4 recommended tourist attractions in Liberia, the gateway to Northern Costa Rica

Liberia, the capital of Guanacaste Province in northern Costa Rica, is often referred to as the “Switzerland of Central America.” Although the town itself is not very large, it is a major tourist destination thanks to its rich natural surroundings and is especially popular among tourists from Europe and North America. While Costa Rica is considered relatively safe among Central American countries, Liberia stands out as an especially peaceful town, making it a safe and enjoyable place to visit. In this article, we will introduce four recommended tourist attractions in Liberia.

1. Ponderosa Adventure Park

Formerly known as "Africa Safari," this facility was renamed "Ponderosa Adventure Park" and has since transformed into an even more attractive tourist destination. The main concept is “interacting with animals as if you were in Africa.”

Spanning approximately 200 hectares, the park is home to around 230 different animal species. Visitors can ride open-air safari vehicles to get up close and personal with the animals and observe them from a short distance. It’s a place that people of all ages—from young children to adults—can enjoy.

You can also race around on ATVs, glide across the air on a canopy zip line over a waterfall, descend waterfalls by canoe, or swim in the plunge pool. Ponderosa Adventure Park, which stimulates tourists’ sense of adventure, is a must-visit when in Liberia.

2. Hidden Garden Art Gallery

Located about 5 km from the international airport on the Pacific side of Liberia's outskirts, the “Hidden Garden Art Gallery” is one of the largest galleries in Guanacaste and a popular destination for tourists. Locally, it is affectionately known as "HG."

More than 400 works by over 60 artists are on display, including permanent exhibits from resident artists like Carlos Hiller and Susan Adams. Many of the artworks depict Costa Rican culture and nature, making for a captivating viewing experience. You might even find artwork depicting places you’ve visited during your trip.

3. Museo de Guanacaste

The Museo de Guanacaste, once a military facility, has been repurposed into one of Liberia’s major tourist attractions. The museum was established not only to support cultural events and regional activities in Guanacaste but also to protect and promote the region’s cultural and natural heritage as a community.

The northwestern region of Guanacaste, which spreads across northern Liberia, is registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the Guanacaste Conservation Area, home to many tourist spots. The museum regularly hosts local concerts, dance competitions, exhibitions, and more. It also functions as a cultural center for residents, not just tourists. You may also enjoy interactions with the friendly locals of Liberia.

4. Ermita de La Agonía

A hallmark of Guanacaste architecture is the predominance of white in Liberia’s buildings, and the city’s oldest church, “Ermita de La Agonía,” is no exception. The thick white walls are built from stacked adobe bricks, with a handmade clay tile roof. The interior features exposed beams and rafters with no murals, giving it a simple appearance.

Unlike the grand cathedrals found in large Latin American cities, its modest structure might feel refreshingly humble. This church is now protected by the local government as a cultural and historical heritage site. While Latin America boasts many magnificent churches, this unassuming one has a quiet charm of its own.

◎ Summary

Despite being a small city, Liberia has an international airport and serves as the gateway to the popular Guanacaste beach resorts among Western tourists. In northern Liberia lies the Guanacaste Conservation Area, a World Heritage Site, making the region a hub of nature-rich tourism with both sea and mountain attractions. The people are kind, making it a pleasant and safe city to walk around. If you’re planning a trip to the Guanacaste region of Costa Rica, be sure to stop by the charming city of Liberia.

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4 recommended tourist attractions in Liberia, the gateway to Northern Costa Rica