Semi Private La Paz Waterfall Gardens & Safari in Sarapiqui River from San Jose
Active
9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Take a walk through an enchanting Costa Rican landscape alive with rescued jaguars, resplendent butterflies, exotic birds, and tropical cascades with a tour to the La Paz Waterfall Gardens. Travel from San Jose to this private nature reserve, designed to educate visitors and provide a sanctuary for rescued wildlife through a variety of gardens and exhibits. Also discover the beauties of the Sarapiqui River all in one day.
Available options
Semi Private La Paz Waterfall Gardens & Safari in Sarapiqui River from San Jose
Pickup included
What's included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Buffet lunch
Professional guide
National Park fees
Guaranteed to skip the long lines
Transport by air-conditioned minivan
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
La Paz Waterfall Gardens is the # 1 most visited private ecological attraction in Costa Rica that offers you the best trails near San Jose, the most famous waterfalls in Costa Rica, including the famous La Paz Waterfall, an animal sanctuary and private reserve of wildlife with more than 100 species of animals and environmental education programs. Five waterfalls, cloud forest and rain forest, trails, aviary with 40 species of birds, feeding toucans in the palm of the hand, titi monkeys, display of insects, butterfly farm with their laboratory, 2-toed sloths, capuchin monkeys or capuchins, spider monkeys, garden of hummingbirds with more than 26 documented species, feeding hummingbirds in the palm of the hand in the mornings and afternoons, serpentarium, jaguar, pumas, ocelots, tigrillos, cauceles, house of peace with area of domestic animals and cart with oxen. Frog, display of orchids, display of heliconias, bromeliads. All in once place
2
Stop 2
You will go to the Caribbean area to visit the famous Sarapiqui River that crosses a variety of environments: humid tropical forests, mountains, pastures and more. The river is popular with rafters, who come to ride their rapids, but it also has quieter sections that are perfect for safari-style floats. This tour is a relaxed boat trip to explore the vibrant river ecosystem. As your boat sails downstream, be attentive to wildlife in the water and on land. You may be able to see monkeys, iguanas, sloths, crocodiles, lizards, otters and a wide variety of bird species. Your guides will help you detect animals and explain the ecological importance of the surrounding area. This tour lasts two hours and takes place in a comfortable and modern boat. The boat has a special engine designed to minimize the impact on the environment.
What's not included
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Written guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
6 reviews
5★
6
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
6 reviews
5★
6
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Dress code is smart casual
Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required
Important notes
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• Dress code is smart casual
• If you will not be arriving at your destination within the specified reconfirmation period, please reconfirm with the local service provider prior to travel, or upon arrival at your destination. Please note that departure times and locations may vary slightly.
Hotel pickups commence prior to this time, you must contact the local service provider to verify your exact pickup time.
Times are subject to change due to local traffic conditions.
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
