Beautiful Angostura Lagoon, Cartago
Beautiful Angostura Lagoon, Cartago

I was recently hopping along through the town of Turrialba in Cartago and ran into one of the newest and largest hydroelectric plants in Costa Rica! I was so excited because it doesn't emit greenhouse gas byproducts, which is good for me, my habitat and my friends, and brings my native land one step closer to becoming a carbon-neutral country. We're already well on our way - my environmentalist brother Henrique told me that 80% of electricity is created like this already. Green energy aside though; that isn't even why I'm telling you about this beautiful spot it also doubles as a beautiful lagoon!

Tranquil section of river near Turrialba
Tranquil section of river near Turrialba
Guanacaste Escape Adventure Tour
7 Days / 6 Nights
Starting at $779 per person

Angostura Lagoon, or Laguna de la Angostura, has quickly become an attraction for recreational water activities and sports for travelers. Situated about 3 kilometers, or just under 2 miles, from the city of Turrialba, this lagoon covers more than 200 hectares and is surrounded by beautiful prairie land. Because the annual rainfall in this area can reach 26 feet per year, many people enjoy bird watching along the lagoon.

Bird flying over Angostura Lagoon
Bird flying over Angostura Lagoon

What to Do Here

If you are trying to figure out what to do in Costa Rica, the Angostura Lagoon should be on your list. Many people enjoy canoeing, kayaking, tubing, water skiing and rafting here. When you get nice and toasty (because the sun gets hot down here), just hop in for a quick swim. The water is so clear and calm in the lagoon, you're sure to have a great time!

If you'd rather swim in something a little more thrilling, you can head to one of the rivers that feed into the lagoon. Be careful where you take a dip, because there are some areas down the Pacuare, Pejibaye and Reventazon rivers that get really intense. White-water rafters love this area because it's bordered by lush, tropical forests. The Pejibaye River starts off at a class I, but it continually increases until it hits a trio of class IV rapids! If you aren't an experienced rafter, avoid this region, or maybe just stick to the relaxing lagoon - that's what I prefer! Although these areas are pretty far from the lagoon, you wouldn't want to run into a raging raft.

If you're landing at the San Jose Costa Rica airport, you're only about 15 miles away from Cartago. This area has always been known for its natural beauty and perfect location, but the Angostura Lagoon will surely put this spot on the map!

Having fun white water rafting on the Pacuare River
Having fun white water rafting on the Pacuare River