San Jose Trip Overview
This is a circuit for lovers of nature and adventure tourism, has all the necessary elements to enjoy beautiful landscapes. You will visit cities in the north of the country where you can make different tours, such as the coffee tour, visit National Parks, impressive waterfalls, rivers, see the most impressed of the fauna of Costa Rica, share with local people.
Additional Info
Duration: 10 days
Starts: San Jose, Costa Rica
Trip Category: Outdoor Activities >> 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours
Explore San Jose Promoted Experiences
What to Expect When Visiting San Jose, Province of San Jose, Costa Rica
This is a circuit for lovers of nature and adventure tourism, has all the necessary elements to enjoy beautiful landscapes. You will visit cities in the north of the country where you can make different tours, such as the coffee tour, visit National Parks, impressive waterfalls, rivers, see the most impressed of the fauna of Costa Rica, share with local people.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive to Costa Rica
Stop At: Juan Santamaría International Airport, Alajuela Province, Alajuela, Costa Rica
Reception at the Juan Santamaria International Airport, our driver will wait for you with a sign in his name. Then we will go to your hotel, that same day will be given indications of their itineraries, their recipes and others.
Duration: 2 hours
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Stay in San Jose, Crowne Plaza San Jose hotel or similar
Day 2: Tours to la Paz Waterfall Gardens
Stop At: Jardins da Cachoeira de La Paz, 126 6 km North from Vara Blanca Gas Station, Vara Blanca 00000 Costa Rica
This day we will go around the Poas volcano and visit the La Paz Waterfall Gardens is the #1 Most Visited Privately Owned Ecological Attraction in Costa Rica featuring the best hiking near San José, the most famous waterfalls in Costa Rica, animal sanctuary with over 100 species of animals, and an environmental education program.
Attractions
Five waterfalls, cloud forest and rain forest, safe hiking trails, aviary with numerous species of birds, toucan feeding demonstration time, insect exhibit, butterfly observatory, capuchin (white-faced) monkeys, black-handed spider monkeys, hummingbird garden with 26 documented species, hummingbird hand feeding demonstration time in the mornings and afternoons, serpentarium (snake exhibit), jaguars, pumas, ocelots, margays, tica house with petting zoo and ox cart, ranarium (frog exhibit), orchid exhibit, heliconia exhibit. All of these offered at one place, makes us the best eco park in Costa Rica. The Park comprises 70 acres (28 hectares) of land including approximately 40 acres of cloud and rainforest and 30 acres (12 hectares) of pastureland cut by a previous owner. The forest area is currently protected under Private Animal Sanctuary Status and we are in the process of reforesting the unoccupied pastureland. We are also an active member of the Costa Rican Network of Private Nature Reserves, the Green Stamp Program, the Blue Flag Program and the Environmental Services Payment Program.
The 2.2 miles (3.5 kilometers) of hiking trails and viewing platforms constructed from 1998-2000 were designed and built without cutting one tree or vine system. The materials for the trails and platforms were carried down on foot in order to avoid the use of heavy equipment in the forest. The credit for this tremendous accomplishment goes to Mr. Bernardo Picado who designed trails for the National Park System of Costa Rica prior to joining our team.
We added the Colibries Restaurant and the Serpentarium in 2004 and the Ranarium and Trout Lake in 2005. Our new enclosed Butterfly Observatory opened in August of 2006 along with the conversion of our existing Butterfly Observatory to an Aviary in the same year.
The visit will be all day, we will have lunch in the peace waterfall and at the end of the afternoon we will go to El Silencio Lodge & spa in Bajos del Toro where will be your hotel to stay
Accommodation in Bajos Del Toro /B-L
Duration: 6 hours
Meals included:
• Breakfast
• Lunch
Accommodation included: Stay at the Silencio Lodge & Spa, Bajos del Toro
Day 3: will visit the twin falls of the Bajos Del Toro
Stop At: Catarata Del Toro Adventures, 6km North of Bajos Del Toro, Bajos del Toro 0000 Costa Rica
Situated close to Catarata Del Toro in Bajos Del Toro Amarillo, Sarchí we will offer you something mind blowing. A truly blue river with 7 blue waterfalls, 3 normal waterfalls, rapids, swimming pools, views, nature and hiking in one. Since 2017 we are offering these amazing tours. As for now we will go with the flow and will operate under the ‘Catarata Del Toro’ flag. Starting point for all tours will be Catarata Del Toro, Costa Rica’s Ultimate Secret.
