Alajuela Travel Guide

Parque Central Tomás Guardia is the central green square of Liberia, capital of Guanacaste, named after President Tomás Guardia. Ringed by a white church and colonial-style buildings, it is the heart of local gatherings and relaxation.

Alajuela Cathedral stands on the central plaza as a neoclassical red-domed seat of the bishop. A local landmark and focus of religious life, it is surrounded by old-town streets ideal for strolling.

Poás is among the world's highest active volcanic craters—a 1.5km-wide acid lake bubbling with steam, ringed by cloud forest home to hummingbirds and quetzals.

The Juan Santamaría Historical Museum in Alajuela honors Costa Rica's national hero—drummer Juan Santamaría, who died defeating an invading force. It exhibits 19th-century war artifacts and historical dioramas.

La Paz Waterfall Gardens sits at the edge of the cloud forest, where a trail reveals five tiered waterfalls. With butterfly and hummingbird gardens plus a wildlife rescue exhibit, it is a paradise for nature and photography lovers.

Sarchí is Costa Rica's craft capital, renowned for its brightly painted oxcarts (a national symbol) along with woodcarvings and leather goods. Local cooperatives and markets are the place to find authentic artisan work.