Alajuela founded in 1782 giving rise to such famous historical figures as Juan Santamaría, the national hero who burned the "Mesón de Rivas" in 1856, is the second largest province of Costa Rica located in the north-central part of the country, on the border with Nicaragua to the north, and with the provinces of Heredia, San José, Puntarenas and Guanacaste. Alajuela is composed of 15 cantons (cantons).
The capital city of this province is Alajuela, with Ciudad Quesada being another important city of the province. Ciudad Quesada lies at the foot of the Central Mountain at the southern end of the San Carlos Plain and is about 80 km northwest of the capital of Alajuela.
The region of Alajuela is also known as "The Land of Mangas".

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Alajuela offers a rich historical, and a beautiful natural setting. Its traditional cities, mountains, volcanoes, rivers and forests make the province of Alajuela the perfect place for nature lovers around the world.
Alajuela is filled with many natural treasures, most of them are stored in different national parks, wildlife reserves and other protected areas.
Visitors have the option of visiting the two most active volcanoes of the country: Arenal Volcano in the city of San Carlos and the Poás volcano in the Central Volcanic Range.
Poás Volcano is one of the most splendid volcanoes in Costa Rica known for its beautiful landscape. Around it you will be able to appreciate different habitats, from cloud forest to areas of sparse vegetation, where species have adapted to the gas emissions and the climatic factor characteristic of a volcano.
The Arenal volcano, on the other hand, with its beautiful conical silhouette, is one of the most active in the world. Its charm is enhanced at night when the color of its eruptions and lava rivers can be fully appreciated. Many of the hotels offer a panoramic view of the volcano.
During the last few decades, Alajuela has become a must stop for those who love the natural wealth of Costa Rica.
While many tourists come to Costa Rica for its beaches, the Central Valley also has a lot to offer.
Day trips to visit places like mountains and adventure sports.
Shopping for souvenirs, in Moravia (San José), Sarchí, (Alajuela) or downtown San José.
Lean on local history through several museums.
Enjoy a cultural performance, such as a dance or music show, in a theater.
Visit a traditional market for a touch of local culture.
Enjoy world-class cuisine at one of the many international restaurants.

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The gastronomy in the region of Alajuela gathers customs and culinary uses of the inhabitants of Costa Rica. It is the product of the miscegenation that never ends, inheritance of the indigenous, Spanish and African ancestors, and then operated by European and Asian elements.
Among its dishes it is worth noting "pinto gallo" (rice and beans) a "casado" (rice with beans, meat and fried banana) and "pot carne" (soup with vegetables, green bananas and meat) dishes such as gut soup, quelites soup (made with vegetables and tender plants such as watercress, chives, turnip, mallow, rosemary, etc.) and "rolled sirloin" (pork marinated and stuffed with potato, boiled egg, pepper and tomato).

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The climate in the Alajuela region is moderate to hot with temperatures ranging from 23ºC to 26ºC.

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