Top San Jose Photo Shoots in 2026

Sample a wide variety of Costa Rican flavors while learning about the country's cultural heritage on this San Jose walking tour. You'll shop for fruits and veggies at the Mercado Central and Mercado Borbón, visit the National Theater and Morazan Park, and try local treats including traditional picadill, a hands-on cooking class with artisanal chocolate empanadas, and specialty coffee at Mr. Sloth Coffee Shop.

The best views of the cloud forest near Monteverde are undoubtedly from above—if you can get high enough. On this easy tour, take a guided nature walk along hanging bridges through the forest canopy in search of wildlife and beautiful plants. Follow your naturalist guide carrying professional optical equipment to the best viewpoints for observing the rich biodiversity, including orchids, epiphytes, and seasonal birds like the Resplendent Quetzal and Black-faced Solitaire.

Take the stress out of eating and drinking at night in a new city with this fun-filled dinner and nightlife experience. Explore markets, check out neighborhoods you might otherwise miss, and indulge in a delicious three-course gourmet dinner with wine pairings. Learn about local food and culture from your guide throughout the evening.

Whether you’re a family wanting better vacation photos or an Instagrammer seeking professional portraits, you’ll love hiring a photographer in San Jose. Choose a photoshoot duration to suit your needs, from one to four hours. Pose at beautiful locations like the National Theater or the city’s many gardens and receive professionally edited photographs as a reminder of your trip.

Navigate Class III-IV rapids under the guidance of an expert during this white-water rafting course down the Pacuare River from San Jose. Paddle your way through one of Costa Rica's most picturesque river gorges, looking out for native wildlife between rapid runs, on an exciting day trip ideal for thrill seekers. Hotel pickup and drop-off, equipment, and lunch are all included, so you can focus on the thrills.

I am Naza, a Costa Rican photographer passionate about showing the beauty of my country through photography. As a local, I know San José and its most authentic corners, and I want to share them with you in a different way. During the experience, I will accompany you on a walk through some of the city's most representative places, combining photography, history, architecture, and natural moments. You don't need to know how to pose or feel comfortable in front of a camera; I will guide you throughout the tour so you can enjoy the experience while I create photographs that truly reflect your visit to Costa Rica. What makes this experience special is that you not only take professional photographs, but also the opportunity to get to know San José from the perspective of a local person.

Explore the rich coffee heritage of Costa Rica at Hacienda La Chimba. This engaging 1.5-hour tour takes you through a historic coffee estate where tradition meets culture. Begin your journey at the Coffee Museum House, where captivating antique photographs unveil the significance of coffee in shaping the nation. Wander through lush gardens and working plantations, crossing the scenic Koi Fish Bridge and visiting a charming colonial-style chapel. Conclude your adventure with a unique coffee tasting session, savoring Hacienda La Chimba's high-altitude Arabica coffee in three distinct processes—washed, natural, and honey. Perfect for coffee lovers and families seeking an authentic cultural experience.

With its cascading waterfalls and abundant wildlife, the Pacuare River is rightfully famous for its natural beauty. Paddle through the river gorge, navigating 52 Class II-IV rapids as you go, on this 12-hour trip from San Jose. Take in views of the tropical rain forest and wildlife such as sloths, parrots, and toucans as you ride the river (and your adrenaline rush) over the course of the day.

You will be able to walk in the habitat of different mammals that inhabit our forests, such as the puma, tapir, mountain goat, among others. Our abundant vegetation will dazzle you and with luck you will have the experience of walking among the clouds. All this accompanied by expert guides who will ensure an unforgettable experience. We are located in the mountains of Coronado, San José, just 50 minutes from the center of the capital.

It is a place with a lot of nature and wildlife with a large number of species of birds and flora that you cannot miss. In addition, due to its geographical location, we are very close to the international airport and GAM with easy access to visit in a day with little time.... It also has a history of the 70s, how some towns began to form in rural areas and how lived the upper class of Costa Rica

Step into Costa Rica’s cloud forest on a private birdwatching experience to witness the Resplendent Quetzal during nesting season. Visit an active nest, explore a vibrant hummingbird garden, and enjoy a rare connection with nature — all while supporting local conservation and rural communities.

Accompanied by a local guide, you will explore the fascinating world of leafcutter ants as you observe active colonies in their natural environment and learn how these incredible creatures have developed one of the most complex societies on the planet. What makes this experience unique is that we offer private transportation from the San Jose Metropolitan Area, picking up travelers directly from their hotel or agreed point, so they can enjoy the tour without worrying about logistics. Along the way, travelers can sample snacks and typical Costa Rican products, adding an authentic touch to the adventure. Throughout the experience, you will walk along trails surrounded by biodiversity, discover the secrets of communication and organization of ants, and understand their fundamental role in tropical ecosystems. You will also have the opportunity to take unique photographs and enjoy a personalized experience in small groups.

Explore the Orosi Valley and the Lankester Botanical Gardens on this guided combination half-day tour from San José. The gardens, which are located outside of Cartago, serve as a center for orchid research, including more than 800 species of orchids, bromeliads, and other plants. Following the gardens, head to the town of Orosi to view the 18th-century Iglesia de San José de Orosi and colonial churches.