Day Trips from San Jose to Sarchi

Head to La Fortuna, home to the Arenal Volcano, on this guided all-day tour from San Jose. Sit back and relax as you travel through diverse plantations and cattle ranches on the roughly 3.5-hour drive. After arriving, enjoy lunch with a view of the volcano. Then, take a dip in the area’s thermal waters and indulge in an optional massage or other treatment.

Avoid the hassle of long bus rides and complicated transfers, and pack more into one day than you could on your own on this group guided day trip from San José. Soak up the scenery on the ride to La Fortuna, with a stop in Sarchi, then enjoy stunning views of Arenal Volcano. Afterwards, soak in the thermal waters at the Ecotermales Thermal Pools.

Escape the hustle and bustle of San Jose and experience Sarchi, a small town famous for its artisan crafts. After pickup from your hotel, your personal guide will show you the best spots, detailing the tradition of oxcart painting—and the importance of the oxcart to Costa Rica—wooden craft-making, family art factories, and more. Grab an authentic lunch and choose from 200+ shops to select a souvenir to take back home.

Experience Costa Rica’s coffee, flavors, and artisan traditions on one private tour. Discover how coffee is made at Doka Farm, watch Sarchí’s artisans bring colorful oxcarts to life, and enjoy a traditional lunch at San José’s Central Market. With personalized attention throughout, this experience brings you closer to Costa Rica’s local culture.