What to see and do in Sarchi, Costa Rica

Sarchi is a small town located in the province of Alajuela in central Costa Rica.

 It is known for its beautiful and intricate handcrafted products, particularly their brightly painted oxcarts. In fact, Sarchi is often referred to as the "Cradle of Costa Rican Artisans" due to its rich tradition of skilled woodworking and handicrafts.

On 8/21/2016, we visited the town of Sarchi and a shop where the traditional oxcarts are made. The "carretas", which are elaborately painted oxcarts that traditionally carried coffee from the highlands to the port on the Pacific coast. After visiting Sarchi, we passed through the town of Grecia which is famous for its church which is made of steel.

The town is home to a number of family-owned workshops and stores where visitors can purchase locally-made souvenirs, including oxcarts, rocking chairs, and other wooden furniture, as well as pottery and textiles. The central plaza of Sarchi is a popular gathering spot for locals and visitors alike, featuring a colorful church adorned with intricate murals and stained-glass windows.

In addition to its handicrafts, Sarchi is also known for its natural beauty. The surrounding hills and forests are home to a number of scenic trails and lookouts, and there are several waterfalls and hot springs in the area that make for a relaxing day trip.

Overall, Sarchi is a charming and picturesque town that offers a unique glimpse into Costa Rica's rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.

Looking for things to do?  Viator offers numerous tours in the Sarchi area.  Click here for details.  

A mural depicting the town and its oxcarts.

Workshop where traditional oxcarts are made.

The Templo Católico de Sarchí Norte church in Sarchi is next to the Sarchi park.

The church in the town of Grecia is made of steel.