Travel Planning Guide for San Jose, Costa Rica: Tour Packages

Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of gourmet coffee - Costa Rica's most important and prestigious crop on a half day guided tour from San Jose. Follow the journey of the coffee bean from the moment it leaves the plantation until it becomes a cup of fresh delight.

A professional acting troupe, dressed in traditional garb, will escort you through an interactive tour on the history of coffee.

On the "finca", as the plantation is called in Spanish, your day starts in six acres (2.5 hectares) of coffee fields, tropical gardens and coffee-processing facilities. Stroll through a thriving farm as songbirds chirp from shade trees overhead. Learn the facts of coffee cultivation and take a few of the dried beans home to grow a plant of your own!

From the fields, continue to the roasting and packaging facilities, where you will breathe in the aroma of roasting coffee and learn all about the magical process that turns a red coffee cherry into a delicious cup of java. Then in the theater, sit back and watch a multimedia play and presentation of coffee's place in world history. Learn about how deeply coffee culture is woven into the history and people of Costa Rica.

The green highlands of Costa Rica's fertile Central Valley seem to jostle for attention as Britt experts lead the way with unmatched knowledge, plenty of good humor and more than a few surprises!

Finish your tour with a visit to the well-stocked coffee-and-gift store. There, if you choose, you may enjoy a delicious lunch of creative cuisine prepared with Costa Rica's freshest produce at the on-site Don Prospero restaurant. See if you can stump Britt's baristas by ordering any coffee drink you can imagine

Combine adrenaline with relaxation and prepare for an unforgettable experience on one of the most popular tours in Costa Rica. You’ll exploreCosta Rica's active Arenal Volcano and then unwind in the natural hot springs nearby.

Breathtaking and alluring, the thundering Arenal Volcano is one of the most active volcanoes in the Americas. The Arenal Volcano has been active since 1968, and to this day continues to produce a daily mixture of glowing red lava and explosions. Feel the earth rumbling as the sky explodes with nature's own fireworks. Then, relax and rejuvenate in the mineral pools and hot springs created by the volcano itself.

Then, while dining under the stars, continue to watch the natural firework show as the red-hot lava tumbles down the slopes, outlining Arenal’s almost perfect cone shape against the night sky.

This is an evening you will not want to miss while in Costa Rica. Perfect for a romantic getaway, be sure to reserve this popular tour now!

If you thought walking through a Costa Rican rainforest would be exciting, imagine the experience of traveling on top of it! This private park adventure takes you on an exhilarating ride on an aerial tramway, enabling you to fly through the rainforest canopy without wings.

Located a scenic drive away from San Jose, the private reserve’s grounds border the renowned Braulio Carrillo National Park, where you will explore the hanging gardens of the rainforest up close in comfort and safety.

After taking a walk along forest trails, your bilingual guide will lead you to the awaiting aerial tram. The vehicle will take you on a 70-minute ride through the canopy, allowing you to discover the beauty of air plants, animals and birds. It’s a hidden world of tremendous beauty and extraordinary biological diversity.

For an exciting day of unforgettable fun with friends and family, add this tour to your Costa Rica itinerary today!

Discover the rich history and culture of Costa Rica on this comprehensive sightseeing tour of San Jose. You will learn about all the popular monuments as your guide tells you about the architecture and history of the downtown area.

On this tour, you will visit the magnificent Opera House. The pride and joy of Costa Rica, this century-old cultural symbol represents an important era in history. Other sites include the University of Costa Rica, beautiful Sabana Park and various museums.

One museum of particular interest is the national Museum of pre-Columbian art. Transformed from an old military fort to show the country’s peaceful tradition, this museum will give you an insight into the heritage of Costa Rica. It features a stunning gold, jade, stone and pottery collection.

You will also be amazed by the historic National Theater, completed in 1897 and a masterpiece of architecture. This tour will immerse you in Costa Rica’s rich culture and history by taking you to the beautiful museums and historical sites of San Jose.

Please note: Museums are closed on Mondays and the National Theatre is closed on Sundays.

