Top San Jose Sightseeing Tours

San José can sometimes feel overwhelming to first-time visitors. Take the mystery out of your visit by exploring with a local on a private walking tour. This personalized tour allows you to discover the exterior of monuments, including museums, while learning about the city’s history and culture. If you wish to include a museum visit, your guide can adapt the itinerary—just let us know in advance. Your guide contacts you beforehand to understand your interests, ensuring a meaningful experience. Ideal for families, solo travelers, or couples, this tour reveals hidden gems and authentic local life.

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 a hands-on cooking class with artisanal chocolate empanadas and specialty coffee at Mr. Sloth Coffee Shop.

As you explore this enchanting city, you'll discover a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy. Our knowledgeable guides will lead you through the streets, sharing captivating histories and transporting you back in time. Immerse yourself in the grandeur of the National Theater, a true masterpiece showcasing artistic brilliance. Admire its neoclassical façade, intricate details, and breathtaking murals that bring the culture to life. Prepare to be amazed at the Central Market, a bustling hub where vibrant colors, aromatic scents, and lively sounds come together. Indulge your taste buds with local delicacies and tropical fruits that will transport you to paradise. Allow us to be your guide, your storyteller, and your companion as we unlock the secrets of this mesmerizing destination. Book your tour today. San Jose is waiting to capture your heart!

Enjoy an exciting zipline adventure with incredible views of the Arenal Volcano (if weather permits) at Airtime Zipline Adventure, located just minutes from downtown La Fortuna and next to the famous Sloth Watching Trail. The course features 9 cables (including a practice line) and 10 platforms, built with sustainable and recycled materials. Perfect for families and beginners, this activity offers a thrilling experience without extreme heights children 4 years and older are welcome! Our professional guides will ensure your safety and fun throughout the tour. We operate with all official permits and insurance from the Costa Rican Tourism Board (ICT), giving you total peace of mind. On clear days, you’ll soar with amazing volcano views while enjoying a memorable experience surrounded by nature. The adventure lasts only a couple of hours, so it’s easy to fit into your La Fortuna itinerary.

Explore the Costa Rican capital’s rich history, landmark buildings, and modern culture on a combo bus and walking tour of San Jose. Get a great introduction to city highlights like the National Theater and Art Museum, and stop to walk through bustling markets and public plazas to feel the pulse of this modern Central American metropolis. Get an extra boost of Costa Rican culture by listening to traditional folkloric music onboard the bus.

Discover the beauty of La Fortuna, Costa Rica, on a unique horseback riding adventure operated by a local family-run business. This tour takes you through tropical forest trails, river crossings, and stunning natural landscapes while sharing authentic experiences with visitors from around the world. Led by experienced local guides, enjoy a safe, relaxed, and personalized experience suitable for all ages, including children. Capture unforgettable family moments by the rivers and immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere of the rainforest. Duration: Approximately 2 hours, with flexible pacing for breaks and photos Suitable for all skill levels; prior riding experience is not necessary Small group sizes from 2 to 15 travelers for a more personalized experience Includes well-trained horses and all necessary riding equipment Operated by a local family passionate about nature and Costa Rican hospitality

Adventure-loving travelers won’t want to miss this combined zip lining, rappelling, and hiking tour. The Carpintera Hills are close to San Jose and offer the easiest way to go zip lining from the capital. Glide through the forest canopy on steel cables strung between 19 platforms. Rappel from as high as 130 feet. Enjoy the forest views along the way and look out for birds and animals.

Take a half-day food and walking tour in San Jose that highlights innovative chefs who are updating traditional Costa Rican recipes with a modern twist. Stroll between four locations in the Escalante district to enjoy a 6-course tasting menu, seven drinks, Costa Rican coffee tastings, and a cocktail mixing demonstration with locally made liquor. Your guide shares insightful commentary along the way on a tour that can be scheduled for lunch or dinner.

This sampler adventure tour from San Jose fits the best of Costa Rica's rivers and rainforests into one action-packed day. En route, go croc-spotting at a famous overlook on the Tarcoles River. Then head to the jungle adventure park where you can choose two activities from a list of thrilling options, including ziplining, horseback riding, surfing lessons, an ATV adventure, and a mountain bike tour.

Experience a thrilling day out on the Sarapiqui River with this half-day guided whitewater rafting adventure. Make your way to the base camp, then get transported to the river, where you’ll tackle more than 10 class II and III rapids with a certified rafting guide.

Unmatched Encounters with Wildlife and Nature : Take a close look at Panama’s diverse wildlife. Find playful monkeys, exotic birds, crocodiles and other fascinating creatures in their natural habitats on Lake Gatun. Our professional guides, fluent in English and Spanish, offer in-depth commentary on the history, ecology and importance of the Panama Canal and its surroundings. Enjoy the ease of pick-up and return to your hotel, ensuring a hassle-free experience. Our comfortable boats are equipped with all the necessary safety measures. Small Group Experience : We offer small-group tours that offer personalized attention and a more intimate connection to the surroundings, enhancing wildlife viewing opportunities. Appreciate three different species of monkeys, including capuchin monkeys, howlers and tamarins, plus crocodiles, iguanas and various exotic birds.

