Liberia

The sunny rural capital of Guanacaste has long served as a transportation hub to Nicaragua, as well as being the standard-bearer of Costa Rica’s sabanero (cowboy) culture. Today, tourism is fast becoming a significant contributor to the economy. With an expanding international airport, Liberia is a safer and more chilled-out Costa Rican gateway than San José.

Most of the historic buildings in the town center are in need of a paint job (some locals dream of it becoming a historic district like Nicaragua's Granada), though the ‘White City’ is pleasant, with a good range of accommodations. Still, it’s largely a launch pad for exploring Parque Nacional Rincón de la Vieja and the beaches of the Península de Nicoya, rather than a destination in itself.

The area may be transformed by Discovery Costa Rica, a billion-dollar, 2200-acre (890-hectare) theme park due to be built between 2018 and 2020.

Explore Liberia

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Top attractions

These are our favorite local haunts, touristy spots, and hidden gems throughout Liberia.

  • Wildlife Reserve

    Ponderosa Adventure Park

    Wildebeests, zebras, giraffes and other African animals are right at home in the dry Guanacaste heat, as you can see at this private wildlife reserve. The safari tour allows you to get up close and personal with the (sort of) wild animals. Kayaking, ziplining and horseback riding are also on offer.

  • Church

    La Agonía

    With whitewashed walls and twin pillars flanking the front door, La Agonía typifies the Spanish colonial architecture that earned Liberia its 'White City' nickname. This is the city’s oldest church, built in 1825. There is supposedly an art and culture exhibit inside, but it’s difficult to say for sure, as the doors are usually locked tight.

  • Park

    Parque Central

    The somewhat shady but not particularly picturesque Parque Central frames Iglesia Inmaculada Concepción de María. The park is also the seasonal hangout of the Nicaraguan grackle, a tone-deaf bird with a grating call. They descend by the dozens to roost at dusk, creating an unholy racket across from the church. Don't sit under the trees!

  • Museum

    Museo de Guanacaste

    The wheels of development grind slowly here in Liberia. The intention is that this historic building will no longer be just the former city jail or barracks, but an actual museum with exhibits about the history and culture of Guanacaste. For the moment, the best you can hope for is an occasional concert.

  • Monument

    Sabanero Statue

    Near the entrance of town, this statue of a steely-eyed sabanero (cowboy), complete with an evocative poem by Rodolfo Salazar Solórzano, stands watch over the main street into town. The regional icon was erected in 1969, on the bicentennial of the founding of the city.

  • Historic Building

    La Gobernación

    This old municipal building is little more than a landmark in the center of town, but it occasionally hosts interesting exhibitions or live music performances.

Top experiences

Whether it’s a guided tour of a historic landmark, private tasting of local delicacies, or an off-road adventure — explore the best experiences in Liberia.

  • Activities