Parque del Este, Urban park in San Rafael district, Costa Rica

Parque del Este is a 24-hectare state recreational park in San Rafael, Montes de Oca, on land bounded north by the deep Torres River basin and reached by a single access from National Route 202 to the south. Its irregular terrain holds two football pitches, two basketball courts, a sand-surface court, two pools (temporarily out of service), picnic ranches and trails cut through the mountain.

The land was originally a coffee processing center called Beneficio Escalante during the 1970s before being converted into a public park in the early 1980s. This shift from industrial use to green space reflected changing needs in the growing metropolitan area.

Children play in miniature houses scattered throughout the grounds, and families gather on weekends to enjoy outdoor time together. These spaces have become part of how local residents spend their free time and connect with neighbors.

Access is only from the south, via Route 202; the northern boundary is the Torres River gorge. Trails climb the irregular terrain, so allow time for slopes. Pets are allowed on a leash, and owners must pick up waste; alcohol and smoking are prohibited. Bring water, as no food stand operates on site.

The park sits at 1,350 meters (4,429 feet) above sea level, creating a cooler climate than lower parts of the city. Its location along the Torres River basin and its mix of native and non-native trees create a distinct natural setting.