Pavas, Administrative district in San José, Costa Rica.
Pavas is an administrative district in San José and the largest of the canton, spanning 9.39 square kilometers. The area combines residential neighborhoods with the Tobías Bolaños Airport, which serves as the nation's main domestic aviation hub.
The district grew dramatically over time, evolving from a small settlement of just 732 residents in 1883 into a developed urban area. By the 2011 census, its population had surpassed 71,000 people, transforming it into a significant part of the metropolitan region.
The area is home to respected international schools that draw families from around the world, shaping it into a diverse neighborhood with a cosmopolitan character. These institutions anchor the community and influence how local spaces are used throughout the day.
The area is accessible through several major highways and rail connections that link it to other parts of the region. Getting around is straightforward whether you arrive by car, local bus, or train service.
The Tobías Bolaños Airport is Costa Rica's primary domestic aviation hub, linking the region to remote areas like Tortuguero and Golfito. This role makes Pavas a transportation node that may not be immediately obvious when walking through its largely residential neighborhoods.
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