Cyclist riding past street mural.

Jonathan Gregson

Central Valley & Highlands

It is on the nontouristy, coffee-cultivated hillsides of the Central Valley that you'll find Costa Rica’s heart and soul. This is not only the geographical center of the country but also its cultural and spiritual core. It is here that the Spanish colonizers first arrived, here that coffee built a prosperous nation, and here that picturesque highland villages still gather for centuries-old fiestas. It is also here that you’ll get to fully appreciate Costa Rica’s country cooking: artisanal cheeses, steamy corn cakes and freshly caught river trout.


Attractions

Must-see attractions

Plan with a local

Articles

Latest stories from Central Valley & Highlands

Filter by interest:

Wildlife & Nature

Adventure awaits in Costa Rica’s national parks

Jul 11, 2018 • 5 min read