Cerro Caricias – A magical forest right next to the city 🌿✨
A Heredian combo to recharge your energy
This time we went for something close, easy and inspiring: Cerro Caricias, a private forest property with trails and peaceful picnic areas located in San Isidro de Heredia. It’s the perfect plan to breathe fresh air and disconnect from city life—without actually going too far.
The lagoon that appears in the video is not inside Cerro Caricias.
Useful info for visiting
🌲 How to get there
Head to San Isidro de Heredia, then continue uphill towards Concepción de San Isidro. From the Concepción Stadium, go 3 km north: go straight, pass a Y fork, keep right, then pass another fork and go left until the end.
💵 Cost
₡3000 nationals
$10 foreigners
📞 Contact
📱 8839-0539
🚗 Vehicle
Regular car (no 4x4 needed).
🎒 What to bring
- Trail tennis or hiking boots
- Comfortable clothes for cool weather
- Waterproof or windbreaker jacket
🥪 Food?
Bring snacks and water, perfect for a picnic.
🕒 Estimated time
Unlimited – Stay as long as you want.
🥾 Difficulty
Easy. Trails are well marked and accessible.
Our experience in Cerro Caricias
First of all, let’s set the scene: when you look north from San José and see a gap in the mountains, you’re looking at Zurquí, Caricias and Turú. The one we visited was Cerro Caricias.
This estate belongs to the Arguedas family, and has been part of a conservation program for many years. Now they open it to the public with charming trails and picnic zones, perfect for a weekend escape.
We were welcomed by Mauricio, an agronomist deeply passionate about nature. He’s in charge of maintaining and guiding visitors through the trails. As he gave us all the details, we kept getting distracted by how stunning everything looked—the views are next level!
Ancient trees and wild fauna 🌳🕊️
You can spot hummingbirds, wild birds, and if you're lucky, even a tapir! There are also trees that have been there for hundreds of years, standing like living fossils that defy the passing of time.
If you’re looking to take it easy, chill and enjoy the forest QueBuenLugar-style, Cerro Caricias is the spot. You’re going to love it!