The capital of the region is not actually in the Northern Lowlands; instead, it perches loftily at 654 metres on the slopes of the Cordillera Tilaran, while the lowlands unfurl majestically below. The town is a vital ling to both lowlands.

The bustling market town, which slopes sharply northward and is known colloquially as San Carlos, is surrounded by emerald-green pastures munched by brown Swiss cattle and black-and-white Holsteins.

At Termales del Bosque visitors can bathe in the mineral spings after hiking or horseback riding through lush forest, or after joining monkeys and sloths in the treetops on a canopy tour. La marina Zoologica is a private zoo caring for orphaned and confiscated birds and animals, including dozens of monkeys and such treasures as tapirs, jaguars, and a Bengal tiger.