San Isidro

San Isidro del General is the main town of the General River Valley, San Isidro del General comes under the municipal name of Perez Zeledon, which is rather confusing, as maps only show one name or the other, and some people have wasted hours trying to find their locations! The Pan-American Highway passes right over it, and the panorama is one of the most impressive of the country, however you would need to be very lucky to get a glimpse, as it is more often than not shrouded by menacing clouds.

To reach San Isidro, you have to go through the famous Cerro de la Muerte, or Mountain of Death, quite a name indeed. This is the highest point of Costa Rica, with 3300m and temperatures are surprisingly very cold, with torrential rain, sleet, and no visibility. Many travelers lost their lives while trying to climb this treacherous mountain with its fog and awful weather. If the weather permits it really is an awesome journey as it follows the slopes of the beautiful Talamanca Mountain Chain. It is also a perfect example of a Costa Rican road, complete with potholes and no road markings whatsoever, so, be prepared, if you are driving. If you are on a bus, it is best to admire the view and forget about the practical side of things.

San Isidro is the place to stay when en route to Chirripó National Park, Dominical, Manuel Antonio and on to the Southern Pacific Coast. Continuing on to the southeast will take you to San Vito and finally you may reach the Wilson Botanical Gardens. This is also the road to Panama.

Once you have passed the endless fields of pineapples, bird enthusiasts may get a glimpse of the resplendent Quetzal in the surrounding forests, known for the amazing variety of birds they offer. If you can, visit the Reserva de Aves Neotropicales Los Cusingos between San Isidro de El General and Buenos Aires where bird watching is said to be unmatched. Close by, pass Buenos Aires, is the notorious and mysterious La Amistad International Park, a haven of biodiversity, international because it is shared by Costa Rica and Panama.

As you get close to San Isidro you will know it, by the pineapples plantations that surround it. Indeed fruits are everywhere in San Isidro, and as you go to the local market, you will not believe your eyes and will probably end up buying more than you can eat, or carry! Flowers and plants are also everywhere, the climate being perfect there with the Talamanca slopes surrounding the town. While you are still there, try and visit the ancient town of Piedra del Indio and the Las Quebradas Biological Station. The small town has an ample and varied choice of hotels and places where you can grab a bite to eat. January is the month of the Fiesta Civicas and again, if you happen to be there during that time, you will not regret it. The town is bustling with activity, music is everywhere in the streets. In May there is the celebration of the Patron Saint of Farmers San Isidro, with more music, festivities and colorful parades.