Guanacaste, Costa Rica
History
The province of Guanacaste is the newest and second-largest province of Costa Rica. Originally independent under Spain, and later part of Nicaragua, it was given to Costa Rica in 1812 so that Costa Rica would have sufficient population to be represented in a colonial Spanish government which was administered from Guatemala. Although there was a movement to give it back to Nicaragua after independence, a divided vote among the population decided that Guanacaste would stay with Costa Rica.
Tourism and Cattle Ranches
Tiger Cat or Tiger Ocelot, vast parts of Guanacaste are invested in cattle and horse operations, but it also contains Costa Rica’s finest white sand beaches.
In addition, substantial terrain is reserved in wildlife refuges and national parks. The capital of Guanacaste is Liberia, about 125 miles (203 kilometers) northwest of San José.
It now boasts its own fully qualified international airport with some scheduled and more chartered airlines, bringing tourists, especially those in search of the beaches, hotels, and casinos of the northwest coast.
Topography
Guanacaste has an area of 3,915 square miles (10,140 sq. km.) and is mostly West-Texas-style plains with an elevation between sea level and 1000 feet (300 m.) However, on its eastern border, it rises rapidly to the Volcano Rincón de la Vieja at 6,286 feet (1916 m.) The population is very low, about 250,000 for the whole province. The province of Guanacaste retains it’s the unabashed natural beauty and unique culture and folklore as we go into the 21st century.
Guanacaste Costa Rica is a province for the active soul. Guanacaste has been called Wild West of Costa Rica. The name Guanacaste was derived from a native word, quahnacaztlan that means place close to the ear trees. To the west of Guanacaste is comprise of a gigantic alluvial plain of seasonally dry gentle hills broadening to the north and is controlled by the ranches of giant cattle mixed along with the littler pockets of cultivation.
The coast of the region is indented with peninsulas, bays, and warm wonderful beaches that are referred to as the most pretty beaches in the entire country.
The area draws its travelers with its surprising snorkeling, wonderful surfing, and excellent lake windsurfing. It is easy to understand why so many visitors like Guanacaste Holiday; it is actually because there are so very many things worth doing in the extraordinary province.
Guanacaste Vacation goes back when the tropical environment provided a home to several native groups. Guanacaste is an area of tropical forests, unending beaches, gigantic pasturelands, and a rich of cultural and archaeological history.
The economic activity of almost all of the tribes was agriculture and corn was their main crop. Thanks to the dry season, fireworks great as a land clearing tool and almost all of the original forests have for a while been removed for agricultural activities like cattle ranching.
Costa Rica
Guanacaste Costa Rica
The source of fire would be lightning. Some people in Guanacaste use fire to scrub the pasture. The residents of Guanacaste burn the pastures so as to clear out early forest successful expansion and then attract new pasture grass to sprout to feed the hungry cattle. Human beings are the cause of fires in the dry season in Area de Conservation Guanacaste and its surrounding agro scape.
Grass invasion following a fire creates more fuel to the following fire. The aim of the fire program of ACG is to get rid of all fires so that the forest will occupy the old fields and pastures so as to revive the dry forest. Fires have been eliminated thru 24-hour observation for fires from lookout stations during fire season having tools and autos to kill a newly set fire.
Approximately 70,000 hectares of ancient pastures and fields are now covered with regenerating dry forest with all animal populations all recovering from the fire. Fire plays a very important role in maintaining the savanna landscape. Additionally, fires have been chosen for fire resistance in the savanna flora.
Meanwhile, fire played a part in the ecological layout of the tropical savanna. Folk began to purposely set the fire to the savanna which helped in the maintenance and spreading of the savanna. Burning pastures cut into the forest and allows the pasture grasses to move farther into the forest.
After the fire burns, the pasture and forest foliage to the ground, the African grass then takes over and cattle are permitted to graze it. Among the keys to the rebirth of the jungles and forests of Guanacaste had been the performed fire fighting. The main weapons were early detection and counterattack.
Geography of the province Guanacaste
A good portion of this province consists of parks and reserves, which are situated in diverse regions of the province for the protection of resources and wildlife. Guanacaste is a province of Costa Rica that has complex geography.
It is positioned in the more northwest corner of the country, bordering Nicaragua to the Northernmost part of the province and to the West the Pacific Ocean and To the south Guanacaste is border by the province of Puntarenas and to the eastern end, it is bordered by the province of Limon. Book Guanacaste Shuttles Here
The province is confined to the more eastern side by a cluster of green-swathed volcanoes forming the Cordillera de Guanacaste which is the Guanacaste mountain range. The Guanacaste mountain range is found in the more northern Costa Rica near the border that divides Costa Rica with Nicaragua.
The Guanacaste mountain range forms part of the southernmost region of the Continental Divide, the highest peak being of the Guanacaste mountain range is the extinct stratovolcano Miravalles at 2,028 m.
