Palo Seco and the broader destination of Heredia

Boca Cureña (Palo Seco) is a district in the canton of Sarapiquí. The broader destination of Heredia offers additional nature and culture experiences.

Nature and rivers in the wider region

Two rivers with different stories stand out in the wider region. The Río Sarapiquí and its banks provide habitat for howler monkeys, iguanas, and caimans; these animals are a major attraction for visitors. In the border area, families used to catch shrimp and fish in the Río San Juan. At the time of the original description, catches were difficult because of limited availability. The focus on the Sarapiquí is therefore the animals’ habitat, while the San Juan is associated with past fishing.

Nature and trails in the broader destination of Heredia

In the broader destination of Heredia, Estación Biológica La Selva is located in Heredia Province, in the Cordillera Volcánica Central, and on the border of Parque Nacional Braulio Carrillo. Its 61-kilometer network of paved and unpaved trails provides access to numerous terrestrial and aquatic habitats. Estación Biológica La Selva is home to 470 bird species. The birdwatching tour starts at around 5:45 a.m.; confirm the schedule before booking. During a night tour, you may see animals such as snakes and frogs. Confirm its availability before booking as well.

The Volcán Barva sector of Parque Nacional Braulio Carrillo is in the broader destination of Heredia, 16 km north of the city of Barva de Heredia. The official access route runs through the districts of San José de la Montaña and Sacramento. Check road conditions and schedules before traveling, as these may change.

Culture and history in Heredia

In the district of Heredia, the city offers a food tour of Mercado Municipal. Visitors can sample Heredian cuisine and learn about the market’s history. Mercado Municipal de Heredia was declared historic and architectural heritage on June 12, 2003.

El Fuerte, also known as El Fortín, is a symbol of the city of Heredia and was declared a national monument on November 2, 1974. Parroquia de la Inmaculada Concepción in Heredia was declared a national monument on May 31, 1973; Parque Central Nicolás Ulloa Soto was declared historic and cultural heritage on October 13, 1994. Heredia’s historic train station was declared a national historic and architectural monument of Costa Rica on September 16, 2003.

Casa de la Cultura de Heredia, also known as Casa Alfredo González Flores, is part of Costa Rica’s historic and cultural heritage. It is used for art exhibitions, concerts, dance, theater, and other artistic activities, and was declared a national monument in December 1974.

More destinations

Discover more destinations: Birrí, Paso Llano, San Rafael, San Antonio, Porrosatí, El Roble, Santo Domingo, Tigre

For the broader travel overview: Heredia.