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Natural Science Museum La Salle: A Biodiversity Treasure Trove

Explore Costa Rica's natural wonders at the Natural Science Museum La Salle, home to over 70,000 specimens and fascinating exhibits.

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The Natural Science Museum La Salle in San José, Costa Rica, founded in 1960, showcases Costa Rica's rich natural history with over 70,000 specimens. Exhibits range from paleontology and geology to ornithology and entomology, offering an immersive educational experience for all ages.

A brief summary to Natural Science Museum La Salle

Local tips

  • Visit during the week to avoid crowds and have a more intimate experience with the exhibits.
  • Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the museum's extensive collections.
  • Check out the dinosaur displays, which are a hit with younger visitors.
  • Take the Sabana-Estadio bus to get directly to the museum.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown San José, head to the main bus terminal at Parque Nacional or the nearby stop at Calle 15. Look for buses heading towards La Salle or San Rafael de Escazú. Board the bus and pay the fare, which typically costs between ₡300-₡500. The Sabana-Estadio bus also stops right outside the museum. Public transport within the city costs around $0.94.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in San José. A taxi ride from the city center to the Natural Science Museum La Salle will typically cost between ₡2,374 to ₡4,231, depending on the distance and traffic. Make sure the driver uses the meter ('maría'). Uber is also an option.

  • Walking

    If you are staying in the La Sabana area, walking to the museum is a viable option. The museum is located in Barrio La Salle, Av. 12, between Calles 66 and 72, 250 meters south of Canal 7. From Parque La Sabana, head east towards the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAG); the museum is adjacent to it.

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Discover more about Natural Science Museum La Salle

Nestled in San José, the Natural Science Museum La Salle is a captivating gateway to Costa Rica's biodiversity. Founded in 1960 by Brother Eduardo Fernández Bárcena, the museum has grown into one of Latin America's most comprehensive natural history institutions. With over 70,000 specimens, the museum offers an unparalleled journey through the natural world. The museum's exhibits span various disciplines, including paleontology, geology, malacology, ornithology, and entomology. Visitors can explore dinosaur replicas, fossils, rocks, minerals, shells, and a vast collection of butterflies. The museum also features extensive displays of taxidermied animals, offering a close look at the region's fauna. The paleontology section showcases impressive dinosaur replicas and fossils of ancient animals. The geology section displays a variety of rocks and minerals, including native quartz, jade, and gold. The malacology section features over 14,000 shell specimens from around the world. The ornithology section boasts a diverse bird collection, while the entomology section highlights a stunning array of butterflies. Beyond its exhibits, the museum contributes to scientific understanding of biodiversity, paleontology, and conservation. It serves as an educational resource, offering programs that inspire future generations of scientists and naturalists. The museum is located in the Mata Redonda district, in Barrio La Salle, making it accessible to both locals and tourists.

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