Experience traditions deeply rooted in Costa Rican history and enjoy local cuisine on a cultural excursion into the mountains of San Jose. For an unforgettable night out with friends or family, add this trip to your San Jose itinerary today!

Journey with us as we take you on a trip into Costa Rica's past. You will enjoy a popular dinner and the spectacle of dances and folkloric traditions in the mountains surrounding San Jose. Along the way, admire the beautiful central valley with the cities of Heredia, Alajuela and San Jose, home to the "Ticos" (the colloquial term for a native of Costa Rica).

Whether you are traveling with the family or escaping on a romantic getaway for two, this trip is perfect for a true cultural experience.

Get up close and personal with the local flora and fauna of Costa Rica as you swing though the rainforest canopy. Feel the rush of adrenaline as you take exhilarating leaps of faith from platform to platform and explore life amongst the treetops!

The canopy tour starts with an explanation of the basic principles needed to make this experience both enjoyable and safe. Then you will take part in the adrenaline-fueled adventure of climbing above the canopy of a tropical forest and sliding from one platform to another, while enjoying close contact with nature.

Enjoy the thrill of gliding like a bird through the air. This tour lets you roam around the treetops, giving you a bird's-eye view of the tropical forest.

During the tour you will also take a walk through the hollow trunk of a ficus tree. These trails will conduct you through the different platforms while you enjoy the surrounding forest.

This tour is safe and uses a special system of steel cables and professional climbing gear. It's a unique excursion that requires no experience.

After an adrenaline-packed two hours, you can relax and allow us to return you to your Jaco hotel.

Prepare for an unforgettable experience as you join one of the most popular tours in Costa Rica. From Central Pacific, you'll explore two of Costa Rica's most visited attractions, the Arenal Volcano and natural hot springs nearby, you'll mix adrenaline with relaxation on this full-day Central American tour.

On your way to Arenal Volcano, you will travel through the picturesque town of La Fortuna.

Costa Rica's most active volcano periodically erupts, rumbling as it sends clouds of smoke and ash into the sky. You may have the chance to witness a small eruption, causing red lava to pour down the mountain as you unwind in the hot springs nearby.

Return to your hotel after a day filled with excitement and tranquility, leaving you with an experience of a lifetime!

If it's adventure your looking for, then let your hair down and take a ride on an ATV, Quad Four-Wheeler bike in Costa Rica. An off-road drive on a 15,000 acre (60,000 sq. km) private property will take you through a Laguna and an old coffee plantation before climbing 8,000 feet (2,400 meters) to a spectacular view over Central Valley and the Pacific Ocean.

Your Central Costa Rica Valley ATV Tour is conducted with state of the art all-terrain vehicles and experienced bilingual speaking guides. The operator is currently the only ATV operator in Costa Rica with an ICT Action Adventure License. You can rest assured that your safety and well being are never an issue, but it is recommended that you always be careful and follow instructions of your guides.

Spend a day exploring one of Costa Rica's most beautiful attractions Manuel Antonio National Park, on a guided full day tour from San Jose. With a stunning combination of beach, tropical forest and an abundance of flora and fauna, there is plenty to do and see on this popular day trip.

Manuel Antonio National Park is considered one of the most beautiful areas in Costa Rica. It combines a beach of crystal-clear waters with coral reefs, bordered by exuberant tropical vegetation and rainforest. Its beaches are counted among the best of the country, where snorkeling and the surfing are very popular.

On the way to Manuel Antonio National Park, you will cruise along the coastline enjoying scenic views and crossing plantations of African palms. You'll also travel past photogenic villages along the Pacific Coast, until you reach the port of Quepos and the National Park.

Since the park itself is closed to vehicles, you will hike to the preserve, crossing a creek. Once in the park, you can simply relax and enjoy the beach, sunbathe or join a nature walk along the park's trails, which will allow you to observe the park's abundant flora and fauna. In particular, several species of monkeys, iguanas, birds and possibly even the three-toed sloth can be seen. One of the trails borders Cathedral Point, from where the view of the park and the sea is spectacular.

