosi Valley offers lodges that are all inclusive, though these can be a little more expensive. Many feel that paying extra for the convenience of an easy stay is well worth it though!

Map of Cartago

Click to enlarge map - Cartago Region Map

National Park Accommodations in Cartago

Cartago is home to two national parks, both with active volcanoes. The Irazu Volcano National Park and the Turrialba Volcano National Park are both wonderful places to visit and explore, and are sure to please both nature-lovers and those seeking a little adventure. Turrialba Volcano National Park houses an active volcano, and what is so special about this national park is that visitors can explore the crater of the Turrialba volcano.

The surrounding areas offer plenty of budget and luxury lodges, ranches and hotels for visitors. These accommodations often offer gorgeous views of the close-parks, as well as plenty of opportunities to experience nature, including some incredible bird watching.