Top San Jose Day Trips - page 9

Poas Volcano Half Day Tour

4 to 5 hoursFree Cancellation

from $92

Gay Men Only Waterfall experience close to San Jose

If you’re looking for an adventure and you’re stuck in San José this is the perfect mix of nature, hiking and sunshine. This is a men only tour and you will have the chance to bare it all and enjoy nature. We will be going to a local swimming hole with a waterfall close to San José. I.e. this is not an adventure where you spend all day in bus. Some level of fitness is required to cross through the river to get to our clothing optional spot. Curious, confident, or gay men welcome to join! We will meet in Parque Francia in San José and have a coffee before heading out to Ciudad Colon together. Feel free to bring snacks. Along the way we will also be stopping by a pulpería (local mom and pop convenience store) where you will be able to buy drinks and snacks as well before heading the the waterfall. Additional items you might want to bring: bug spray, water, sunscreen, crocs or flip flops.

Gay Men Only Waterfall experience close to San Jose

4 to 6 hoursFree Cancellation

from $40

Manuel Antonio is one of Costa Rica’s most iconic national parks, where our naturalist tour takes you through lush rainforest trails to spot sloths, monkeys, birds, and other wildlife.

Explore the beauty of Manuel Antonio National Park, known for its pristine beaches and vibrant wildlife. Start your day early, crossing lush mountains and stopping for a traditional Costa Rican breakfast along the Tárcoles River. Once at the park, venture through rainforest trails to spot monkeys, sloths, and exotic birds before relaxing on the beach or hiking to Punta Catedral for stunning views. After a day of adventure, enjoy a delicious lunch before returning to San José. - Full-day tour lasting approximately 13 hours - Includes transportation, breakfast, lunch, and park entrance fee - Bilingual guide for enriching insights into the local ecosystem - Ideal for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and beachgoers alike

Manuel Antonio National Park Day Tour From San José

13 to 15 hoursFree Cancellation

from $169

It was one of the country’s most active volcanoes for decades and remains an impressive sight. The area surrounding the volcano features lush rainforests, lava trails, and rich wildlife.

Discover the stunning landscapes of Arenal on this full-day tour that combines adventure with relaxation. Visit the artisan town of Sarchí, home to the world's largest ox cart, before enjoying a tasty Costa Rican lunch in La Fortuna. Marvel at the majestic Arenal Volcano, then unwind at Baldi Hot Springs, where thermal waters invite relaxation amidst lush surroundings. This tour is perfect for travelers seeking both cultural experiences and natural beauty, offering a unique glimpse into Costa Rica's rich biodiversity. - Duration: 13 hours of exploration and relaxation - Includes round-trip transportation and bilingual guide - Visit the vibrant town of Sarchí and enjoy a traditional lunch - Access to Baldi Hot Springs with towels and lockers provided

From San Jose, Arenal Volcano, Hot Springs and sloth guided Tour

13 to 14 hoursFree Cancellation

from $190

One of Costa Rica’s most impressive active volcanoes, located about 2,700 meters (8,858 ft) above sea level.
Poás features one of the largest active craters in the world.

Discover the natural beauty of Costa Rica on this immersive 10-hour combo tour. Begin your adventure at Poás Volcano National Park, where you can walk to the crater viewpoint and soak in the incredible views of the active volcano nestled in a lush cloud forest. After a traditional breakfast, visit a coffee plantation for an insightful tour and tasting. The journey continues to the La Paz Waterfall Gardens, a sanctuary filled with pristine rainforest trails, stunning waterfalls, and vibrant wildlife, including monkeys and exotic birds. Enjoy a delicious buffet lunch featuring local cuisine before concluding your day. - 10-hour guided tour covering Poás Volcano and La Paz Waterfall Gardens - Includes round-trip transportation, breakfast, and buffet lunch - Explore coffee plantations and learn about Costa Rican coffee production - Experience diverse wildlife and beautiful trails at La Paz Waterfall Gardens

DOKA Coffe tour Poás Volcano and La Paz Waterfall Gardens Combo

10 to 12 hoursFree Cancellation

from $189

You can watch the crater of the volcano closely.

