Things To Do
in Paraíso
Paraíso is a verdant district in Cartago, Costa Rica, nestled in a lush valley of coffee hills and winding rivers. The town serves as a relaxed gateway to nearby cloud forests and volcanic areas, all while preserving a strong sense of local charm through markets, sodas, and family-run farms. Visitors come for coffee culture, scenic drives along rural routes, and easy day trips to Poás and Tapantí just a short ride from San José.
With a warm tropical climate and friendly locals, Paraíso offers an authentic, uncrowded Costa Rican experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Juan Santamaría International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Paraíso. Get settled in and enjoy a refreshing welcome drink while soaking in the tropical ambiance. Take a moment to relax and recover from your travels before diving into the adventure.
Explore the nearby coffee plantations and learn about the coffee production process with an insightful guided tour. Engage in tastings to discover the rich flavors that Costa Rican coffee has to offer. Capture breathtaking views of the lush green hills and valleys surrounding you.
Savor a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, where you can indulge in authentic Costa Rican cuisine. As the sun sets, take a stroll through the charming town of Paraíso, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and friendly local vibes. Wind down with a refreshing drink at a café, soaking in the tranquil evening air.
Embark on a guided hike in the nearby Orosi Valley, where lush landscapes and diverse wildlife await. Keep an eye out for exotic birds and butterflies as you navigate the picturesque trails. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the natural beauty around you.
Visit the Orosi River, where you can enjoy a serene picnic by the water’s edge. Take a refreshing dip in the river or simply relax while surrounded by stunning scenery. Consider renting a kayak to further explore the gentle waters and spot wildlife along the banks.
Return to Paraíso and enjoy dinner at a cozy local eatery. Try traditional dishes like gallo pinto and casado, infused with fresh ingredients. After dinner, relax in the warm evening air and reflect on the day’s beautiful encounters with nature.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🚌Local bus fare | $0.50-1 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $2-4 |
| 🍺Beer at a bar | $3-6 |
| 🏨One-night mid-range hotel | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful, rural landscapes with warm, friendly people
- Accessible day trips to volcanoes, cloud forests, and coffee farms
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Some rural roads can be rough or slippery in the rainy season
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Pura vida" - Pura vida (hello/goodbye/awesome)
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Me gustaría..." - I would like...
Places to Visit in Paraíso
Visit one of these nice places.
A panoramic viewpoint offering sweeping vistas of the valley, coffee hills, and distant mountains, especially stunning at sunrise or sunset.
A riverside vantage point and bridge where lush greenery frames dramatic river curves and seasonal flows.
Tiered coffee plantations with geometric rows and misty backdrops, ideal for landscape and texture shots, especially during harvest.
Food in Paraíso
Paraíso Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic breakfast of rice and beans, usually served with eggs, cheese, and tortillas at most sodas.
Must-Try!
A balanced plate with rice, beans, plantains, salad, and a protein (often chicken, fish, or beef); widely available in towns and restaurants.
A comforting black bean soup flavored with cilantro, typically served with rice, lime, and tortilla chips.
A hearty beef stew with vegetables, a common option in local sodas and family eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small, vibrant market where you can taste fresh fruit, observe daily life, and find quick, inexpensive bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Pura vida is a versatile greeting and expression of appreciation; use it warmly when meeting people.
Remove hats indoors and dress modestly when visiting churches or formal spaces.
Maintain a friendly, patient demeanor; Costa Ricans value courteous interactions and avoid confrontation in public.
Ask before photographing people, particularly in rural or indigenous communities; always respect requests to not be photographed.
Safety
Tipping in Paraíso
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a 10% service charge is common if included; otherwise 5-10% is appreciated for good service. Taxis usually don’t require tips, but rounding up is common. Cash is useful for smaller vendors; major cards are widely accepted in towns and hotels.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
From December to April, expect sunny days, clear skies, and comfortable temperatures perfect for outdoor adventures and photography with strong light.
From May to November, expect frequent afternoon showers and lush, vibrant greenery; rain gear is essential, and trails can be slippery but views are dramatic.
Paraíso at Night
Hiking in Paraíso
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible trails with crater views, sulfur vents, and forested sections offering varied scenery and wildlife.
Dense cloud forest with cascades and panoramic outlooks; choose from short strolls to longer treks.
Rugged yet rewarding routes in the surrounding hills, delivering sweeping valley views and lush vegetation.
Airports
How to reach Paraíso by plane.
Costa Rica’s main international gateway near San José; about 60–90 minutes by car to Paraíso, depending on traffic.
A smaller airport in the San José area offering domestic and regional flights; useful for quick hops and domestic connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily families and farmers in surrounding hills, with a strong sense of community and tradition.
People connected to agriculture and hillside estates, contributing to the region’s rural economy.
People traveling to Cartago or San José for work or study, often using regional buses.
A growing, small community of foreigners drawn to the climate, lower pace of life, and natural beauty.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Costa Rica; local games, informal matches, and passionate fan culture are common in towns like Paraíso.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Paraíso.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in sodas and kitchens; look for veggie casados, salads, and bean-based dishes; use phrases like 'sin carne' (without meat) and 'sin queso' (without cheese) when ordering.