Irazú Volcano, Orosi Valley & Lankester Gardens from San José
Active
10h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Costa Rica’s natural beauty and cultural heritage with this full-day tour. Begin at Irazú Volcano National Park, where you’ll stand at the summit of the country’s highest active volcano and marvel at its dramatic crater and panoramic views.
Continue into the enchanting Orosi Valley, known for its lush landscapes, colonial architecture, and tranquil charm, before visiting the historic Ujarrás Ruins, surrounded by rolling green hills and colorful gardens. Your adventure concludes at the world-renowned Lankester Botanical Garden, home to one of the finest orchid collections on the planet and a breathtaking variety of tropical plants. Ideal for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and culture lovers, this experience perfectly blends volcanoes, history, and botanical wonders into one must-do Costa Rica adventure.
Available options
Tarifas
Precios temporada 2024 <br/>Pickup included
What's included
Certified Tour Guide Bilingual -English & Spanish -
Lunch
Air-conditioned vehicle
Transportation included from San Jose Hotels and nearby
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
The tour will begin with us trekking south along the Panamerican Highway until we reach the base of the behemoth “Iztaru” (a name of an indigenous village that was situated on the flanks of the volcano, and a likely candidate as a possible origin for the current name of the Irazu Volcano).
The winding road traverses fertile lands in which all types and forms of vegetation are cultivated, all the while affording us a spectacular panoramic view of the surrounding hills and valleys. And, at the very top of the summit, on a clear day, one can be privy to an unforgettable bird’s eye view of both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
2
A famous peregrination site for many believers, some of which travel for days or even weeks on foot, in a pilgrimage of faith, to the site. The Basilica has large vaulted ceilings and exquisite examples of stained glass windows, and is a must see.
3
Stop 3
Lankester Gardens, a University of Costa Rica Center for investigation that protects more than 800 species of orchids, bromeliads and countless species of other plants.
What's not included
Tips
Bottled Water
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.7
26 reviews
5★
21
4★
4
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor
4.5
15 reviews
5★
10
4★
3
3★
1
2★
1
1★
0
Important information
Service animals allowed
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What to bring? Coat - Camera - Binoculars - Comfortable walking shoes - Raincoat
If you are travelling with children please let us know their ages, during the booking process.
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
Instant confirmation