This tour is not just a hike to a waterfall; it is a complete wildlife and nature experience. Unlike other tours, here you can: Admire five distinct waterfalls within a single park, each with spectacular views and unique photo opportunities. Observe rescued animals in their habitat, including toucans, jaguars, sloths and monkeys, something not offered by most excursions. Enjoy an expertly guided tour, which will tell you the history of the park, its ecosystem and curious facts about the local flora and fauna. Combine adventure and comfort: safe and accessible trails, rest areas and the option of a delicious buffet lunch with mountain views. In short, this tour allows you to immerse yourself in the nature of Costa Rica without losing comfort or security, offering stunning photos, close contact with fauna and an educational and entertaining experience for the whole family.

Poás Volcano, Cafe Doka and Peace Falls Day Tour

10 hoursFree Cancellation

from $188

Poás Volcano and Visit to Peace Falls Private Tour

The La Paz Coffee Tour, Poás Volcano and Falls is a complete experience that combines tradition, breathtaking scenery and lush nature in one day. Start with a visit to a coffee plantation, where you will know the process of the bean from the plant to the cup, while enjoying beautiful mountain views. Then, explore the imposing Poás Volcano, one of the most impressive active volcanoes in the country, with its huge crater and unforgettable panoramic views. To close with a golden snap, walk the trails of La Paz Waterfall Gardens, surrounded by rainforest, majestic waterfalls and an incredible variety of wildlife. An ideal tour for those who want to discover the best of Costa Rica in one adventure.

Poás Volcano and Visit to Peace Falls Private Tour

8 hoursFree Cancellation

Experience the Best Safe Adventure on Scheduled Tours

from $250

4 to 10 hoursFree Cancellation

from $200

Sacred Land Journey Guided Ceremonial Experience Mount Chirripo

At the foot of Costa Rica's highest and most sacred mountain lives a five-hectare sanctuary of cloud forest, medicinal gardens, and ceremonial land. This is where your journey begins. Led by Thomas Michael, sacred land guardian, gridworker, and initiated guide with direct lineage from Qero Paqo elders in Peru and Arhuaco Mamas in Colombia, this 5–6 hour immersion takes small groups into the living intelligence of Chirripó. You'll move through sacred terrain, engage in land-based ceremony, share food grown from the earth, and return with something you didn't arrive with. This is not a hike with a spiritual flavor. It is a guided encounter with one of the most powerful mountain ecosystems in the Western Hemisphere, held with intention from beginning to end.

Sacred Land Journey Guided Ceremonial Experience Mount Chirripo

4 to 7 hours

from $222

Private Manuel Antonio Park Full day Tour

Step into a world where dense, emerald rainforest meets the sparkling, turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean. Manuel Antonio National Park is a vibrant, living paradise waiting to be explored. As you wander down winding jungle trails, look up—playful white-faced capuchins, howler monkeys, and rare squirrel monkeys swing through the canopy, while gentle sloths snooze in the treetops. Bright toucans and iguanas complete this wild, colorful tapestry. But the journey doesn't end in the forest; emerge onto pristine, white-sand beaches like Playa Manuel Antonio, where warm, crystal-clear waves invite you to take a refreshing swim. Whether you are mesmerized by exotic wildlife, panoramic ocean lookouts, or pure tropical serenity, this guided immersion offers an unforgettable day in Costa Rica’s most famous natural wonder.

Private Manuel Antonio Park Full day Tour

13 hoursFree Cancellation

from $285

Immerse yourself in one of Costa Rica’s most biodiverse regions. Located near the Carara National Park in the Central Pacific, this exclusive hiking tour takes you deep into a private tropical rainforest to witness the spectacular Bijagual Waterfall—the second highest waterfall in Costa Rica, towering at an impressive 328 meters (over 1,000 feet). Led by a certified expert local guide, you will hike through dense jungle trails, wade across pristine mountain rivers, spot incredible wildlife like Scarlet Macaws, and swim in crystal-clear natural pools. After this exhilarating hike, the adventure continues with an exceptional culinary experience at The Crocs Skywalk, where you will enjoy a premium artisanal lunch paired with breathtaking panoramic views of the famous Tárcoles River and its giant crocodiles from an exclusive aerial perspective.

