Overview
The garden traces back to 1924, when English-born botanist Charles Lankester, who settled in Costa Rica in 1910, purchased a former coffee farm and began collecting orchids. His daughter later donated the land to the University of Costa Rica, and it grew into today's research and display garden, home to roughly 18,000 orchid specimens across 1,000 species on 10.7 hectares. Blooms peak between February and April, and the grounds include a wheelchair-accessible universal trail. Admission runs around $10 for foreign adults, though prices may change, so checking ahead is recommended.
💰 Tickets
About $10 for foreign adults, roughly CRC 2,500 for residents (subject to change, please verify before visiting).
🎟️ Check ticket prices →Opening Hours
Daily 08:30-16:30.
Travel Tips
Visit between February and April to catch the orchids at peak bloom. A self-guided visit typically takes about an hour.
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🇰🇷 Tips for Korean Travelers
Practical info for Korean travelers heading to San José, Costa Rica from Seoul (ICN).
Korean Passport · Visa
Check visa rules for Costa Rica on the Korean MOFA travel advisory site before flying — visa-free, visa-on-arrival or e-visa rules change often. Keep at least 6 months of passport validity.
Flight from Incheon (ICN)
Compare direct and connecting flights from Incheon (ICN) to San José on Skyscanner or Google Flights. Early-morning departures from Korea are usually the cheapest option.
KRW ↔ Local Currency
Check the live FX widget above for the latest KRW rate. Korean travel cards like Travel Wallet, Hana EZ and Toss FX offer free local ATM withdrawals and competitive rates.
Korean Community · Korean Food
Many cities have an active Korean community in San José with Korean restaurants, mini-marts, and Korean-speaking guides. Search Naver Cafe or KakaoTalk open chats for "San José 한인" before you go.
Attractions near Lankester Botanical Garden
Tap a pin on the map to jump to that attraction.
Things to Do in San José
Poás Volcano National Park Day Trip
A day trip to Poás Volcano (2,708m), about 1.5 hours from San José. View the 1.3km-wide crater and its emerald sulfuric lake during a 20-minute window. On clear days, see both the Caribbean and Pacific. Online booking mandatory.
Central Market Food Tour
Explore the Central Market (since 1880) with a guide, sampling casado, gallo pinto, tropical fruits, and Costa Rican coffee. A deep dive into Costa Rican food culture and market life.
Barrio Escalante Foodie Walk
Stroll through Barrio Escalante, San José's 'Gastronomic Street,' hopping between Costa Rican fusion restaurants, specialty coffee shops, and craft breweries. Start at Franco Café and discover hidden gems in every alley.