Other Peaks include:
- Tenorio Volcano which peaks at 1,913 m
- Miravalles Volcano which peaks at 2,028 m
- Orosí Volcano which peaks at 1,659 m
- Rincón de la Vieja Volcano which peaks at 1,916 m
The Cordillera de Tilaran Mountain Range is part of the Continental Divide east of Lake Arenal and the nearby active volcano Arenal. The Cordillera de Tilaran mountain range is found in the Abangares district which is in the province of Guanacaste. At the end of the Tilaran mountain range is the Monteverde cloud forest preserve, a major ecotourism destination in Costa Rica.
Rio Tempisque is a river which empties through swampy wetlands into the west of Golfo de Nicoya which is the golf of Nicoya. The Rio Tempisque defines one side of the horsehead-shaped Peninsula de Nicoya which is Spanish for the Nicoya peninsula.
The Río Tempisque or Tempisque River is about 144 km long, located completely in Costa Rica flowing down from the Guanacaste Cordillera mountain range close to the Orosí Volcano. It passes through the Palo Verde National Park which is a significant habitat for various species of crocodiles, monkeys, and iguanas.
The Guanacaste’s climate and culture are both very unique among Costa Rica’s seven provinces. This province sees very little rain and constant heat from about November to April, resulting in abundant tropical dry forests as a natural adjustment to the dry season conditions. Travelers seek out this heat during the North American winter to enjoy the Guanacaste’s pristine white sandy beaches.
But From about May to October, the Guanacaste climate is similar to the climate of San José, consisting of rain daily and modest temperatures. Guanacaste is considerably warmer than usual even to other provinces located in about the same high elevation.
The province of Guanacaste is divided into eleven cantons. The cantons are:
1. Liberia
2. Nicoya
3. Santa Cruz
4. Bagaces
5. Carrillo
6. Cañas
7. Abangares
8. Tilarán
9. Nandayure
10. La Cruz
11. Hojancha
The western portion where most of the beaches are located in the province is an additional attraction for tourists. Numerous resort and towns have been created by the tourism inflow in the area with more popular places like including Coco and Tamarindo.
To the southwest of the Guanacaste is the Nicoya Peninsula. The most northern half of this peninsula is found in Guanacaste, while the more southern portion can be found in the province of Puntarenas. The Nicoya peninsula is very mountainous and is sparsely populated than that other parts of this province.
the mountainous area of this province is largely diverse when it comes to wildlife and you can also see many features of volcanos like steam vents and craters. Two of the more popular parks where these features are prevalent Volcan Tenorio and Rincón de La Vieja. the Volcan Tenorio area is very common with hikers because at the end of the trails you can find hot springs which are very beautiful. you can also see amazing waterfalls and take a dip in the natural hot springs at the end of the trail.
Many hot springs resorts are found near Guayabo and La Fortuna, and this is there for those who don’t want to take long hikes. The area, between the towns of La Fortuna and Guayabo, is a site that is now used for electrical power generation by ICE which is the country’s energy monopoly, Las Hornillas being the name of the ICE geothermal site and also there is a hot spring in that area which is situated in a steam crater. From this site, you can take a tour of the mountain by horse or a tractor. There is also a hiking trail to a waterfall through an old forest stand.
Cantons of Guanacaste
Liberia is known as the first canton in the province of Guanacaste. This canton covers an area of about 1,436.4 km², has a population of approximately 50,350 and an estimated population density of 35.05/km². the canton of Liberia is divided into 5 districts and Its capital city is also called Liberia. The canton of Liberia was established by a decree dated November 4, 1862. The canton is the host to the most visited part of Santa Rosa National Park on its northwestern border.
Nicoya is known as the second canton in the province of Guanacaste. This canton covers an area of about 1,333.6 km², has a population of approximately 44,830 and an estimated population density of 33.62/km². the canton of Nicoya is divided into 7 districts and the capital city is called Nicoya. The canton of Nicoya was established by a decree dated December 7. 1848. The Río Tempisque establishes the northeast boundary of the canton.
Santa Cruz is known as the third canton in the province of Guanacaste. This canton covers an area of about 1,312.2 km², has a population of approximately 43,330 and an estimated population density of 33.02/km². the canton of Santa Cruz is into 9 districts and the capital city is called Santa Cruz. The canton of Nicoya was established by a decree dated December 7, 1848. This heart-shaped canton is not so shaped alone but the people there are friendly and forth welcoming and will help you to find the best beaches which are located not too far from this canton as well as hotels etc.
Bagaces is known as the fourth canton in the province of Guanacaste. This canton covers an area of about 1,273.4 km², has a population of approximately 17,085 and an estimated population density of 13.42/km². the canton of Bagaces is divided into 4 districts and the capital city is called Bagaces. The canton of Bagaces was established by a decree dated December 7, 1848.
