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
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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.
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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!
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.
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.
Iglesia Colonial de Orosi
18.0 km
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Parroquia San José de Orosi
18.1 km
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Parque Nacional Los Quetzales
19.3 km
Discover Costa Rica's hidden gem: Hike through cloud forests, spot the resplendent quetzal, and immerse yourself in nature's tranquility.
Unmissable attractions to see
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 Eólico Los Santos
10.2 km
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Mirador de La Cordillera Volcánica Central
10.5 km
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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
17.1 km
Discover the enchanting Monte Sky National Forest in Cartago, Costa Rica – a breathtaking haven for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers.
Termales Hacienda Orosi
17.8 km
Experience the rejuvenating thermal baths and stunning natural beauty at Termales Hacienda Orosi in Cartago, Costa Rica.
Jardín Botánico Lankester
19.3 km
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Mirador de Orosi
19.5 km
Experience breathtaking views and serene landscapes at Mirador de Orosi, a top tourist attraction in Costa Rica's Cartago Province.
Iztarú Park
19.9 km
Discover the tranquility and biodiversity of Iztarú Park, a stunning state park in Cartago Province, Costa Rica, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Ruins of Cartago
20.5 km
Explore the hauntingly beautiful Ruins of Cartago, a historical landmark showcasing Costa Rica's colonial past and resilience against natural disasters.
Fossil Land
20.7 km
Explore Fossil Land in San José Province, where thrilling rides meet the wonders of the ancient world in a captivating amusement park experience.
Basílica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles - Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels
20.7 km
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Ruinas de Ujarrás
21.9 km
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Parque Nacional Tapantí - Macizo de la Muerte
22.7 km
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Batsu Garden
23.9 km
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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
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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
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Restaurante y Mirador Ram Luna
21.1 km
Discover exquisite Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante y Mirador Ram Luna with breathtaking views and a warm atmosphere.
Tapanti Ecotur Finca Los Maestros
22.4 km
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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
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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
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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.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ferretería Coopedota R.L.
3.9 km
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Kabu Bread and Coffee
3.9 km
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Coffee Fair
10.8 km
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Bogaspaccio Boutique
20.6 km
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replicante human store
21.1 km
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Locos y Santos
23.7 km
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PriceSmart
23.7 km
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Secret Store
24.5 km
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La Tienda Un Mundo Fan
24.7 km
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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
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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
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Tienda MIMA
25.5 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Restaurante Kasa Blanca
6.0 km
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Al Mercat Dota
7.1 km
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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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Genesys Striptease Club VIP
20.9 km
Explore the electrifying atmosphere and captivating performances at Genesys Striptease Club VIP, the premier nightlife destination in Patarra.
Rancho el atardecer
25.5 km
Dive into the energetic nightlife of Tausito at Rancho el Atardecer, where music and dance create unforgettable moments in Cartago Province.
Rancho el Burro
25.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Costa Rica at Rancho el Burro, a premier night club in Paraíso, Cartago Province, where music and dance come alive.
cirporacion cefa
25.5 km
Dive into the vibrant nightlife of Paraíso at Cirporacion Cefa, where rhythm, energy, and unforgettable memories await you.
Pepper Disco Club
26.6 km
Discover the Pulse of Costa Rica's Nightlife at Pepper Disco Club - Dance, Drink, and Enjoy Unforgettable Nights!
Bar The Caribbean.
26.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Bar The Caribbean, a premier disco club in San José, where dancing and fun come together in a tropical atmosphere.
El Balcón
27.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of San José at El Balcón, a lively disco club and restaurant that offers delicious food and unforgettable entertainment.
Apotecoria
27.8 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at Apotecoria, San José’s vibrant night club in the heart of Barrio Escalante, where music and culture collide.
Mística
28.4 km
Discover Mística: A vibrant night club in Montes de Oca, offering an electrifying nightlife experience with diverse music and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Living Club VIP
28.5 km
Dive into the heart of San José's nightlife at The Living Club VIP, where music, dancing, and vibrant energy create unforgettable experiences.
Spectro Club
28.5 km
Discover the exciting nightlife at Spectro Club in San José, where vibrant music and an energetic atmosphere create unforgettable memories.
Sport Bar Panterito
28.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Sport Bar Panterito, a lively bar in San José offering great drinks, music, and a sociable atmosphere.
Pink Panther Club
28.5 km
Discover the electrifying atmosphere of Pink Panther Club, San José's top destination for adult entertainment and unforgettable nightlife experiences.
Nightclub Las Margaritas
28.6 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at Nightclub Las Margaritas, where vibrant music and delicious drinks create unforgettable memories in San José.
Puchos
28.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Puchos, a lively night club in San José's Barrio Chino, offering an unforgettable blend of music, dance, and local culture.