From here we will start walking over the public road and we will cross a beautiful farm. Also, we will cross a river by a bridge, until we end up in the blue river. Approximately thirty minutes till this point and then:
1 – We will descend into the blue river, cross it, and walk towards the Las Gemelas.
2 – Same way back where we can take a quick look from above at the blue rapids.
3 – Entering the blue river again at a lower point into a nice blue pool.
4 – Time to cool down and let’s swim blue and as long as you wish.
5 – From here we are heading back.
What you can expect, what to bring and what we supply
What to expect: beauty, 2 blue waterfalls, rapids, virgin forest and a beautiful river section. Also, a blue swimming pool, mountains, birds, views, nice hike, nice workout, good feeling and happy to be back. Let’s beat your expectations! If you purchased the combo then the next tour will be Catarata Del Toro, Costa Rica’s Ultimate Secret®.
You need to bring: walking shoes or boots, anti-slip tennis- or water shoes for the swimming part. And, or just old tennis shoes for the entire trip, swimming gear, anti-mosquito repellent, sun blocker, 1.5 liters of drinker water, snacks and a camera.
We supply: safe and guarded parking lot, restroom before and after, walking stick, tour guide and a most wonderful experience.
Summary
Duration: 2-3 hours.
Age: 10 – 65
Weight: Medium
Total Walking Distance: 4.5 km.
We will return to the hotel to rest and spend the rest of the afternoon free
Duration: 6 hours
Meals included:
• Breakfast
• Lunch
Accommodation included: Stay at the Silencio Lodge & Spa, Bajos del Toro
Day 4: LA FORTUNA, ARENAL
Stop At: La Fortuna Arenal Volcano Rain Forest Reserve, La Fortuna Of San Carlos 150 Mtrs north east from La Fortuna elementay School, Arenal Volcano National Park, La Fortuna de San Carlos 21007 Costa Rica
After breakfast, we will go to Fortuna, Arenal two hours away, we will arrive at the hotel to check, after settling in the hotel we will start the afternoon with a combined tours: Arenal COMBO Tour Hanging Bridges and Los Lagos Resort with Lunch or Dinner
This is the quintessential Arenal Volcano tour to do when you’re in La Fortuna! The Arenal Volcano Hanging Bridges tour takes you through lush rainforest near the base of Costa Rica’s most-famous, iconic volcano. Our experienced, bilingual naturalist guide will point out interesting plants and wildlife in the vibrant, rainforest protected by the Arenal Volcano National Park as you cross picturesque hanging bridges and discover hidden treasures such as waterfalls and families of howler monkeys. You will have the opportunity to take pictures of the plant and animal life during the tour, as well as of the stunning view of the Arenal Volcano. Then it’s time to head to Los Lagos Resort and enjoy a variety of hot springs pool in a luxurious resort with a restaurant, bars, locker-rooms and top-notch service. Enjoy a delicious lunch or dinner at the resort before being transported back to your hotel.
INCLUDES:
Guide; transportation; beverages; entrance to private reserve; hot springs; dinner
WHAT TO BRING
Bug repellent; camera; binoculars; hiking boots or tennis shoes; rain gear; swimming suit
RECOMMENDED AGES
6-65 YEARS
DURATION
6 Hrs
Duration: 8 hours
Meals included:
• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner
Accommodation included: Stay Los Lagos Hotel, Fortuna
Day 5: Activity included in Arenal
Stop At: La Fortuna Waterfall, Arenal Volcano National Park, La Fortuna de San Carlos 106-4417 Costa Rica
Breakfast. During this day, you will have the possibility to choose one of the following options:
Option 1 – Costa Rica Canyoning in the Lost Canyon
Lost Canyon Adventures Canyoning — Costa Rica’s best multi-sport adventure near the Arenal Volcano!
