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Las Juntas Gold Rush
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The Las Juntas Gold Rush in Abangares during the late 19th century was an era of rapid growth and industrial transformation in Costa Rica. Triggered by the discovery of gold veins by Juan Alvarado in 1884, the sleepy area quickly transformed into a bustling mining hub. Thousands of workers from around the world flocked to the region, leading to the establishment of numerous mines such as 'La Sierra' and 'Boston.' American entrepreneur Minor Keith, famous for building the national railroad, invested heavily in the region, bringing modern machinery and technology. During this time, over 400 kilometers of tunnels were excavated into the mountains, and the country's first hydroelectric plant was built to power the mining operations. The gold rush ended around 1930, but it left behind a rich cultural legacy and unique architecture. Today, the region hosts the Ecomuseum of the Great Gold Mine, documenting the history of the miners and the technological developments of that era.
- Location: Costa Rica
- Nearby: Tortuga Island (9 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 24 | 25 | 26 | 27 | 27 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 24 | 24 | 24 |
| Rain mm | 13 | 9 | 10 | 40 | 187 | 177 | 131 | 176 | 252 | 289 | 132 | 28 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The former Las Juntas gold rush area is now made accessible through an ecomuseum that includes both indoor and outdoor areas. The museum is open to visitors and tells the story of the gold miners.
Typical hours
The ecomuseum is typically open Tuesday through Sunday, often from morning until early evening. It's best to ask for exact times on site.
Photography
Photography is allowed in the museum and outdoor grounds, but without flash in exhibition rooms. The old mining structures offer impressive subjects for industrial photography.
Time needed
Allow about one to two hours for the museum visit and a walk around the outdoor grounds. Those using the area's hiking trails will need more time.
Combine with
Las Juntas is in the Abangares region, which is also known for its hot springs. A visit to the nearby Pacific beaches is also possible.
Getting there
The site is reachable by car via the Interamericana Highway, from which a road leads to Las Juntas. Public buses connect the town with larger cities.
Insider tip
Bring sturdy shoes if you plan to explore the outdoor grounds and old mine tunnels. A hat and sun protection are advisable due to strong sun.
Geography
Facts
- Juan Alvarado discovered the first gold in Abangares in 1884.
- Over 400 km of tunnels were excavated during the gold rush.
- The first hydroelectric plant in Costa Rica was built here for the mines.
- Minor Keith was one of the primary investors in the region.
- Miners from over 20 nations worked in the Las Juntas area.
- The Ecomuseum of Abangares Mines displays original machinery.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What was the Las Juntas gold rush?
An era of intense mining in the late 19th century that attracted adventurers from all over the world.
Is there still mining in Las Juntas today?
Small-scale mining and gold panning still exist, but large-scale industrial mining is over.
Can you visit a mining museum?
Yes, the Ecomuseum of the Abangares Mines shows the history and technology of mining.
Are the old mines open to tourists?
Some tunnels can be visited as part of guided tours at the ecomuseum.
How to get to Las Juntas?
It is located in Guanacaste province and is easily accessible via Highway 18.
Las Juntas Gold Rush: where is it located?
Las Juntas Gold Rush is located in Costa Rica.
Las Juntas Gold Rush: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Las Juntas Gold Rush: why is it worth visiting?
The Las Juntas Gold Rush in Abangares during the late 19th century was an era of rapid growth and industrial transformation in Costa Rica.
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