Central Pacific, Costa Rica , Costa Rica

Manuel Antonio Villa Vanilla Spice Tour

Active

(8 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Villa Vanilla offers a hands-on experience for all ages, where you’ll explore 20+ spice varieties, including American and Asian species like vanilla, cinnamon, cacao, and black pepper. Enjoy homemade treats at our rainforest viewpoint with stunning tropical views and frequent sightings of hummingbirds, toucans, and monkeys.

Ideal for cooking enthusiasts, gardeners, and eco-conscious travelers, Villa Vanilla combines education with an unforgettable sensory experience. Did you know? Out of 30,000 orchid species, vanilla is the only edible one! Highly recommended for families, photographers, and nature lovers.

Available options

Manuel Antonio Villa Vanilla Spice Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Spices taste

Certified crew

2hrs 30 minutes tour

Transportation

Detailed itinerary

We sustainably grow more than 20 spices, some native to the tropics of the American Continent and some native to Asia, species such as our beloved vanilla, true ceylon cinnamon, cacao, black pepper, allspice, turmeric and variety of exotic fruits and medicinal plants.

This tour is completely hands-on and will satisfy the curiosity of tourgoers of all ages. All your senses will be involved while identifying a wide variety of intereesting species. Special taste of homemade treats highlighting spices that we grow at the farm, takes place at our rainforest viewpoint. Besides the amazing lush tropical forest view, some frecuently wildlife visitor are hummingbirds, toucans, macaws, and squirrel monkeys.

Whether your interests lie on cooking, spices, gardening or sustaineble agriculture, etc. a visit to Villa Vanilla is an unique opportunitty highly recommended by previous visitors.

Do you know that?: From more than 30 thousand orquid species, Vanilla is the only edible one.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

5 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

If not pick up required, we can meet on site, must arrive 15 minutes before tour startime

Important notes

Don't need to print your ticket

About Central Pacific, Costa Rica

The Central Pacific region of Costa Rica is a vibrant coastal area known for its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and diverse wildlife. It's a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences, making it a top destination for travelers seeking a mix of nature and activities.

Top Attractions

Manuel Antonio National Park

One of the most famous national parks in Costa Rica, known for its beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and diverse wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, and toucans.

Nature Half to full day Moderate: $16 per adult, $5 per child

Jacó Beach

A popular beach town known for its surfing, vibrant nightlife, and beautiful sandy beaches.

Beach Half to full day Free

Carara National Park

A wildlife-rich national park known for its diverse bird species, including the famous scarlet macaw, and lush rainforests.

Nature Half to full day Moderate: $10 per adult, $5 per child

Must-Try Local Dishes

Ceviche

A refreshing dish made with fresh raw fish marinated in lime juice, mixed with onions, peppers, and cilantro.

Appetizer Contains fish and seafood, gluten-free if prepared without additives.

Gallo Pinto

A traditional Costa Rican breakfast dish made with rice and beans, cooked with onions, peppers, and spices.

Breakfast Vegetarian, can be made vegan by omitting butter.

Casado

A typical Costa Rican lunch plate consisting of rice, beans, salad, plantains, and a choice of protein, usually chicken, fish, or beef.

Lunch Can be made vegetarian or vegan with plant-based protein options.

Popular Activities

Surfing Hiking Ziplining Beach lounging Spa treatments Sunset watching Local markets Coffee tours

Best Time to Visit

December to April

This is the dry season with sunny days, perfect for beach activities, hiking, and wildlife spotting. It's the most popular time to visit due to the ideal weather conditions.

24-30°C 75-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas

Currency

Costa Rican Colón (CRC)

Time Zone

GMT-6

Electricity

110VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

The Central Pacific region of Costa Rica is generally safe for travelers, but it's important to take common-sense precautions, especially in tourist areas and at night.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night.
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Use reputable tour operators and agree on prices before starting a tour.

Getting there

By air

Juan Santamaría International Airport • 20 km from San José
Tobías Bolaños International Airport • 5 km from San José

By bus

San José Terminal 7-10

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around. They are frequent and connect major towns and tourist destinations.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Jacó Manuel Antonio Quepos

Day trips

Tarcoles River Boat Tour

80 km from San José • Half day

A scenic boat tour along the Tarcoles River, known for its diverse wildlife, including crocodiles, monkeys, and birds.

Punta Leona Beach

120 km from San José • Full day

A beautiful and less crowded beach with white sand and clear waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxation.

Festivals

Fiestas de Quepos • August Jacó Surf Festival • June

Pro tips

Visit Manuel Antonio National Park early in the morning to avoid crowds and see more wildlife.
Try local seafood dishes like ceviche and fresco at beachfront restaurants.
Explore local markets for authentic souvenirs and handicrafts.
Be cautious of strong currents and riptides when swimming at beaches.
Use eco-friendly sunscreen to protect marine life and coral reefs.