Enjoy the perfect sunset on a scenic drive back to your Costa Rica hotel.

Experience the adrenaline-charged thrill of whitewater rafting on the Pacuare River! The scenery while rafting is simply unique. The tropical vegetation and power of the waters will transport you to a Central American fantasy world. This one-day adventure battling class III and IV rapids is an unforgettable Costa Rican experience not to be missed!

While in Costa Rica, head out rafting (approximately 3-4 hours) on this perfect tropical river, which due to its scenery and rapids has been declared one of the five best rafting rivers in the world. This is a trip of pure magic, unsurpassed beauty, wildlife and exhilarating fun.

The Pacuare River borders the Talamanca mountain range, home to native Cabecar Indians, jaguars, monkeys, sloth and an incredible variety of birds, butterflies and reptiles. You can look for these species, and enjoy the raw power of the pounding river, during your relaxing lunch break.

After the rafting has finished, relax on an enjoyable ride back to San Jose through the impressive Braulio Carrillo National Park after an adventure of a lifetime.

We recommend you bring the following:

• Camera
• Sandals
• Sunscreen
• Towel
• Extra Clothing

Join us on an expedition through the dense jungle of one of the most beautiful and scenic regions of Costa Rica. You'll sail through exotic channels and visit an important nesting site for the endangered green turtle at Tortuguero National Park on a full day guided tour from San Jose.

Leaving early, you'll travel through the Braulio Carrillo National Park, passing mountains covered in dense forests, and numerous rivers and waterfalls. Crossing the banana plantations, you'll then board a boat and sail to Tortuguero National Park.

Cruising through a navigable network of lagoons allows you to be in direct contact with the park's great variety of flora and fauna. You'll sail the exotic channels of Tortuguero National Park, famous for its secluded beaches where the seasonal nesting of gigantic green turtles takes place.

Spend a day cruising the waters of the Gulf of Nicoya as you head to Tortuga Island on a full day tour from Central Pacific. The white sandy beach and sparkling turquoise waters will entice you to stay for a day of relaxation in this beautiful environment.

Board a yacht at Puntarenas and enjoy a smooth ride on the Gulf of Nicoya. Admire the beautiful archipelago and look out for the many sea birds as you cruise to Tortuga Island. The island is known for its immaculate white sandy beach and turquoise waters, making it a perfect stop for swimming and snorkeling.

You will spend approximately four hours on the island, where you can enjoy different activities such as a canopy tour, walking trails, kayaking, snorkeling, swimming and beach sports. Or simply relax on the beach while your crew prepares an exquisite buffet-style lunch.

Get on board for the ride of a lifetime as you take on the rapids of the Savegre River in Costa Rica. Enjoy the captivating surroundings of the wild Costa Rican jungle while you make your way down the beautiful river. Suitable for all levels of rafting experience, the Savegre River offers a variety of class 2 and 3 rapids, with some class 4 rapids.

While in Costa Rica, don't miss the chance to head out rafting on the tropical Savegre River. The waters aren't too rough, but you have to work out how to manage them. You're sure to spot monkeys, colorful birds and lizards before your day ends.

Ride the rapids on one of the most popular rivers in Costa Rica as you taste the thrill of this adventure sport. This is a trip of pure magic, unsurpassed beauty, wildlife and exhilarating fun.

The Savegre River provides adventure and enjoyment for novices and experts alike. Experience the ride of a lifetime, while enjoying the surrounding tropical forest and its exotic vegetation.

Take your loved ones on this family-friendly tour of Costa Rica's exotic natural wonders! With the help of the educational and interactive environment at INBioparque, you and your family can learn more about Costa Rica's diverse flora and fauna.

The non-profit organization's aim is to promote a greater awareness of the value of biodiversity of the environment, thereby ensuring its conservation.