Carrillo is known as the fifth canton in the province of Guanacaste. This canton covers an area of about 577.5 km², has a population of approximately 29,290 and an estimated population density of 50.72/km². the canton of Carrillo is divided into 4 districts and the capital city is called Nicoya. The canton of Carrillo was established by a decree dated mid-June 1877.
Cañas is known as the sixth canton in the province of Guanacaste. This canton covers an area of about 682.2 km², has a population of approximately 25,890 and an estimated population density of 37.95/km². the canton of Cañas is divided into 5 districts and the capital city is called Cañas. The canton of Cañas was established by a decree dated mid-July 1878.
Abangares is known as the seventh canton in the province of Guanacaste. This canton covers an area of about 675.7 km², has a population of approximately 17,290 and an estimated population density of 25.59/km². the canton of Abangares is divided into 4 districts and the capital city is called Las Juntas. The canton of Nicoya was established by a decree dated early June 1915.
Tilarán is known as the eighth canton in the province of Guanacaste. This canton covers an area of about 638.3 km², has a population of approximately 19,040 and an estimated population density of 29.83/km². the canton of Tilarán is divided into 7 districts and the capital city is called Tilarán. The canton of Tilarán was established by a decree dated late August 1923.
Nandayure is known as the ninth canton in the province of Guanacaste. This canton covers an area of about 565.6 km², has a population of approximately 10,560 and an estimated population density of 18.67/km². the canton of Nandayure is divided into 6 districts and the capital city is called Carmona. The canton of Nandayure was established by a decree dated early October 1961.
La Cruz is known as the tenth canton in the province of Guanacaste. This canton covers an area of about 1,383.9 km², has a population of approximately 18,000 and an estimated population density of 13.01/km². the canton of La Cruz is divided into 4 districts and the capital city is called La Cruz. The canton of La Cruz was established by a decree dated 18th of October 1915.
Hojancha is known as the eleventh canton in the province of Guanacaste. This canton covers an area of about 261.4 km², has a population of approximately 6,962 and an estimated population density of 26.63/km² the canton of Hojancha is divided into 4 districts and the capital city is called Hojancha. The canton of Hojancha was established by a decree dated early November 1971
Culture and people of Guanacaste
The People of Guanacaste take enormous national pride in their different cultures and great standard of living and education.
To get a close and personal expression at Guanacaste’s culture, just take a stroll through the marketplace or the central park in any town or city, where you will find a majority of locals up and about their business and daily lives.
If you want to learn Spanish there is Intensive Language Schools for learning Spanish provides may provide you with an ideal and different way of understanding the delightful people of Costa Rica better.
Being able to communicate in Spanish may also help in understanding the culture of Guanacaste better but it is ok if you don’t speak Spanish because a large percentage of the population speaks English. The Best music and the most illustrative folklores come from the most northern part of the country which had a heavy Mayan influence including the Nicoya Peninsula. Costa Rican music comprises a rhythm known as tambito as well as a unique musical category known as punto, an example of this is the punto guanacasteco, which comes from the Province of Guanacaste.
Tamarindo which is a tourist hub for the province of Guanacaste has a small number of places where one can learn to speak Spanish if you are interested and you can also find language schools in Nicoya and Playa Flamingo, these schools are set among immaculate locations that let you enjoy yourself as you learn the local language.
An Amerindian tribe called the Chorotegas traveled south from Mexico through Nicaragua to Guanacaste sometime around 900 AD. They inhabited places along the Pacific Coast from Salinas Bay to the Nicoya Gulf. Some archaeological discoveries demonstrated that a different kind people lived in the area now forming the Rincon de la Vieja National Park from just around 10,000 BC.
Most of the inhabitants of Guanacaste descended from a mix of Chorotega natives and Spaniards just the same as in Nicaragua and in other places in Costa Rica. Usted is the word that locals in Guanacaste used upon the initial meeting of most adults and the word vos is used mostly when an adult addresses children, especially when parents address their own children, and sometimes seldom between adults who are family members or really good friends.
The Chorotega culture and the Spanish culture have positively integrated especially among the main cultural elements such as their music, literature/folklore, musical instruments, and religious events. The people of Guanacaste are very polite and easy-going. The team Pura Vida is not just an empty term for greeting but it reflects the local lifestyle. Pura Vida which literally translate to a pure life and Costa Ricans use this phrase as a way of life not only as words. The locals often live by the term Pura Vida by way of living life to the fullest and loving life even if they feel like they want to just relax and live life quality or party and have fun in the sun locals can have life there a way using the resources of their unmatched country.
