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There is no shortage of scenic spots to see and explore in Costa Rica. The Central American paradise boasts a robust collection of endemic plant and animal life, as well as one of the most scenic landscapes on the planet, making it a natural destination for adventurers and eco-tourists looking to get back to nature. Vacationers hoping to experience the natural side of Costa Rica while enjoying a bit of Tico culture may want to start their journey in the city of San Gerardo de Rivas.
A hidden gem
Located only 20 miles from San Isidro de General, the second-largest city in the province of San Jose, San Gerardo de Rivas is a small village of around 400 residents that may be one of the best-kept secrets in the country. Thanks to its location in the Talamanca Mountains, the town has become a popular base camp for adventurous hikers and mountain climbers hoping to tackle the challenging face of Mount Chirripo, the country's tallest mountain, or explore the nearby Chirripo River valley.
A natural paradise
Like many other villages in the region, San Gerardo de Rivas is a coffee-producing community, and its strong soil and humid climate provides the town with a bevy of natural treasures to explore. Visitors to San Gerardo can explore the Cloudbridge Nature Preserve, which is home to beautiful flowers (with orchids being notable among them), an impressive array of bird life and several cascading waterfalls.
Travelers will also want to be sure to stop in for a soak at the Gevi Hot Springs, or Aguas Termales Gevi. This facility can get crowded, however, so adventurers will want to plan ahead.
Getting in
There are many ways to reach San Gerardo de Rivas, though most will require a sturdy vehicle with four-wheel drive. Travel from San Jose will take around 3.5 hours, but will take visitors on a scenic trail through Cartago and Cerro de la Muerte, and those who embark on the one-hour drive from San Isidro will spend more than half of their ride crossing some rocky dirt roads and hills.
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