We get many requests from visitors who want to experience the REAL Costa Rica — and that is what the Lost Canyon is all about! You’ll rappel down huge waterfalls, jump into pools, zip down guided rappels, down climb the canyon walls and river boulders, and hike up through the rainforest. We pack all kinds of adventure into the best canyoning experience in Costa Rica.
INCLUDES: Tour guide, Lunch, Transport
RECOMMENDED AGES: 13-60 YEARS
DURATION: four Hrs.
WHAT TO BRING Clothes to get wet in, Change of clothes, secure shoes, Extra money to buy photos or a t-shirt of your tour, Sense of adventure.
DEPARTS: 7:30am, 10:00am, 1:00pm
Option 2 – Costa Rica Whitewater Rafting Sarapiqui Afternoon
Costa Rica Whitewater Rafting Class 3 Sarapiqui River the only Afternoon Rafting Trip in Arenal!
Bring on the adrenaline with the class 3 rafting trip on the Sarapiqui River! The Sarapiqui River area is famous for its lush jungle scenery. In fact, we call this section of the river The Jungle Run because you are bound to see monkeys, iguanas and other amazing Costa Rican wildlife along the side of this beautiful river for rafting. As soon as you are fitted with safety gear and instructions, you will hit the Sarapiqui River and fly down rolling rapids while your guide directs the raft and calls out directions… “Paddle Hard!” “Right Paddle!” “Back Paddle!” “Get Down!”
INCLUDES: Transport to/from your hotel, Bilingual guides, Tropical fruit break, Delicious meal, Photographer
RECOMMENDED AGES: 10-65 YEARS
DURATION: six Hrs.
WHAT TO BRING Clothes to get wet in, Change of clothes, secure shoes.
DEPARTS: 12:00pm
Option 3- Mountain Biking Arenal Single Track Madness
For hardcore bikers! Single Track Madness — EXTREME Mountain Biking near Arenal, Costa Rica
We just discovered this awesome single-track trail with all of the perfect elements for an extreme mountain bike ride in Costa Rica! This intense 19-kilometer trail will take you through farmlands, deep rainforest, rivers, and mud puddles — so get ready for the ride of your life! Designed for passionate mountain bikers, you will ride past interesting scenery and push yourself through different levels of challenges on this single-track madness trail. Enjoy spectacular views of the Arenal Volcano and impressive forests that surround you as you pedal to your heart’s content! I
INCLUDES: Professional suspension mountain bike, Helmet, Gloves, Transportation, Drinks and snack, Bilingual biking guide
WHAT TO BRING: Biking or comfortable adventure clothes, Secure shoes, Sunscreen
RECOMMENDED AGES: 13-65 YEARS
DURATION: four Hrs.
DEPARTS: 8:00am, 1:00pm
Option 4- Stand up Paddle on Lake Arenal
SUP with Great Volcano views!
Stand Up Paddle on Lake Arenal
Venture to Costa Rica’s largest lake and hop on board our private boat as your guide and captain load up with stand up paddle gear and a cooler full of icy bottled water and fresh fruits. As we embark on our journey out to the middle of Lake Arenal, you will be blown away by all of the natural beauty of Volcano Arenal. The mountains that surround the lake are different shades of green, as some are in the foreground while the others fade into the distance. At first, the Arenal Volcano seems like it is hidden behind mountains, but if you get to a certain part in the lake you have reached the sweet spot – a spot where you can see the detailed textures of its rock formation and where passing in front of it can make you feel tiny. When you reach the middle of the lake, your guide will give you plenty of safety instructions and plunk your board into the water.
INCLUDES: Delicious tropical snack; paddleboard equipment and paddling instructions; guide; transport via van and boat.