Enjoy a safe and family-friendly horseback riding tour through the beautiful landscapes of Arenal. Ride calm, well-cared-for horses along rainforest trails, open fields, and across the Arenal River. Small groups allow for a relaxed pace and personal attention, making this tour perfect for both beginners and experienced riders, including children. Along the way, enjoy nature, possible wildlife sightings, and views of Arenal Volcano on clear days. The tour includes a fun photo shoot to capture memories and share on social media, a visit to a small farm with cute animals like pigs and sheep, and a relaxing riverside stop with fresh tropical fruits.

Switch up your daily routine with this enchanting night walk tour that takes you on a journey into the forest after dark. Discover the vibrant nocturnal wildlife in action during this 2-hour tour through a transitional forest. Led by a private guide, stop to spot a variety of mammals, birds, and insects that exhibit unique behaviors at night. Ideal for families seeking adventure, explore the area and observe everything from sleeping birds to creepy crawlers.

Manuel Antonio National Park is one of Costa Rica's Most beautiful regions but can be difficult to reach from San Jose, As there are essentially zero public transportation options. on this full-day tour let someone else take care of the driving logistics. Highlights include stopping for breakfast and crocodile sightings, hiking with a naturalist guide who helps you identify plants and wild animals in the national park, and relaxing on the white Sands of Playa Espadilla.

Discover San Jose’s hidden delights with this unique evening tour of the Costa Rican capital. Get up close and personal with the nightlife in San Jose, starting with the Morazán Park where you'll learn post-colonial Costa Rican history. From there, gain an appreciation for San Jose’s historical architecture, with a walk by the Metallic Building, then on to Spain Park for a fantastic view of the Yellow House (now the Ministry of Foreign Affairs). Continue to charming Barrio Escalante, one of the oldest residential areas in San Jose.  Finish the night with a tasty traditional meal (and wine or beer) at a gourmet Costa Rican restaurant.

Simplify your arrival in Costa Rica with this simple private transfer service from the San José airport to the city. Avoid the hassle of queuing for taxis or haggling with drivers. Whatever time of day or night you arrive, and even if your flight is delayed, your driver will be waiting for you at the airport to take you directly to the hotel.

Visit three Costa Rican highlights in one day on this guided tour from San José. First explore a Starbucks-owned coffee farm, learning all about how your morning brew is grown, harvested, and roasted. Next, visit the Poas Volcano Crater and marvel at its powerful geysers and bubbling lake of aquamarine water. Then, experience La Paz Waterfall Garden–a lush rainforest that boasts spectacular waterfalls and exotic wildlife. Finally, stop by another coffee plantation and enjoy a lunch of traditional Costa Rican fare.

Combine coffee, wildlife, and a volcano on this full-day small-group tour from San Jose with hotel pickup. Travel to San Isidro to learn about coffee production at Familia Vargas plantation. Visit La Paz Waterfall Gardens to see rescued animals and waterfalls with included lunch and entrance fees. Finish at Poas Volcano, admiring the main crater and hiking to Botos Lagoon.

Discover the vibrant energy of San Jose nightlife as you discover its best bars and pubs. Key Points of Experience: Exclusive Tour of the Best Pubs and Disco: Enjoy a night in the most iconic bars of San Jose. No tails: We guarantee your experience will be smooth, with no need to line up at any of the bars. Drinks and Special Courtesies: Take advantage of complimentary drinks at every stop on the tour to enhance your experience. Safe and Controlled Environment: Enjoy a safe night with everything planned so you can enjoy the best Costa Rican nightlife. Cultural Immersion: Not only is it a night tour, it is an opportunity to experience authentic local culture through its gastronomy and music. Experience an unforgettable night in Costa Rica, combining the best nightlife with local cultural authenticity. With this tour, we take you to a unique experience that guarantees fun, comfort and safety at every step.

Experience the sights, sounds, and flavors of San Jose on an evening bus tour. Starting from your hotel, board a comfortable double-decker bus with a welcome drink. See over 25 of the city’s landmarks as you take a bus tour, and stop for bilingual guided tours at key locations, including the Costa Rican Art Museum. Enjoy an included dinner of local cuisine before drop-off back at your hotel.

When it comes to touring active volcanoes, always travel with a local. You’ll do just that on this tour: First, you’ll get whisked off to Irazu Volcano National Park, home to the highest volcano in the country. After some exploring, you’ll move to the Turrialba Volcano, likely spewing gases and ash. Not only will your guide will lead you safely—they’ll keep you from going home with those awkward selfies.

Appease your appetite for adventure during an exhilarating 3-hour rafting session on the Sarapiqui River from Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui . With an experienced guide, conquer the Class II and III rapids on the river’s most intense section and feel your adrenaline levels surge. During calmer periods, marvel at the abundance of exotic wildlife on the banks of the Sarapiqui River and listen to fascinating commentary from your guide.

Explore the natural wonders of Costa Rica without the hassle of planning routes and logistics. This small-group tour from San José takes you into the rainforest to admire stunning waterfalls, get great views of Arenal Volcano, taste fresh local fruit, soak in a hidden thermal pool, and, finally, unwind in a hot spring resort.