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San José Travel Guides

Plan your trip to San José with accurate, up-to-date travel guides created with local insight — skip tourist traps, save time, and enjoy the city like it’s meant to be experienced.

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Latest Travel Guides

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Discover the most recent travel guides for San José curated by our community and experts.

8 Days
Amazing Costa Rica Expedition 8D/7N Vacation Package
Amazing Costa Rica Expedition 8D/7N Vacation Package

Amazing Costa Rica Expedition 8D/7N Vacation Package

Perfect for Friends

San José, Costa Rica

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Popular tours and activities

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Discover and book popular tours and activities in San José to make the most of your trip.

17La Paz Waterfalls

La Paz Waterfalls

This day we will leave your Hotel for the Poás de Alajuela area, we will make a stop for a brief explanation about our golden grain, the coffee where we will stop to see the coffee bushes, also having the opportunity to take a photograph of the Ventral Valley and from the coffee plantation. We will continue the tour through fern, flower and strawberry crops..

6 hours
moderate
From$135
7Private Transfer From San Jose To La Fortuna

Private Transfer From San Jose To La Fortuna

With our private transfer service, you can enjoy optimizing your travel time and the comfort of our cars. Our experienced local driver always has your safety and comfort in mind. From the beginning of the trip, when he picks you up in San José at your desired time and takes care of your luggage, until the end of your journey in your chosen location in La Fortuna. Here begins your private stress-free trip full of wonderful authentic experiences and insights into the local culture. Our travel experts have chosen the most interesting sightseeing stops and top-rated attractions for you to choose from and enrich your journey. You will travel comfortably with a reliable driver who speaks English and has a good knowledge of the area. The only thing you need to do is relax while being taken care of.

4 hours
easy
From$389
8Half-day Poas Volcano

Half-day Poas Volcano

Poas Volcano is an adventure in Culture and Nature on this day this Tours will leave in the morning hours and passes through the province of Alajuela you can see coffee plantings a stop is made to see the Cafe and the cultivation of strawberries in the Volcano there is a 20 minute walk where we can see its vegetation

6 hours
easy
From$122
13Doka Café, Poas Volcano and La Paz Waterfall Garden

Doka Café, Poas Volcano and La Paz Waterfall Garden

NOTE The total stay within the Poás Volcano National Park will be 40 minutes: 10 minutes on the walk to the viewpoint of the crater, 20 minutes on the lookout point and 10 minutes on the exit walk. There is no access to the Botos Lagoon and in case of fog, there is no extra waiting time as in the past.

8 hours
moderate
From$185
4.622Private Flight Over Poas Volcano. 1 hour flight

Private Flight Over Poas Volcano. 1 hour flight

Board a Cessna 206 Aircraft for an exciting adventure above San Jose City, Poas Volcano National Park or Irazu Volcano and small picturesque towns. Musical background, choreographed to each flight, accompanies spontaneous narration by the professionally trained pilot or tour guide. Poas Volcano is one of the most important attractions from San Jose and from the air is very impressive admire its huge crater, considered one of the largest in the world. This crater measures 1.5 kilometers in diameter (0.9 miles) and is 300 meters deep (900 feet). The summit, surrounded by beautiful rain forest, includes a volcanic origin lagoon called Laguna Botos. Its deep blue waters contrast with the dense tropical forest that surrounds it. Take spectacular pictures of these amazing active volcanoes and be a witness of the volcano activity, the geysers, the fumaroles, the sulfur’s sediments and the emerald color lagoon inside the main craters

2 hours
easy
From$600
4.613Private Helicopter Tour Over Rain Forest & Beaches 1 hour flight

Private Helicopter Tour Over Rain Forest & Beaches 1 hour flight

Have the best experience of your trip to San Jose, Costa Rica, taking this unique and beautiful private Helicopter Tour over the Rainforest, Rivers and Beaches of the Pacific Coast!This flight takes you over the Tilarán Mountain Range. You'll see the Pacific Coast and Tarcoles River, with its huge crocodiles near the bridge and river mouth. This flight covers 80 miles. From 1200 feet above the ground you get a great birds eye view of the surrounding area which will include areas of farmland and rainforest. We can accommodate 2-3 passengers at a time. For larger groups please contact us. Make sure to bring your camera for some great photo opportunities. We offer headsets to communicate with each other and the pilot will provide an informative narration of the flight, that will last about 1 hour.

2 hours
easy
From$950
4.616Half Day Sport Fishing. Private Tour from San Jose

Half Day Sport Fishing. Private Tour from San Jose

Enjoy a fishing day with our exclusive and 100% private tour. Our professional naturalist tour guide and deluxe transportation, will pick you up directly from your hotel in San Jose.Fish the rich and abundant Central Pacific Coast for giant Snapper, Grouper, Amberjack, Mackerel, Wahoo, Sailfish, Dorado (Mahi Mahi), Tuna, Rooster Fish and more. Our local expert captain and crew will guide you to the sweet spots. Our Half Day Sport Fishing tour is a short 5-hour adventure, 10 miles away from the beach where you can do some trolling and bottom fishing and ensure a clean and sportive fishing since the fish don’t get hurt, you can just send them back to swimming in the blue ocean. We always ensure good fishing experiences as we are a company of great prestige who offers unique customer service experiences for both professional and non-professional fishermen. The boats are deluxe and very well equipped.Lunch is included before return to your hotel in San Jose.

