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Heredia Free Trade Zone
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Industrial site
The Heredia Free Trade Zone, particularly complexes like Global Park and Ultra Park, is the epicenter of high technology and knowledge-based services in Costa Rica. Located in the Heredia Province, this economic area benefits from its immediate proximity to the country's leading technical universities. Since the late 1990s, giants such as Intel, HP, and IBM have established operations here, firmly anchoring Costa Rica in the global value chain for semiconductors and IT services. The zone gives state-of-the-art office buildings, fiber optic connectivity, and redundant energy systems tailored to the needs of international corporations. In addition to software development and technical support, the region is increasingly focusing on Shared Service Centers (SSC) and outsourcing projects. Its economic significance is immense, as these zones generate a major portion of national service exports and provide tens of thousands of well-paid jobs for skilled professionals.
- Location: Costa Rica
- Top sights: Palacio de los Deportes (Heredia) · Eladio Rosabal Cordero Stadium (1949) · Eladio Rosabal Cordero Stadium
- Nearby: Santo Domingo (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
What is this place?
The Heredia Free Trade Zone is an area with fiscal advantages for export-oriented businesses in Costa Rica. It plays a key role in attracting companies and creating jobs in the region.
Visiting
The industrial area is normally not open to the public. From the adjacent roads, however, the various factories and warehouses can be seen.
Where to view it
A good viewpoint is the main road that runs through the zone, from where company buildings and infrastructure are visible. The nearby pedestrian bridge also has an overview.
Local products
The zone mainly produces textiles, electronics, and medical devices for export. These products are not directly available to travelers, but local crafts can be found in nearby shops.
Active season
Production runs throughout the year, with activity increasing in the months before important trade deadlines. The zone operates year-round, with potentially quieter periods during holidays.
Nearby
A visit to the Heredia Free Trade Zone can be combined with exploring the nearby city of Heredia, known for its historic center and central market. Poás Volcano is also not far.
Geography
Facts
- The primary hub of the Costa Rican technology industry.
- Home to the Intel Research and Development Center.
- High concentration of international Shared Service Centers (SSC).
- Proximity to Universidad Nacional (UNA) ensures talent access.
- Provides significant tax incentives for export companies.
- Responsible for a large portion of the country's IT exports.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
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Sights in the town Heredia Free Trade Zone (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is Zona Franca Heredia?
An important economic hub for international companies in the technology and services sectors.
Which companies are located there?
Renowned corporations like Intel have significant research and development centers here.
How does the zone affect the region?
It creates thousands of high-skilled jobs and promotes local infrastructure.
Is the area open to visitors?
It is a private business park; access only for employees or by appointment.
Where exactly in Heredia is this zone located?
Most parks are located in the San Antonio de Belén and San Francisco areas.
Heredia Free Trade Zone: where is it located?
Heredia Free Trade Zone is located in Costa Rica.
Heredia Free Trade Zone: what is there to see?
Highlights include Palacio de los Deportes (Heredia), Eladio Rosabal Cordero Stadium (1949), Eladio Rosabal Cordero Stadium.
Heredia Free Trade Zone: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Apr.
Heredia Free Trade Zone: why is it worth visiting?
The Heredia Free Trade Zone, particularly complexes like Global Park and Ultra Park, is the epicenter of high technology and knowledge-based services in Costa Rica.
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Nearby cities
San Joaquín
A quiet residential town in Heredia, noted for its traditional architecture and its central location in the province.
San Francisco
A growing suburb located in the Heredia province, known for its mix of residential areas and local commerce.
Mercedes
A residential district in Heredia, reflecting the province's transition between urban and rural landscapes.
San Pablo
A fast-growing residential community in Heredia, popular for its proximity to San Jose and its pleasant suburban environment.
Barva
A historic town near the Barva Volcano, known for its well-preserved colonial traditions and beautiful surroundings.
Santo Domingo
A suburban town in Heredia known for its colonial church and being a popular residential choice for professionals working in the city.
Santa Bárbara
A town in the Heredia mountains, known for its coffee cultivation and panoramic views of the Central Valley.
Belén
A key industrial and residential hub in Heredia, featuring modern business parks and easy access to the airport and the capital.
History & landmarks
Finca Rosa Blanca
A renowned boutique hotel and sustainable coffee plantation.
Church of San Rafael de Heredia
The Church of San Rafael de Heredia is an impressive Neogothic structure known for its towering spires and scenic location.
Basilica of Santo Domingo de Heredia
An impressive classicist church in Santo Domingo.
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An industrial park in Barreal de Heredia with a strong production and logistics profile.
Don Pedro Hydroelectric Plant
A hydroelectric power plant in Heredia.
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El Salto de Belén
A historic site with a waterfall that served as a meeting point and washing place during colonial times.