San José: Irazú Volcano, Orosi Day Tour & Lankester Gardens

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Day Trips From Tours Guided tours Nature & adventure Outdoor activities Landmarks & monuments Culture & history Day trips Sightseeing Garden & park tours Churches & cathedrals Volcano tours National parks Religious & spiritual activities Viewing points

Discover Costa Rica's natural wonders and historical sites. Visit Irazú Volcano, Cartago's Basilica, and enjoy a traditional lunch in Orosi Valley.

Highlights

  • Feel the thrill of standing atop Irazú Volcano
  • Witness the rare view of two oceans from the summit
  • Explore Cartago's historic Basilica and its significance
  • Discover the botanical wonders at Lankester Garden
  • Enjoy a traditional Costa Rican lunch in Orosi Valley

Description

Embark on a journey filled with history, nature, and culture, exploring some of Costa Rica’s most iconic sites. We begin our tour from San José, taking the Pan-American Highway South, as we ascend toward the Irazú Volcano, the highest in the country at 3,432 meters (11,000 feet) above sea level. Along the way, we pass through fertile farmlands, where crops such as potatoes, onions, and garlic thrive, showcasing the richness of the volcanic soil. At the summit, you will witness its main craters: Irazú, Playa Hermosa, and Diego de la Haya. On clear days, this natural lookout offers a breathtaking view, where you may see both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans simultaneously, a rare and awe-inspiring phenomenon. We then descend to Cartago, Costa Rica’s former capital, founded in 1563. Here, we visit the Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels, a significant pilgrimage site since 1635, home to the revered image of the Virgin of the Angels, Costa Rica’s patron saint. Our next stop is the Lankester Botanical Garden, a renowned research and conservation center managed by the University of Costa Rica. Established in the 1940s by British botanist Charles Lankester, this sanctuary is home to over 800 species of orchids, bromeliads, and other epiphytic plants, making it a paradise for plant lovers. We conclude the tour in the Orosi Valley, a scenic region surrounded by mountains, coffee plantations, and sugar cane fields, with a history deeply rooted in colonial times. Here, we visit the Ruins of Ujarrás, the remnants of one of the country’s oldest churches, before enjoying a traditional Costa Rican lunch at a charming local restaurant, soaking in the valley’s breathtaking landscapes. An unforgettable experience where nature, history, and culture come together in one incredible day. Book your tour today!

Includes

Round-trip transportation Bilingual guide Entrance fee to Irazú Volcano Entrance fee to Lankester Gardens Lunch

Important Information

  • Estimated Departure from San José: 6:00 a.m - estimated return to San José: 4:30 p.m. Minimum of 2 participants required Bring a copy of your passport or driver's license Wear comfortable walking shoes and a raincoat

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

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