Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
In 1973, as the site's importance became evident, Guayabo was declared a national
monument, with further protections set forth in 1980. The site occupies 232 hectares, most
of which remains unexcavated. It's a small place, so don't go expecting Mayan pyramids.
Activities
The site currently protects the last remaining premontane forest in the province of Cartago,
and although mammals are limited to squirrels, armadillos and coatis, there are good bird-
watching opportunities here. Particularly noteworthy among the avifauna are the oropen-
dolas, which colonize the monument by building sacklike nests in the trees. Other birds in-
clude toucans and brown jays - the latter are unique among jays in that they have a small,
inflatable sac in their chest, which causes the popping sound that is heard at the beginning
of their loud and raucous calls.
Information
Across the road from the ticket office there's a small information and exhibit center that
provides an overview of what the city may have once looked like. Bilingual interpretive
signs are placed at regular intervals along the well-maintained loop trail that runs through
the ruins and surrounding forest; featured stops include the central mound where the city's
largest dwelling once stood, the remains of an acqueduct and retaining pool, a viewpoint
overlooking the entire site and a two-sided petroglyph depicting a jaguar and a lizard. (The
best archaeological pieces can be found at the Museo Nacional in San José.) Guided tours
are available from
Asociación de Guías U-Suré
( 8534-1063; guided tour for 1-3 people
US$15, for 4-9 people US$30)
, whose office is directly adjacent to the ticket window.
Camping (per person US$2) is permitted; services include flush toilets and running wa-
ter. Average annual rainfall is about 3500mm, making dry season (January to April) the
best time to visit - though it might still rain. Bring insect repellent; it gets mighty buggy.
Getting There & Away
By car, head north out of Turrialba and make a right after the metal bridge. The road is
well signed from there, and all but the last 3km is paved; 4WD is recommended, though
not required, for the final rough section.
Buses from Turrialba (US$0.95, one hour) depart at 6:20am, 11:15am, 3:10pm and
5:30pm Monday through Saturday and at 9am and 3pm on Sunday. Buses return from