9 hours
moderate
From$1100
4.622 Private Beach Day Tour in Pacific Ocean from San Jose

Private Beach Day Tour in Pacific Ocean from San Jose

Your breath-taking adventure begins with a pickup from your hotel and a relaxing private drive through the wonderful Costa Rican countryside on an air-conditioned deluxe transportation. After a 90 minute drive from San Jose, you will arrive in the famous Jaco Beach. This is one of the most popular destinations for high-end residents in the Central Valley looking for Sun and Sea. Boasting spectacular beachfront views and a relaxing tropical atmosphere, Jaco Beach offers many options for all. Once at Jaco Beach enjoy a City Tour by the main avenue and visit some of the souvenir stores if you are looking for that special gift before heading into a small and cozy hotel, located right in front of the beach.Our Beach Break at Jaco Beach includes 5 hours at the hotel, use of the swimming pool, towels, lunch and afternoon coffee.The tour includes a stop at Tarcoles River for admire the huge crocodiles.

10 hours
easy
From$275
4.632Cartago Highlights, Irazu Volcano and Hot Springs Private Tour

Cartago Highlights, Irazu Volcano and Hot Springs Private Tour

Your breath-taking adventure begins with a private pickup from your hotel and a relaxing drive through the wonderful Costa Rican countryside in air-conditioned deluxe transportation.Discover the beautiful province of Cartago, the former capital city of Costa Rica, with our professional naturalist tour guide. At the volcano, a short walk will take you to the main crater, with some free time to take lots of pictures.Later, visit the Orosi Valley, a land surrounded by rainforest and lush vegetation, that transports our visitors to experience nature and relax at the Hot Springs of Hacienda Orosi. Immerse yourself in one of the 7 thermal mineral water pools, explore the hacienda and its trails, visit the farm with many animals and taste a delicious lunch. The Hacienda also produce specialty coffee processed with thermo mineral water. After enjoy all this, return to your hotel in San Jose.

9 hours
easy
From$295
4.618Jungle & River ATV Exploration Private Tour

Jungle & River ATV Exploration Private Tour

Your breath-taking adventure begins with a pickup from your hotel and a relaxing private drive through the wonderful Costa Rican countryside on an air-conditioned deluxe transportation. The destination Vista Los Sueños Adventure Park is only 90 minutes away from San Jose.Embark on a thrilling 2-hour ATV adventure through breathtaking Costa Rican landscapes and enjoy adrenaline-pumping off-road excitement. Traverse rugged trails, winding through lush forests and scenic terrain, as you navigate the dynamic terrain on your all-terrain vehicle. Feel the rush of the wind against your face as you discover hidden gems and witness the power and beauty of nature at stunning waterfalls and natural pools along the way.After this adventure, enjoy a boat river tour in Tarcoles River, where large crocodiles inhabit the ecosystem.

8 hours
easy
From$345
4.618Full Day Sport Fishing. Private Tour from San Jose

Full Day Sport Fishing. Private Tour from San Jose

Enjoy a fishing day with our exclusive and 100% private tour. Our professional naturalist tour guide and deluxe transportation, will pick you up directly from your hotel in San Jose.Fish the rich and abundant Central Pacific Coast for giant Snapper, Grouper, Amberjack, Mackerel, Wahoo, Sailfish, Dorado (Mahi Mahi), Tuna, Rooster Fish and more. Our local expert captain and crew will guide you to the sweet spots. Our Full Day Sport Fishing tour is a 8-hour adventure, 30 miles away from the beach where you can do some trolling and bottom fishing and ensure a clean and sportive fishing since the fish don’t get hurt, you can just send them back to swimming in the blue ocean. We always ensure good fishing experiences as we are a company of great prestige who offers unique customer service experiences for both professional and non-professional fishermen. The boats are deluxe and very well equipped.Lunch is included before return to your hotel in San Jose.

12 hours
moderate
From$1400
4.637Private Chocolate & Baldi Hot Springs Tour from San Jose

Private Chocolate & Baldi Hot Springs Tour from San Jose

Your breath-taking adventure begins with pickup from your hotel and a relaxing private drive through the wonderful Costa Rican countryside on an air-conditioned deluxe transportation.With the view of the majestic Arenal Volcano in La Fortuna of San Carlos, enjoy the sweetest rainforest experience. Discover the ancient secrets of chocolate, from its discovery and use in tropical America, to the processing of the product we know and enjoy today.Considered as a “Gift of the Gods”, the cacao tree was very important to the ancient culture. It was not only used as a ceremonial drink, but its seeds were also used as currency because of its economic value in many regions of Mesoamerica, including Costa Rica.This tour is an interactive experience where you will be able to process and taste your own chocolate bars.After this experience you will visit Baldi Hot Springs, the deluxe complex of multiple thermal pools where you will relax and enjoy a buffet lunch.

