Río Turrialba: Nature and Adventure in Costa Rica
Discover Río Turrialba in Cartago, Costa Rica: a paradise for white-water rafting, hiking, and immersive nature experiences.
The Río Turrialba, nestled in Costa Rica's Cartago Province, is a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. With its pristine waters and lush surroundings, the river offers a blend of tranquility and exhilarating activities like white-water rafting and hiking, making it a must-visit destination.
A brief summary to Río Turrialba
- Cartago Province, CR
Local tips
- Visit during the dry season (December to April) for the best weather and water conditions.
- Consider booking a guided rafting tour to ensure safety and access to the best rapids.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching; the area is home to many unique species.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy by the river while taking in the beautiful scenery.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking if you plan to explore the trails.
Getting There
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Public Transport
To reach Río Turrialba via public transportation, head to the Turrialba bus terminal. Look for buses heading towards Cartago or specifically towards Río Turrialba. The bus ride will take approximately 30 minutes. Tickets typically cost around $2 to $3 USD. Once you arrive at the Río Turrialba stop, ask the driver or locals for directions to the river, which is just a short walk away.
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Car
If you are driving from the center of Turrialba, take Route 10 heading west. After approximately 9 kilometers, you will reach the junction with Route 32. Turn left onto Route 32. Continue on this road for about 20 kilometers until you see signs for Río Turrialba. Follow these signs, which will lead you to the river's location in Cartago Province. There are no tolls on this route.
Discover more about Río Turrialba
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Río Turrialba
0.0 km
Discover Río Turrialba in Cartago, Costa Rica: a paradise for white-water rafting, hiking, and immersive nature experiences.
Explornatura office
1.6 km
Discover the thrill of adventure in Costa Rica with Explornatura, your premier tour operator for eco-friendly experiences and unforgettable rafting tours.
Costa Rica Specialists
2.0 km
Explore Costa Rica's breathtaking landscapes and rich culture with expert guidance from Costa Rica Specialists in Turrialba.
Costa Rica Rios - Adventure Vacations
2.1 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Costa Rica with Costa Rica Rios, your go-to agency for adventure sports and unforgettable tours in Turrialba.
Pacuare River Turrialba Meeting Point
2.4 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty and thrilling adventures of the Pacuare River, a top destination for rafting and nature lovers in Costa Rica.
Adrenalina Rafting
2.6 km
Experience Costa Rica's best whitewater rafting and outdoor adventures with a trusted, family-run tour operator in Turrialba.
CATIE Botanical Garden
3.8 km
Discover a world of tropical flora at CATIE Botanical Garden in Turrialba, Costa Rica. Explore themed gardens and learn about sustainable agriculture.
Cruce a Tucurrique
6.5 km
Discover Cruce a Tucurrique: Hike scenic trails, spot exotic birds, and immerse yourself in Costa Rica's stunning natural beauty.
Hacienda Monte Claro
7.1 km
Discover Costa Rica's rural charm at Hacienda Monte Claro: eco-tours, organic coffee, and stunning nature near Turrialba.
Hotel Casa Turire
8.5 km
Experience colonial charm and natural beauty at Hotel Casa Turire, Turrialba's hidden gem in Costa Rica's agricultural heartland.
Etapa 6 Camino de Costa Rica
10.9 km
Hike through rolling hills and vibrant culture on Etapa 6 of the Camino de Costa Rica, a scenic escape in Cartago province.
Finca Monte Calas
11.4 km
Hike to the Turrialba Volcano through Finca Monte Calas for stunning views and unique wildlife encounters in Costa Rica's Cartago Province.
Turrialba Volcano National Park
13.2 km
Explore Turrialba Volcano National Park: A natural paradise with stunning views, diverse wildlife, and thrilling hiking adventures in Costa Rica.
El Copal
16.3 km
Discover Costa Rica's hidden gem: El Copal National Reserve, a community-run sanctuary of rainforests, wildlife, and serene natural beauty.
Rancho Naturalista
17.6 km
Discover Costa Rica's avian wonders at Rancho Naturalista, a world-class birding lodge nestled in the Talamanca Mountains.
Unmissable attractions to see
Agro Ecoturismo Yhamore CR
2.4 km
Experience the beauty of Costa Rica's agriculture at Agro Ecoturismo Yhamore CR, where sustainability meets breathtaking landscapes.
Rafting the Pacuare River
2.6 km
Discover the exhilarating white-water rafting adventure on Costa Rica's breathtaking Pacuare River, surrounded by lush landscapes and vibrant wildlife.
