Depart from Central Valley
Sarchi, Arenal Volcano & Baldi
The scenic journey from San Jose to Arenal happens to pass right by the famous town of Sarchi, our first stop. Sarchi is well-known for its painted ox carts and home to Costa Rica’s most renowned artisans, where you will be able to appreciate the many one-of-a-kind arts & crafts, and buy souvenirs. Be sure to visit the town center to check out the “world’s largest ox cart” according to the Guinness Book!
Our next stop is the Arenal Volcano, a magnificent natural wonder that towers over La Fortuna of San Carlos. The volcano was dormant until 1968, and has been active ever since with its frequent but minor eruptions to this day. It is at the top of every tourist’s list when visiting Costa Rica, in the hopes of witnessing an eruption from a safe distance. Typically, white plumes of smoke are seen emanating from the conical-shaped behemoth – a sight to behold!
The region is well-known for its volcanic springs, and what better way to relax than soak in the hot springs of Baldi? You will surely revel in the rejuvenating effects of the thermal waters, and if you want more, you can get a massage and several other treatments that are offered. Baldi provides 25 separate mineral water reservoirs that flow naturally from the volcano.
Doka, Poas & La Paz
The morning begins with a visit to Doka Coffee Estate where you will have a delicious breakfast, followed by a Coffee Tour of the coffee plantation. You will learn the ancient techniques to produce some of Costa Rica’s and the world’s best coffee, through the processes of careful cultivation, harvesting and roasting of the Golden Bean. You will be tempted to have a cup!
Our next stop will be the Poas Volcano National Park. Here, you will get to see the impressive view of the volcano’s main crater with its sulfur fumaroles. You will then go on a wonderful nature hike through the park’s trail, until you arrive at the Botos Lagoon, where you’ll learn about the different ecosystems.
The final destination is La Paz Waterfall, where you will firstly enjoy a buffet lunch. Ideal for post-lunch digestion, you will then go on a nature hike through the trails entirely surrounded by lush, green tropical rainforest. You will come across flowing white rivers, spectacular waterfalls, birds, butterflies, monkeys, and hummingbirds. There are also educational animal exhibits to enjoy such as the Aviary, the Butterfly Observatory, Hummingbird Garden, Serpentarium, Jungle Cats Exhibit, and the Frog Exhibit.
Half-Day Tour: Doka & Poas
The morning begins with a visit to Doka Coffee Estate where you will have a delicious breakfast, followed by a Coffee Tour of the coffee plantation. You will learn the ancient techniques to produce some of Costa Rica’s and the world’s best coffee, through the processes of careful cultivation, harvesting and roasting of the Golden Bean. You will be tempted to have a cup!
Our next stop will be the Poas Volcano National Park. Here, you will get to see the impressive view of the volcano’s main crater with its sulfur fumaroles. You will then go on a wonderful nature hike through the park’s trail, until you arrive at the Botos Lagoon, where you’ll learn about the different ecosystems.
Cartago, Lankester & Orosi
The winding road to Cartago is a scenic one, traversing fertile, green lands full of varying vegetation. As we make our way over the hills, be sure to look out for the breath-taking panoramic views of the mountains and valley. We will firstly descend to the city of Cartago to visit the Virgin of Angels Basilica, a famous pilgrimage destination in Costa Rica – one that is annually traveled to on foot by believers from all parts of the country.
Our next stop will be the Lankester Gardens, a sanctuary and research center that protects over 800 species of orchids, bromeliads and countless more kinds of plants. After having taken in the tropical beauty of the Gardens, we will go on to the Orosi valley, known for its unparalleled natural beauty. We will visit some colonial churches, and have a tasty typical Costa Rican lunch at a local restaurant afterward.
Half-Day Tour: Irazu Volcano
We begin our tour by ascending the breath-taking summit of the Irazu Volcano, nature and scenic vistas to all sides. We will pass by all types of vegetation depending on elevation – from ferns to coffee plantations. Upon arrival at Irazu Volcano National Park, you will get the chance to walk around the vast empty spaces leading to the crater. The volcano’s crater can be seen from above, a spectacular view, home to a lagoon with a mystical green hue surrounded by jagged rocks.
Next, we will descend to the city of Cartago to visit the Virgin of Angels Basilica, a famous pilgrimage destination in Costa Rica – one that is annually traveled to on foot by believers from all parts of the country.
Half-Day Tour: La Paz Waterfall
Today’s destination is La Paz Waterfall. You will begin the tour by going on a nature hike through the trails entirely surrounded by lush, green tropical rainforest. You will come across flowing white rivers and spectacular waterfalls. You will get to observe the exotic animals of Costa Rica at the Aviary, the Butterfly Observatory, Hummingbird Garden, Serpentarium, and the Jungle Cats and Frog exhibits.