Bijagual Waterfall Hiking Tour

8 hoursFree Cancellation

4.5

from $250

During this 2-hour river safari, you will ride in a comfortable boat down the Sarapiqui River and enjoy the very rich wildlife of this region. In there, it is easy to see Howler Monkeys, White-Faced Capuchin Monkeys, Sloths, Toucans, Crocodiles, giant Iguanas, River Turtles, Otters, many aquatic birds and more. After the boat safari, a short drive will take you to La Tirimbina Biological Reserve. 10% of Tirimbina is accessible for tourist and educational activities, the rest of the reserve is maintained for research and conservation. Within the area open to the public, they have easily accessible trails that will allow you to visit the different microenvironments of the rainforest. Access to the forest is through a 264 m long suspension bridge, which crosses the Sarapiquí River. Additionally, there is a second suspension bridge open to the public between the trails to explore the forest from another perspective.

Sarapiqui River Cruise & Rainforest Haniging Bridge Nature Walk

River Boat Expedition & Rainforest walk. Private Tour

8 hoursFree Cancellation

This tour is the ultimate choice for travelers seeking total flexibility, convenience, and non-stop excitement, as it allows you to fully customize your perfect Costa Rican adventure by pairing any two premium activities—from thrilling ATVs and ziplines to scenic horseback rides and interactive chocolate tours. Operating directly from San José with private, air-conditioned transportation, expert bilingual guides, and a delicious included lunch, it eliminates all the hassle of planning while delivering a seamless, full-day highland-to-coast experience. Whether you are craving high-adrenaline action, serene nature exploration, or a mix of both, this customizable combo ensures every guest gets the exact adventure they want in a single, unforgettable day.

from $299

Best Adventure Combo Tour Mix Six Match Two

Best Adventure Combo Tour Mix Six Match Two

10 hoursFree Cancellation

from $325

Paddle across Costa Rica’s largest lake with front-row views of the majestic Arenal Volcano. This private, all-inclusive tour blends outdoor adventure with local flavor — enjoy a calm morning on the water, visit a rural café with a waterfall view, and learn about the region’s cultural roots along the way. With gourmet meals, personalized guidance, and full comfort throughout, this experience offers a peaceful yet enriching escape into Costa Rica’s natural beauty.

Likely to Sell Out

Lake Arenal Private Kayak/SUP Tour – All-Inclusive from San José

Lake Arenal Private Kayak/SUP Tour – All-Inclusive from San José

10 to 12 hoursFree Cancellation

from $300

This tour is the perfect choice for travelers seeking the ultimate blend of high-flying thrill and up-close wildlife encounters, seamlessly combining two of Costa Rica’s most iconic attractions in a single day. Starting with private, door-to-door transportation from San José, you will soar above the rainforest canopy on a world-class zipline with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, followed by an exclusive private eco-boat cruise along the Tárcoles River to observe massive wild crocodiles and exotic tropical birds. With a delicious included Costa Rican buffet lunch, top-tier safety gear, and expert naturalist guides leading every step of the way, this 10-hour day trip delivers a hassle-free, action-packed immersion into the very best of Costa Rica's Central Pacific region.

Jungle Zipline Canopy Tour and Crocodile Safari Tour

Jungle Zipline Canopy Tour and Crocodile Safari Tour

10 hoursFree Cancellation

from $350

Guided access to one of Costa Rica’s most impressive waterfalls, without additional permits or logistical complications. The experience includes an interpretive hike along trails immersed in rainforest, guided by certified biodiversity specialists, allowing authentic and safe contact with nature. Limited groups ensure more personalized attention and a pace that encourages contemplation, rest and bathing in natural pools. It differs by its focus on responsible tourism, high-level environmental interpretation and emotional connection with the environment. Ideal for those looking for more than just a destination: a transformative experience in the heart of the tropical forest.

