Cartago
· CR

Cartago

Cartago, Cartago, Costa Rica

Cartago, located in the heart of Costa Rica, is a city steeped in history and charm. As the former capital of the country, it holds significant cultural and historical importance that can be seen in its architecture, mus…

#historical city#colonial architecture#Catholic pilgrimage site#volcanic landscapes#cultural heritage
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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Cartago.

Top Hotels in Cartago

Top Flights to Cartago

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Cartago.

Tours

Irazu Volcano National Park Visit

Explore the towering Irazu Volcano, the highest active volcano in Costa Rica, offering breathtaking views and a unique landscape.

Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels

Visit the beautiful Basilica, a significant pilgrimage site known for its stunning architecture and religious importance.

Lankester Botanical Garden

Explore a diverse collection of tropical plants and orchids in this beautiful botanical garden.

Guayabo National Monument Tour

Discover Costa Rica's most important archaeological site, offering a glimpse into pre-Columbian history.

The Heritage of Cartago Walking Tour

A walking tour through Cartago's historic sites, sharing the city's fascinating past and culture.

Shopping

Cartago Central Market

Experience the vibrant local culture and shop for fresh produce and souvenirs at Cartago's central market.

Outdoor

Tapantí National Park Adventure

Indulge in the rich biodiversity of Tapantí National Park, ideal for bird watching and hiking.

Orosi Valley Hot Springs

Relax and unwind in natural hot springs surrounded by stunning landscapes in the Orosi Valley.

Cachi Dam and Lake

A scenic spot perfect for picnics and enjoying the tranquil environment by the lake and dam.

Cartago Coffee Tour

Delve into Costa Rica's rich coffee culture with a guided tour of coffee plantations in Cartago.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Cartago.

Currency
₡ | CRC | Costa Rican Colón
Population
Not Available
Languages
Spanish, Spanish
Average weather
Cartago
Jan
clear
23°15°
Feb
clear
24°15°
Mar
clear
25°16°
Apr
cloud
25°17°
May
rain
24°17°
Jun
rain
23°17°
Jul
rain
23°16°
Aug
rain
23°16°
Sep
rain
22°16°
Oct
rain
22°16°
Nov
cloud
23°16°
Dec
clear
23°15°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Cartago.

What people love

Traveling to Cartago, Costa Rica has several pros:

  1. Historical significance: Cartago was the first capital of Costa Rica and is rich in history and culture. Visitors can explore historical sites such as the Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels, which is an important pilgrimage site.

  2. Scenic beauty: Cartago is surrounded by lush greenery and beautiful landscapes, making it a great destination for nature lovers. The Orosi Valley, with its stunning views and coffee plantations, is a must-visit attraction.

  3. Outdoor activities: Cartago offers a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and birdwatching. Visitors can explore the nearby Irazu Volcano National Park or visit the Tapanti National Park for a chance to see diverse wildlife.

  4. Local cuisine: Cartago is known for its traditional Costa Rican cuisine, which includes dishes such as gallo pinto (rice and beans), casado (a typical lunch dish), and chorreadas (corn pancakes). Visitors can also enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables from local markets.

  5. Festivals and events: Cartago hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, including the annual Romeria pilgrimage in August and the Independence Day celebrations in September. These events offer a glimpse into the local culture and traditions.

Overall, traveling to Cartago offers a blend of history, culture, nature, and outdoor activities, making it a great destination for travelers looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of Costa Rica.

What to know

Cartago, located in Costa Rica, offers many beautiful attractions and a rich history to explore. However, there are some cons associated with traveling to Cartago that you may want to consider:

  1. Limited nightlife: Cartago is not known for its vibrant nightlife scene compared to other cities in Costa Rica. If you're looking for a lively party atmosphere, you may find Cartago lacking in this regard.

  2. Limited dining options: While Cartago does offer some delicious traditional Costa Rican cuisine, the city may have fewer international dining options compared to larger cities like San Jose. If you're a foodie looking for diverse culinary experiences, you may find the dining scene in Cartago somewhat limited.

  3. Traffic congestion: Like many urban areas, Cartago can experience traffic congestion, especially during peak hours. Navigating the city by car may be challenging at times, so it's important to plan your transportation accordingly.

  4. Limited English spoken: While many locals in Cartago may have some basic knowledge of English, the predominant language spoken is Spanish. If you are not fluent in Spanish, you may encounter some communication challenges during your visit.

  5. Limited tourist infrastructure: Cartago is less developed for tourism compared to other popular destinations in Costa Rica. This means that you may find fewer tourist amenities, such as English signage, guided tours, and tourist information centers.

Overall, while Cartago has its charms and attractions, it may not cater to all travelers' preferences. It's essential to consider these cons and plan your trip accordingly to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience in Cartago.

Cartago, Cartago, Costa Rica, is one of the most historically significant cities in Costa Rica. It was founded in 1563 by the Spanish conquistador Juan Vásquez de Coronado and served as the first capital of Costa Rica. Cartago is located in the central highlands of Costa Rica, at the foot of the Irazú Volcano.

Significant Events:

  1. Foundation (1563): Cartago was established by Juan Vásquez de Coronado, marking the beginnings of Spanish colonization in Costa Rica. It became the colonial capital of Costa Rica and remained so until the early 19th century.

  2. Earthquakes: Throughout its history, Cartago has been vulnerable to earthquakes. Significant seismic events in 1822, 1841, and especially in 1910 caused widespread destruction. The 1910 earthquake was particularly devastating, leading to significant loss of life and destruction of buildings.

  3. Capital Relocation (1823): In 1823, the capital was moved from Cartago to San José following the Central American Federation Wars. This was partly due to its vulnerability to natural disasters and its political inclinations that were not aligned with the liberal movements of the time.

  4. Religious Significance: Cartago is known for its strong Catholic traditions. In 1824, the city became the religious center of Costa Rica when the Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels was recognized as a pilgrimage site. The annual pilgrimage to the Basilica, known as the "Romería," attracts thousands of devotees.

Historical Figures:

  • Juan Vásquez de Coronado: As the founder of Cartago, Vásquez de Coronado played a crucial role in the early colonial administration of Costa Rica.

  • Florencio del Castillo: A notable figure from Cartago who served as a deputy in the Cortes of Cádiz in Spain during the early 19th century. He was influential in advocating for the rights of the colonies.

Important Landmarks:

  1. Basilica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles: This is perhaps the most iconic landmark in Cartago. The basilica is dedicated to the patron saint of Costa Rica, the Virgin of Los Ángeles. It is renowned for its elaborate architecture and the annual pilgrimage event.

  2. Ruins of Santiago Apóstol Parish: Known locally as Las Ruinas, this unfinished church was destroyed by the 1910 earthquake. The ruins are a prominent historical site and a reminder of the city's resilience.

  3. Irazú Volcano National Park: Located near Cartago, this park is home to the Irazú Volcano, the highest active volcano in Costa Rica. It offers stunning views and is a popular tourist attraction.

  4. Lankester Botanical Gardens: These gardens are affiliated with the University of Costa Rica and are known for their extensive collection of orchids and other tropical plants.

  5. Casa del Soñador: A unique artistic site, this house and workshop belong to the late artist Macedonio Quesada, known for his wooden sculptures.

Cartago's rich history and cultural heritage make it an important part of Costa Rica's identity, reflecting both its colonial past and its vibrant present.