Laguna Manuel: A Serene Mountain Lake
Discover the tranquility of Laguna Manuel: Hike, picnic, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Costa Rica's cloud forest.
Laguna Manuel is a picturesque lake nestled in the mountains of San José Province, Costa Rica, near the town of El Jardín. This hidden gem offers a tranquil escape with opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding cloud forest.
A brief summary to Laguna Manuel
- El Jardín, Quebradillas, San José Province, CR
Local tips
- Bring warm clothing, as the mountain air can be cool, especially in the early morning and evening.
- Wear closed-toe shoes suitable for hiking on potentially muddy trails.
- Consider bringing your own food and drinks, although there may be options to purchase them nearby.
- Bring insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes and other bugs.
Getting There
-
Car
From San Isidro de El General, head north on Route 2 (Interamericana) for approximately 15 km. Take the exit towards Route 225, which leads to El Jardín. Follow Route 225 towards Quebradillas. The final stretch involves a gravel road for about 2 km directly to the lake. Parking is available at the lake.
-
Public Transport
Take a bus from San Isidro de El General to El Jardín. Buses depart frequently from the main terminal. From El Jardín, take a taxi to Laguna Manuel, approximately 5 km away. Taxi fares range from 3,000 to 5,000 colones (approximately $5-$10 USD). Check bus schedules in advance as they may vary. Alternatively, take a bus from San José to San Pablo de León Cortés, which stops near Laguna Don Manuel. Bus fare from San Isidro de El General to El Jardín: 500-1,000 colones ($1-$2 USD).
Discover more about Laguna Manuel
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Laguna Manuel
0.0 km
Discover the tranquility of Laguna Manuel: Hike, picnic, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Costa Rica's cloud forest.
Lago Don Manuel
0.4 km
Escape to Lago Don Manuel: Hike scenic trails, picnic by the lake, and immerse yourself in Costa Rica's natural beauty.
Sightseeing The Garden
2.6 km
Experience Costa Rica's beauty and flavor at Sightseeing The Garden in El Jardín. Fresh cuisine and serene gardens await!
Santos Tour, Costa Rica Aña
3.8 km
Explore the rich culture and history of Costa Rica at Santos Tour, your essential tourist information center in the Los Santos region.
Los Santos - San José
4.6 km
Discover the vibrant culture and local flavors at Los Santos in San José, your gateway to Costa Rica's breathtaking landscapes and rich traditions.
Bar y Restaurant La Catarata
4.6 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Bar y Restaurant La Catarata, where flavor meets stunning natural beauty in the heart of Copey District.
Radio Cultural Los Santos
5.5 km
Experience the heartbeat of Costa Rican culture at Radio Cultural Los Santos, where music and community come together in vibrant harmony.
Hotel Palenque Tarrazú
5.6 km
Escape to Hotel Palenque Tarrazú in Costa Rica's coffee region: Relax in nature, explore coffee culture, and enjoy mountain views.
Reserva Natural Privada Cerro Alto
6.6 km
Discover a tranquil escape in Costa Rica's Cartago Province at Reserva Natural Privada Cerro Alto. Hike, birdwatch, and relax in nature's embrace.
Cedrela Eco Lodge
7.1 km
Escape to a serene mountain retreat in Costa Rica's Copey de Dota, surrounded by cloud forests, coffee plantations, and natural beauty.
Truchas Selva Madre
10.9 km
Catch your own trout and savor the flavors of Costa Rica's highlands at Truchas Selva Madre, a unique fishing and dining experience.
Pesca de trucha Rio Blanco
11.0 km
Enjoy fresh trout and beautiful scenery at this popular Rio Blanco restaurant and recreational fishing spot in the heart of Costa Rica.
Centro de Costa Rica
12.9 km
Discover Costa Rica's heritage at Centro de Costa Rica in Copey—a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty in a serene setting.
La Concepción De León Cortés Costa Rica
14.7 km
Explore the haunting beauty of La Concepción, a Costa Rican ghost town where history and nature intertwine.
Albergue Mirador de Quetzales
14.9 km
Escape to a serene cloud forest lodge with stunning views, exceptional dining, and world-class birdwatching in Costa Rica.
Unmissable attractions to see
Barrio San Luis
4.0 km
Explore the serene beauty and vibrant culture of Barrio San Luis, a scenic sanctuary in the heart of Costa Rica's San Marcos.
Monumento a los caídos de la Guerra Civil de 1948
4.1 km
Explore the Monument to the Fallen of the 1948 Civil War in San José, a poignant historical landmark reflecting Costa Rica's commitment to peace and unity.
lossantOS_wildlife Experiences
5.5 km
Discover the lush ecosystems and diverse wildlife at LossantOS Wildlife Experiences in San Marcos, Costa Rica, an unmissable adventure for nature enthusiasts.
