Orosi, Costa Rica: Complete Travel Guide
Orosi Costa Rica is a peaceful river area in the Central Valley
The Orosi Costa Rica Vibes
When I think of Orosi it makes me relax. This is such a peaceful and beautiful area.
We like to come here when we need a break from city life and want to spend several days surrounded by nature that isn’t beaches.
Plus, we love that it isn’t filled with people like some other areas of the country.
There is a big emphasis on farming and nature.
Background Info About Orosi Costa Rica
Nearest International Airport
Juan Santamaria International Airport in San Jose
Popular Things to Do
hiking, visit Irazu Volcano, birdwatching
Best Way to Get Around
Best Time of Year to Visit
Dry season is from late December until mid-April
When you buy through our links, Costa Rica Vibes may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Read our Disclaimer Policy for more info.
We’re Thomas (the German) and Sarah (the US-er).
We met in Virginia, moved to Germany, and now live in sunny Costa Rica. It was a spontaneous decision to move here, but it was the best decision!
Map Of Orosi
Orosi is located in the Central Valley area of the country near the city of Cartago.
Despite being so close to some of the biggest cities in the country this area feels remote.
Flights to Costa Rica
The easiest way of getting to Orosi is by flying into the Juan Santamaria International Airport in San Jose.
We usually have the best luck with booking our flights through Skyscanner.
For flight booking we suggest Skyscanner. They are our go-to flight booking site for great rates.
Driving to Orosi
Renting a car and driving to Orosi is probably the best option for you because we strongly suggest having a rental car for day trips in the area.
However, to get here from the San Jose Airport does involve some city driving and people drive like maniacs here.
If you feel confident in your driving abilities, you will likely be fine. Just remember to be aggressive and always keep an eye out for motorcyclists (they love to pass on all sides).
The drive should take about 1.5 hours, but can take longer depending on traffic. We strongly suggest not driving during rush hour.
We suggest a local company called Adobe – Rent-a-Car for all your car rental needs. By booking through us you can get a 10% discount plus other great perks! You can find out more and book your car here.
BOOK YOUR COSTA RICA RENTAL CAR AND SAVE 10%
The Adobe Rent-A-Car discount includes…..
– A 10% DISCOUNT
– FREE SECOND DRIVER
– FREE ROOF RACKS TO USE
– 0% DEDUCTIBLE ON LIABILITY PROTECTION
– DISCOUNTED SMARTPHONE USAGE WITH UNLIMITED DATA
Private Shuttle to Orosi
If you don’t feel comfortable driving we suggest a private shuttle. Your shuttle can pick you up from the airport (or hotel) and deliver you safely to Orosi. You can just sit back and enjoy the scenery. scenery.
We work exclusively with Adobe Transfer for private shuttles. You can find out more and get a shuttle price quote here.
Transportation In Orosi
This area is very spread out so we highly recommend having a rental car when getting around here just to make your life easier for going to restaurants, grocery shopping, and exploring.
If you don’t feel comfortable driving to Orosi, but would like a car while here, that is always an option.
Book Your Trip Through Our Favorite Partners
Orosi Costa Rica Weather
The Central Valley area usually has a dry season from mid- December until late April.
From May until August you can usually expect and afternoon rain storm to roll in around 2pm and last for an hour or two.
From August until December it is possible to have some total washout days.
Orosi tends to be a bit cooler than a lot of other areas in the country.
I suggest preparing for weather to be anywhere from 55°F to 80°F.
Things to Do in Orosi Costa Rica
Visit Lankester Gardens
Lankester Gardens is run by the University of Costa Rica. It is a 27 acre property with a wide variety of flowers including tons of orchids. Admission is $10 and we highly suggest visiting for a relaxing stroll among well maintained plants.
Visit Hacienda Orosi Hot Springs and Farm
This is a great place to enjoy a hot spring experience with amazing views. There is also a farm and coffee tour option on the property as well.
You can find out more and book your tickets here.
Hike at Parque Nacional Tapantí Macizo de la Muerte
We definitely suggest spending at least one day at the Tapanti National Park. It is possible to hire a guide, but you can also hike this national park on your own.
Once you enter the park we suggest driving to the various trail heads. You can also park at the central lot, but you will save yourself a lot of walking by driving to each trail head.
There are three trail options and two are loops.
For more info, check out the national park website.
Take a Day Trip to Irazu Volcano
Irazu is located not too far from Orosi. It is the highest volcano in the country and you can visit the crater up close. We have a full guide to Irazu to help you plan your trip.
Visit Iglesia de San Jose de Orosi
This is the picturesque church located in the center of Orosi. It is possible to go in and have a look around.
This church is from the late 1700’s, which makes it the oldest church it Costa Rica that hasn’t needed to be rebuilt due to earthquakes.