Ideal for nature lovers of all ages, this tour will surely have you hungry! You will enjoy a buffet lunch (rated 4 Forks by the Costa Rican Tourism Council) that includes multiple selections of
traditional Costa Rican dishes.
Manuel Antonio National Park
The journey to Manuel Antonio National Park is a long one, so we will be on the road early. On the way there, you will travel pass by African Palm plantations. Be sure to enjoy the beautiful views of the scenic coastline as we drive down.
Once having arrived at Manuel Antonio National Park, you’ll get to relax on the white sandy beach, sunbathe, or go swimming in its crystal-clear waters – your choice! You will also have the option of going on a hike through the park’s trails. You will surely be mesmerized by the abundance of flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for monkeys, iguanas and sloths!
Manuel Antonio National Park is closed on Tuesdays.
San Luis Canopy
San Luis Canopy Tour contains some of the most exciting nature-immersed adventure activities in Costa Rica. The canopy setup has 12 different zip lines and 18 platforms, plus the famous “Tarzan Swing Trails” and “Fly like Superman”. Not a dull moment here!
The most popular activity is zip lining, in which you’ll get to fly over the tropical rainforest on a series of cables, from platform to platform. A whole lot of fun! The Elevator is another thrilling activity at San Luis, in which you’ll be lifted high above the forest canopy. It’s safe, exciting and features the most spectacular view of the surroundings.
Sarapiqui Canopy & Rafting Combo Tour
Sarapiqui is an extensive territory known for its crystal-clear rivers, lush tropical forests and quaint villages inhabited by friendly people.
Ideal for adventure, Sarapiqui is home to famous Canopy Tour which consists of 9 cables of varying lengths that stretch right over the jungle, and eventually the Sarapiqui river.
The river itself is renowned for rafting, and has class II and class III rapids for rafters of all calibers. The excitement of riding 9 miles of river rapids is the perfect contrast to the serene natural surroundings – an unforgettable experience for bird watchers, nature lovers and adrenaline seekers alike!
Sarapiqui, Selva Verde & Aerial Tram
The tour begins in Sarapiqui with a delightful boat ride on the Sarapiqui river. Entirely surrounded by the serenity of nature, you’ll surely enjoy the clean, fresh air and the scenery.
Feet back on the land, you will go on a scenic nature hike through the private trails of Selva Verde Eco Lodge – quite the treat for nature lovers! We will stop for a delicious typical lunch on route to San Jose.
The last attraction of the day is a visit to the famous Rainforest Aerial Tram. You’ll soar over the jungle and through the canopy on a gondola. The naturalist guide will explain everything there is to know about the rainforest around you. Be sure to look out for wildlife among the trees!
Poas, Doka, Grecia & Sarchi
The first stop of the day is at the Poas Volcano National Park. Here, you will get to see the impressive view of the volcano’s main crater with its sulfur fumaroles. You will then go on a wonderful nature hike through the park’s trail, until you arrive at the Botos Lagoon, where you’ll learn about the different ecosystems. Next, we will visit Doka Coffee Estate where you will have a delicious lunch, followed by a Coffee Tour of the coffee plantation.
You will learn the ancient techniques to produce some of Costa Rica’s and the world’s best coffee, through the processes of careful cultivation, harvesting and roasting of the Golden Bean. You will be tempted to have a cup!
Our third stop will be at the scenic town of Grecia. You’ll get to walk around in the town center, and visit one of the only Metal Churches in Central America. Fun fact – Grecia is considered one of the cleanest towns in Latin America!
On route back to San Jose, we will stop at Sarchi, well-known for its painted ox carts and home to Costa Rica’s most renowned artisans. Here, you will be able to appreciate the many one-of-a-kind arts & crafts, and buy souvenirs. Be sure to visit the town center to check out the “world’s largest ox cart” according to the Guinness Book!
Irazu Volcano, Cartago & Hacienda Orosi
We begin our tour by ascending the breath-taking summit of the Irazu Volcano, nature and scenic vistas to all sides. We will pass by all types of vegetation depending on elevation – from ferns to coffee plantations. Upon arrival at Irazu Volcano National Park, you will get the chance to walk around the vast empty spaces leading to the crater. The volcano’s crater can be seen from above, a spectacular view, home to a lagoon with a mystical green hue surrounded by jagged rocks.
Next, we will descend to the city of Cartago to visit the Virgin of Angels Basilica, a famous pilgrimage destination in Costa Rica – one that is annually traveled to on foot by believers from all parts of the country.
Hacienda Orosi is our final stop today, surrounded by lush, green rainforest and views of the valley. Here, you will get to relax and soak in the hot thermal springs. The hot springs are mineral hypothermal telluric waters (non-magmatic or volcanic), and are filtered between the layers of the earth, resurfacing in the middle of the rainforest at 65 degrees Celsius.
