Things to do in Los Santos Highlands
Discover the best attractions and experiences Los Santos Highlands has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore places that hint at the region’s past, from colonial churches to local cultural landmarks in the Los Santos Highlands.
Iglesia de San Gerardo de Dota
A charming rural church that anchors the village and reflects the area’s devotional culture.
Iglesia de Tarrazú
A traditional parish church offering a glimpse into local religious life.
Cultural landmarks of Santa María de Dota
Historic points in a town known for its coffee-growing heritage.
Museums
Delve into the region’s craft, coffee history, and rural life through small museums and farm experiences.
Tarrazú Coffee Museum (Café culture)
Exhibits on the coffee harvest, processing, and local farming history.
San Gerardo de Dota Cultural Center
Displays on local traditions, crafts, and wildlife.
Coffee farm education tour
On-site demonstrations of bean selection, roasting, and tasting.
Religious Monuments
Visit sacred spaces that color the highland towns with faith and community life.
Iglesia de San Gerardo de Dota
A small parish church set against mountain scenery.
Iglesia de Santa María de Dota
A local chapel serving the surrounding farming communities.
Parroquia Tarrazú
Central parish church in the Tarrazú area.
National & Theme Parks
Trek through spectacular cloud forests and high-elevation landscapes in protected areas.
Parque Nacional Chirripó
Costa Rica’s high-altitude park, home to Cerro Chirripó and alpine-like scenery.
Parque Nacional Tapantí-Macizo de la Muerte
Lush cloud forests, rivers, and scenic canyons along protected trails.
Reserva Biológica Dr. Alexander Skutch
Biological reserve famed for birdwatching, especially quetzals.
Neighborhoods
Small highland communities with distinctive character and warm welcomes.
San Gerardo de Dota
Remote mountain village known for birdwatching and rustic lodges.
Santa María de Dota
Coffee-farm country town with scenic driving routes.
Tarrazú Towns (Tarrazú, San Marcos)
Hub towns central to the highland coffee region.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy nature and culture without an entry fee: trails, viewpoints, and markets.
Birdwatching in San Gerardo de Dota
Look for the Resplendent Quetzal and other cloud-forest species.
Hiking and scenic viewpoints along Cerro de la Muerte corridor
Multiple easy to moderate trails with sweeping valley views.
Stroll through local village markets
Browse fresh produce and handmade crafts in Tarrazú towns.
Gastronomy
Savor the region’s coffee-driven cuisine and farm-to-table flavors.
Coffee tastings at a Tarrazú finca
Sample hill-country beans and learn about processing.
Traditional Costa Rican casado in local eateries
A hearty, classic meal featuring rice, beans, and plantains.
Culinary tours at coffee co-operatives
Taste simple, rustic dishes paired with regional brews.
Nightlife
Evening vibes in cozy highland inns and farms with music and warmth.
Local farm stay evenings with acoustic music
Relaxing farm-to-table nights with gentle tunes.
Coffeehouse gatherings in Tarrazú towns
Casual spots offering hot chocolate, coffee, and chats.
Evening stargazing at high elevation viewpoints
Clear skies provide a simple, peaceful night-time activity.
Entertainment
Local performances and seasonal fairs showcase regional culture.
Local festivals in Tarrazú and Santa María de Dota
Seasonal fairs with crafts, music, and food.
Birding tours and wildlife walks
Guided strolls highlighting cloud forest fauna.
Cultural demonstrations at rural cultural centers
Hands-on experiences with traditional crafts.
Sports
Active pursuits in mountain landscapes, from hiking to horseback riding.
Hiking to Cerro Chirripó or nearby peaks
Trek among cloud forests with dramatic views.
Birdwatching tours (Resplendent Quetzal, tucans)
Guided trips to spot iconic highland birds.
Horseback riding through coffee plantations
Sunrise rides with scenic valley panoramas.
Off the Track
Hidden gems and unusual experiences off the main routes.
Night sky stargazing at high-altitude sites
Clear skies reveal a blanket of stars.
Visit to a cacao farm and chocolate tasting
Learn cacao farming and sample handmade chocolate.
Micro-forest walks and hidden cascades
Secret streams and small waterfalls off the beaten path.