Sit back and enjoy a 15-minute audiovisual presentation that will show you the way biodiversity has been utilized in Costa Rica. Then, experience the feeling of traveling through Costa Rica's native forests of the Central Valley, the Humid Forest, the tropical Dry Forest and the Wetlands. Walking along the trails may turn out to be an adventure as you see white-tailed deer, three-toed sloths, green iguanas, snapping turtles, Hoffmann's woodpeckers, blue gray tanagers, rufous tailed hummingbirds and much more.

The adventure does not stop there! Along the trails are several stations with permanent live exhibits, including poisonous dart frogs, tarantulas, stingless bees, bullet ants, orchids and bromeliads.

INBioparque's lagoon is one of its most attractive sites. Here you can see the different species of fish and amphibians living in the lagoon through an underwater glass viewer. There are also several fish tanks to view the native freshwater fish that live in Costa Rica's wetlands.

Beautiful butterflies flutter around you while you appreciate their color and size. As you walk through the butterfly garden, your tour guide will show you the different species of butterflies and explain their metamorphosis cycle. Your tour ends with a sound and light presentation of Costa Rica's wild protected areas.

Enjoy a wide variety of Central American nature and sights on this Costa Rican day trip from San Jose. You'll visit the highest volcano in Costa Rica, the old city of Orosi and the colorful Lankester botanical gardens all in one day!

Your first stop for the day will be at the City of Cartago at the foot of the Irazu Volcano. This is the home of the Basilica of Los Angeles (Basilica de Nuestra Semora de Los Angeles), the focal point for pilgrims throughout Central America. Inside you will find a fine collection of small gold and silver images of human body parts, offered in the hope of healing.

Next you will discover Irazu Volcano, which at 11,000 feet (3.4 kilometers) above sea level is the highest volcano in Costa Rica. You will be amazed by how much the grey earth that surrounds the crater, half a mile wide, resembles the moon's surface.

After you have descended from the mountain you will arrive at the historic and colorful Valley of Orosi. Here you will have the opportunity to visit the oldest church of Costa Rica, the colonial church of Orosi, and its town.

Before being transported back to your San Jose hotel, you will have the opportunity to explore the stunning botanical gardens of Lankester.

Spend a day exploring one of Costa Rica's most beautiful attractions Manuel Antonio National Park on a full day guided tour from Central Pacific. With a stunning combination of beach, tropical forest and an abundance of flora and fauna, there is plenty to do and see on this popular day trip.

Manuel Antonio National Park is considered one of the most beautiful areas in Costa Rica. It combines a beach of crystal-clear waters with coral reefs, bordered by exuberant tropical vegetation and rainforest. Its beaches are counted among the best of the country, where snorkeling and the surfing are very popular.

On the way to Manuel Antonio National Park, you will cruise along the coastline enjoying scenic views and crossing plantations of African palms. You'll also travel past photogenic villages along the Pacific Coast, until you reach the port of Quepos and the National Park.

Since the park itself is closed to vehicles, you will hike to the preserve, crossing a creek. Once in the park, you can simply relax and enjoy the beach, sunbathe or join a nature walk along the park's trails, which will allow you to observe the park's abundant flora and fauna. In particular, several species of monkeys, iguanas, birds and possibly even the three-toed sloth can be seen. One of the trails borders Cathedral Point, from where the view of the park and the sea is spectacular.

Enjoy the perfect sunset on a scenic drive back to your Costa Rica hotel.

Enjoy the traditions of Costa Rica as you travel from San Jose to Pueblo Antiguo for a night of historical entertainment and education. You'll see a multimedia, interactive show depicting Costa Rican life in the past, before indulging in a buffet dinner.

This unique presentation takes you back in time to discover the history of Costa Rica. Performed in the center of a reproduction of the old town of San Jose, all the colors of the architecture, customs and traditions come together to show you the origins of this small country and its friendly people.

Followed by a local dinner buffet, this tour is both informative and fun. Great for the whole family or a romantic night out!

Whether you're a first-time rafter or an experienced rider looking for the excitement of Costa Rica, this rafting trip on the Sarapiqui River is for you. As your raft rounds each new bend on this tropical river, you'll be greeted with yet another breathtaking view. It’s an exciting way to see all the scenery Costa Rica has to offer!

