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Los Santos: A Highland Retreat

Discover Los Santos, Costa Rica: A serene escape into coffee culture and breathtaking highland scenery in Cartago Province.

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Los Santos, nestled in the Cartago Province of Costa Rica, offers a tranquil escape into a mountainous region known for its coffee plantations and stunning natural beauty. This rural area, dotted with communities named after Catholic saints, provides a unique glimpse into Costa Rican culture and agriculture.

A brief summary to Los santos

  • P6XW+HJ8, Tausito, Cartago Province, CR

Local tips

  • Visit during the coffee harvest season (November to February) to witness the coffee production process firsthand.
  • Bring layers, as the high altitude can result in cooler temperatures, especially in the evenings.
  • Engage with local businesses and farmers to learn about sustainable agricultural practices.
  • Explore the surrounding natural areas for birdwatching opportunities, particularly to spot the resplendent quetzal.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Cartago, take the Inter-American Highway (Route 2) south. The drive to the Los Santos region takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the specific destination within the zone. Be prepared for winding mountain roads. Car rentals are available in San José. Expect to pay around $30-$50 per day for a basic rental car. Gas prices are approximately $1.20 per liter.

  • Public Transport

    Buses to various towns within Los Santos depart from San José. From Cartago, you can take a connecting bus to San José and then transfer to a bus heading to Los Santos. The bus fare from San José to Cartago is under $5. The journey can take around 2-3 hours, depending on the destination and connections. Be sure to check the bus schedules in advance, as they may be limited.

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Discover more about Los santos

Los Santos, often called the 'Zone of the Saints,' is a captivating region within the Cartago Province of Costa Rica. This mountainous area, characterized by its serene landscapes and coffee farms, comprises the cantons of Tarrazú, Dota, and León Cortés Castro. The name 'Los Santos' is derived from the prevalence of towns named after Catholic saints, such as San Pablo, San Marcos, and Santa María. Historically, the region was settled by migrants from the Central Valley, who cultivated the fertile lands and established a unique way of life deeply connected to coffee production. Today, 'Café Tarrazú' is recognized nationally and internationally, holding its own denomination of origin. Besides coffee, the area produces avocados, apples, plums, and other high-altitude fruits on local family farms. Visitors to Los Santos can immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the region, exploring forests, rural roads, and crystalline rivers. The area is known for its diverse flora and fauna, including the resplendent quetzal. Tourists can also engage in rural tourism, experiencing the hospitality of the locals and savoring the flavors, aromas, and colors of local culture. While in Los Santos, consider visiting the nearby Irazú Volcano National Park, home to Costa Rica's highest volcano, or exploring the Lankester Botanical Gardens, which boasts a collection of diverse plant species.

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