Parque Central San Marcos de Tarrazú
5.9 km
Explore the serene beauty of Parque Central San Marcos de Tarrazú, a lush park perfect for relaxation and enjoying Costa Rica's natural wonders.
Iglesia de San Lorenzo
8.0 km
Explore the stunning Iglesia de San Lorenzo, a beautiful Catholic church in San José, Costa Rica, rich in history and cultural significance.
Copey Vinicola Tour de Vino - Golden Rush
9.8 km
Explore the enchanting Copey Vinicola Tour de Vino in Costa Rica, where lush vineyards and exquisite wines await your discovery.
Parque Eólico Los Santos
10.2 km
Discover the stunning views and sustainable energy at Parque Eólico Los Santos, an unforgettable observation deck in Costa Rica's breathtaking landscapes.
Mirador de La Cordillera Volcánica Central
10.5 km
Discover stunning vistas of Costa Rica's Central Volcanic Mountain Range at the Mirador de La Cordillera Volcánica Central, a picturesque tourist attraction.
El camino de Costa Rica Etapa 9
16.1 km
Explore El Camino de Costa Rica Etapa 9, a stunning trail showcasing the natural beauty and rich culture in Cartago Province, perfect for all nature lovers.
Monte Sky Mirador Ecológico
17.0 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Monte Sky Mirador Ecológico, a premier hiking area in Costa Rica offering stunning views and rich biodiversity.
Monte Sky
17.1 km
Discover the enchanting Monte Sky National Forest in Cartago, Costa Rica – a breathtaking haven for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers.
Iglesia de Calle Jucó
17.3 km
Discover the tranquility and beauty of Iglesia de Calle Jucó, a hidden gem in Orosi's lush landscape, steeped in culture and history.
valle de orosi
17.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich culture of Valle de Orosi, a hidden gem in the heart of Costa Rica, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Balneario De Aguas Termales De Orosi (Los Martines)
17.7 km
Discover the healing powers of nature at Balneario De Aguas Termales De Orosi, a public swimming pool in Costa Rica's breathtaking Cartago Province.
Coffee Tour Adventure by Hacienda Orosi
17.8 km
Explore the rich heritage of Costa Rican coffee at Hacienda Orosi, where lush landscapes and aromatic brews await every visitor.
Essential places to dine
La Terraza Del Cafetal
5.6 km
Discover exquisite local cuisine amidst breathtaking views at La Terraza Del Cafetal - a must-visit culinary gem in San Marcos.
Mirador de Quetzales
7.6 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Mirador de Quetzales while soaking in stunning natural vistas.
Restaurante y Cabañas Bongos
8.3 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine and cozy stays at Restaurante y Cabañas Bongos amidst stunning natural beauty.
La casa del café
9.0 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at La Casa del Café - where every sip tells a story.
La Terraza Criolla
9.9 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at La Terraza Criolla – where delicious grilled dishes meet breathtaking views.
Soda Madre Selva
10.6 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Soda Madre Selva in Tres de Junio - a must-visit destination for food lovers!
Orosi Al Natural Restaurante
19.1 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine amidst breathtaking natural beauty at Orosi Al Natural Restaurante.
Tapanti Ecotur Finca Los Maestros
22.4 km
Experience fresh farm-to-table cuisine amidst the stunning landscapes of Costa Rica at Tapanti Ecotur Finca Los Maestros.
El Jilguero San Gerardo
22.6 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at El Jilguero San Gerardo in Copey District – where every meal is a celebration of local culture.
Restaurant Le Tapir
23.0 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine amidst stunning natural beauty at Restaurant Le Tapir in San Gerardo de Dota.
Hotel y Restaurante La Casona del Cafetal
23.9 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Hotel y Restaurante La Casona del Cafetal – where comfort meets culinary delight in beautiful Cartago.
Restaurant Mirador Valle Azul
27.5 km
Experience exquisite dining with breathtaking views at Restaurant Mirador Valle Azul in San José.
Coco de Rasta | Rastaurante
27.5 km
Experience authentic Caribbean flavors at Coco de Rasta in Curridabat - a must-visit culinary gem for tourists!
Cabo & El Fuego Smokehouse
27.9 km
Experience authentic Central American barbecue at Cabo & El Fuego Smokehouse - where every bite tells a story.
Le Chandelier
28.0 km
Discover authentic Swiss cuisine at Le Chandelier in San José—where tradition meets flavor in a cozy setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ferretería Coopedota R.L.
3.9 km
Explore Ferretería Coopedota R.L. in Santa María, your go-to tool store and agrochemicals supplier in Costa Rica.
