From San Jose: Secrets of Guayabo & Irazú Volcano National Park
Active
10h - 12h
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
We love to run this Experience since it feels like taking friends on a road trip filled with tradition and symbols that are characteristic of the costarican Culture: Volcanoes, Prehispanic cultures, Coffee, and Religion.
Our guides are highly knowledgeable and will make you feel like family. We are constantly checking the weather and your interests to make this tour better fit your mood. So some stops can be added or removed depending on your choices, however, we don´t want to give too many spoilers ;)
• The only Full-Day Cartago Province Tour that combines Nature, Culture and Archaeological Sites.
• Discover the details of the dwarf forest at Irazu Volcano Crater, one of the most threatened ecosystems in the world.
• Enjoy the view and stop as much as you want to get great landscape, farms and rainforest photos.
• A percentage of the earnings goes to Funga Conservation, a non-profit foundation.
• Small-group tour with a maximum of 4 people ensures an intimate experience
Available options
Group Tour
Pickup included
What's included
Small-group tour
Hotel pick up and drop off
Entrance fee to Archaeological Site
Biologist or certified guide
Entrance fee to National Park
Private transportation
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Visit the National Park where we can check and even be inside one of the 3 craters (inactive) of the Highest Volcano in the country. We will also experience the highland ecosystem of Paramo; a tropical dwarf forest.
Please pay your entrance fee on the day of the tour by cash.
2
We will visit the closest town to Turrialba Volcano,"La Central Town" where the sights are impressive due to the volcanic activity of recent years which has created a barren landscape.
The town is really interesting because it's kind of abandoned and has a spooky feel to it, however, the surroundings are full of farms with picturesque landscapes and views. With some luck, we will be able to see potatoes, carrots, beets, and other vegetables being harvested by locals and learn about costarican agriculture.
3
We will visit the most important archaeological landmark in the country. This prehispanic settlement was recognized as a Civil engineering World Heritage site and is located in a protected area surrounded by lush rainforest. You'll learn about costarican indigenous cultures and with luck, we'll see some interesting fauna as well.
Please pay your entrance fee on the day of the tour by cash.
What's not included
(Lunch price can range from $8-$14pp)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
9 reviews
5★
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4★
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3★
0
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Tripadvisor
5.0
33 reviews
5★
33
4★
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Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Mostly Sightseeing tour, but we can walk on some several stops
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
