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Lankester Botanical Garden
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Landmark
The Lankester Botanical Garden, located near the city of Cartago, is one of the most important botanical research institutions in Central America. It was founded in 1917 by the British naturalist and orchid enthusiast Charles Lankester as a private garden. Lankester dedicated his life to collecting and studying native plants, particularly orchids. After his death, the garden was donated to the University of Costa Rica (UCR) in 1973 to ensure its preservation and scientific use. Today, spanning over 11 hectares, the garden houses a world-renowned collection of more than 3,000 orchid species, as well as cacti, succulents, and bromeliads. A notable feature is the Japanese Garden, a gift from the city of Okayama. The garden serves not only as a conservation site but also as a premier center for the study of epiphytic plants. Visitors can explore the vast diversity of Costa Rican flora along well-maintained paths in a peaceful and scientifically curated environment.
- Location: Costa Rica
- Top sights: Llanos de Santa Lucía · Costa Rica Institute of Technology
- Nearby: Orosi (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb–Apr.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 19 | 19 | 20 | 21 | 21 | 21 | 20 | 21 | 21 | 20 | 20 | 20 |
| Rain mm | 119 | 70 | 76 | 117 | 243 | 239 | 253 | 214 | 231 | 285 | 258 | 162 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Lankester Botanical Garden is open to visitors and you can explore its extensive grounds. Most areas are outdoors, so dressing for the tropical climate is highly recommended.
Typical hours
Orchid gardens typically open daily from morning until late afternoon. It is best to check the official website for the exact seasonal opening hours.
Photography
Photography for personal use is usually allowed throughout the garden. Tripods and professional equipment typically require a permit obtained at the entrance.
Time needed
Plan at least two hours to explore the orchid collections and winding trails. Garden enthusiasts will want to dedicate a full morning to the visit.
Combine with
Nearby, you can combine a visit with the University of Costa Rica campus. The historic city of Cartago, with its churches, also makes a great addition to your itinerary.
Getting there
The garden is located in Cartago, about a 30-minute drive from San José. Public buses run regularly from San José to Cartago, followed by a short taxi ride.
Insider tip
Visit early in the morning to see the orchids at their freshest and avoid the midday heat. Don't forget insect repellent, as the lush vegetation attracts mosquitoes.
Geography
Facts
- Charles Lankester established the private garden in 1917.
- The University of Costa Rica took over the garden in 1973.
- It houses a collection of more than 3,000 orchid species.
- The botanical garden covers an area of approximately 11 hectares.
- The Japanese Garden was a gift from the city of Okayama, Japan.
- It serves as an international reference center for orchid research.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Lankester Botanical Garden (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Lankester Garden famous for?
It is famous for its vast collection of orchids.
When do most orchids bloom?
The peak blooming season is between February and April.
Where is the garden located?
Near Cartago, on the way to Paraíso.
Is there a Japanese garden?
Yes, there is a beautiful and peaceful Japanese garden on the grounds.
How much is the entrance fee?
For foreign tourists, it costs about $10.
Lankester Botanical Garden: where is it located?
Lankester Botanical Garden is located in Costa Rica.
Lankester Botanical Garden: what is there to see?
Highlights include Llanos de Santa Lucía, Costa Rica Institute of Technology.
Lankester Botanical Garden: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Apr.
Lankester Botanical Garden: why is it worth visiting?
The Lankester Botanical Garden, located near the city of Cartago, is one of the most important botanical research institutions in Central America.
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