Turrialba is famous for its active Volcano Turrialba which still spews ash intermittently. The green valley’s fertility is due to its volcanic soil which makes it an ideal agricultural center, and the area has a pleasant climate with temperatures lower than in most of the country with frequent mists.
The road to the top of the volcano is badly damaged and its active status makes it unsafe for visitors, but the town itself still offers other attractions. Turrialba is an agricultural center and is still the main area for making cheese, which is sold throughout Costa Rica. Its economic vitality started in the 1880’s when the ‘Jungle Train’ passed through on route between San Jose and Puerto Limon.
With the destruction of the railway in the 1991 earthquake and the construction of Route 32, visitors to the area decreased until the word got out among adventurous tourists about the water-water rafting adventures of the Pacuare and Reventazón Rivers. While the Pacuare is a great ride for beginners and intermediate rafters, the 65 kilometers of Reventazón River on the northeast side of Lago de Cachi has one of the most challenging runs in the country, as well as more gentle floats for the whole family. The river is divided into four sections based on difficulty. The Class V is Peralta with the biggest waves, Pascua is Class IV and boasts volcano views, Florida is also a Class III with beautiful scenery and one of the most popular runs, while the gentler Power House is a Class II-III float for the family fun. Other activities offered in the area include ziplining, horseback riding and canyoning.
Guayabo is a must for history lovers, as only the ancient ruins of a mysterious city remain to tantalize the modern visitor. Almost nothing is known about the inhabitants of the once-thriving community of up to 5000 people that was first established three thousand years ago, but was abandoned before the arrival of the Spanish in 1502. The cobbled streets, fountains, drainage systems and reservoirs suggest a high level of sophistication in the people dwelling there, and it is hoped that further research will reveal more. Petroglyphs of animals are engraved in surrounding rocks and a nature trail allows visitors to view the actual flora and fauna of the area. Access to the site is via Route 230 and despite the short distance from Turrialba, allow an hour and twenty minutes for the journey.
Turrialba is also home to the Centro Agronomica Tropical de Investigacion y Enseñanza, known as “Catie” for short, located four kilometers east of Turrialba. The center is known as one of the most important research stations in the tropics with 1,000 hectares containing and herb garden, libraries, greenhouses, a dairy, seed bank and a central bird pond.
An intermediate to full-sized SUV is recommended for this part of Costa Rica, although a more powerful vehicle may be more suitable in green season.
From San Jose: Turrialba is reached from Cartago or San Jose on Route 230 in about ninety minutes.