Guanacaste Day is celebrated on July 25th and includes the following cultural principles of Costa Rica like the love of dance and music, gender roles and the peace-loving attitude Costa Rican and all of this is displayed by the physical features of the celebration are used to convey these principles and way of life. The festival of Guanacaste Day which lasts for a week celebrates the independence of Guanacaste from Nicaragua in 1824 with festivals, folk dances, cattle shows, and concerts. The actual activities of this festivity represent the cultural standards and values of Costa and more so Guanacaste.
There is probably no other region in the country that displays its culture as openly as they do in Guanacaste. Most Life revolves around the horse and cattle farms. Sabaneros which are similar to the cowboys in North America is a common sight around these parts.
Some people have even termed Guanacaste as Costa Rica’s Wild West, the reason for this can be seen everywhere in Guanacaste for example, in some small towns, nothing is cheered more than bullfighting, unlike normal bullfighting in which the bull is killed, in Guanacaste the bulls are not killed and topes which is the region’s flamboyant horse parades in which the Locals show off their groomed horses and with fancy footwork.
Pre-Colombian pottery is another tradition that makes this place spectacular. This practice is thousands of years old and was traditionally done by the women of the Chorotega tribe. This practice came about because at that time the Chorotegas needed solutions to their everyday needs in the kitchen such as; storing foods, cooking utensils and feeding their people. Regardless that the process of creating pottery took many days to make from when it is molded until the actual finished piece can be used, the women of the Chorotega tribe were able to plan their time and still take care of their additional obligations in the community.
Sightseeing and activities in Guanacaste
Guanacaste offers a variety of tourist attractions and sightseeing experiences. You can choose to relax on an amazing and beautiful beach or visit volcanoes, national parks and/or nature reserves.
A trip or living in Guanacaste will be relaxing and adventurous littered with a thrilling experience.
This province also offers the country’s most beautiful beaches with amazing scenery.
this province is home to some world-class attractions and with great climate, there is always plenty to take in and be a part of in Guanacaste at almost any time of the year.
Things to See and do in Guanacaste province, Costa Rica.
Beaches
The Conchal Beach – which Is about 1.50 kilometers long and whose sand consists of millions of crushed shells and that is where the beach gets it to name conchas which mean shells.
It’s located about 2 kilometers to the more southern part of Playa Basilito and it is very popular for snorkeling and with snorkel lover because of its clear water.
Flamingo Beach – is a beautiful white sandy beach which is a great place for water sports so if you are a water sports lover you should visit this beach.
Playa Grande – Is literally a surfer paradise so all you surfers don’t miss out on this beach which is located just a few miles north of Tamarindo Park. this beach is also rich in wildlife and nature and is also famous for turtle nesting.
Tamarindo Beach – is located north of the Nicoya Peninsula and offers an excellent opportunity for watersport, especially surfing and also an excellent wildlife environment.
Bird- watching
Here are just a few locations for bird-watching in Guanacaste:
Safaris Corobici, S.A.
Bird- watching Tour Palo Verde
Bill Beard’s Costa Rica
Early Bird- watching Tour
Boating
Here are just a few locations for boating in Guanacaste:
Estuary boat tour
Palo Verde Tours
Sunset Cruise
Canopy tours
Here are just a few locations for canopy tours in Guanacaste:
Tamarindo Canopy Tour
The Congo Trail Canopy Tour
Sky Trek Monteverde
Casinos
Here are just a few locations for Casinos in Guanacaste:
Barceló Playa Langosta Resort & Casino
Barceló Playa Tambor Resort & Casino
Best Western El Sitio Hotel & Casino
Flor de Itabo Hotel and Casino
Hotel Coco Verde & Coco Verde Casino
Hotel Flamingo Jazz Casino
Jazz Casino Tamarindo
Jazz Casino Conchal
Riu Guanacaste Hotel and Casino
Coffee Tours
Here are just a few locations for Coffee tours in Guanacaste:
Flamingo Coffee Tour
Monteverde Coffee Tour
Cultural Activities
The Following are the date for cultural activity in Guanacaste:
sometime in the last weekend in February, the Civic festivals are celebrated in Liberia.
In April Good Friday and Crocodile hunt in Santa Cruz
In July Nicoya Chorotega Tourism Expo-fair
August 01st is the Pilgrimage to Cartago
August 02nd is the Virgin of the Angels day
August 24th is the National Parks Day
September 07th Cultural Week in Liberia known as the White City.
In November Second Sunday, Cowboy and Cooks Day at Hacienda Santa Rosa
December 11th to the 12th is the Feast of the Virgin of Guadalupe
December 24th is the Procession of the Valdelomar Baltodano family’s Baby Jesus to La Ermita de Nuestro Señor de la Agonía.
December 25th Christmas
Cultural Cities
the following are some of the best cultural cities in Guanacaste:
Liberia City
Nicoya City
Nicoya is the major town located on the Nicoya Peninsula and it is called the cultural center or city of the province of Guanacaste.