Kabu Bread and Coffee
3.9 km
Discover the rich flavors of Costa Rican coffee and artisanal baked goods at Kabu Bread and Coffee in Santa María.
Coffee Fair
10.8 km
Experience the essence of Costa Rican coffee culture at Coffee Fair, a must-visit destination for coffee enthusiasts and tourists alike.
Bogaspaccio Boutique
20.6 km
Explore Bogaspaccio Boutique: A Stylish Haven of Local Artistry in Cartago, Costa Rica, Offering Unique Fashion and Accessories.
replicante human store
21.1 km
Explore the stylish offerings of Replicante Human Store, where unique fashion meets local culture in a charming shopping experience.
Locos y Santos
23.7 km
Explore Locos y Santos for unique clothing that captures the essence of Costa Rican style amidst the vibrant atmosphere of Terramall.
PriceSmart
23.7 km
Experience the vibrant shopping culture of Costa Rica at PriceSmart, your ultimate destination for groceries and household essentials.
Secret Store
24.5 km
Explore the Secret Store in Cachí, where local culture meets unique treasures in the heart of Cartago Province.
La Tienda Un Mundo Fan
24.7 km
Explore La Tienda Un Mundo Fan in Desamparados for unique gifts and authentic Costa Rican souvenirs that capture the essence of local culture.
Lowest Shop
25.0 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican souvenirs and handmade crafts at Lowest Shop in Desamparados, a treasure trove for tourists seeking unique gifts.
San calixto
25.5 km
Experience the vibrant culture of Costa Rica at San Calixto in Paraíso, a must-visit store for unique crafts and local goods.
El pepe
25.5 km
Discover El Pepe, a cozy book store in Paraíso where literature and local culture intertwine, perfect for book lovers and travelers alike.
AUTOMERCADO VISTAS EL CHIRRIPO CF
25.5 km
Explore the vibrant flavors and local culture at Automercado Vistas El Chirripo, your go-to supermarket in La Bonita, Costa Rica.
Boutique del Pastel
25.5 km
Discover a slice of paradise at Boutique del Pastel, where exceptional pastries and freshly brewed coffee await in the heart of Paraíso, Costa Rica.
Tienda MIMA
25.5 km
Explore Tienda MIMA in Costa Rica – a vibrant clothing store showcasing local fashion and unique designs that capture the spirit of Costa Rican creativity.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Restaurante Kasa Blanca
6.0 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Costa Rica at Restaurante Kasa Blanca, a culinary gem in San Marcos, perfect for tourists seeking a delightful dining experience.
Al Mercat Dota
7.1 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Al Mercat Dota, a must-visit restaurant in the scenic Copey District.
Bar y restaurante El Valle de Tarrazú
7.6 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican dining at El Valle de Tarrazú, where flavorful dishes and a vibrant atmosphere await every visitor.
El Pub
20.6 km
Discover the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere at El Pub, Cartago's favorite bar and restaurant offering a unique culinary experience.
Tami Lodge & Cafetería
20.6 km
Discover the charm of Tami Lodge & Cafetería, where comfort meets Costa Rican culture in the heart of nature.
Chiri's Bar
20.7 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican nightlife at Chiri's Bar in Paraíso, where friendly vibes and local flavors invite you to unwind.
Moes Pub Rock
20.7 km
Discover vibrant nightlife at Moes Pub Rock, a lively bar and grill in Cartago, Costa Rica, offering delicious food, drinks, and live entertainment.
Pilos Bar
21.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Pilos Bar in Cartago, a must-visit destination for tourists looking to enjoy the nightlife.
Bar calberdos
21.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and local flavors at Bar Calberdos, a beloved spot in Cartago for drinks and socializing.
Bar Picis
21.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Bar Picis, a charming bar in Cartago boasting a lively atmosphere, diverse drinks, and local hospitality.
Bar El Páramo
22.8 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Bar El Páramo in Cartago, where delicious grilled dishes meet stunning natural beauty.
Restaurante Doña Marlen
23.7 km
Experience the flavors of Costa Rica at Restaurante Doña Marlen, a culinary gem in the scenic San Gerardo de Dota, renowned for its local dishes and warm hospitality.
Lauraceas Restaurante Cafeteria Lodge
24.1 km
Experience the flavors of Costa Rica at Lauraceas Restaurante Cafeteria Lodge, where local cuisine meets stunning natural beauty in San Gerardo de Dota.
Sanaa Coast
24.2 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Sanaa Coast, a hidden bar gem in Cartago Province, Costa Rica.
Tribù Wine Bar
25.2 km
Explore the exquisite offerings of Tribù Wine Bar, a premier destination for wine lovers in the heart of Curridabat, San José.
