Lankester Botanical Garden: Orchid Sanctuary in Cartago

The Lankester Botanical Gardens is one of the most important orchid research facilities in Latin America with nearly a thousand different types of orchids in their facilities for display and research. As the gardens are open to the public, visitors can take guided tours to see the incredible collections of orchids, trees and flowers throughout their 11 hectares (27 acre) property.

If you love flowers and orchids in particular, these gardens are a must visit. It’s right outside Cartago, making it a great half day trip from San Jose or Cartago.

Map

Lankester Botanical Garden map

The Lankester Botanical Garden is in Cartago, 32 kilometers (20 miles) from San Jose.

Facts and History about the Gardens

Back in 1910, Englishman Charles Lankester moved to Costa Rica and began his collection of orchids. In 1924, he purchased a large property (formerly a coffee farm) and began planting orchids and other flowers. When he passed away, his daughter, who inherited the property, sold it to the…