Plizio Visual Lab
House of the Dreamer
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Historical site
The Casa del Soñador (House of the Dreamer) in Cachi is a unique architectural and artistic landmark located within the Orosi Valley. The house was constructed in the 1970s by the renowned Costa Rican sculptor Macedonio Quesada (1933-2003), using exclusively the roots and trunks of coffee bushes. This unconventional choice of material reflects the region's deep connection to coffee cultivation and gives the building an organic, almost fairytale aesthetic. Inside, the house contains numerous wood carvings depicting biblical scenes, rural life, and mythological figures. Following the artist's death, his sons took over the legacy and continue to operate the house as a gallery and folk art workshop. Geographically, the house is situated near the Cachi Reservoir, surrounded by lush tropical vegetation and sprawling coffee plantations. It is not merely a private residence but a significant cultural center demonstrating how local agricultural waste can be transformed into high-level art. Casa del Soñador attracts visitors eager to discover Costa Rica's creative spirit off the beaten path.
- Location: Costa Rica
- Top sights: San Antonio District, Desamparados · Jorge Hernán "Cuty" Monge Stadium · San Francisco de Dos Ríos
- Nearby: Aserrí (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
House of the Dreamer is the former home and studio of Costa Rican sculptor Macedonio Quesada, now a museum. Visitors can admire his whimsical wood carvings inside.
Typical hours
The museum is usually open on certain weekdays, often from morning to afternoon. It is recommended to check the hours before visiting by phone or online.
Photography
Photography of the wood carvings is usually allowed, but without flash to preserve the wood. Ask on-site if there are special rules for certain exhibits.
Time needed
A visit typically lasts 30 to 60 minutes to appreciate the unique sculptures. Art lovers should allow more time to examine details.
Combine with
Combine your visit with other cultural attractions in the area, such as the National Theatre or the Gold Museum. The city of Costa Rica also has beautiful parks.
Getting there
House of the Dreamer is located in the city of Costa Rica, likely in the center, and reachable on foot or by local buses. Taxis are a convenient option for getting there.
Insider tip
Ask the museum attendants about the backstories of the carvings, as they often know quirky anecdotes. Small donations are welcome for the upkeep of the house.
Geography
Facts
- Built by Macedonio Quesada
- Made entirely from coffee roots
- Located in Cachi, Orosi Valley
- Construction began in the 1970s
- Houses a wood carving gallery
- Cultural center for local folk art
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.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town House of the Dreamer (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Who built the House of the Dreamer?
It was built by artist Macedonio Quesada using coffee wood and roots.
Where is the house located?
In Cachí, within the Orosi Valley, Cartago province.
Can you buy artwork there?
Yes, the house serves as a gallery for the Quesada family's wood carvings.
Is there an entrance fee?
Entry is usually free, but donations or purchases are welcomed.
What are the opening hours?
Generally open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
House of the Dreamer: where is it located?
House of the Dreamer is located in Costa Rica.
House of the Dreamer: what is there to see?
Highlights include San Antonio District, Desamparados, Jorge Hernán "Cuty" Monge Stadium, San Francisco de Dos Ríos.
House of the Dreamer: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Apr.
House of the Dreamer: why is it worth visiting?
The Casa del Soñador (House of the Dreamer) in Cachi is a unique architectural and artistic landmark located within the Orosi Valley.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in North America
More places in Costa Rica →
Nearby cities
San Isidro de El General
The largest city in the southern region of Costa Rica, acting as a major commercial and agricultural hub for the Perez Zeledon area.
Curridabat
A prosperous suburb on the eastern side of San Jose, recognized for its educational institutions and vibrant residential character.
San Vicente
Part of the Moravia canton, this area combines traditional suburban living with modern commercial growth.
Purral
A densely populated district within the Goicoechea canton, serving as a significant residential area close to San Jose.
San Miguel
A residential district located in the southern part of San Jose, integrated into the urban fabric of the city.
San Pedro
A bustling urban center serving as home to the University of Costa Rica, creating a vibrant, student-oriented atmosphere.
Ipís
A notable district in Goicoechea, primarily characterized by its residential development and steady local population growth.
San Juan
The heart of the Tibas canton, acting as a busy residential and commercial area north of the capital.
Guadalupe
The main district of Goicoechea, serving as a bustling commercial and administrative hub for the eastern suburbs of San Jose.
Aserrí
Situated on the southern mountains overlooking San Jose, this area offers a cooler climate and traditional cultural experiences.
San Felipe
The core of the Alajuelita canton, a densely settled residential area south of San Jose.
Patarrá
A district in Desamparados, providing essential residential space and local services to the southern metropolitan area.
Calle Blancos
A strategic industrial and commercial district in Goicoechea, positioned close to the major roads connecting the capital to the north and…
Escazú
An affluent suburb of San Jose known for its luxury homes, shopping malls, and high concentration of international services.
San Rafael de Escazú
An upscale residential district within Escazu, known for its high-end housing and modern infrastructure.
History & landmarks
🗺️
Ricardo Saprissa Aymá Stadium
Affectionately known as the 'Monster's Cave,' this is the home stadium of Costa Rica's most successful football club.
Temple of Music
An elegant neoclassical pavilion in Morazán Park, inspired by the Temple of Love at Versailles and used for concerts.
National Center of Culture (CENAC)
The National Cultural Center is a historic complex that formerly served as the National Liquor Factory for over a century.
National Museum of Costa Rica
Housed in the Bellavista Fortress, featuring archeological and historical exhibits.
National Monument of Costa Rica
A bronze sculpture in the National Park depicting the 1856 victory.
Jade Museum
Houses the world's largest collection of American jade.
Plaza de la Cultura
A bustling plaza in central San José, located above the Gold Museum.
National Theatre of Costa Rica
The National Theatre is Costa Rica's most revered architectural jewel, funded by coffee exports in the late 19th century.
More places
National Archives of Costa Rica
The building that houses the most important historical documents of the country.
Atlantic Railway Station
A historic railway station in San José that served as the terminal for the Atlantic railroad connection.
San Vicente de Moravia Church
A beautiful Catholic church in the heart of Moravia, known for its distinct architectural style and local religious importance.
Gallo Pinto Tradition
Gallo Pinto is the quintessential Costa Rican breakfast, a flavorful mixture of seasoned rice and black beans.
La Merced Church
An iconic neo-Gothic church in the heart of San José, known for its distinctive tower and German-made organ.