Golf
Here are just a few locations for Golfing in Guanacaste:
Four Seasons Golf Club
Hacienda Pinilla Golf & Country Club
Garra de León Conchal Golf Course
Los Sueños Golf Course
JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa
Guanacaste Country Club
Royal Pacific Golf & Country Club
Tango Mar Hotel Beach & Golf Resort
Hiking
Here are just a few locations for hiking in Guanacaste:
Rincon de la Vieja National Park
Guanacaste National Park
Santa Rosa National Park
Barra Honda Caverns National Park
Carara National Park
Horseback Riding
Here are just a few locations for horseback riding in Guanacaste:
Rancho Curubande Lodge
Miravalles Volcano and Horseback riding
Costa Rican Trails Horseback riding
Museums
Here are just a few locations for museums in Guanacaste:
Abangares Gold Mines Eco-Museum
Historical Museum Casona de Santa Rosa
Museum of the Sabanero
Cowboy museum
Señor de la Agonia Spanish for Religious Art Museum
Monteverde Bat Jungla
Sea Kayaking
the following beaches are the best for Sea Kayaking:
Hermosa Beach
Tamarindo Beach
Conchal Beach
Carrillo Beach
Samara Beach
Nosara Beach
Spas
Here is just a few locations for spas in Guanacaste:
Fiesta Premier Resort and Spa
Hotel Punta Islita
JW Mariott Guanacaste Resort & Spa
The Sanctuary Resort and Spa
Coco Beauty Spa
Blue Dream Hotel & Spa
Panacea de la Montaña
Paradisus Playa Conchal
Simbiosis Volcanic Mud Springs & Spa
Spacio Spa
Tizate Wellness Spa
View Retreats
Surfing
Tamarindo Surf School Costa Rica to learn to surf
the following is the best beaches for surfing
Flamingo Beach
Playa Grande
Tamarindo Beach
Sport- Fishing
Here are just a few locations for sport-fishing in Guanacaste:
Club Villas Pacifica
Tamarindo Sportfishing
Fishing Blue Deep Water Tour
Tennis
Here are just a few locations for playing tennis in Guanacaste.
Hotel Paradisus Playa Conchal
Flamingo Beach Resort
Ocotal Beach Resort
Guanacaste Country Club
Riu Guanacaste Hotel and Casino
Four Seasons Papagayo
Punta Islita Hotel
Hacienda Pinilla Beach and Golf Resort
Recreo Resort Costa Rica
Hotel Condovac La Costa
15 Love Contemporary Bed & Breakfast
Guanacaste’s Economy
The province of Guanacaste’s economic and cultural heritage is loosely based on beef cattle ranching. The area in Guanacaste is covered by small patches of forest and scattered trees but they are large pastures of coarse grasses type which is favorable to Brahman cattle and other related breeds for grazing. The main source of income of Guanacaste was cattle ranching in the past however Cattle ranching has been declining for several years now in Guanacaste due to an international decline in the demand for beef. Many pastures are being reverted back to dry forest or being transformed to plantations.
Another group of agricultural products of importance to this province is sugar cane and cotton. Since the 1980s, with the formation of large-scale irrigation platforms with water from Lake Arenal after fleeting through numerous power generating stations, now rice has become a more prominent crop.
For about the past 20 years tourism has appeared as the new and increasing activity in the local economy. With beaches like Playas del Coco, Playa Tamarindo, and the sunny season that concurs around the same time as the winter months in the more northern latitudes has seen tourism skyrocketed into a now key economic activity of this province.
Many tourists are also fascinated by the wealth of natural beauty in both flora and fauna. Guanacaste has about seven national parks like Santa Rosa, Guanacaste, and a few other parks and nature reserves.
Before 1960, Guanacaste’s economy mainly relied on the production of sugar, cotton, beef, and cement. Along with other widespread agriculture activity in the area, Guanacaste’s countrymen started developing small units of pulses and coffee production in towns of Santa Cruz, La Cruz, and Tilaran.
Guanacaste started an important transition process – from an agricultural economy to an economy based on services in the late ’90s. Expansions of tourist services were assisted by big corporations, hotel operators and real estate agents who slowly relegated native landowners and countrymen.
The real-estate boom was experienced by a number of Guanacaste counties but the highpoint was between 2007 and 2008, the province’s coast also reached 47% of Costa Rica’s total construction of properties which exceeded the country’s capital city of San Jose.
Popular destinations such as Tamarindo and Coco Beach developed into expensive areas during that time and the land’s square meter could cost up to one $1000. Restaurants, hotels and shopping malls increased and became the key source of income for many locals. Although Guanacaste’s real estate climax found its low point in 2009, which contributed to the growth in the social gap of the province.
Rendering the data provided by the National Statistics and Census Institute, Chorotega region has over 25.000 people living in extreme poverty and is also the poorest in the country. Guanacaste faces the maximum rate of unemployment in the country with 10.1% as a total percentage.
