The mountainous region of the canton, where the lagoon of the Barva volcano is located, is part of the area protected by the Braulio Carrillo National Park. Barva is also an access point to the Poás Volcano National Park.
The elongated canton climbs from the city of Barva on the outskirts of the capital city of Heredia up the slopes of the dormant Barva Volcano, with the mountain's summit serving as its northern boundary.
Barva is an intensely immersive cultural experience in the middle of a beautiful environment, just two kilometers from Heredia and located between the mountainous slopes of the extinct volcanoes. In Barva you will discover food, traditions, culture and language that will stimulate your senses and leave you with an unforgettable impression of the richness and variety of Costa Rica.
One of the first things that can be appreciated in Barva is the variety of local artisans, who offer everything from ceramics to fine cuisine. A particular staple of Barva is coffee grown locally in the nearby hills. Coffee extracted from local grains is aromatic and strong, with a flavor that is not found anywhere else. Start the day every morning with a cup of delicious coffee, or buy enough local beans to take home for your friends.
Barva is on the edge of the Barva Volcano and near the Poás Volcano, joining many other towns that make the lush and green slopes their home. The rich volcanic soil makes the Central Valley a flourishing refuge for local vegetation and crops. The richness of the soil also attracts the flourishing wildlife, and any eco-tourist or nature lover can enjoy views of the green flora and fauna around Barva.
If you plan on visiting Barva you can't miss the Museum of Popular Culture, Monte de la Cruz
and Central Park of Barva.