Cartago, Costa Rica

Cartago, Costa Rica, was established by Juan Vasquez de Coronado in 1563 and was the first genuine Spanish settlement in the country. Located at the eastern edge of the Central Valley, it served as the capitol of Costa Rica until a dispute prompted the capitol’s move to San José in 1823. The province is famous for its abundant ecological diversity and dense tropical rainforests along the mountain ranges near the Irazu and Turrialba volcanoes. With volcanic soils and a temperate climate, it comes as no surprise that agriculture constitutes a significant portion of the economy, with the province being a major supplier of agricultural products to the region and country as a whole. The colossal Basilica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles, home of the famous Black Madonna statue (La Negrita), is a popular tourist and pilgrimage site that holds immense importance for Catholics across the region. The province boasts dozens of popular tourist sites in addition to this. Cartago is also home to the Costa Rica Institute of Technology, one of the most significant schools of engineering in Central America. The city has been damaged by earthquakes numerous times over the years, and volcanic ash has damaged crop lands but not the city itself.

Where is Cartago?

Map of Costa Rica

What's the climate in Cartago?

Climate Type: Tropical Monsoon / Subtropical Highland

Due to its classification as a tropical monsoon region and its higher elevation of 1,220 meters (4,000 feet) above sea level, Cartago experiences notably cooler weather than most places in this climate classification. This makes it an ideal location for expats who do not enjoy the heat or humidity prevalent in beach communities. While usually overcast yet comfortable, temperatures can range from 15.5 °C (60 °F) to 25 °C (77 °F), with lows reaching approximately 14 °C (57 °F) and highs reaching approximately 26.5 °C (80 °F).

How do I buy a house in Cartago?

While Esterillos has a range of housing options — condos and single-family homes available for rent or purchase at various budgets — we believe you should shift your focus when considering life in Costa Rica: buying real estate in Esterillos shouldn’t be your first step!

Investing in Esterillos property can offer fantastic opportunities, especially if you’re seeking residency, however it’s crucial to determine your lifestyle preferences beforehand. Many rush into property purchases only to realize that their decision does not fully meet their real estate needs in Costa Rica once the vacation mentality wears off.

Your Pura Vida operates differently.

We collaborate with a diverse network of trusted realtors in Esterillos and nationwide. Our approach emphasizes exploration without the pressure often associated with realtor relationships.

Our sole priority? Your contentment and sustained enjoyment in the country. When you’re ready to buy or rent a home in Esterillos, we’ve got you covered! When you’re ready, let’s talk.

Cartago Weather

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Cartago, CR
4:37 pm
weather icon 20°C | °F
L: 20° H: 21°
clear sky
Precipitation: 0 inch
Visibility: 10 km
Sunrise: 5:41 am
Sunset: 5:15 pm

At a Glance

Population: 160,457 (2017 data)

Popular Expat Neighborhoods: Cartago, San Rafael, Tres Rios, Agua Caliente, Turrialba, El Guarco, Paraíso, La Unión

Largest Regional City: Cartago

Vibe: city, agricultural, locals town 

Distance to Nearest International Airport: Juan Santamaria International Airport – 43 kilometers (26.75 miles) – approx. 1 hour without heavy traffic

Rankings

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City Lead

We won't sell your information to anyone, promise! Pura vida!