San José de la Montaña, Heredia

While you may be thinking mostly of Costa Rica's famed beaches, this country is also home to some of the most stunning mountain villages and vistas in the world. One particular example is the small mountain town of San José de la Montaña in the Heredia province. With its unique location adjacent to the Barva Volcano and its history of attracting visitors seeking health benefits from the mountain air, this beautiful village can be the perfect destination for those seeking to experience the full diversity of Costa Rica's rich environment.

Braulio Carrillo National Park

Traveling to San José de la Montaña gives you easy access to the Braulio Carrillo National Park with its towering mountains, lush forests, sparkling rivers, and ancient volcanoes. In fact, the national park contains seven unique habitats, each one one home to a variety of plants, animals, and birds. One of the best places to view the stunning diversity of Costa Rica landscapes, Braulio Carrillo National Park draws nature enthusiasts of all ages from across the globe.

Use one of the many available hiking trails to explore the dormant Barva Volcano, whose peak extends to nearly 3,000 meters above sea level. While hiking around the volcano, you can find everything from calderas such as the Barva Lagoon to expansive views of the Central Valley. The national park also gives you access to a rich ecosystem that boasts hundreds of species of animals and birds along with thousands of types of vegetation.

Easy Access from San José

An unforgettable trip to the Costa Rica forest is an easy day trip from the country's capital of San José. It only takes about 45 minutes to drive to San José de la Montaña from the capital. Although you can drive there yourself with good directions and a detailed map, you may prefer to sit back and enjoy a comfortable and scenic bus ride. Regularly scheduled routes to San José de la Montaña depart from Heredia City on a daily basis.

Interesting Architecture

Looking around San José de la Montaña, you may think for a second that you are gazing at a mountain village nestled in the Swiss alps. From the views of stunning peaks and valleys to the picturesque buildings, it's easy to see why this town has been a sought-after haven for countless visitors and residents of Costa Rica. You'll find wood homes that have been on the mountain for centuries along with resorts, villas, and other unique accommodations. Enjoy a meal at one of the many excellent restaurants, and find unique goods and mementos in the shops. Make sure to bring warm clothing so you'll be comfortable as you take in the crisp mountain air.

Map of the Area

Click to enlarge map - Map of the Area

Outdoor Activities

San José de la Montaña is an excellent destination for visitors looking to get out and explore the natural beauty of Costa Rica. Hikers can find dozens of trails that vary in difficulty through the forest, along mountain pathways, and surrounding dormant volcanoes. Many paths feature rushing rivers, ancient trees, and stunning waterfalls. There are also numerous paths that allow access by horseback riders or mountain bikers. Special canopy tours offer thrill-seekers the excitement of skimming over the treetops on a zipline and experiencing unmatched views of the local panoramic landscapes. Whitewater rafting tours are also available in the area.

As you're planning your trip to Costa Rica, schedule a day or several to enjoy all San José de la Montaña has to offer. With its unparalleled access to the country's natural wonders, including forests and volcanoes, this mountain village offers a unique addition to any traveler's itinerary. Whether you want to spend hours exploring the trails and looking for wildlife or simply want to enjoy a delicious meal with excellent views, San José de la Montaña is an ideal mountain paradise.