San Carlos River (Costa Rica) facts for kids

The San Carlos River (also known as Río San Carlos in Spanish) is an important river located in Costa Rica. It flows through the Alajuela Province and eventually joins the San Juan River. From there, its waters travel all the way to the Caribbean Sea.

This river is quite long, stretching for about 142 kilometers (about 88 miles). A good part of it, around 60 kilometers (about 37 miles), is wide and deep enough for boats to travel on. This makes it useful for people living nearby. The area that the San Carlos River and its smaller rivers drain is very large, covering about 3,100 square kilometers (about 1,200 square miles).

The San Carlos River starts when two smaller rivers, the Jabillos River and the Peje River, meet. Both of these smaller rivers begin on the eastern side of the Cordillera de Tilarán mountain range. The San Carlos River then flows through the San Carlos Canton region of Costa Rica. It finally meets the San Juan River near a place called Boca San Carlos.

Rivers Joining the San Carlos

Many smaller rivers flow into the San Carlos River, bringing more water to it. These smaller rivers are called tributaries. Some of the main rivers that join the San Carlos River include:

• Platanar River
• Arenal River
• Penas Blancas River
• Tres Amigos River

Importance of the River Basin

The area around the San Carlos River, known as its basin, is very important for both the economy and tourism in Costa Rica.

Farming and Livestock

Farmers in the San Carlos River basin grow many different crops. These include:

• Rice
• Corn
• Beans
• Cane sugar
• Pineapple

The region is also important for raising animals. Farmers here produce milk and meat, which are important food sources.

Tourism and Nature

The San Carlos River basin is also a popular place for tourists. Many attractions are found here, especially near the famous Arenal Volcano. Visitors can enjoy activities like:

• Hiking: Exploring the beautiful natural trails.
• River tours: Taking boat trips along the river.
• Hot springs: Relaxing in natural warm waters heated by the volcano.
• Ecotourism: Enjoying nature in a way that protects the environment.

The weather in the San Carlos River basin is warm and wet. The average rainfall is between 3,500 and 4,500 millimeters (about 138 to 177 inches) each year. The temperature usually stays between 22 and 28 degrees Celsius (about 72 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit).

Wildlife and Conservation

The San Carlos River basin is home to many different plants and animals. Several special areas have been set aside to protect this natural habitat. These include:

• Tenorio Volcano National Park
• Juan Castro Blanco National Park
• Alberto Manuel Brenes Biological Reserve
• Maquenque National Park

These protected areas help keep the natural environment safe for wildlife. However, the natural habitat in the basin faces some challenges. Things like cutting down too many trees (deforestation) and hunting can harm the animals and their homes. Protecting these areas is important for the future of the river and its amazing wildlife.

See also

In Spanish: Río San Carlos (Costa Rica) para niños