Explore the Ancient Wonders of Guayabo National Monument
Discover the rich history and stunning landscapes at Guayabo National Monument, Costa Rica's largest archaeological site, nestled in the heart of Turrialba.
Guayabo National Monument is a captivating archaeological site in Turrialba, Costa Rica, showcasing the remnants of a pre-Columbian civilization. Nestled in lush greenery, it offers tourists a unique glimpse into the rich history and culture of ancient Costa Rica, with well-preserved structures and stunning landscapes.
A brief summary to Guayabo National Monument
- Guayabo, Santa Cruz, Turrialba, Cartago Province, CR
- +50625591220
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-3:30 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-3:30 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-3:30 pm
- Thursday 8 am-3:30 pm
- Friday 8 am-3:30 pm
- Saturday 8 am-3:30 pm
- Sunday 8 am-3:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquility of the site.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the terrain can be uneven and requires some hiking.
- Bring a camera to capture the breathtaking views of the Turrialba volcano and the surrounding lush landscape.
- Consider joining a guided tour for an in-depth understanding of the archaeological significance and history of the site.
- Pack water and snacks, as amenities within the park are limited.
Getting There
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Bus
Start at the Coca Cola Bus Station in San Jose. Purchase a ticket to Turrialba, which is a direct route to your destination. The buses usually depart every 30-60 minutes. Once you arrive in Turrialba, head to the main taxi stand outside the bus station and take a taxi to Guayabo National Monument, which is approximately a 15-minute drive. The taxi will take you directly to the entrance of the park.
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Taxi
If you prefer a more direct route, you can take a taxi from anywhere within San Jose. Simply flag down a taxi or use a rideshare app. Provide the driver with the destination: Guayabo National Monument, located in Santa Cruz, Turrialba. The drive will take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic, and you can enjoy the scenic views along the way.
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Shuttle Service
Look for shuttle services that operate from San Jose to Turrialba. Many hotels and travel agencies offer these shuttles. You can book in advance and specify that you want to go to Guayabo National Monument. The shuttle will pick you up from your accommodation in San Jose and drop you off at the entrance of the monument, providing a hassle-free experience.
Discover more about Guayabo National Monument
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Río Turrialba
5.6 km
Discover Río Turrialba in Cartago, Costa Rica: a paradise for white-water rafting, hiking, and immersive nature experiences.
Adrenalina Rafting
7.6 km
Experience Costa Rica's best whitewater rafting and outdoor adventures with a trusted, family-run tour operator in Turrialba.
CATIE Botanical Garden
8.1 km
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Finca Monte Calas
8.3 km
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Turrialba Volcano
9.6 km
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Hacienda Monte Claro
10.0 km
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Cruce a Tucurrique
11.2 km
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Hotel Casa Turire
12.9 km
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Etapa 6 Camino de Costa Rica
14.5 km
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Pacuare Lodge
17.4 km
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Rancho Naturalista
20.7 km
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Lake Cachí
21.5 km
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El Copal
21.8 km
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Hotel Rinconcito Verde
22.1 km
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Los santos
25.6 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Catarata Las Trillizas (reception)
1.7 km
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Aquiares Coffee & Community Experience
4.6 km
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Aquiares Waterfall
5.3 km
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Agro Ecoturismo Yhamore CR
7.2 km
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Parque Nacional Volcán Turrialba
9.9 km
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Hacienda La Central - Volcán Turrialba
10.5 km
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Irazú Volcano National Park
17.7 km
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Dreamer House
20.0 km
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Wildlife Refuge La Marta
20.5 km
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Figues Nature is Calling... Senderos, cataratas, hotel, restaurante, paintball y salón de eventos
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Costa Rica Tropical Adventures
21.4 km
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Ruinas de Ujarrás
22.5 km
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Parque Nacional Barbilla
24.8 km
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Caribbean Botanical Garden
25.0 km
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Mirador de Orosi
25.0 km
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Essential places to dine
Rancho Donde Chani Carnitas Chani
2.3 km
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Haras Turrialba
2.5 km
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Río Bar y Restaurante
6.1 km
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Restaurante Agua Dulce
6.5 km
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Restaurante La Galera
6.8 km
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Chill and Cheese
7.1 km
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Wok & Roll
7.1 km
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Wagelia Hotel
7.3 km
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Fratelli Cocina Italiana
7.4 km
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Restaurante Mundo de Sabores
7.4 km
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Loco's Restaurante y Bar
7.4 km
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Venamascar Restaurante
7.9 km
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Soda La U Turrialba
8.0 km
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Turrialtico Lodge
10.1 km
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Restaurante Rancho JSM
11.0 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Pay Less Supermarket
6.1 km
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DL Store Turrialba
6.3 km
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Explornatura office
7.1 km
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Maxi Palí
7.1 km
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Galeria Boutique
7.2 km
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Super Compro
7.2 km
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Plaza Rojitas
7.2 km
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Boutique Divinas
7.2 km
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MegaSúper • Turrialba
7.2 km
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El Perfume Turrialba
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Emory Boutique
7.3 km
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Tienda El ángel
7.3 km
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Supercompro 1
7.4 km
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Palí
7.6 km
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SalRod
13.6 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar La Cabaña
2.4 km
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Casa Guayo
2.7 km
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Hotel Ladera
3.3 km
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Bar Cotos
5.1 km
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Hotel Guayabo Lodge
5.2 km
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Culi's Bar
6.1 km
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Bar La Amistad
6.8 km
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Bar Restaurante La Garza del Atlántico
7.2 km
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Latinos Disco Bar
7.4 km
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Bar Treinta Y Tantos
7.4 km
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Bar El Kiosco
7.4 km
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Jhonny's Place Restaurante y Sport Bar
7.8 km
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Las Águilas Pug Bar
10.7 km
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Villa Florencia Hotel
11.3 km
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Hacienda Sitio de Mata.
12.1 km
Experience the enchanting beauty of Hacienda Sitio de Mata, a premier wedding venue and tourist attraction in the heart of Turrialba, Costa Rica.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Bar El Piñal
3.6 km
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El Paraíso de Dios
5.6 km
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Turri Baila
7.2 km
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Rancho el atardecer
25.6 km
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Rancho el Burro
25.6 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
25.6 km
Dive into the vibrant nightlife of Paraíso at Cirporacion Cefa, where rhythm, energy, and unforgettable memories await you.
El Lab Cócteles XL
27.6 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife of Limón at El Lab Cócteles XL, where exquisite cocktails and vibrant music create unforgettable nights.
Caramia Disco Bar
28.0 km
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Lux Sport Bar & Discoteque
29.0 km
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Genesys Striptease Club VIP
37.8 km
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Pepper Disco Club
39.7 km
Discover the Pulse of Costa Rica's Nightlife at Pepper Disco Club - Dance, Drink, and Enjoy Unforgettable Nights!
Bar The Caribbean.
40.0 km
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El Balcón
40.4 km
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Mística
40.6 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
40.6 km
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