Costa Rica

Ciudad Quesada

Ciudad Quesada, more affectionately known as San Carlos by its inhabitants, is nestled in the green valley of the San Carlos plain, southeast of Arenal Volcano. Named after the poet, Napoleon Quesada, the town is worth a stop on the way to Arenal, if nothing else to enjoy the friendly locals and to sample some tasty string cheese, a specialty of the region.

With an abundance of rich volcanic soil, agriculture and ranching are the heart of the town. This is Costa Rica’s cattle country, and serves as a vital producer of beef and milk products for the entire nation. The town has a lovely central park, around which several restaurants serve simple yet delicious food.  San Carlos is known for its leather goods stores and saddler centers, which sell specialty, high-end horseback riding gear at unbelievably low prices.

Visitors can purchase a handsome western saddle for as little as $100, while more intricate, handcrafted saddles average between $200 and $400. Artisans take custom orders on smaller items and, more often than not, you can watch while you wait. While not well known for tourist attractions, Ciudad Quesada’s rolling hills and fresh, countryside air make for a pleasant stop. The town features great shopping, and serves as a nice break from the hustle and bustle of densely populated, more visited areas.

Enjoy the town’s open-air market that always overflows with fresh fruits and vegetables, or go for a stroll in the central park. Come during April to enjoy this cattle auction; it is among the largest of this type in Costa Rica. Festivities include a small carnival and horse parades. Browse arts and crafts at the Mercado de Artesania, located on the northwest corner of central park.  It is less touristy than most Costa Rican craft centers, and there are some great bargains to be had if you take the time to find them. Soak travel-weary muscles in one of many naturally-heated thermal pools in this small eco-lodge and reserve. Termales del Bosque offers day passes to its popular hot springs and has  well-appointed cabins, a restaurant and a day spa. Located on the road to Aguas Zarcas, about 5 miles outside of town. 

Day Trips:

La Marina Zoological Park at Aguas Zarcas: This private, nonprofit zoo takes in orphaned animals. It proudly displays a variety of rescued animals, including tapirs, jaguars, peccaries, badgers, monkeys, and many species of birds. 

Arenal: There is always something to do in the booming adventure town of La Fortuna.  This area surrounding Arenal Volcano is lush and green, providing some of the best wildlife viewing in Costa Rica.  On clear evenings, Arenal is the only place in the country for experiencing late night lava explosions from a safe distance. 

Getting There:

By Car: Follow the Inter-American Highway west to the Naranjo exit; continue 18.6 miles north past Zarcero to Ciudad Quesada. 

By Bus: Buses depart San Jose hourly for Ciudad Quesada (Autotransportes San Carlos) from 5 a.m. until 6 p.m from the Terminal Atlantico Norte. Buses depart La Fortuna for Ciudad Quesada at: 6 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 1 p.m., 3:30 p.m., 5:15 p.m. and 6 p.m. from the central bus station. 

Ciudad Quesada Snapshot

Summary: Agricultural town near Arenal; excellent place to purchase handcrafted leather goods and saddles.
Landscape: Cloud Forest, Mountains
Attractions: Craft & Artisan Markets, Hot Springs, Termales del Bosque Hot Springs
Activities: Shopping
Caters to: Budget Travelers, Independent Travelers