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CATIE Botanical Garden: A Tropical Oasis

Discover a world of tropical flora at CATIE Botanical Garden in Turrialba, Costa Rica. Explore themed gardens and learn about sustainable agriculture.

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Explore the lush CATIE Botanical Garden in Turrialba, Costa Rica, home to over 4,400 plant species from around the world. Part of the Tropical Agricultural Research and Higher Education Center (CATIE), this garden offers a serene escape and a chance to learn about tropical flora and sustainable agriculture.

A brief summary to CATIE Botanical Garden

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking, as the garden covers a large area.
  • Bring insect repellent and sunscreen for protection against bugs and the sun.
  • Consider a guided tour to learn about the plants and the research conducted at CATIE.
  • Bring your camera to capture the vibrant colors and unique plant species.
  • Check the weather forecast and bring rain gear, as Turrialba can experience rain.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Turrialba, the CATIE Botanical Garden is approximately 3 kilometers (2 miles) southwest. Follow the main road (likely Route 232) out of town, heading towards La Suiza. The entrance to CATIE will be on your left, well-marked with signs. The walk is mostly flat and should take around 30-45 minutes. Consider local weather conditions before setting out.

  • Public Transport

    Local buses run frequently from Turrialba to CATIE. In Turrialba, head to the central bus station or ask locals for the bus stop ('parada de autobus') for buses heading towards 'La Suiza' or 'CATIE'. The bus will drop you off near the entrance to CATIE. A single fare should cost approximately ₡500-₡800 Costa Rican Colones. Be sure to confirm the schedule for return buses.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Turrialba. A taxi from the town center to CATIE should cost around ₡2,000-₡3,000 Costa Rican Colones. Agree on the fare with the driver before starting your journey. The ride should take about 10-15 minutes.

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Discover more about CATIE Botanical Garden

The CATIE Botanical Garden, or Dr. Jorge León Arguedas Botanical Garden, is a stunning showcase of tropical biodiversity located in Turrialba, Costa Rica. As part of the Tropical Agricultural Research and Higher Education Center (CATIE), the garden plays a vital role in research, conservation, and education. Founded in 2001, the garden spans over 45 hectares and houses an impressive collection of over 4,400 genetic samples representing about 400 plant species from various corners of the globe. Visitors can wander through themed gardens, including a native bromeliad garden, a medicinal plant garden, and a heliconia collection. The Bosque de Paz (Peace Forest) offers a tranquil experience amidst towering trees, while the Jardin de Cactus displays diverse cacti species. The garden also features Viviendas Tipicas (Traditional Houses), showcasing indigenous architecture from Central America. Keep an eye out for the garden's emblem, the Brownea macrophylla, also known as Rosa del Monte. CATIE's commitment to sustainability is evident throughout the garden, with a focus on preserving plant species and promoting responsible agriculture. The garden's origins trace back to the 1940s with the establishment of the Inter-American Institute for Agricultural Sciences. Today, CATIE continues to be a leading center for tropical agricultural research and higher education. Knowledgeable guides offer informative tours, highlighting the importance of various plants and CATIE's contributions to tropical agriculture. Birdwatchers will delight in the opportunity to spot over 200 species in their natural habitat around the garden's small lake.

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