Aquiares Waterfall
2.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Aquiares Waterfall, a hidden paradise in Costa Rica's Cartago Province, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Aquiares Coffee & Community Experience
3.3 km
Discover the rich heritage of Costa Rican coffee at Aquiares Coffee & Community Experience, where culture, flavor, and breathtaking views come together.
Guayabo National Monument
5.6 km
Explore the ancient wonders of Guayabo National Monument, Costa Rica's premier archaeological site showcasing pre-Columbian civilization.
Catarata Las Trillizas (reception)
6.2 km
Explore the enchanting Catarata Las Trillizas in Turrialba, Costa Rica – a natural wonder featuring stunning waterfalls and lush rainforest.
Hacienda La Central - Volcán Turrialba
12.9 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Hacienda La Central, a premier destination for hiking, camping, and nature exploration near Volcán Turrialba.
Turrialba Volcano
13.0 km
Explore Turrialba Volcano, an active Costa Rican marvel offering breathtaking views, diverse wildlife, and exhilarating outdoor adventures.
Volcan Turrialba
13.2 km
Experience the awe-inspiring Volcan Turrialba in Costa Rica, a breathtaking blend of adventure, natural beauty, and volcanic activity.
Parque Nacional Volcán Turrialba
13.2 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse ecosystems of Parque Nacional Volcán Turrialba, a must-visit national park in Costa Rica's Cartago province.
Centro turístico El Paraíso Natural
14.5 km
Experience the serene beauty of Centro Turístico El Paraíso Natural in Cartago Province, a lodge immersed in Costa Rica's breathtaking landscapes.
Represa de Cachí
14.6 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Represa de Cachí, a serene reservoir in Cartago Province, Costa Rica, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Represa Hidroeléctrica de Cachi
14.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and engineering marvel of Cachi Hydroelectric Dam, a perfect blend of nature and renewable energy in Costa Rica.
Wildlife Refuge La Marta
14.9 km
Immerse yourself in the lush landscapes of Wildlife Refuge La Marta, a breathtaking nature preserve in Costa Rica's Cartago Province, perfect for wildlife enthusiasts.
Dreamer House
15.5 km
Explore the artistry of Dreamer House in Cartago Province, a must-visit museum showcasing stunning wood carvings and rich Costa Rican culture.
Essential places to dine
Río Bar y Restaurante
0.8 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Río Bar y Restaurante in Turrialba—where flavor meets stunning views.
Restaurante La Galera
1.4 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante La Galera in Turrialba – where every dish tells a story.
Chill and Cheese
2.0 km
Discover the ultimate burger experience at Chill and Cheese in Turrialba – where gourmet meets local flavors in a cozy atmosphere.
Wok & Roll
2.1 km
Experience authentic Asian cuisine at Wok & Roll in Turrialba - where every bite takes you on a flavorful journey.
Loco's Restaurante y Bar
2.1 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Loco's Restaurante y Bar in Turrialba – where great food meets vibrant culture.
Wagelia Hotel
2.1 km
Discover comfort and authentic Costa Rican hospitality at Wagelia Hotel in Turrialba – your perfect base for exploring Cartago Province's natural wonders.
Restaurante Mundo de Sabores
2.3 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Restaurante Mundo de Sabores - where every dish tells a story.
Fratelli Cocina Italiana
2.5 km
Savor the authentic flavors of Italy at Fratelli Cocina Italiana in Turrialba - where every meal is a celebration of culinary tradition.
Venamascar Restaurante
3.3 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Venamascar Restaurante in Turrialba - where every meal tells a story.
Soda La U Turrialba
3.3 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Soda La U Turrialba - where every meal tells a story.
Rancho Donde Chani Carnitas Chani
3.6 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Rancho Donde Chani, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Haras Turrialba
4.3 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Haras Turrialba - a must-visit restaurant in scenic Cartago Province.
Turrialtico Lodge
6.9 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Turrialtico Lodge while soaking in breathtaking mountain views.
Restaurante Rancho JSM
7.1 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante Rancho JSM in Turrialba - a feast for both the senses and the soul.
Restaurante Agua Dulce
7.2 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Restaurante Agua Dulce in Turrialba—where every dish tells a story.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
DL Store Turrialba
1.2 km
Explore local fashion and vibrant styles at DL Store Turrialba - your go-to destination for unique clothing in the heart of Costa Rica.
Plaza Rojitas
2.1 km
Explore Plaza Rojitas in Turrialba, a vibrant shopping mall offering diverse retail, dining, and cultural experiences in the heart of Costa Rica.
