Audio Guide of Lankester Botanical Garden

Lankester Botanical Garden is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. We always recommend checking the latest opening hours on its official website before your visit. To get there, you can take a taxi or a bus from Cartago to Paraíso, and then a taxi to the entrance. For more details on how to get there and plan your route, visit its contact and access page.

The general admission fee for non-residents is $10 USD. Residents, students, and senior citizens of Costa Rica may be eligible for reduced rates upon presenting identification. To confirm current prices and possible discounts, we suggest checking the rates section on the garden's official website or calling them directly at +506 2511-7949.

To fully enjoy the diversity of orchids and other flora, we recommend planning at least 2 to 3 hours. If you are a photography enthusiast or enjoy a leisurely walk, you may even want to extend your visit to half a day to explore every corner without rushing.

Lankester Botanical Garden was founded in 1973 by Charles Lankester, a British naturalist, and it is essential for the conservation and study of Costa Rican flora, especially orchids. Today, it is managed by the University of Costa Rica and is internationally recognized for its vast collection and research work. You can learn more about its history in its history section.

Although the garden is beautiful year-round, orchid blooms are usually most spectacular between February and April. As for the best time of day, we recommend visiting early in the morning to avoid the hottest hours and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere before more visitors arrive. In addition, the morning light is ideal for photography.

Although some areas of Lankester Botanical Garden have flat, paved paths that make access easier, others may be more uneven or sloped. We recommend contacting the garden administration before your visit at +506 2511-7949 or through their email address to get specific information about the accessibility of the routes that interest you.

Very close to the garden, you can explore the center of Paraíso with its colonial church, or venture a little farther to visit the Ruins of Ujarrás, a historic site of one of Costa Rica’s earliest churches. You can also visit the Orosi viewpoint and the Orosi Valley, which offer stunning scenery and the chance to see coffee plantations. There is plenty to discover in the Cartago area!

We recommend bringing insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes. Don’t forget your camera to capture the beauty of the orchids and the lush surroundings. Consider hiring a local guide if you want to deepen your knowledge of the flora, and keep in mind that the garden has a small café and gift shop where you can have a snack and buy souvenirs.