Must-sees in San José / Central Valley

San José / Central Valley - Costa Rica Terraba Sierpe mangrove tour with transfer from Uvita

The Terraba Sierpe mangrove ecosystem, one of the largest in Central America, takes the spotlight on this half-day guided tour. As you glide along its waterways, your guide will tell you about the history of the mangroves, as well as how important they are for the ecosystem here. Plus, you'll be on the lookout for some of Costa Rica's native flora and fauna – different species of birds, crabs and monkeys are often found here, and with any luck, you might just see a crocodile resting on the riverbank.

San José / Central Valley - Snorkeling tour at Caño Island with boat transfer from Uvita

Adventure? Check. Sea creatures? Check. Island vibes? Double-check. Start your Costa Rican escape at Punta Uvita beach, where you'll hop on a boat to Caño Island Biological Reserve, scanning the horizon for dolphins, sea turtles, and maybe even whales. Known as the best snorkelling spot in Costa Rica, you'll enjoy two guided snorkelling sessions with amazing underwater visibility. Kick back with lunch and chill beach vibes to cap off your day – still on the lookout for some bonus marine life.

San José / Central Valley - Sea kayaking tour at Marino Ballena National Park in Costa Rica

Take to the waves snorkelling and kayaking at Marino Ballena National Park, known for its whale-shaped sandbar, as well as the humpback whales that migrate to the area each year. The tour starts off with a safety briefing, before paddling towards the reefs for a snorkelling session. Then, you'll kayak into the mangrove forest, where your guide will tell you about the ecosystem and the species that live in it. You'll also go for a short walk along the forest trails if there's time.

San José / Central Valley - Private bird and nature walk at Marino Ballena National Park

If you're into nature, this tour in Punta Uvita at Marino Ballena National Park is on a whole other level. You'll start in the town of Bahía – with a sneak peek of its oldest house – before heading to Uvita beach to hit the trails. Picture exotic mangrove paths and wildlife—monkeys, sloths, and tons of birds all up for viewing. Along the way, your guide will spill the tea on local history, and you'll get to snap pics of the iconic Whale's Tail reef. It really looks like a giant whale tail from above.

San José / Central Valley - Whale and dolphin boat tour at Marino Ballena National Park in Costa Rica

You'll always remember the moment you spot your first whale as it breaches the water, giving you that iconic photo as its tail goes straight up into the air as it dives. And humpback whales are the star attraction on this boat trip around Marino Ballena National Park. You stand a pretty good chance of seeing them in their natural habitat, along with turtles, rays, and maybe even some dolphin. Depending on the season, you'll snorkel or swim in the Pacific Ocean around a popular beachy outcrop called the Whale Tail.

San José / Central Valley - Rainforest hiking and boat trip to Costa Rica’s Corcovado National Park

As you approach the Osa Peninsula by sea, get your camera ready for views of the Pandora-style rainforest that's painted over the area. You'll start with a gentle two-hour hike through Corcovado National Park, one of the most intensely biodiverse places on Earth, where your expert guide will help you spot native wildlife like tapirs, iguanas, monkeys and more. After recharging with a picnic lunch, you'll have some extra time to explore this lost-world-like landscape before your 90-minute return boat ride to Uvita. Keep an eye out for dolphins and whales along the way.

San José / Central Valley - Doka Estate, Poas Volcano & La Paz Waterfall Gardens

Coffee-lovers and eco-warriors will love this half-day Costa Rican adventure. Starting off at the Doka Coffee estate, you'll see first-hand the ‘bean-to-cup' process as you tour the plantation and enjoy a coffee tasting session. Next, you'll head for the Poas Volcano National Park to hike to the crater and Botos Lagoon. Finish with lunch at to La Paz Waterfall Garden surrounded by hummingbirds and butterflies.

San José / Central Valley - Orosi Valley & Lankester Gardens

A relaxing tour for budding botanists and culture fans, you'll take in two important churches, botanical gardens and the verdant Orosi Valley. First, drop in at the Basilica of the Virgen de los Angeles before visiting Lankester Gardens and their famous orchids. Lunch in the scenic Orosi Valley and a stop at one of Costa Rica's oldest churches complete the itinerary.