RECOMMENDED AGES: 8-85 YEARS
DURATION: 2.5 Hrs.
WHAT TO BRING Sun block, Swimming suit, Towel, Eyeglass straps or contact lenses, T-shirt and shorts to get wet in
DEPARTS: 8:00am, 1:30pm
Option 5-Arenal Volcano Hike
The Arenal Volcano National Park and other reserves along the border of the National Park are one of the most visited places in all of Central America. The trails in Arenal National Park and other nearby Arenal Reserves are generally flat and not very strenuous — perfect for a leisurely and informative hike with one of our professional nature guides. We will start the tour off by picking you up at your hotel and driving to the entrance of the Arenal National Park (if your tour is in the morning) or to a nearby Arenal Volcano, National Park Peninsula for afternoon tours. You can use the facilities and read up on the history of the area before your guided walk. Then we will hike through well-groomed, easy trails that skirt the base of the Arenal Volcano and Lake Arenal Area. This part of the Arenal Volcano had sections that were devastated by the lava flow of 1968, so some areas have very little vegetation. If you are interested, you may ask your guide to show you the dried lava flow from a smaller eruption that happened in 1992. This guided walk of the Arenal Volcano National Park or National Park Peninsula provides perfect photo opportunities and magnificent views of the impressive Arenal Volcano, the pristine Lake Arenal and the extinct volcano Cerro Chato.
INCLUDES: Professional guide; transportation; entrance to park or reserve
RECOMMENDED AGES: 6-85 YEARS
DURATION: two Hrs.
WHAT TO BRING bug repellent; camera; binoculars; hiking boots or closed-toe shoes; rain gear
DEPARTS: 7:30am, 1:30pm
Accommodation in la Fortuna / B
Duration: 6 hours
Meals included:
• Breakfast
Accommodation included: Stay Los Lagos Hotel
Day 6: Day off
Stop At: Los Lagos Hot Springs, Hotel los Lagos, Arenal Volcano National Park, La Fortuna de San Carlos Costa Rica
This day we leave you free to rest and relax in the hotel pool or simply take a hot bath in the hot springs.
Duration: 8 hours
Meals included:
• Breakfast
• Lunch
Accommodation included: Stay Los Lagos Hotel
Day 7: Transfer to Monteverde
Stop At: Puntarenas Province, Monteverde, Costa Rica
After breakfast, we will travel to Monteverde at 4 hours of fortune to continue visiting the virgin regions of Costa Rica. After arriving at the hotel we will register your stay and have time to have lunch, then a short break to go out and make:
Night Tour
When night falls, a new world awakes in the Monteverde cloud forest. Many species of wildlife are more active at night, showing us a different world, from nocturnal frogs to the mysterious bats, all a part of the nocturnal landscape of the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve. For those that wish to experience the nocturnal biodiversity of the tropical forest, we invite you to participate in the Night Tour accompanied by a specialized guide. This tour can be enjoyed every day and begins in front of our reception at 5:45 pm.
Transfer to your hotel.
Accommodation in Monteverde B
Duration: 4 hours
Meals included:
• Breakfast
Accommodation included: Stay in Senda Monteverde
Day 8: Monteverde
Stop At: Costa Rica Sky Adventures, Costa Rica
Sky Adventures Canopy Zip line, Gondola & Hanging Bridges in Monteverde
See the cloud forest from new heights – literally! You will love this Costa Rica zip lining tour that offers so much more.
We’ll pick you up from your Monteverde hotel and take you to Sky Adventure’s headquarters to embark on an adventure of a lifetime! Start your day off with a relaxing ride up a mountain by an open-air Sky Tram gondola. The spectacular view will get wider and more breathtaking as you get higher up onto the mountain.
When you reach the observation platform at the top, you’ll realize that you really are in for a treat. There, you will begin your adrenaline-pumping journey zipping through the cloud forest: flying like a bird from tree-to-tree and canyon-to-canyon through 1.7 miles of Sky Trek zip line cables! Admire the amazing nature on your journey across 10 cables that reach between 40 to 100 meters high and up to 750 meters long. This is an amazing Monteverde zip lining adventure!
