*Prices shown above are representative. Dates, times and prices are subject to change and may not be available for your sailing. To purchase a Shore & Land Excursion, you must already have a reservation number for a cruise or Alaska Cruisetour and have made a payment towards that reservation. Shore & Land Excursions must be purchased in the same currency as your cruise or Alaska Cruisetour reservation. Exchange rates are determined by a competitive pricing program and may be subject to change without notice. All monetary exchanges onboard are processed in U.S. Dollars directly to your SeaPass onboard charge account unless otherwise specified.
Picturesque Sarchi - CR51
It was here in Sarchí that, more than a century ago, primitive local artists began painting and decorating their traditional oxcarts in intricate and colorful designs. At Sarchí you will see artisans painting a variety of woodcrafts. Souvenirs of all kinds and for all tastes are availalable.
Located in the west part of the Central Valley the scenic town of Sarchi is considered home of Costa Rica’s best craftsmanship. It was here in Sarchi, that more than a century ago, primitive local artists began painting and decorating their traditional oxcarts in intricate and colourful designs. There was spirited but good-nature competition among families to see who could create the most spectacular designs.
The sturdy vehicles, hauled by teams of oxen, soon became the primary mean of transportation throughout the nation, bumping over rough roads and trails, to carry elegantly dressed young ladies to festivals and dances in nearby villages. Today, the hand-painted Costa Rican oxcart art has evolved into a brilliantly executed form of native artistic expression. Visitors can find an immense variety of local wood products, ranging from elaborated hand-made furniture to inlaid boxes, trays and rare hardwood statuary.
In Sarchi, you will be able to see artisans painting a variety of woodcrafts. Leather goods and souvenirs of all kinds and for all tastes are available for purchase. Before going back to the ship, you will arrive at the little town of Grecia, famous for its historical metal church. A brief stop will be made to take a memorable picture. During this excursion, you will have the opportunity to stop at the Sarchi’s main square to take a memorable picture of the largest oxcart ever built.