These figures have been developed as a result of the economic crisis suffered worldwide affecting the entire country, mainly the real estate economic activities and tourism. The construction industry collided in Costa Rica in 2009 and Guanacaste was affected the greatest. The lack of investment due to this crisis triggered a negative effect on the province, its inhabitants and their employment. Recovery has been seen over the past few months in both the construction and tourism industries. Nevertheless, according to experts, the recovery is slow and might not reach the previous high levels as it was in 2007.
The development of Guanacaste has brought an important employment source to the province, along with excellent training coupled with good working conditions. This has generated a positive act of economic growth in the area for many.
A recent study based on tourism which took place in Tamarindo had discovered that many workers in the tourism industry lived in Liberia and other towns in Guanacaste and had to travel dozens of kilometers to get to work. Also, many ‘Guanacastecos’ have kept their traditional activities such as taming horses, selling pastries, tortillas, and tamales on the streets and maintaining the big farms.
The gold mining traditions in its oldest form in Costa Rica is housed in the Abangares canton which dates back over a century. The Abangares Mining Company was the first major mining operations which were founded by U.S. railroad and shipping business mastermind and tycoon Minor C. Keith and is located in the Tilarán mountains.
The Tres Hermanos mine is one of the canton’s main up-to-date producers of gold, with silver as a by-product which was operated by El Valiente Ascari S.A. for many years. The operation was later abandoned still owing its workers two months’ worth of earnings after the company filed for bankruptcy in 2001. The mine is now operated by an independent local collective whereby more than 300 families earn insufficient incomes.
The canton of Cantaloupe was one of the main producers of rice and cotton of Costa Rica during the ’80s and the early ’90s. The productions started to deteriorate due to political reasons which caused losses up to a thousand million colones. This canton also provided other products such as watermelon, beans, and honeydew.
Districts of Guanacaste
Liberia is the first district of the canton Liberia, which has an area of about 1,456.6 km2 and an estimated population of 62,990 derived from a 2012 census and a population density of close to 43/km2 and an elevation of 144 meters above sea level and is home to the capital city of the province Guanacaste and this city is also called Liberia.
Cañas Dulces is the second district of the canton Liberia and estimated the population of 3506.
Mayorga is the third district of the canton Liberia.
Nacascolo is the fourth district of the canton Liberia.
Curubande – this is the fifth district of the canton Liberia.
Nicoya is the first district of the canton Nicoya this district has an estimated population of 21,940.
The mansion is the second district of the canton Nicoya.
San Antonio is the third district of the canton Nicoya.
Quebrada Honda is fourth the district of the canton Nicoya.
Samara is the fifth district of the canton Nicoya.
Nosara – is the sixth district of the canton Nicoya.
Belén de Nosarita is the seventh district of the canton Nicoya.
Santa Cruz is the first district of the canton Santa Cruz.
Bolson is the second district of the canton Santa Cruz.
Veintisiete de Abril is the third district of the canton Santa Cruz.
Tempate is the fourth district of the canton Santa Cruz.
Cartagena is the fifth district of the canton Santa Cruz.
Cuajiniquil is the sixth district of the canton Santa Cruz.
Diria is the seventh district of the canton Santa Cruz.
Cabo Velas is the eighth district of the canton Santa Cruz.
Tamarindo – is the ninth district of the canton Santa Cruz, this district has an estimated population of 3,525.
Bagaces is the first district of the canton Bagaces.
Fortuna is the second district of the canton Bagaces.
Mogote is the third district of the canton Bagaces.
Río Naranjo is the fourth district of the canton Bagaces.
Filadelfia is the first district of the canton Carrillo. This district has an area of about 125 km2 and an estimated population of 7,810 derived from a 2007 census and a population density of close to 62.50/ km2. This district sits at an elevation of 17 meters above sea level. This is the main city of Carrilo, was officially named a city on October 18, 1915, and is also known as the archeology city because of the archaeological site which has a vast amount of pieces dating back thousands of years.
Palmira is the second district of the canton Carrillo.
Sardinal is the third district of the canton Carrillo.
Belén is the fourth district of the canton Carrillo.
Cañas is the first district of the canton Cañas.
Palmira is the second district of the canton Cañas.
San Miguel is the third district of the canton Cañas.
Bebedero is the fourth district of the canton Cañas.
Porozal is the fifth district of the canton Cañas.
Juntas is the sixth district of the canton Cañas.
Sierra is the first district of the canton Abangares.
San Juan is the second district of the canton Abangares.
Colorado is the third district of the canton Abangares.
Tilarán is the first district of the canton Tilarán.
Quebrada Grande is the second district of the canton Tilarán.
Tronadora is the third district of the canton Tilarán and has an elevation of 614 meters above sea level.
Santa Rosa is the fourth district of the canton Tilarán.