You won’t want to miss out on an adventure like this! Then, unwind the adrenaline and experience a more tranquil, scenic experience above the rainforest canopy with a guided Sky Walk across the hanging bridges. Designed for bird-watchers and nature lovers alike, the hanging bridges offer stunning views of the cloud forest and its inhabitants.
Walk across a series of five bridges, spanning over 1.5 miles, and up to 100 meters long with our experienced naturalist guides who will point out wildlife, plant species and offer fun facts about Costa Rica! Both tours will provide you with an adventure of a lifetime and you’ll be guaranteed to leave with lots of memories — the perfect Monteverde for families’ tour to share with your friends and family back home!
INCLUDES
Transportation; guide; entrance fees
WHAT TO BRING
Secure shoes; camera; sun screen
RECOMMENDED AGES
8-70 YEARS
DURATION
5 Hrs
DEPARTS
10:30am
Accommodation in Monteverde/B
Duration: 6 hours
Meals included:
• Breakfast
Accommodation included: Stay in Senda Monteverde
Day 9: Coffee and chocolate tours and Transfer to San Jose
Stop At: Monteverde Wild Hikes, 620 Road, 60109 Costa Rica
This last day in monteverde we will pick you up at 8 am at your hotel to visit Don Juan.
DON JUAN COFFEE TOUR
Educational tour about coffee, chocolate and sugar cane.
Don Juan offers an exciting opportunity to participate in a highly entertaining and interactive tour. You will get the chance to partake in some of the very traditional processes we use here on our coffee plantation, that make it possible for us to produce such a rich tasting Costa Rican coffee. So, if you want to know how the coffee in Costa Rica is made then Visit Us! The tour begins with a brief insight into the wonderful world of coffee followed by the history of Costa Rican coffee and its importance in the socio-economic development. Later on during the tour we will cover other aspects of the Costa Rican culture and traditions. The tour starts with an introduction to the life cycle of a coffee plant starting with the coffee seed itself and taking a look at its fascinating evolutionary cycle. Coffee Picking: You will learn about the ways that the coffee cherries are picked, the lifestyle of the workers that carry out this task, their stories and the immigration that occurs during the harvest season. When the coffee cherries are ready to be picked (from November to February) this activity can be performed by the visitors. De-pulping Machine: You will get to see the way the pulp of the coffee cherry was traditionally removed, the washing process of the mucilage that is found underneath the pulp and the separation of the first class coffee beans from the rest. The Drying Patio: The hot and dry climate allows the coffee beans to be spread out on a large, cement patio in order to dry naturally under the sun. The Warehouse and the Coffee Roaster: In the warehouse the coffee beans are stored in big, fiber sacks allowing the beans to breathe and complete their aging process. The selection of coffee beans, the roasting process and the final packaging of the Don Juan coffee is also carried out here. A Ride in a Typical Ox Cart: You will get the option to take a ride in a typical ox cart experiencing the exact way our ancestors use to travel. You will also have the opportunity to see the process of cocoa and sugar cane with an interactive demonstration.
Don Juan Coffee Tour includes:
2 hour tour, coffee, chocolate and sugar cane tasting, raincoats, bilingual guide (Spanish/english), oxcart ride. We also have a souvenir, restaurant and parking lot.
Transportation is included from your hotel.
After this visit we will go to the city of San Jose, about 3 hours walk, we will arrive at your hotel to make a check and then we will show you quickly the most emblematic places of the capital. At the end of the afternoon you will be back at your hotel
Accommodation in San Jose /B
Duration: 3 hours
Meals included:
• Breakfast
Accommodation included: Stay in San Jose
Day 10: Back to Homez
Stop At: Juan Santamaría International Airport, Alajuela Province, Alajuela, Costa Rica
Transfer to the airport to take your flight back home
Duration: 2 hours
Meals included:
• Breakfast
No accommodation included on this day.
