Puerto Limon and SE Coast Travel Guide
Caribbean colonial capital and thriving port
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Located on the Caribbean coast, the Limon region is a perfect combination of beaches and lush rainforests. The capital city of the region, Puerto Limon, is a lively and colourful city, rich in history and tradition. As well as a historical centre with many buildings of architectural interest such as the Black Star Line, the Post and Telegraph Building and the Municipal Palace, the city has a thriving port, due to the abundant import and export traffic which travels through it.
All along the Limon coastline are superb beaches which are the perfect setting for diving, snorkelling and surfing, some of the finest on the country's Caribbean coast.
Christopher Columbus and his crew were the first Europeans to land on Costa Rica in 1502 and anchored just off what is now the capital, Puerto Limon. During later years the Spanish began to settle in Costa Rica but despite attempts they did not manage to cross the mountains between the Central Valley and the Caribbean lowlands to settle in the Limon region. In 1867 this changed with the opening of a new port at Puerto Limon and a railway built to make the port accessible to the rest of the country, thus securing the start of the city’s future as a thriving gateway for export and import.
Areas of this coast line and the forests behind it have become recognised as unique conservation areas. The Gandoca Manzanillo Reserve protects almost 70% of the southern Caribbean coastline including some of the areas most beautiful beaches, coral reefs, lowland tropical forests and several endangered habitats including the only jolillo palm swamp in Costa Rica. The Cahuita National Park is also known for its living coral reefs, abundant marine life and capuchin monkeys.
Attractions in Puerto Limon and SE Coast
The city’s old quarter has all the characteristics of a historical centre including many beautiful buildings and attractions such as the Banco Nacional de Costa Rica, the Pension Costa Rica, Parque Vargas, situated on the waterfront with tall palms and tropical flowers, the Ethnohistorical Museum of Limon, Limon Boulevard and the city’s Central market.
The town and surrounding area of Siquirres has been an important area for banana plantations and later for the cultivation of pineapple. Nowadays the area is the place to go for white water rafting tours on the majestic Pacuare and Reventazon rivers.
Activities in Puerto Limon and SE Coast
As well as spending a few days exploring the city, the regions beaches, such as Playa Bonita situated only 5km north of the city, has large waves ideal for surfing as well as being perfect for sunbathing, walking along the beach, swimming (with caution), wildlife watching, beach volleyball and picnics. The nearby Cariari Wetlands Park boasts a highly scenic location enclosed by tropical greenery; the area has a looping trail that offers extensive views of the ocean, beaches and the Isla de los Pájaros (Bird Island). A variety of birds, iguanas, raccoons, reptiles, sloths and other wildlife may be seen within its 20 hectares.
Relaxing
The beaches and National Parks are a great place to relax, enjoy the sunshine or see wildlife. Alternatively if you are in the city during the week of October 12th, you can enjoy Columbus Day festival. This carnival involves the entire community of Limon and comprises floats, bands, costumed groups, Caribbean food and drink, fireworks, handicrafts and carnival souvenirs for sale.
Getting Around
Once in the city there are plenty of taxis available to take you around. Alternatively the bus services around Limon are a cheap, easy and comfortable way to see the area. Buses leave regularly from Puerto Limon to Cahuita, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, Bribri, Sixaola and Manzanillo.
Puerto Limon and SE Coast Reviews
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