Cartago Highlights: Irazu Volcano and small towns. Private Tour

San José , Costa Rica

Cartago Highlights: Irazu Volcano and small towns. Private Tour

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About this experience

Enjoy the beautiful Cartago Province with this private tour. Visit the Summit of the Irazu Volcano, the second highest summit of Costa Rica. Learn about its history and past intense volcanic activity. After it, enjoy the beautiful countryside and the Orosi Valley with it emblematic Iglesia de San Jose de Orosi, which was built in 1743 and is the oldest church in the country still in use today. The church's whitewashed walls and classic Spanish-colonial architecture are a testament to the long hours and artistic dedication that went into this church's design.

Continuing the journey, you will visit Las Ruinas de Ujarras. The Spanish colonial church was built between 1575 and 1580. Today, the ruins are surrounded by a beautiful garden and it is a perfect place for learning about the spanish settlements. Cachi Lake and them La Basilica de Los Angeles are part of this cultural tour.

Available options

Cartago Highlights: Irazu Volcano and small towns. Private Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Visit to Ujarras Ruins

Irazu Volcano National Park entrance fee

100% private deluxe transportation

Visit to Orosi valley & Town. Entrance to museum

Bottle of water and snack

Visit to Virgen de los Angeles Basilica

Delicious typical lunch

Professional naturalist tour guide just for you

Detailed itinerary

the Basilica de los Angeles is the most important temple of Costa Rica and home of the Virgen de los Angeles

Stop 2

The second highest pick in Costa Rica is the Irazu Volcano. A very impressive crater can be seen from the edge

The first church build in Costa Rica. See the ruins and learn a little bit about our history

Stop 4

a beautiful valley and river, where the Orosi Town is located and the old church is a must to see

One of the oldest churches build in Costa Rica are located in this picturesque town

What's not included

Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)

Tip for tour guide

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.7

3 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults

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.