Boutique Divinas
2.1 km
Discover unique Costa Rican fashion at Boutique Divinas in Turrialba, where style meets sustainability and local artistry.
El Perfume Turrialba
2.1 km
Discover the enchanting world of fragrances at El Perfume Turrialba, where each scent tells a story of Costa Rica's rich biodiversity.
Galeria Boutique
2.2 km
Explore Galeria Boutique in Turrialba for authentic Costa Rican fashion and unique local craftsmanship.
Emory Boutique
2.3 km
Explore Emory Boutique in Turrialba for a unique blend of local fashion and style, showcasing the essence of Costa Rican clothing culture.
MegaSúper • Turrialba
2.3 km
Explore MegaSúper in Turrialba for a unique shopping experience filled with local flavors, fresh produce, and everyday essentials.
Tienda El ángel
2.3 km
Explore the essence of Costa Rican culture at Tienda El Ángel, a charming store in Turrialba offering local artisanal products and delightful souvenirs.
Supercompro 1
2.3 km
Discover the convenience and variety at Supercompro 1, the premier supermarket in Turrialba, Costa Rica, catering to all your shopping needs.
Maxi Palí
2.3 km
Explore Costa Rican culture at Maxi Palí, the go-to supermarket in Turrialba for fresh produce, local specialties, and everyday essentials.
Super Compro
2.4 km
Discover local flavors and everyday essentials at Super Compro, the vibrant supermarket in Turrialba, Costa Rica.
Pay Less Supermarket
2.5 km
Experience local life at Pay Less Supermarket in Turrialba while shopping for fresh produce and Costa Rican specialties.
Palí
2.5 km
Discover the local flavors and vibrant culture at Palí, the go-to supermarket in Turrialba, Costa Rica.
SalRod
8.4 km
Explore SalRod in Jiménez for unique souvenirs and local crafts that capture the essence of Costa Rica's rich culture and artistry.
ArteCoVa
11.2 km
Explore the vibrant craftsmanship at ArteCoVa in Pejibaye—your gateway to unique, handcrafted treasures that capture the essence of Costa Rica.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar Cotos
0.6 km
Explore the vibrant atmosphere of Bar Cotos in Turrialba, where Costa Rican culture meets friendly service and delicious drinks.
Bar La Amistad
1.8 km
Experience the authentic flavors of Costa Rica at Bar La Amistad, a top destination for grill lovers in Turrialba.
Culi's Bar
2.0 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Culi's Bar, Turrialba's premier sports bar, where locals and tourists unite over great drinks and live sports.
Bar Restaurante La Garza del Atlántico
2.1 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine in the heart of Turrialba at Bar Restaurante La Garza del Atlántico, where every meal is a celebration of local flavors.
Jhonny's Place Restaurante y Sport Bar
2.3 km
Experience the vibrant culinary scene at Jhonny's Place Restaurante y Sport Bar in Turrialba, where delicious food meets lively sports entertainment.
Bar Treinta Y Tantos
2.4 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Bar Treinta Y Tantos, Turrialba's beloved restaurant for local cuisine and a lively atmosphere.
Latinos Disco Bar
2.4 km
Discover the rhythm of Turrialba at Latinos Disco Bar, where lively music and vibrant culture create unforgettable nightlife experiences.
Bar El Kiosco
2.4 km
Discover the lively spirit of Turrialba at Bar El Kiosco, where local drinks and vibrant ambiance create unforgettable evenings.
Hotel Ladera
2.8 km
Discover Hotel Ladera in Cartago Province, a serene hotel offering stunning views, cozy accommodations, and delicious local cuisine amidst breathtaking nature.
Casa Guayo
2.9 km
Experience the charm and tranquility of Casa Guayo, your perfect retreat in Turrialba, Costa Rica, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
Bar La Cabaña
3.3 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Bar La Cabaña, a premier grill in Turrialba offering delicious food in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Las Águilas Pug Bar
5.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Turrialba at Las Águilas Pug Bar, where local culture meets a lively atmosphere and refreshing drinks.
Hotel Guayabo Lodge
6.4 km
Discover the serene beauty of Costa Rica at Hotel Guayabo Lodge, where comfort meets nature in the heart of the mountains.
Villa Florencia Hotel
6.6 km
Experience comfort and tranquility at Villa Florencia Hotel, your serene escape in Turrialba, Costa Rica, surrounded by nature and local attractions.
Café Viñas
8.8 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at Café Viñas, a charming restaurant in Capellades known for its fresh dishes and warm atmosphere.