Private Tour from San José: Irazú Volcano & Cartago Sites

Costa Rica , Costa Rica

Private Tour from San José: Irazú Volcano & Cartago Sites

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This private day trip from San José blends Costa Rica’s natural beauty and cultural heritage in one journey. Begin at Irazú Volcano National Park, the country’s highest volcano, where you can stand on the crater’s rim and admire sweeping views. Continue to Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels in Cartago, Costa Rica’s most important pilgrimage site with remarkable architecture. The drive then takes you through the scenic Orosí Valley, where coffee farms, rivers, and traditional villages create a picturesque countryside. Finally, explore the Ujarrás Ruins, a 17th-century church surrounded by peaceful gardens. With a professional English-speaking driver, hotel pickup and drop-off, and fully customizable stops, this experience offers the perfect mix of history, spirituality, and breathtaking landscapes.

Available options

Private Tour from San José: Irazú Volcano & Cartago Sites

Pickup included

What's included

Fuel and Tolls

Water

WiFi on board

All taxes and handling charges

Professional English-speaking local driver/informal guide

Hotel or custom pickup and drop-off

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Rising over 3,400 meters, Irazú is Costa Rica’s highest active volcano. On clear days, visitors can see both the Pacific and Atlantic coasts from its summit. The main crater, often filled with a striking green lake, is surrounded by lunar-like landscapes. Entrance ticket required and not included in the ride price.

Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels. This grand basilica is one of Costa Rica’s most important religious landmarks and a popular pilgrimage site. Its blend of Byzantine and colonial architecture, along with the sacred statue of La Negrita, makes it a fascinating cultural stop. Free entry.

Stop 3

Orosí Valley Scenic Drive. A fertile valley filled with coffee plantations, rivers, and rolling green hills. The road winds past traditional villages and open landscapes, offering countless photo opportunities along the way. Free stop.

Ujarrás Ruins. The remains of one of the country’s oldest churches, dating back to the 17th century. Surrounded by gardens and picnic areas, the ruins provide a peaceful glimpse into Costa Rica’s colonial history. Free entry.

What's not included

Meals and beverages

Tips and Gratuities

Irazú Volcano National Park

Licensed guides available to accompany you inside the attractions

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

For 1-5 people: A spacious minivan will be assigned to your group.

For 6-12 people: A private minibus will be assigned to your group.

Throughout your ride, our drivers serve as informal local guides—sharing stories, history, and local tips at every stop. Please note that drivers are not permitted to enter museums or archaeological areas, but they’ll ensure you make the most of your visit with suggestions and background information before you explore on your own.

Some stops on your itinerary may be closed on the date of travel due to public holidays, maintenance or special events. We recommend verifying opening hours on the attraction’s official website or contacting us before your tour. If a stop is unexpectedly closed, we will try to offer a suitable alternative.

Important notes

Please show this to your driver.

About Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a tropical paradise known for its lush rainforests, stunning beaches, and incredible biodiversity. It's a destination that combines eco-tourism with adventure, offering everything from zip-lining through the canopy to relaxing on pristine shores.

Top Attractions

Arenal Volcano

Arenal Volcano is one of the most iconic natural landmarks in Costa Rica. It's an active volcano surrounded by lush rainforests and hot springs.

Nature Full day Free to hike, hot springs vary from USD 20-50

Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

Monteverde is a world-renowned cloud forest known for its biodiversity and unique ecosystems. It's a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Nature Full day USD 25-50

Manuel Antonio National Park

Manuel Antonio is one of the most visited national parks in Costa Rica, offering stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and abundant wildlife.

Nature Full day USD 10-16

Must-Try Local Dishes

Gallo Pinto

A traditional breakfast dish made with rice and beans, often served with eggs, tortillas, and natilla (sour cream).

Breakfast Vegetarian

Casado

A typical lunch dish consisting of rice, beans, salad, plantains, and a choice of meat or fish.

Lunch/Dinner Can be vegetarian or vegan with modifications

Ceviche

A refreshing dish made with raw fish marinated in lime juice, mixed with vegetables, and served with tortilla chips.

Appetizer Contains seafood, gluten-free if served without chips

Popular Activities

Zip-lining White-water rafting Hiking Surfing Kayaking Beach lounging Spa treatments Yoga

Best Time to Visit

December to April

This is the dry season on the Pacific coast, offering sunny days and minimal rain. It's ideal for beach activities and wildlife viewing.

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 (Central Standard Time)

Electricity

110VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in certain areas

Costa Rica is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in tourist areas and cities. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use official taxis or ride-sharing apps
• Be cautious of strangers offering help or services

Getting there

By air

Juan Santamaría International Airport • 20 km from San José
Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport • 10 km from Liberia

By bus

San José, San Carlos, Limón

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around. They are generally safe and reliable, though schedules may be irregular in rural areas.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Local taxi apps

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

San José La Fortuna Tamarindo

Day trips

Poás Volcano National Park

50 km from San José • Half day

Poás Volcano National Park offers stunning views of the active Poás Volcano and its crater lake.

Irazú Volcano National Park

60 km from San José • Half day

Irazú Volcano National Park is home to the active Irazú Volcano, offering breathtaking views and unique geological features.

Tortuguero National Park

100 km from San José • Full day

Tortuguero National Park is a remote and pristine wilderness area known for its canals, wildlife, and sea turtle nesting sites.

Festivals

Fiestas de Palmares • January Carnaval de Limón • October Festival de las Luces • December

Pro tips

Visit during the shoulder or off-peak seasons to avoid crowds and save money
Pack for both warm and cool weather, as temperatures can vary by region and elevation
Learn a few basic phrases in Spanish to enhance your experience and connect with locals
Use eco-friendly and sustainable tourism businesses to support conservation efforts
Be cautious of scams and petty crime, especially in tourist areas and cities