support@catalinabotanical.com

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(+506) 8710 2170

Explore the Garden

Discover the different areas of the garden.

La Catalina

A Natural Space to Discover

Trails

Explore green areas surrounded by flora and fauna

Visitor experiences

Guided tours. Species observation. Peaceful spaces to connect with nature

Conservation

We support the protection of native species and ecological restoration

A Dream Come True

Our History in Carrizal

Our history begins in the 1980s, when Mr. Isaac and Ms. Ara began cultivating plants in the garden of their home.

With the effort of his children, it was transformed into the La Catalina Botanical Garden.

The Meaning of Catalina

The name is a posthumous tribute to a lady who cared for the waters of the Quizarrá River.

Commitment and Nature

The farm was once an old pasture. Today, it represents a forest in recovery.

About Us

Mission

We are a family that shares with our visitors the culture, tradition, and authenticity while conserving the forest and orchids, through sustainable tourism to improve the quality of life of our community and create a beautiful memory for our visitors.

Vision

To become a rural tourism company, nationally recognized for its planned development, meeting the expectations of our tourists and our community.

Conservation

We protect native flora. We promote responsible practices. We encourage local research.

Guided Experiences

Interpretive trails. Educational walks. Direct contact with biodiversity.

Plant Nursery and Reforestation

Cultivation of native species. Support for community projects. Sustainable reforestation.

Biodiversity

Our Natural Collection

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Orchid Species

Including endangered species.

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Plant Families

Marantas. musas. philodendron. monsteras.

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Tree Species

Oaks, quizarrá, loritos, targuá, aguacatillos — Costa Rican names.

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Animal Species

Birds. Butterflies. Mammals. Frogs.

Carrizal, Alajuela

General Information About the Community

Location and Area

Carrizal is located approximately 12 km northeast of Alajuela city center and 15 km north of Heredia.

It covers an area of 15.9~km and has an altitude of 1470 meters above sea level. The postal code is 20103.

Typical Climate

The predominant climate is cold, due to the moisture-laden trade winds that travel from the Caribbean through the Desengaño Pass.

The average temperature is 18° to 24°, with annual rainfall between 3,000 and 3,500 mm. During the rainy season, the area is often shrouded in thick, enchanting mist.

Landscape and Rivers

The terrain is rugged, featuring many slopes, and its ecosystem is nourished by numerous streams and rivers, including the Río Ahogados, Río Quizarra and Río Las Chorreras.

Learning and Conservation

Our Lecture Hall

Sala de Charlas

The Lecture Hall is the first activity of the tour, designed to enhance your experience with essential insights

  • Pollinators: We explain their vital role in the economy and daily diet, encouraging their conservation—even for those with a “bad reputation.”.
  • Vanilla Extraction: The process of extracting vanilla and other important orchids is explained in detail.
  • Introduction to the Garden: Prepares visitors for the trail, ensuring a complete and educational experience.
Tour

Planned Tour Route

To Conclude

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Visits are by prior reservation to organize groups and provide every visitor with a personalized guided experience.
Feel free to write or call us at +506 8710-2170 to organize your visit and assist with any inquiries.
We are in Carrizal, Alajuela. Quizarrases Street, 50 meters northwest of the school.
Enjoy an engaging educational talk, a scenic walk along trails filled with orchids and lush forest, and a visit to a river and waterfall. The tour concludes with refreshing fresh fruit juice and traditional Costa Rican snacks.
We recommend closed, comfortable shoes for walking. On rainy days, shoes with good traction or hiking-type footwear are best.
The “El Mirador” area comfortably hosts up to 24 people. For larger groups, we organize multiple sessions or adjust the logistics to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Yes. Buses run near Carrizal from Alajuela and other nearby towns. We recommend checking the latest schedules before your trip to ensure a smooth journey.
La Catalina is a botanical garden specializing in orchids and tropical plants, home to hundreds of species. The collection includes epiphytes and a variety of plants native to the local forest, offering a rich and immersive experience.
La Catalina Botanical Garden

La Catalina Botanical Garden. A space dedicated to conservation, research, and environmental education.

Socials
Information

Carrizal, Alajuela, Costa Rica

(+506) 8710 2170

support@catalinabotanical.com

Opening hours

Monday to Friday: 8:00 am – 4:00 pm

Saturday and Sunday: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m

Holidays: Check availability

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