Quesada Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to eat and stay, how to get around, and more in Quesada, Costa Rica.


Introduction to Quesada

Quesada, also known as Ciudad Quesada, is a scenic town located in the northern part of Costa Rica’s Central Valley. It is known for its stunning views of the Arenal Volcano, lush rainforests, and hot springs. Visitors come here to enjoy outdoor adventures, explore local culture, and take in all the natural beauty that Quesada has to offer.

List of Places to Visit in Quesada

There are plenty of attractions and activities to enjoy in and around Quesada. Here are some must-visit places to include in your itinerary.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • San Carlos Museum: Learn about the history and culture of the San Carlos region.
  • La Fortuna Waterfall: Explore the stunning waterfall and its surroundings.
  • Puentes Colgantes del Arenal: Admire the hanging bridges over the rainforest canopy.

Natural Attractions of Quesada: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Arenal Volcano National Park: Hike through the rainforest and enjoy views of the Arenal Volcano.
  • Baldi Hot Springs: Relax in the natural hot springs surrounded by lush vegetation.
  • Rio Celeste Waterfall: Enjoy a scenic hike to the stunning blue waterfall.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Quesada

Quesada offers incredible hiking and biking routes that allow visitors to explore the lush rainforests, mountains, and scenic views. Here are some of the best trails to check out:

  • Arenal Observatory Trail: Take a guided hike through the rainforest to a lookout point with views of the Arenal Volcano.
  • Venado Caves: Explore the underground caves on a tour.
  • Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve: Hike through the thick cloud forest and enjoy the diverse wildlife and flora.

Best Things to Do in Quesada: Activities and Tours

  • White Water Rafting: Experience the thrill of rafting down the rapids in the rainforest.
  • Canopy Tours: Soar through the rainforest canopy on a zipline.
  • Wildlife Tours: Observe monkeys, sloths, and colorful birds in their natural habitat.

Week-Long Itinerary for Quesada

Here is a sample itinerary for a week-long stay in Quesada:

Day Activities
Day 1 Relax in the hot springs at Baldi or Tabacon
Day 2 Explore Arenal Volcano National Park and hike the trails
Day 3 Go on a guided nature tour and observe the wildlife of the rainforest
Day 4 Take a day trip to Rio Celeste Waterfall
Day 5 Visit the La Fortuna Waterfall and the hanging bridges at Arenal
Day 6 Experience the thrill of white water rafting
Day 7 Spend the day exploring nearby towns and villages

Food and Drink Scene of Quesada

Quesada offers plenty of local cuisine and beverages for visitors to enjoy. Here are some must-try dishes and drinks:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Gallo Pinto: Costa Rica’s traditional breakfast dish made with rice and beans.
  • Casado: A popular plate served with rice, beans, salad, and either fish or meat.
  • Chifrijo: A delicious appetizer made with beans, rice, meat, and pico de gallo.

Local Beverages

  • Coffee: Costa Rica’s coffee is ranked as one of the best in the world, and Quesada produces some of the best beans.
  • Horchata: A refreshing drink made with rice, milk, and cinnamon.
  • Guaro Sour: A popular cocktail made with the local liquor, Guaro.

Where to Stay in Quesada: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Quesada offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are some recommended places to stay:

  • Tabacon Thermal Resort and Spa: A luxury resort with hot springs and spa services.
  • Casa Luna Hotel & Spa: A boutique hotel with stunning views of the Arenal Volcano.
  • Hostel Backpackers La Fortuna: A budget-friendly option with clean rooms and a relaxed atmosphere.

What to Buy in Quesada: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When in Quesada, don’t forget to bring back some souvenirs or local products. Here are some things to look out for:

  • Coffee beans: Bring home some of the world-renowned Costa Rican coffee.
  • Handmade crafts: Purchase handmade goods like pottery, baskets, and wooden carved souvenirs.
  • Spices and hot sauce: Bring home some of the local hot sauce or spices like Salsa Lizano.

Local Culture and Customs of Quesada

Costa Ricans are known for their friendly and welcoming nature. Visitors to Quesada should be respectful of the local culture and customs. Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • Personal space: Costa Ricans value personal space and are not as comfortable with physical contact.
  • Tipping: Tipping is not expected in Costa Rica, but it is appreciated.
  • Language: Most Costa Ricans speak Spanish, and it’s always polite to learn a few basic phrases if possible.

Best Time to Visit Quesada

Quesada experiences a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. The best time to visit Quesada is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. However, keep in mind that this is also the busiest time for tourists and prices may be higher than usual.

Do’s and Don’ts of Quesada

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind during your visit to Quesada:

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables in a safe place.
  • Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated in the tropical climate.

Don’t:

  • Leave valuables unattended in public areas.
  • Wear flashy jewelry or expensive clothing.
  • Swim in unsupervised or dangerous areas.

Safety and Health

Quesada is generally a safe destination for visitors. However, it’s always important to take precautions. Here are some safety and health tips:

Safety in Quesada

  • Do not leave valuables unattended or visible in your vehicle.
  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially when walking alone at night.
  • Stick to well-lit and busy areas.

Health in Quesada

  • Make sure to drink bottled water and avoid ice or tap water.
  • Apply insect repellent to avoid mosquito bites.
  • Wear sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.

Getting to Quesada: Transportation Options and Logistics

Quesada is located about 2 hours from the San Jose International Airport. Here are some transportation options to help you get to Quesada:

  • Private transfer: Arrange for a private transfer service from the airport to your accommodation in Quesada.
  • Car rental: Rent a car from the airport and drive to Quesada.
  • Bus: Take a bus from San Jose to Quesada. The journey takes around 3 hours.

Airports Near Quesada

  • San Jose International Airport: The closest airport to Quesada is the San Jose International Airport, located about 2 hours away.

Bus Stations Near Quesada

  • San Carlos Bus Station: Located in the center of Quesada.

Other Options

  • Private transfers can be arranged from other destinations in Costa Rica.

How to Get Around in Quesada

Quesada is a small town and is easy to explore on foot. Visitors can also make use of taxis, rental cars, or buses to get around.

Where to Go Next from Quesada: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are plenty of nearby destinations and day trips to explore from Quesada. Here are some options:

  • La Fortuna: One of the most popular destinations in Costa Rica with a range of outdoor activities and attractions.
  • Monteverde: A cloud forest reserve with diverse wildlife and flora.
  • Puerto Viejo de Talamanca: A vibrant coastal town known for its surfing and beaches.

Conclusion

Quesada is a beautiful and scenic destination in Costa Rica that offers something for everyone. From outdoor adventures to exploring local culture, visitors are sure to have a memorable stay in Quesada. Follow this comprehensive travel guide to make the most of your trip and experience all that Quesada has to offer.

Corner of Calle 0 and Avenida 1 in the center of Quesada Corner of Calle 0 and Avenida 1 in the center of Quesada