Bagaces, Guanacaste

Located just north of Palo Verde National Park, the city of Bagaces in Guanacaste is the capital of the canton of the same name. Bagaces lies around 20 miles from the western shore of Lake Arenal, and is a perfect example of the kind of town that can be found all over Costa Rica. With friendly, welcoming locals and picturesque views of the Guanacaste countryside, Bagaces is an ideal place to stop, meet the townsfolk and enjoy a cold drink on your way to Liberia or the province's national parks.

A Rich History

Divided into four districts - Bagaces, Fortuna, Mogote and Rio Naranjo - the canton of Bagaces was formally incorporated in 1848. The canton's capital city was established in 1918, and takes its name from a renowned Indian tribal elder, Chief Bagatzi, who was ruler of the area when the Spanish arrived in the 16th century.

A Commitment to the Land

Bagaces is perhaps best known as the home of the headquarters for the Area de Conservación Tempisque (ACT), one of the country's most active and dedicated conservation organizations. This group is responsible for administrative oversight of the nearby Palo Verde National Park, as well as the Lomas de Barbudal Biological Reserve. The ACT works tirelessly to ensure that the land is maintained and protected, and that the thousands of species that inhabit the parks can be enjoyed by future generations.

Stunning Scenery

Bagaces is particularly beautiful. The canton is naturally defined by the Rio Salto river on its western edge, and the Rio Tenorio to the east. The confluence of these two mighty rivers offers tourists the opportunity to see spectacular waterfalls in the heart of the Guanacaste countryside, and the area is surrounded by paths and trails that are popular with avid hikers.

Map of the Area

Click to enlarge map - Map of the Area

Much of Bagaces' local economy is dependent upon agriculture, and the region is an important center of cattle ranching, dairy farming and grain production in Guanacaste.

Adventurous tourists passing through Bagaces may want to continue traveling north of the city, as the Guipilapa and Miravalles volcanoes are popular with visitors. Although these mighty mountains remain dormant, many locals claim that they still hear the ground rumble beneath their feet from time to time.

With gorgeous scenery, hospitable locals and a temperate year-round climate, Bagaces is an ideal place to stop for a cold drink and some tasty chicharones on your travels through Costa Rica.