Líbano is the fifth district of the canton Tilarán.
Tierras Morenas is the sixth district of the canton Tilarán.
Nuevo Arenal is the seventh district of the canton Tilarán and has an estimated population of 2,206. This district is named after Lake Arenal and is also located on the northeastern shore of this artificial lake. The residents of Arenal were moved here after their village was flooded by the creation of the lake.
Carmona is the first district of the canton Nandayure.
Santa Rita is the seventh district of the canton Nandayure.
Zapotal is the eighth district of the canton Nandayure.
San Pablo is the ninth district of the canton Nandayure.
Porvenir is the tenth district of the canton Nandayure.
Bejuco is the eleventh district of the canton Nandayure.
La Cruz is the first district of the canton La Cruz, this district has an estimated population of 9,190.
Santa Cecilia is the second district of the canton La Cruz.
Garita is the third district of the canton La Cruz.
Santa Elena is the fourth district of the canton La Cruz.
Hojancha is the first district of the canton Hojancha.
Monte Romo is the second district of the canton Hojancha.
Puerto Carrillo is the third district of the canton Hojancha, this district has an estimated population 500 off and is home to the
Environment and nightlife of Guanacaste.
the province of Guanacaste is well known to be hot and dry due to its climate but that what makes it so appealing for Visitors far and wide and especially those in a colder climate it is an escape to the tropics of love, life, nature, relaxation, and moreover amazing white sandy beaches. the white sandy beaches in Guanacaste is often tagged as the most beautiful in Costa Rica and they offer vast accommodations for all kind of visitors and even persons who wanna own a home and live in Guanacaste.
the geographical features of the province Guanacaste is quite diverse from sandy beaches to coastal land and even mountainous terrain closer to the border. Also complementing the diverse terrain of this province is the tempisque river which almost bisect Guanacaste north to south and the uneasy peaks and volcanoes of the mountain range that runs for a stretch of about 70 miles from the northwestern side of this province to the southeastern and amounts the mountains are a few national parks and reserves like Parque Nacional Guanacaste and Parque Nacional Volcán Tenorio.
This province is a big hit with tourists looking for the internationally famous beaches and as a result of that many small towns for the past decade or so start developing with new resort projects and hotels and another form of tourism based development.
Tourists can also take surf lessons and enjoy nightlife packed with excitement at the hub of Tamarindo. You can embark on a volcano hike and explore breathtaking waterfalls at Rincon de la Vieja or you can enjoy a day of relaxation and glamorous at Playa Conchal.
For years development have also transformed the small city of Tamarindo into a thriving regional hub well known for its bursting nightlife. Tamarindo also offers a vast range of services to tourists like fishing, diving, snorkeling, and horseback riding.
Playa Grande is an uninspiring seashore with the exception of a vast amount of tide pools are exposed at low tides. However, this is still the best place for surfing along Playa Grande regardless of your skill level. The town has already hosted many international surfing competitions just to show off the quality of surfs available.
Maybe Tamarindo’s appeal is its proximity to the Tamarindo National Wildlife Refuge, which hosts over 1,000 acres of pristine protected forest, including abundant mangroves. Tours of this fascinating reserve of plant and animal life can be organized from Tamarindo, including canoe tours of coastal areas and habitats and Just north is the Parque Nacional Marino Las Baulas, where one can have an opportunity to see the world’s largest reptiles, known as the leatherback turtle when they come ashore to lay eggs.
Tamarindo’s extensive development has seen elements of foreign culture from modern cafés to upscale restaurants turn into the now local culture and the ordinary thing which makes an appealing combination of both worlds where most North Americans and Europeans will enjoy the many elements of their own culture offered along with the local authentic culture in Tamarindo.
One of the best beach party to go to is a party on Coco’s beach with it water maintaining a unique blue-gray tin instead of blue-green, it became popular with both locals as well as tourists and often hosts Coco’s party which grow larger from September to about late December, if you are in Costa Rica for a relaxing trip stay away from this beach but is you are here to party then come over to Coco’s beach and party like never before.
the best Nightlife in Guanacaste can be found in the bars with close proximity to the town centre plaza and also other entertainment venues include casinos, nightclubs and restaurants are everywhere and many restaurants include bars after nightfall. In addition to these activities, Playa del Coco offers a wide range of other activities, like world-class sport fishing, Scuba Diving, relaxing in a boat sailing or just soaking up the sun on the beach.
Coco is the biggest of the Papagayo villages with abundant services and Facilities including shops and supermarkets are available throughout town as well as luxury resorts. The village center looks a little run down compared to luxury found along Guanacaste’s north coastland. Not forgetting that the Coco area does offer its range of luxury resorts with Affordable accommodations which attract a number of locals and budget tourist throughout the year.
when it comes to traveling to Coco from abroad, the Daniel Oduber Quiros Airport in Liberia makes it an almost seamless journey to the area and if you had to drive from San Jose it takes about five hours by car but Buses from either Liberia or San Jose goes daily to the Coco area.
