Journey to Bijagua
As you drive from the hot plains of Guanacaste to Bijagua, you’ll notice the landscape gradually changing. From the dry plains, you begin your ascent toward the magnificent volcanoes, their forests slowly emerging on the horizon. Passing through the village of Río Naranjo, you’ll soon come to a gap in the mountains where orchids often bloom, and just beyond, nestled between Miravalles and Tenorio Volcanoes, lies Bijagua.
A Unique Wildlife Zone
Bijagua is located in a distinctive wildlife zone between Volcano Miravalles and Volcano Tenorio. The warm winds from the Caribbean rise and condense into rain that falls between the two volcanoes, creating a unique microclimate. This area is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including numerous endemic species. Bijagua is also part of the ‘Water and Life’ (Agua y Paz) Biosphere Reserve, as designated by UNESCO. This reserve comprises eight core protected wildlife zones managed by the National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC). It’s a paradise for nature lovers!
The surrounding forest is attracting more visitors to Bijagua, as it lies in the lush tropical biological corridor between Volcano Tenorio and Volcano Miravalles. With easy access to Volcán Tenorio National Park and Río Celeste, the area continues to grow in popularity. As tourism increases, many locals have been motivated to learn English, with Pip offering classes for all ages in the town.
Bijagua: Costa Rican Charm
Bijagua is quintessentially Costa Rican. It’s not unusual to see people using horses for transportation through the town, and you can still purchase a machete at the local hardware store. The town’s economy is largely agricultural, with cattle farming being the main industry. Bijagua is home to a community-run cheese factory that produces cheese from locally sourced milk, distributing it throughout the country. The weekly farmers’ market on Saturdays offers a variety of local produce, including cheese from the factory.
Bijagua hosts several annual fiestas, including a rodeo and a cabalgata (horseback procession) in April. Contact us for the exact dates—these events showcase the best of Costa Rica!
Bijagua Services
Despite its relaxed pace, Bijagua offers all the services you might need. There’s a small clinic, a new doctor in town, and a dentist, so any healthcare needs can be easily addressed. You can shop at one of two large supermarkets or visit the many small tiendas (shops) around town. There are also hardware stores, a bank with an ATM, restaurants, and mechanics. However, it’s the friendly people of Bijagua who will leave the most lasting impression.
In this farming community, everyone relies on each other, united by a deep sense of pride in the town and the incredible forest that surrounds us. Tourism in Bijagua coexists harmoniously with the daily lives of farmers and their families, and we look forward to welcoming you during your stay.
Our Top Picks for Dining
La Choza de Maíz
A great example of authentic Costa Rican cuisine, with food cooked on a wood fire.
Pizzeria El Barrigón
Delicious pizza along with a variety of other menu options.
Soda Eli
Traditional Costa Rican cuisine.
La Choza de Maíz
A great example of authentic Costa Rican cuisine, with food cooked on a wood fire.
Pizzeria El Barrigón
Delicious pizza along with a variety of other menu options.
Soda Eli
Traditional Costa Rican cuisine.
Other Great Options
- La Terraza – A lovely restaurant by a small creek, where you can walk the trail while waiting for your food.
- Hummingbird Café – Latin American and international cuisine. Be sure to call ahead to confirm if they’re open.
- Restaurante y Marisquería Poro – A local restaurant specializing in seafood.
- La Semilla – Offers gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options.
Services and Amenities in Bijagua
Bank (Banco Nacional) with ATM
Two supermarkets
Hardware stores
Bakery
Butcher shop
Clothing stores
Pharmacy
Clinic
Elementary and high schools
Police station
Bank (Banco Nacional) with ATM
Two supermarkets
Hardware stores
Bakery
Butcher shop
Clothing stores
Pharmacy
Clinic
Elementary and high schools
Police station
Useful Links
Casita
El Tucán
Casita
Pura Vida
Casita
El Bosque
Casita
El Sol
Casita
La Luna
Casita
El Volcán