San José / Central Valley - La Paz Waterfall Gardens Late Departure Tour

Beat those holiday blues on your last day in Costa Rica with this afternoon hike to La Paz Waterfall Gardens. Specially designed for late departures, you'll have the chance to stroll through lush rainforest and coffee plantations before you hit the jackpot –a cascading waterfall. There's also exhibitions from rescued animals and a top-notch buffet to look forward to. A perfect way to end your Costa Rican experience.

San José / Central Valley - Irazú Volcano Tour and Virgen de los Angeles Basilica

Combine a volcanic adventure with Costa Rican culture on this half day tour. It doesn't get much more exciting than standing on the rim of Irazú, one of Costa Rica's most active volcanos. As well as the vivid crater lake, on clear days you'll see the Pacific and Atlantic coasts from here. Explore historic Cartago and the Virgen de los Angeles Basilica to round off your tour.

San José / Central Valley - Tiquicia Viewpoint with Dinner and Show

Glad rags at the ready – this memorable night out includes a buffet dinner and a show in an unforgettable setting. Soak up the genuine Costa Rican ambiance at the Mirador Tiquicia, a traditional farmhouse with awesome Central Valley views. Enjoy a buffet of tasty local dishes served with Costa Rican drinks, accompanied by the Tica Night dance show.

San José / Central Valley - Irazú Volcano, Orosi Valley & Lankester Gardens

Looking for adventure, culture and nature in one trip? You've found it. Start with the view over the crater at the top of one of Costa Rica's most active volcanos. Next, you'll stop by the impressive Basilica of the Virgen de los Angeles before visiting Lankester Gardens. After lunch you'll have time to see Costa Rica's oldest church and explore Orosi Valley.

San José / Central Valley - San José City Tour

Get your culture fix on this sightseeing tour of the vibrant Costa Rican capital. First up is a visit to National Theatre, called ‘The Jewel of San José' for its sumptuous interiors. Next, you'll be dazzled by the artefacts at the Museum of Gold. Stock up on crafts and souvenirs at the Central Market before your final stop at the historic Metropolitan Cathedral.

San José / Central Valley - Arenal Volcano & Baldi Hot Springs

Volcanos, hot springs and abundant nature – what's not to love about this full day tour? Kick off with a stop at Sarchi to browse the artisan crafts and pick up a souvenir or two. Continue to La Fortuna for lunch with a widescreen view of Costa Rica's most iconic landmark, Arenal Volcano. Relax in one of 25 thermal pools at Baldi hot springs and finish the tour with a tasty dinner.

San José / Central Valley - Manuel Antonio National Park Tour

Immerse yourself in nature on a day out in Manuel Antonio National Park. After a scenic coastal drive and breakfast, you'll spend the day at your leisure to hike, swim or simply relax. What's more, your knowledgeable guide will explain the mysteries of the rainforest, its history and its flora and fauna. Be sure to look out for sloths, monkeys and iguanas that call this park home. A tasty local lunch is also thrown in.

San José / Central Valley - Canopy Zipline Tour and White Water Rafting the River Sarapiqui

Dive headfirst into Costa Rica's dramatic terrain with a day trip to remember. Kick off with a 90-minute canopy tour of the Sarapiqui forest and follow that with a white-water rafting adventure. You'll get a bird's-eye view of the treetops as you zipline nine cables, the last crossing over the River Sarapiqui. After lunch you'll be rafting the rapids of the same river.

San José / Central Valley - Braulio Carrillo National Park Zip Line & Horse Riding Combo

Your feet will hardly touch the ground on this full day adventure. You'll delve deep into the heart of Braulio Carrillo National Park and unleash your inner Tarzan with nine different zip lines, crossing through lush rainforest and even Sarapiqui River. Then, after a hearty lunch, you'll slow it down a notch with a horse ride. See the delights of the park's flora and wildlife from a higher vantage point – you'll definitely need your camera for this one.