Central Pacific, Tarcoles & Punta Leona
Our adventure today begins with a scenic drive from San Jose toward the Central Pacific coast of Costa Rica. We will stop for a delicious traditional breakfast at a local restaurant. Afterward, we will go over to the Tarcoles river, and from the safety of the bridge, you’ll be able to observe the crocodiles in their habitat!
Now – for the main attraction! We will continue down to Punta Leona Resort; an exuberant beach hotel awarded the Environmental Blue Flag. Surrounded by 750 acres of tropical rainforest, the beautiful beach is made of varying shades of white sand. You can sunbathe on the beach, swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Pacific, or take a dip in the swimming pool – this day is about leisure!
Mirador Tiquicia
Only available on Thursday evenings, this tour is the perfect combination of gastronomy and view-watching. Located on the mesmerizing mountain tops of Escazu at 1,300 meters above sea level, featuring some of the impressive views of San Jose, sits the Mirador Tiquicia Restaurant. It is the ultimate look-out point in San Jose.
Tiquicia is a 150-year-old mansion-made-restaurant, and offers a genuine typical Costa Rican ambience. You’ll get to sample the local food alongside national drinks, as you enjoy the mesmerizing evening views of San Jose. As a very special treat and a glimpse into Costa Rican culture, you will get to watch a typical dance show after dinner!
Valle de Los Santos Wine Experience
Only available on Saturdays, this tour is ideal for wine lovers and connoisseurs. The day begins with a scenic ride to Dota, where you will visit the first and only commercial winery in Costa Rica and in Central America. Dota is warm in climate and at a geographical position ideal for the development of grapes – the perfect combination to incredible flavors of wine.
You’ll get a tour of the plantation, taste the fruit, learn about the process of the liquor and taste it in two different presentations. You’ll get to taste wines from Costa Rica, Israel and California. There will be a delicious lunch served, followed by a coffee tasting session in which you’ll get to savor delicious gourmet coffee grown locally.
ChepeCletas Walking Tour
ChepeCletas; “chepe” is a local slang term used between Ticos to refer to the metropolitan city of San Jose, and “cletas” is short for “bicicletas”, bicycle in Spanish. Initially, it was only a bicycle tour through the city, but now a walking tour has been added. A great way to discover metropolitan San Jose!
The tour begins right outside of the classically-beautiful National Theatre in San Jose. A 15-minute leisurely stroll through the streets of metropolitan San Jose will take you the busy, bustling and bright Central Market, known for its colorful stands, counters and shops featuring traditional clothing and household items, indigenous art, woodwork and souvenirs, exotic flowers and medicinal herbs, tropical fruits and fresh produce, a wide variety of dairy, meat and fish – and of course, the restaurants, locally known as “Soditas”. Here, you will get to walk around and observe the local merchants, do a little shopping, and the best part – taste the local cuisine!
Next, a 10-minute walk will take you to the Steinvorth Music Hall, a lovely European-influenced colorful building featuring numerous shops, bars and businesses. Here, you will visit a gourmet Chocolatier, renowned for their organic, sustainably-produced cocoa-based delights. You’ll be told about the business, products and the invaluable role sustainability plays in their chocolate-making processes – and of course, taste some delicious chocolate!
You will then take a 20-minute walk past some beautiful, historical buildings, to Parque Morazan. Featuring greenery, statues and a shapely gazebo, this park is quiet and neat, surrounded by some important San Jose landmarks such as La Casa Amarilla, and the old 1890 school building. Your guide will give your information during your stroll.
From there, you will walk over to the scenic neighborhood of Amon, made of cobble-stone roads, old, beautiful houses, most of them galleries, boutique hotels, restaurants, and cafes. You will visit one or more of these classic houses, either art gallery or café, and discover the works of local artists.
Lastly, a 30-minute walk past local shops, bakeries, train tracks, and the city’s first power tower, will take you to the thriving district of Barrio Escalante, known for its top-notch bars, breweries, cafes, restaurants, and coffee houses. Here, you will visit a coffee house that specializes not only in coffee, but also in gourmet coffee-making processes and techniques. You’ll get to do some premium Costa Rican coffee tasting, while your barista tells you all about the different beans, processes and techniques.
Tortuga Island
Located in the Gulf of Nicoya is the magical, dreamy Tortuga Island, about 12 nautical miles from the coast of Puntarenas. The island consists of 120 hectares of pristine beach and protected tropical forest, awarded the Ecological Blue Flag for its clean sands and unpolluted waters. The unbeatable combination of turquoise water and white sand is a tropical dream come true. Being an island, the journey over is made on a luxurious catamaran. It features three different sections – the main air-conditioned lounge with a bar and changing rooms, the bow with a marvelous view of all the ocean and landscapes, and the upper deck with a space designed for your relaxation featuring a spacious jacuzzi. Talk about sailing in style!
