FULL GARDENS .com - Famous Botanical Gardens in Costa Rica

Notable Botanical Gardens in Costa Rica [Back]

Costa Rica's botanical gardens play a pivotal role in preserving plant diversity and offering educational and recreational opportunities for visitors.

Lankester Botanical Garden

Located near Cartago, the Lankester Botanical Garden is renowned for its extensive orchid collection, housing over 3,000 plant species. Established in the 1940s by British naturalist Charles H. Lankester, it became part of the University of Costa Rica in 1973. The garden spans approximately 27 acres and is open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Wilson Botanical Garden

Situated in Las Cruces near San Vito, the Wilson Botanical Garden is one of the world's most famous botanical gardens and tropical birding hotspots. It is home to more than 2,000 plant species, 400 native and migratory birds, 800 butterfly species, and 100 mammal species. The garden measures 30 acres, and the adjacent forest in Las Cruces adds an additional 657 acres to explore.

OSA Interactive Gardens

Located in Puerto Jiménez on the Osa Peninsula, OSA Interactive Gardens offers a unique botanical experience. The garden showcases the diverse plant and animal life of the region and emphasizes conservation education. Activities include night tours, photography workshops, and student group visits.

The Green Ark Botanical Garden

Situated just 30 minutes from San José, The Green Ark Botanical Garden offers a sensory-rich experience. Visitors can explore diverse plant collections, including herbs, trees, and bamboo stands, making it one of the most extensive collections in Central America.

Parque Zoológico y Jardín Botánico Nacional Simón Bolívar

Located in downtown San José, this urban park spans approximately 14 acres and is the oldest botanical garden and zoo in Costa Rica. Established in 1916 as a botanical garden and expanded in 1921 to include a zoo, it houses a variety of native and exotic species.