Love it or hate it, San Isidro's modernist, concrete cathedral dominates the main square and is the town's most interesting architectural feature. That says it all, really. Look out for the surprisingly beautiful stained-glass windows.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Jardines Secretos

9.36 MILES

These not-so-secret gardens make for a tranquil pre- or post-Chirripó pastime as the owners talk you through their collection of orchids and other…

2. Talamanca Reserve

10.14 MILES

With over 1600 hectares of primary and secondary cloud forest, this private reserve has miles of hiking trails to explore. Visitors will be rewarded with…

3. Cataratas Nauyaca

10.57 MILES

Owned and operated by a Costa Rican family, this center is home to the coast's most impressive waterfalls. Two falls cascade through a protected reserve…

4. Parque Reptilandia

10.59 MILES

Near the entrance to Nauyaca Waterfall, this weathered reptile park sits on an acre of land and is a mini–Jurassic Park. It's got everything from…

5. Cloudbridge Nature Reserve

10.86 MILES

About 2km past the trailhead to Cerro Chirripó you will find the entrance to the mystical, magical Cloudbridge Nature Reserve. Covering 283 hectares on…

6. Reserva Biológica Oro Verde

12.63 MILES

A few kilometers before Uvita is a signed turnoff to the left. A rough dirt road (4WD only) leads 3.5km up the hill to this private reserve on the farm of…

7. Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary

13.4 MILES

Around 1.5km east and uphill from Dominical, this wildlife sanctuary takes in injured and orphaned animals as well as illegal pets. Its mission is to…

8. Cascada Verde

13.51 MILES

Around 2.5km inland and uphill (toward Cascada Verde hostel), this waterfall plunges into an inviting deep pool, perfect for a refreshing dip. Visitors…