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Lankaster Botanical Gardens should be high on any gardener's list of things to do in Costa Rica

Lankaster Botanical Gardens

Lankaster Botanical Gardens

Good to Know

Lankaster Botanical Gardens, operated by the University of Costa Rica near Cartago, spans over 26 acres in Costa Rica's Central Valley. Renowned for its breathtaking array of plant species, it boasts hundreds of orchid varieties, alongside bromeliads, palms, and heliconias. Visitors can enjoy a constant 70-degree climate, perfect for observing vibrant flora and hummingbirds.


The beautiful Lankester Botanical Gardens is operated by the University of Costa Rica. The garden is located near Cartago and spreads out to over 26 acres. The array of the various plant species is breathtaking. One of the most difficult plants to sight in the wild is the orchid, but fortunately for the visitors of Lankester Botanical Gardens, orchids are the most sighted within the garden. Hundreds of different species are presented and express vibrant colors while filling the air with marvelous smells.

Lankester Botanical Gardens was privately owned in 1917 by a British man named Charles H. Lankester. His fascination with orchids showed as the garden was made up of many different orchid species. After his death the American Orchid Society and the Stanley Smith Horticultural Trust donated the garden to the University of Costa Rica.

As the garden sits in the Central Valley visitors can expect a constant temperature of 70 degrees, perfect weather for orchids. Aside from orchids there are many other plant species that reside in the garden such as bromeliads, palms, bamboos, and heliconias. Hummingbirds are attracted to this area and can be easily observed going from flower to flower.

Lankester Botanical Gardens hours of operation are from 9:00 am till 3:30 pm. Visitors can expect to pay a small entrance fee.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Lankaster Botanical Gardens a notable destination?

Lankaster Botanical Gardens is renowned for its extensive collection of orchids and diverse tropical flora, including bromeliads, palms, and heliconias, spread across 26 acres.


What are the operating hours and entrance fee for Lankaster Botanical Gardens?

The gardens are open daily from 9:00 am to 3:30 pm, and visitors can expect to pay a small entrance fee.


Who founded Lankaster Botanical Gardens and who operates it now?

The gardens were privately founded in 1917 by Charles H. Lankester and are now operated by the University of Costa Rica, following a donation from the American Orchid Society and Stanley Smith Horticultural Trust.


What kind of climate can visitors expect at Lankaster Botanical Gardens?

Situated in the Central Valley, Lankaster Botanical Gardens enjoys a constant temperature of 70 degrees, providing an ideal climate for its diverse plant species, especially orchids.