Rain Forest Travel: San José

Destinations

San José

Nearly one-third of the Costa Rican population lives in the capital city of San Jose and its suburbs. It's position in the center of the country makes it a good home base for your vacation. From here you can make easy day trips in all directions.

THE CITY OF SAN JOSE

	National Theatre (Teatro Nacional). This building, constructed in 1890-97, is a showpiece of beautiful Italian marble, with arched windows, marble columns, and a sparkling Baroque interior.
	Gold Museum (Museo de Oro). This is a three-story building displaying the largest collection of pre-Columbian gold jewelry in Central America.
	Jade Museum (Museo de Jade). This museum houses the world's largest collection of American jade, mostly dating from between 300 BC to 700 AD.
	National Museum (Museo Nacional). This museum, in the former Bellavista Fortress, shows Costa Rican life and culture from pre-Columbian times to the present.

THE CENTRAL VALLEY AROUND SAN JOSE

	Chirripó National Park. About 60 miles southeast of San José. There is no way into this remote park but to hike - and it's a 6 to 10 hour climb from the town of San Gerardo de Rivas. Once you get to the park you continue hiking up to Chirrip¢ Peak - the highest point in Costa Rica.
	General River (Río General). The General River has the country's longest white-water run. The white water begins south of the town of San Isidro, about 60 miles southeast of San José. It's a class III-IV river. Three day rafting/camping expeditions are available on the river.