San Carlos (canton)

San Carlos is a canton in the Alajuela province of Costa Rica, with an estimated population of 198,742 as of 2022. It ranks as the fourth-most populous canton in the country and is the 1st largest by area. It borders Nicaragua to the north, San Ramón, Zarcero and Sarchí the south, Río Cuarto and Sarapiquí to the east, and Los Chiles, Guatuso, Tilarán and San Ramón to the west. The capital city of the canton is Ciudad Quesada.

The canton is known for its extensive plains, high levels of rainfall, and fertile soils, which make it one of Costa Rica’s most productive economic regions. Its economy is driven by a wide range of agricultural activities, including cattle ranching, beef and dairy production, and the cultivation of crops such as sugarcane, pineapple, citrus fruits, tubers, and basic grains.

A notable feature of the canton is the Arenal Volcano, located in the district of La Fortuna. This active stratovolcano, which rises to 1,670 metres (5,479 ft) above sea level, is distinguished by its nearly symmetrical cone shape and its prominence over the surrounding flat terrain. The volcano and its surrounding area constitute one of the four most visited tourist destinations in Costa Rica by both domestic and international travelers. At the base of the volcano lies Lake Arenal, an artificial reservoir shared between San Carlos and Tilarán. It serves as the primary source of hydroelectricity in Costa Rica.