Turrialba

A laid-back river town that serves as Costa Rica's whitewater rafting capital on the Pacuare and Reventazón rivers. It's also famed for its artisan cheese and as a gateway to nearby volcanoes and coffee farms.

Things to do

• Raft the Pacuare River — Tackle the world-class Class III-IV rapids that carve through pristine rainforest gorges just outside town.
• Raft the Reventazón River — Paddle this classic whitewater run known for reliable rapids and dramatic canyon scenery close to Turrialba.
• Explore Guayabo National Monument — Wander Costa Rica's most important pre-Columbian archaeological site with ancient stone causeways and aqueducts.
• Hike Turrialba Volcano National Park — Visit the smoldering active volcano north of town for craters, fumaroles and sweeping highland views.
• Tour a coffee farm — Visit surrounding fincas to see how highland Arabica beans are grown, harvested and roasted.
• Visit a Turrialba cheese dairy — Head to nearby Santa Cruz to taste the fresh, semi-soft Queso Turrialba that made the region famous.
• Stroll the central park and market — Relax in the town's laid-back plaza and browse the local farmers market for regional produce.

Food to try

• Queso Turrialba — The region's signature fresh white cheese, protected by denomination of origin and eaten in everything from tortillas to fried snacks.
• Tortillas de queso — Thick corn tortillas stuffed and griddled with local Turrialba cheese, a beloved regional breakfast.
• Casado — The classic Costa Rican plate of rice, beans, plantains, salad and a meat, served at any local soda.
• Gallo pinto — The national breakfast of stir-fried rice and black beans, often paired with sour cream and fresh cheese.
• Agua dulce — A warm sugarcane drink from the surrounding cane fields, perfect on cool highland mornings.

Local customs & good to know

• Book rafting with certified operators — Reputable outfitters provide guides, gear and transport, and river conditions vary greatly by season and rainfall.
• Bring layers for the highlands — Turrialba sits at cool elevation and the volcano is much colder, so pack warm and waterproof clothing.
• Support local cheese and coffee producers — Buying directly from small dairies and fincas keeps the town's traditional livelihoods alive.
• Embrace the pura vida pace — This is a relaxed river town, so expect unhurried service and friendly, easygoing locals.

Nearby

• Guayabo National Monument — 8 km
• Turrialba Volcano — 16 km
• Ujarrás Ruins — 18 km
• Irazú Volcano National Park — 20 km