Audio Guide of Celeste Gardens of Sarchi

Celeste Gardens is open Monday to Sunday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. To get there, take the main road to Sarchi from Alajuela and follow the signs; it is about 5 km from downtown Sarchi, with free parking available. You can check updates on their official website or call +506 2454-3640.

General admission costs around 8,000 colones (approx. USD 15) for adults, 5,000 colones for children, and is free for children under 5. Discounts are available for large groups or local residents; check the official website for current promotions.

It is recommended to allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours to walk through the gardens and enjoy the guided explanations. If you are a plant enthusiast, you may want to extend your visit to 3 hours to explore all the trails at a relaxed pace.

The gardens were created in the 1990s by Celeste Méndez, a passionate Costa Rican horticulturist, as an oasis of biodiversity with more than 300 species of exotic plants and native orchids. They represent Sarchi’s rich agricultural heritage, famous for its handicrafts, and promote the conservation of Costa Rica’s tropical flora.

The best time is during the dry season, from December to April, when the flowers are in full bloom and the weather is sunny. Go early in the morning, around 9:00 a.m., to avoid the afternoon heat and enjoy smaller crowds.

The gardens have paved paths in the main areas and wheelchair ramps, but some of the more natural sections have uneven ground. It is recommended to contact them in advance at +506 2454-3640 for special assistance or adapted tours.

Nearby, you can visit the oxcart workshop in Sarchi, famous for its hand-painted crafts, or the interactive zoo Rescate Wildlife Rescue Center (10 km away). You can also explore Poás Volcano, about a 30-minute drive away, for impressive views. More info at Visit Costa Rica.

Bring insect repellent, comfortable shoes, and water, since there are outdoor walks; do not forget sunscreen. Book a guided tour if you want to learn more about the plants, and combine your visit with lunch at a local diner to try typical Costa Rican food.