12 hours
easy
From$295
16Hire Photographer, Professional Photo Shoot - San Jose

Hire Photographer, Professional Photo Shoot - San Jose

Professional photo shoot in unique San Jose locations. The Photo Experience will create amazing photo memories from your visit. You will be able to see undiscovered locations and get the best photo story from your San Jose visit. We can tailor each photo shoot to meet your requirements; we can travel to your location or we can suggest a location for the photo shoot.Our Photoshoots are ideal for any Tourists - Solo Traveler - Couples - Groups - Hen/Bachelorette & Stag/Bachelor Parties - Families - Secret proposal/Engagement - Honeymoon - Experienced Influencers and Models - New Influencers and ModelsWhat's Included:A Private online viewing gallery - 1 hour = 20 Final photos*- 2 hour = 30 Final photos*- 3 hour = 40 Final photos*- 4 hour = 50 Final photos** same set of images - A unique location professional shoot experience for your holiday- DELIVERY - Up to 14 days after photoshoot. What's Excluded: - Transportation - Entry fees

4 hours
easy
From$405
4.618Sarapiqui River Rafting & Horseback Riding Combo. Private Tour

Sarapiqui River Rafting & Horseback Riding Combo. Private Tour

Enjoy an exclusive tour that combines 2 adventure activities in 1.Our tour is operated on a 100% private basis, with high quality transportation services and a professional naturalist tour guide who will pick you up directly from your hotel.The tour operates in the Sarapiqui region, which is located in the Caribbean and just 2 hours away from the capital city. We will cross the beautiful Braulio Carrillo National Park, with its impressive rainforest, multiple rivers and waterfalls.Once we arrive at our operations center, we will begin the class II-III whitewater rafting tour with impressive scenery and a lot of adrenaline when passing through the different rapids. Enjoy the crystal clear waters of the river where you can swim halfway and also enjoy freshly cut fruits.Then, enjoy a horseback ride through the tropical forest accompanied by an expert rider.At the end of the 2 adventures, a delicious lunch awaits you before beginning the journey back to your hotel.

9 hours
moderate
From$335
14San Jose Juan Santamaria Airport (SJO) to Monteverde - Arrival Private Transfer

San Jose Juan Santamaria Airport (SJO) to Monteverde - Arrival Private Transfer

Book your Private Arrival Transfer from San Jose Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) to Monteverde hotel or address. Don't go through all the hassle of waiting in a long taxi or shared shuttles queues and use our private, door to door airport transfer.Your driver will be waiting for you at a scheduled time and you will travel comfortably to your destination.• Meeting with a Nameplate• We track your Flight• Door-to-door Service• No Hidden Charges• Clean cars & Professional drivers

2 hours and 25 minutes
easy
From$390
22Lake Arenal Kayaking & Baldi Hot Springs Private Tour from San Jose

Lake Arenal Kayaking & Baldi Hot Springs Private Tour from San Jose

This tour is a perfect combination between nature and relaxation. It is a perfect tour for those who wish to enjoy the arenal volcano lake and practice kayaking, enjoy natural beauties and the famous Baldi Hot Springs.It is a completely private tour, with professional guides that will make you enjoy a wonderful day in places with a lot of magic and beauty.Pick Up directly form your hotel in San Jose by our proffesional tour guide in a deluxe vehicle. You will be heading Fortuna Town, about 2.5 hours drive from San Jose. Upon arrival to the beautiful Arenal´s Lake you will meet your local tour guide who will show you the beautity of this amazing region and explain you how to use the kayak. In the lake, you will stay for about 2 hours.After it, enjoy 3 hours at Baldi Hot Springs, the largest Hots Springs in the world and taste a delicious buffet lunch.This tour is the perfect combination between adventure and a relaxing time at the hot springs.

10 hours
moderate
From$295
14Arenal Volcano Skytram & Baldi Hot Springs Private Tour from San Jose

Arenal Volcano Skytram & Baldi Hot Springs Private Tour from San Jose

This tour is a perfect combination between nature and relaxation. It is a perfect tour for those who wish to enjoy the arenal volcano area and the famous hot springs.It is a completely private tour, with professional tour guides that will make you enjoy a wonderful day in places with a lot of magic and beauty.Your breath-taking adventure begins with a pickup from your hotel and a relaxing private drive through the wonderful Costa Rican countryside in an air-conditioned transportation and recent model deluxe vehicle or mini bus. Your guide will point out many sights of interest including coffee plantations, sugar cane, pineapple and citrus plantations, diverse fruit stands and rural farming communities. You will head to Fortuna Town, about 2.5 hours drive from San Jose. Upon arrival to the beautiful Sky Adventures property, you will board the tram and start the adventure.After it, enjoy the beautiful Baldi Hot Springs and have a relaxing afternoon.

10 hours
easy
From$329
19Private Sarapiqui River Expedition & Rainforest from San Jose

Private Sarapiqui River Expedition & Rainforest from San Jose

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.

8 hours
easy
From$299
Group of people enjoying a trip together in beach

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