Nature lovers, birdwatchers and outdoor enthusiasts will especially enjoy the ride through the rich vegetation that provides shelter to hummingbirds, toucans, woodpeckers and dozens of other species endemic to Costa Rica. It entails all aspects of a classic tropical river experience.

You will be picked up from your San Jose hotel in the morning, then drive for 2.5 hours through Costa Rica's countryside to reach the river put-in. Along the way, you will stop for a hearty Costa Rican breakfast.

After receiving safety instructions, you will board your inflatable raft and begin a memorable descent through the rainforest (Approximately 2 hours). A picnic lunch will be served on the riverbanks.

Take-out is in the afternoon, and you can change into dry clothes in the private facilities before boarding the comfortable minibus for the return trip to San Jose.

We recommend you bring the following:

• Camera
• Sandals
• Sunscreen
• Towel
• Extra Clothing

Combine art, beauty, culture and nature on this popular half-day guided tour. You will drive through the stunning scenery of Costa Rica as you travel to Grecia and Sarchi, two of the country’s most special towns.

The tour begins with a scenic drive through some of Costa Rica's largest coffee and sugar cane plantations. Admire the tropical landscape as you arrive in the town of Grecia.

Renowned for its famous steel church of the Lady of Mercy, Grecia is rich in architectural beauty. The church is made entirely of pre-fabricated metal plates which have been painted red. A rare sight, and a must-see while in Costa Rica.

The magic of this tour continues with a visit to the country's artisan town of Sarchi, where the famous oxcarts are built. You will have the opportunity to tour the fascinating factories and watch how the carts are constructed. Splendidly decorated in various sizes, these oxcarts are treasured for their unique beauty. The carts were once used to transport coffee beans over the mountains to the coast, and you won’t want to leave Costa Rica without one!

Come visit a variety of Costa Rica's wild residents on this half day jungle safari tour from Central Pacific . Home to one of the world's largest crocodile populations, the site also provides shelter to a whole spectrum of exotic animals. Admire the fascinating lifestyle of crocodiles, birds and lizards as you cruise down the Tarcoles River, located in the heart of the Costa Rican jungle.

Just two hours from urban San Jose, the Tarcoles River is one of four rivers flowing out of the Nicoya Peninsula. Home to a wide variety of vegetation and wildlife, you will have plenty to see on this exciting tour. You will be in the middle of one of the world's largest crocodile populations, allowing for up-close views and spectacular photographs. Some of the crocodiles are up to 15 feet (4.5 meters) long!

In addition to the crocodiles, over 50 kinds of birds can be seen, including the very rare scarlet macaw. The Tarcoles River is also home to a great variety of resident and migrant waterfowl. Jesus Christ lizards, named for their amazing ability to walk on water, are very common as well.

Your bilingual guide offers expert orientation about the crocodiles and other associated wildlife you may see. On the way downstream, the boat heads along the Guacalillo estuary, a diverse mangrove ecosystem that features four different species of mangrove trees.

Spend a leisurely morning or afternoon paddling the clear and calm turquoise waters on a Sea Kayak and Snorkeling tour along Costa Rica's Central Pacific Coast. Enjoy scenic views of Costa Rica's exotic countryside while you engage in a variety of exciting water sports. Ideal for beginners, experts and families, the aim of this tour is relaxation and fun!

Your half-day tour will start in Playa Agujas where, after meeting your highly professional guide, you will pick up all necessary equipment and head to the water. Here, you will paddle for about 30 to 40 minutes along spectacular cliffs filled with pelicans and frigate birds, heading to one of the nearby beaches.

Then you can enjoy a variety of aquatic activities such as swimming, snorkeling, beachcombing and event hermit crab races. Nature hikes and views of waterfalls are also on the agenda.

You will then be able to relax as a fresh fruit buffet is served on the beach. Then it's time to get back into the kayaks to paddle back to Playa Agujas.

Showers and changing rooms are available. Soft drinks are offered before we transport you back to your hotel.