At Marino Las Baulas you may be fortunate enough to experience a once in a lifetime opportunity of seeing mass turtle nesting behavior with Leatherback, Pacific Green, and Hawksbill turtles which all make their nests in this area. During an arribada, which is a large mass of turtles within the range of thousands storm the beach to lay eggs and by laying eggs simultaneously, individual turtles helps their nest will survive predation.
Major Cities of Guanacaste
the largest city in Guanacaste is Liberia and also serves as the regional economic and administrative capital of the province Guanacaste. Home to Costa Ricas second largest international airport also called Liberia, it is the main access point for many incoming tourists from overseas. Liberia continues to make major transformations, just like the villages of the Guanacaste coast. Many tourists come here because of its proximity to Pacific beaches and vast national parks and thereby providing an ideal stopover point for tourists who want to experience every inch of the Guanacaste beautiful region.
Liberia’s international airport.
Liberia’s international airport receives flights from a quite a few major U.S. cities such as Miami, Dallas, and Atlanta also it serves many destinations on Guanacaste coast and on the famed Nicoya Peninsula.
Despite its many international flights and rapid transformation the city of Liberia seems to be a little town at heart, with a population of just over 40,000 and also it is one of Costa Rica’s oldest towns, it is a clearly visible colonial influence in the appearance of many buildings.
The buildings in Liberia is often featured with red tile roofs and whitewashed walls and that is why Liberia is also called the White City. With Broad avenues and sensible city planning are the features that make easy navigation to the town’s attractions. The city of Liberia oldest relic is the church of Iglesia de la Agonia. Its exterior is white and beautifully dressed with Spanish influences, twin pillars, and an arched entrance. the Sabaneros Museum pays homage to the cowboy roots of Guanacaste
Many ranches and farms surround the Liberian area, and the city also plays a vital role in Costa Rican cattle industry because it provides a good market for farmer’s produce, both for local markets and international export. Rodeos are traditional in Guanacaste, and they are one of the most popular sporting events. From all over the province, rodeos draw many locals and Tourists who are hyped up to see brave cowboys hurled by an infuriated bull.
During Guanacaste Day which is held on on July 25th, celebrations take place to mark the province’s independence from neighboring Nicaragua, which occurred on 25 July 1812.
The celebrations also include an annual horse parade, some bullfight, and rural fair and all of which makes for a lively cowboy festival.
Throughout the decades, most of downtown Liberia offers good food, bars, entertainment, nightlife, and accommodations. most Hotels are filled during the dry season, so visitors are mostly advised to make reservations a few weeks in advance.
Tamarindo
As Guanacaste’s most prestigious coastal town, Tamarindo is frequently visited by a large number of foreigners from mostly North America and Europe. With large white-sandy beaches and nearby conservation areas such as National Wildlife Refuge of Tamarindo, Tamarindo is a favorite among most tourists who want to observe the local wildlife and especially beach-goers who seek to enjoy Costa Rica’s surf.
Perhaps one of Tamarindo’s greatest appeal is its proximity to the Tamarindo National Wildlife Refuge, which comprises about 1,000 acres of precious protected forest which is home to many species of fauna and flora. A glimpse of the fascinating plant and animal life can be arranged from Tamarindo.
Tamarindo and many other popular Beaches that lie within a short traveling distance from the city as do a number of interesting national parks like Rincon de La Vieja and Palo Verde.
The long beach of Playa Tamarindo has excellent waves near the mouth of the estuary. Currents can be strong, especially on during falling tides and sometimes the biggest waves can get even as high as 12 feet, although this mostly occurs during November and December.
Playa Grande beach is known for its Leatherback Turtle population which comes ashore to lay its eggs every year. These leatherbacks giants take over the beach from about November to late April, digging their nests which can be up to one meter deep, laying their eggs and covering the pit with sand, and then returning once again to the sea. After about 60 to 90 days, the hatchlings emerge and immediately scamper away to the waters of the sea.
There are some eco-friendly activities which include watching turtles during their nesting season at night, snorkeling, zip-lining, and fishing.
During early December to late April when the water turbidity is low most fishing is done from the shores.
The beaches are mostly clean and with recent efforts by the government and a few local business organizations proving themselves but unfortunately, the area has become somewhat of a boon to developers, which many of them cut corners and not installed proper infrastructure like black water treatment.
The tamarindo Beach in Guanacaste seems to be the most accessible location along the northern Pacific coast with an airstrip and to add to that there are scheduled daily bus service to and from San José, as well as a few surrounding communities. There is also a highway from San José to the beach and the average time from San Jose to Tamarindo is 5.5 hours depending on the traffic situation.