Visit Mirador de Orosi
This is the most popular spot to visit for the view of the Orosi River. Just type in “Mirador de Orosi” in your GPS and it will come up. We suggest bringing a picnic or stuff to grill (there is a grill area, you just need charcoal and fire starter).
Are you stressed about planning the perfect vacation to Costa Rica?
Have no fear! We are here to help. Enter your info to get the FREE Ultimate Costa Rica Planning E-Book that is jam-packed with must know travel info
Orosi Restaurants
For such a small area there are a lot of really great restaurants. I don’t think I’ve ever had a bad meal here (and we always try a new place when we visit).
Anyway, if I have to narrow it down, here are my five favorites.
Pizza Il Giardino – I’m a self proclaimed pizza snob and I have to say, this place does pizza very well. Their pasta dishes are also excellent.
Orocay Bistro – The place we go when we are looking for a nice dinner. They have plenty of food options, but I suggest going for some type of beef dish here.
Truchas San Ignacio – Going to a trucha is one of our favorite things to do when we have family or friends visit. It is such a typical Costa Rican experience, but something most tourists don’t get to experience.
So, if you are looking for a cultural experience and a meal, head here.
Basically you are given a fishing line with a ball of fish food on the end. You then stand at a small pond and fish until you catch a trout.
The chef then fries up your trout with some side dishes. It’s delicious and fun!
La Fonda del Alto – I love this place! The concept is, there is no menu. Every day the chef cooks up 4 courses with whatever is fresh from the farm.
Basically, you feel like you are a guest in a local home. It’s great!
Cafetería 1743 – A nice cafe in the downtown area. I like to try a piece of whatever fresh cake they have and get a blended fruit drink. Yum!
Orosi Costa Rica Hotels
There are not a whole lot of hotels located in Orosi, so some of the places on this list are located in nearby small towns.
High-End Hotels
Hotel Quelitales – This eco friendly hotel is located on an organic farm. They offer modern and clean accommodation with breakfast included. Their on-site restaurant is also excellent.
Hotel Boutique La Casona – A nice boutique hotel located on a coffee farm. There is a spa, wellness center, and restaurant on the property.
Mid-Range Hotels
Posada Cañaveral – Clean and modern bungalows on a nice property. The reception area is located in an old school bus (which I think is so fun). And there is a shared kitchen and lounge area that guests can use.
Cabañas Cerro Verde Lodge y Spa – The property here is great. There are hiking trails, a pool, table tennis, BBQ facilities, and breakfast is included.
Finca Queveri – We love this place for a more all inclusive experience at a very reasonable rate. Both breakfast and dinner are included in the booking. This is the kind of place I suggest staying at least three nights to just relax and enjoy the surroundings.
Budget Hotels
Montaña Linda Hostel Orosi– A hostel which also offers budget private rooms. There is also a shared kitchen on the property for guests to use.
Vacation Rentals in Orosi
We always love renting a home or villa for our vacation in Costa Rica. This gives you more privacy and allows you the flexibility to cook your own meals.
Note: We try to only ever suggest places with good cancellation policies, but always double-check before booking.
Agroturismo Finca Sermide – A cute two bedroom cottage located on a working farm.
Casa Sofia – A two bedroom house that can sleep up to six guests (but it is more comfortable with four guests). One whole side of the house is basically all windows and the views are excellent.
Paradise Peak – This is a two bedroom home that can sleep four guests. The property is a working citrus farm and is surrounded by a private botanical garden. There is also a private jacuzzi.
Finca Good Life – A one bedroom home that sleeps four gusts in the rolling valleys of Orosi. The views here are amazing and the owners are the best. This is a place you could easily spend several nights just relaxing.
Casa Bartzis – A lovely two bedroom house that sleeps four guests. The views are very nice here and it feels like a peaceful oasis.
Orosi Travel Tips
– Pack for all the weathers. It’s always a surprise here!
– If you are left with some nights near the San Jose Airport, don’t stay in San Jose. Head here instead!
Packing for Orosi Costa Rica
Orosi tends to be cooler than other places in the country. We suggest a lot of layers. You will probably want to do some hiking while here so bring decent shoes.
Also, keep in mind that the rainy season can be longer here than in other places. Pack rain gear if coming during the green season.
Check out our Orosi Packing List on Amazon for all the essentials.
Articles About Orosi Costa Rica
No posts
You Might Also Like Visiting
San Jose: The bustling capital city in the country’s center filled with museums, restaurants, and culture.
Cartago: An area of coffee farms, beautiful views, and volcanoes
San Gerardo de Dota: A remote cloud forest area that is popular with birdwatchers
….if none of those appeal to you, check out our Guide to the Central Valley for more ideas of places to visit in this area.