San Jose Walking Nature Tour: Sloths, Birds and Trees
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant_then_manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
You will absolutely love San José after this experience. Guided by young biologists you will discover nature hiding in the middle of Costa Rica's largest city. You will get to experience with all your senses, wildlife you wouldn't have imagined existed minutes away from downtown. We are an organization called Oropopo Experience, looking to change the way tourism is done in Costa Rica while supporting young scientists, researchers, and local entrepreneurs.
Additional notes:
** From May to November we recommend booking the morning slot, however, afternoons are also great.
• The only San Jose walking nature tour.
• Explore one of the last green patches inside the city on foot with a local biologist.
• See, smell, taste, touch, and listen to nature.
• Find colorful birds, edible plants, and a wild sloth population on campus.
• A percentage of the earnings goes to Funga Conservation, a non-profit foundation.
• Small-group tour with a maximum of 10 people ensures an intimate experience
Available options
Public Tour
What's included
Telescope or binoculars for bird and sloth watching
All Fees and Taxes
Local English speaking guide
Detailed itinerary
1
We will visit the Campus of the University of Costa Rica, which holds some of the largest patches of forest in the San José Metro Area.
On our first stop, we will look for resident and migratory birds, incredible insects and amazing plants and flowers. We'll be talking about art, history, indigenous culture, and most of all, nature.
Then, we'll visit the main campus where we will be looking for sloths that live freely and hopefully even see the two different species that inhabit our country.
DISCLAIMER: This is not a Recue Center or Sloth Sactuary Tour. You will not be able to touch them, if found, the sloths will be seen in their natural habitat, which means most of the time they will be sleeping on the trees. Still, our experience is your best option at San Jose if you're a true nature lover.
This is a 2,5h walking tour, some parts will be exposed to intense sunlight. Not a heavy walk, but please consider your physical condition
What's not included
Food and drinks
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
Rain jacket
Closed-toe shoes
Water
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
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Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
This is a family-owned Cafe with benches and tables in the front yard, you can use a promotional code: promo-Oropopo to get discounts, use the bathroom or refill your water bottles. Closed on weekends.
About San José
San José, the capital of Costa Rica, is a vibrant city known for its rich cultural heritage, bustling markets, and colonial architecture. Nestled in the heart of the Central Valley, it offers a unique blend of urban life and natural beauty, with nearby volcanoes and coffee plantations adding to its allure.
Top Attractions
Museo del Jade
This museum houses an extensive collection of pre-Columbian jade artifacts, showcasing the rich history of Costa Rica.
Museum
1-2 hours
¢5,000 (CRC)
Mercado Central
A bustling market offering a variety of local foods, souvenirs, and crafts. It's a great place to experience the local culture.
Market
1-2 hours
Free entry
Teatro Nacional de Costa Rica
A stunning example of neoclassical architecture, this theater hosts various cultural performances and events.
Historical
1 hour
¢6,000 (CRC) for tours
Parque La Sabana
A large urban park with walking paths, sports facilities, and a lake. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Gallo Pinto
A traditional breakfast dish made with rice, beans, onions, and peppers, 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
Can be vegetarian or vegan with modifications
Olla de Carne
A hearty beef and vegetable soup, often served with rice, tortillas, and salad.
Dinner
Can be made vegetarian
Chifrijo
A popular bar snack made with fried pork, beans, rice, and avocado.
Snack
Can be made vegetarian with modifications
Popular Activities
Hiking in national parks
Zip-lining in nearby areas
Coffee tasting tours
Spa treatments
Museum visits
Historical tours
White-water rafting in nearby rivers
Coffee plantation tours
Best Time to Visit
December to April
The dry season offers pleasant weather with minimal rain, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
22-28°C
72-82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Costa Rican Colón (CRC)
Time Zone
CST (UTC-6)
Electricity
110VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
San José is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, especially in crowded areas. Exercise caution and keep valuables secure.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Avoid walking alone at night
- • Use official taxis or ride-sharing apps
Getting there
By air
- Juan Santamaría International Airport • 20 km (12 miles) from city center
By bus
Cariari Bus Terminal, San José Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around San José. They cover most of the city and its suburbs.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, DiDi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Barrio Escalante
Barrio Amón
San Pedro
Day trips
Poás Volcano National Park
50 km (31 miles) • Half day
A stunning national park featuring the active Poás Volcano and beautiful crater lakes.
Irazú Volcano National Park
55 km (34 miles) • Half day
A national park featuring the Irazú Volcano, one of the highest peaks in Costa Rica, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Alajuela
20 km (12 miles) • Half day
A charming city known for its colonial architecture, museums, and the Juan Santamaría Museum, dedicated to Costa Rica's national hero.
Festivals
Fiesta de las Luces • December
Festival de las Artes • March
Pro tips
- Visit the Mercado Central early in the morning for the freshest produce and to avoid crowds.
- Try local street food for an authentic and delicious culinary experience.
- Explore the city's museums and cultural attractions to gain a deeper understanding of Costa Rica's rich history.
- Take a day trip to nearby natural attractions, such as Poás Volcano National Park, for stunning views and outdoor activities.
- Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your interactions with locals and show respect for the culture.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
