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Central Valley & Highlands

Shopping in Central Valley & Highlands

  1. El Tejano

    For something truly unique, head to this small shop selling saddles, cowboy hats and highly spectacular cowboy-boot lamps. The shop is located 100m south of the hospital, on the north end of town.

    reviewed

  2. A

    Artesanías Vílchez

    The selection of crafts is crude, but you’re here for one reason, and one reason only: to buy an authentic Tico cowboy hat. Saddle up and ride!

    reviewed

  3. B
  4. Coopearsa

    In Sarchí Norte, 200m west of the soccer field, is this kitsch-filled paradise of carretas, woodwork and painted feathers.

    reviewed

  5. Fábrica de Carretas Joaquín Chaverri

    The oldest and best-known factory in Sarchí Sur. In the back, the small studio is a good place for watching artisans emblazon those incredible patterns on the oxcarts by hand.

    reviewed

  6. Farmers' Market

    A great farmers’ market is held on Fridays behind Taller Lalo Alfaro, where you can grab homemade snacks, queso palmito (a local cheese) and lots of produce.

    reviewed

  7. Fábrica de Carretas Eloy Alfaro

    This renowned workshop (the country’s oldest) produced the massive oxcart in Sarchí’s main plaza.

    reviewed

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  9. C

    Remembranzos

    One block to the west is this tiny cluttered shop selling vintage coins, stamps, photographs and company scrip from coffee plantations. Hours are erratic, so call ahead.

    reviewed

  10. D

    Libros Chiloé

    Dusty little shop packed to the rafters with Spanish-language historic and literary tomes, including a large section devoted to Costa Rican history. There is a small selection of English and French titles, too.

    reviewed

  11. E

    Bazar Mafalda

    To the west of the church, this place stocks an interesting selection of rosaries, scapulars and ex-votos – and, rather incongruously, soccer paraphernalia and nail polish.

    reviewed

  12. Terra Mall

    On the main highway, about 8km west of Cartago in Tres Ríos, you’ll find this massive mall, stocked with everything from a high-end multiplex to brand-name boutiques.

    reviewed

  13. F