The Central Valley, known as the Valle Central in Spanish, is a geographic region located in the heart of Costa Rica. It is the primary location of the country's capital, San José, and many other important cities.
Locating Costa Rica's Central Valley
According to common understanding, the Central Valley stretches across a significant area of Costa Rica, encompassing key provinces and cities.
- Western Boundary: It begins around the city of San Ramón, located in the province of Alajuela.
- Eastern Boundary: It extends eastward to the city of Paraíso, situated in the province of Cartago.
This fertile valley is surrounded by mountains, which are part of the Central Range. To the north, the landscape is notably marked by several prominent volcanoes.
Key Geographical Features
The Central Valley is defined by its boundaries and the natural features surrounding it:
- Boundaries: San Ramón (West) to Paraíso (East).
- Surrounding Mountains: Central Range.
- Notable Northern Volcanoes:
- Poás Volcano
- Barva Volcano
- Irazú Volcano
- Turrialba Volcano
These features contribute to the valley's unique climate and fertile soil, making it Costa Rica's most populous and economically significant region. Many of Costa Rica's major urban centers, including San José, Alajuela, Cartago, and Heredia, are situated within this valley.