Nauyaca Imposing Adventure Between Jungle and Waterfalls

Nauyaca Imposing Adventure Between Jungle and Waterfalls

12 to 15 hoursFree Cancellation

Small Group Half Day Guided Tour Visit to Poas Volcano

from $550

4 to 6 hoursFree Cancellation

Experience the best of Costa Rica's rainforest and ocean in an elite day trip from San José. Start early exploring Manuel Antonio National Park with a certified naturalist guide to spot sloths, monkeys, and exotic birds along pristine white-sand beaches. Next, transition to the sea aboard a luxury catamaran, sailing to a secluded bay for technical snorkeling and non-motorized water sports. Wrap up the afternoon relaxing on the bow trampolines with an unlimited open bar, a freshly prepared gourmet dinner on board, and front-row panoramic views of the world-renowned Pacific golden sunset.

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from $127

Manuel Antonio National Park and Sunset Catamaran Private Tour

Manuel Antonio National Park and Sunset Catamaran Private Tour

13 hoursFree Cancellation

from $395

Embark on a full-day coastal expedition from San José to the Pacific Coast at Marino Ballena National Park. Travel through scenic mountain passes and along the Pacific coastline before boarding an ocean safari in Uvita. Guided by experienced local captains and naturalists, you will observe sea turtles, ocean birds, resident pods of dolphins, and—during whale season—Pacific humpback whales. Enjoy coastal rock exploration, snorkeling sessions, and a delicious artisanal lunch before returning to the capital. SEASONAL NOTE: Whale watching is a seasonal activity directly tied to marine wildlife migration patterns. The Pacific Humpback Whale Seasons run from July to November (Antarctic Migration) and December to April (North American Migration).

Whales and Dolphins Watching Tour

12 hoursFree Cancellation

from $365

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Top Attractions in San Jose

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Attractions

What are people saying about San Jose

San Jose: Bites and Sights Walking Food Tour including Markets

Molly_B, Aug 2026

Fruits, Coffee, Empanadas and History!

Our guide, Oscar, was enthusiastic and knowledgeable! The tour gives you a great lesson on history and foods of Costa Rica. Visiting the local markets and tasting local fruits was fun and the capstone was going to Sloth Coffee Shop were we made our own empanadas and had amazing coffee with the owner, Eric, who also is very knowledgeable of Costa Rica. He brewed the coffee in an amazing pour over ceramic pot from a neighboring town. We liked it so much that we travelled there today to buy one to take home. We can’t wait to enjoy our Costa Rican coffee in our beautiful ceramic pot when we get back home.

Zipline Tour in La Fortuna with Arenal Volcano Views

Claribel_c, Aug 2026

My Birthday Shinanigins

It started to rain and I was the only one that early morning...I was given a choice to do this at a later time to avoid the rain but I was leaving right after. It was invigorating!! It rained hard and they helped me transition from one jump to the other! Absolutely awesome!!

La Paz Waterfall Gardens and Wildlife Refuge Tour from San Jose

Terri_R, Aug 2026

Fantastic excursion!

Everything about the trip was fantastic! We were picked up on time and immediately handed a bottle of water. Our guide was knowledgeable and personable. He shared great information about the plants and animals, and was engaging in all of our locations. Sharing information while keeping kids and older adults excited and interested is a gift, and Mario definitely has that gift!

4 in 1 : Irazu + Orosi + Lankaster + Lake Cachi with Lunch

Susan_K, Aug 2026

I walked in a crater!

