Things to do in 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.