I’m a solo traveler and I appreciated this tour company because they allowed me to book as a solo when there were several others that would only allow me to book as a couple. I also appreciated being picked up, even though I was the first stop in the early morning and the last stop at the end of a long day. Once we had collected all the guests, we made a rest stop to use baños and get something to eat before we made the drive up to the volcano. It rained along the way and the clouds were thick, but our guide told us that the clouds roll in and they roll out very quickly. He was right. There were clouds obscuring the first crater we visited and just as I was heading back to the van in disappointment, the clouds rolled out and there was a clear view of the Playa Hermosa crater. Then we drove down to where we could actually walk on the crater. The clouds rolled in and out of the main crater so you could see it clearly, but because of safety barriers you can’t see to the bottom (unless you are 25 ft tall). Other stops on this tour were the Basilica of Los Angeles in Cartago, the beautiful Lankester Botanical Garden, the ruins of Ujarrás, and a lovely viewpoint overlooking the Orosi Valley. We had a great lunch at La Casona del Cafetal with a wonderful view of the lake. Our guide Donald switches effortlessly between Spanish and English so it felt like he was talking to all of us at the same time instead of talking to one group and then another group. Marco was a safe and patient driver. It was billed as a 7-1/2 hour trip, but with the pickups and the traffic, it was a bit longer for me. Still, it was a good day and I would recommend this tour.

Poas Coffee tour, La Paz Falls and Poas Volcano

Michelle_H, Aug 2026

Very nice day trip at a...

Very nice day trip at a good price. Our guide was Luis and our driver was Annie, who were both great. A lot of driving, but it is a far drive from San Jose to up the mountain. Nice bonus stops along the way, including breakfast and we saw a mama sloth in a tree with her baby! A few stops for snacks and souvenirs. The waterfall was beautiful, learned a lot about coffee making, and beautiful landscapes along the way. Unfortunately, Mother Nature didn’t let us see the volcano, just a zero visibility cloud, which was kinda cool in its own way. Overall, a good value, and a good day.

Manuel Antonio National Park Sightseeing and Wildlife Day Tour from San Jose

Carol_U, Jun 2026

Animals, Birds and Bugs!

Great day trip from San Jose. We had a wonderful guide and driver, Oxana was our guide and we saw many animals because of her sharp eyes! Breakfast and lunch stops were very good. We did an extra stop for water. Be sure to bring plenty of water! The tour does not have water on the van. (They should have a cooler).

Arenal Volcano Experience Full-Day Tour from San Jose

Marion_H, Jun 2026

Arenal Volcano Experience Full Day Tour.

If you are being picked up in San Jose for this tour adventure, expect a long ride. But it is well worth it. Our driver and tour guide were amazing, The tour guide keep us entertained with information about Costa Rica as we made several stops during our journey. Once we got to our destination, our planned activities were all very enjoyable. Please take this tour. You will enjoy it. The lunch and were also very good. Our driver and tour guide were amazing.

Poas Volcano waterfalls and coffee tour from from San Jose

cn2qqgrvp5, May 2026

Great experience!

The experience was amazing! Ricardo was very attentive with our group and very informative about every activity we were doing. The coffee tour was amazing. We even got to pick our own coffee bean. The Poás Volcano was breathtaking as well as the lake! The restaurant we stopped at had amazing food. Get the Chi-frio!!!! The La Paz waterfall was breathtaking. I would highly recommend Ricardo to anyone interested in visiting Costa Rica, PURA VIDA!

Arenal Volcano Full-Day Combo Tour with Lunch and Dinner

Miranda_B, May 2026

Best Tour!

Firstly, Steven our guide and Victor our driver were absoulutely wonderful. We love Steven! Absolute best guide and so blessed we had him for our trip. He also made little stops along the way to show us animals like a toucan, macaw, and sloths! The food included was great as well. The hot springs were beautiful. The ziplining was fun! Id definitely do another tour with Steven again.

San Jose Walking and Bus City Tour

Nasim_A, May 2026

Very informative

Their timings were amazing. Our guide Enrique was very knowledgeable, sweet and kind guy. He was able to tell us all the highlights of the city. The trips into the Museums of arts and gold were good. The National Theater lobby was beautiful and lastly the lunch was good. A very good trip for half of the day.

White Water Rafting Pacuare River From San José

Maiyah_R, May 2026

A must do while in Costa Rica

This adventure is 100% worth the drive from San Jose. The views were breathtaking, the guide was so knowledgeable. If you do this tour, ask for Estebàn! He made the trip worth it with great group morale. At one point you can even jump in the river and float. As someone who has never been white water rafting I felt safe the entire time.