Meta Description: Learn more about the itinerary you can expect from exploring Costa Rica from San Jose with Caravan. 

Explore Costa Rica from San Jose: Caravan Tours

Costa Rica is a must-visit on any travel bucket list. It’s a crown jewel, nestled in the heart of Central America, long celebrated as a premier eco-tourism destination. It’s simply stunning. It has some of the prettiest beaches, incredibly diverse ecosystems, and a rich cultural heritage. It’s well worth the visit, whether you love a good adrenaline-pumping adventure or immersing yourself in different cultures.  

 

San Jose, Costa Rica’s capital, is the perfect jump-off point for an adventurous tour. When you travel with Caravan, your tour in Costa Rica from San Jose will take you around the country. We’ll stop at some of the best places, from the oh-so-glorious hot springs to the pristine beaches to the charming communities. 

The Itinerary: Your Costa Rica Tour With Caravan

Your Costa Rican tour from San Jose with Caravan starts, as you probably guessed, in San Jose. You’ll fly into the Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) in San Jose on your first day. After you land, here’s what you can expect:

San Jose

You’ll spend your first two nights in a San Jose hotel. During those first days, you’ll get to explore the capital city in all its glory. 

 

The National Museum of Costa Rica is a worthwhile stop if you enjoy history. It’s based out of a former military fortress (so cool!) and boasts a fascinating array of exhibits on the country’s pre-Columbian heritage, colonial history, and modern developments. It even has a butterfly garden within the fortress walls, where you can get a closer look at various butterfly species. 

 

While you’re in town, don’t forget to stop at the Central Market. You’ll find it in the heart of the city. It’s a great place to sample traditional Costa Rican dishes, shop for local handicrafts, and simply experience the daily life of the city’s residents. If you’re looking for something special to take home as a souvenir, like a piece of handmade jewelry, this a good place to shop. 

 

If you want to learn more about Costa Rica’s ancient cultures, the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum is another fun place to visit. It’s tucked beneath the Plaza de la Cultura and is home to one of the largest collections of pre-Columbian gold in the world! You’ll find all sorts of intricate gold pieces on display that showcase the craftsmanship and spiritual beliefs of Costa Rica’s indigenous peoples. 

 

The Teatro Nacional, the National Theater of Costa Rica, is another intriguing stop. It’s an architectural marvel that rivals the grand theaters of Europe. Inside the 19th-century building, you’ll find opulent elements, including the gilded ceilings, marble staircases, and elaborate frescoes. If you can, stay for a live performance—they’re simply incredible! 

Volcanoes and Hot Springs

On day three of your journey, you’ll get to visit the volcanoes and hot springs. Costa Rica is a land of volcanoes, including the Arenal Volcano, a must-see landmark for any visitor. It was once one of the most active volcanoes in the world, but today, it lies dormant. Even still, the towering cone-shaped volcano is well worth the visit. 

 

It’s an excellent stop for adrenaline-pumping experiences like zip-lining and horseback riding. If you prefer to keep your feet on solid ground, hike on one of the many trails in the Arenal Volcano National Park—you’ll get to wander through lush forests, past ancient lava flows, and stop at viewpoints with awe-inspiring views of the volcano and Lake Arenal. 

 

After a day of exploring the volcano and surrounding land, there’s no better way to unwind than by soaking in the nearby natural hot springs. The springs are heated by geothermal activity under the earth’s surface, making them the perfect place to soothe sore muscles after a challenging hike. 

 

These hot springs are some of the best in the country. You’ll find pools with varying temperatures, most surrounded by lush tropical gardens. For example, Tabacón Hot Springs is a great choice, popular for its soothing waterfalls and incredible views of the Arenal Volcano. 

 

If you’re up for more volcano adventures, you could also visit the Poás Volcano. This one is known for its massive crater and acidic lake. It’s easily accessible via well-maintained trails that lead to the rim of the crater. If you’re lucky, you’ll get to go on a clear day and enjoy a spectacular view of the steaming crater and bright turquoise lake. 

Rainforest Exploration

No trip to Costa Rica would be complete without meandering into its lush rainforests. When you travel with Caravan, you’ll get to enjoy the vibrant green rainforests at multiple points throughout your journey. 

 

In these rainforests, you’ll find all sorts of life, including brightly colored birds, playful and curious monkeys, exotic plants, and hidden waterfalls. One of the best places to soak it all in is at the Manuel Antonio National Park. Despite being one of the smallest national parks in the country, Manuel Antonio has much to offer. 

 

Here, you’ll find a network of trails that wind through dense tropical forests, each leading to secluded beaches, rocky outcroppings, and panoramic viewpoints. As you stroll, you might even catch a glimpse of the abundant critters in the forest, such as the capuchin monkeys, three-toed sloths, and vibrant toucans.

 

On day four of the trip, we’ll visit the Hanging Bridges Park. It’s a stunning park with various suspension bridges that give you an elevated look at the rainforest canopy. It’s a magical experience, being above the canopy. If the day is clear enough, you might even get to spot the Arenal Volcano off in the distance. 

Coastal Beauty

The rainforests are only part of the immense beauty Costa Rica possesses. In addition to its lush rainforests, Costa Rica is home to some of the prettiest coastlines in the world. It has both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, offering a mix of beautiful beaches, lively coral reefs, and charming seaside towns. 

 

There’s no shortage of beaches. On the Pacific coast, you’ll find beaches ranging from secluded coves surrounded by jungle to lively stretches of sand lined with beachfront bars and restaurants. Guanacaste province, located in the northwest, is known for its golden beaches and prime surfing conditions. 

 

Further south, you’ll find the Nicoya Peninsula, which is home to some of the most pristine and unspoiled beaches. Santa Teresa and Montezuma are popular spots with laid-back vibes. They have a bohemian atmosphere, complete with yoga retreats and organic cafes. These beaches are a great place to escape the crowds and soak in the natural beauty. 

 

On the Caribbean coast, you’ll find stunning rainforests, coral reef-lined coasts, and Afro-Caribbean culture. Puerto Viejo de Talamanca is the main hotspot on this side of the country. It’s known for its reggae-infused atmosphere, lively nightlife, and absolutely extraordinary beaches. 

 

Cahuita National Park isn’t too far away from Puerto Viejo de Talamanca. It’s a great place for snorkeling and diving since its waters are full of coral reefs bursting with marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and rays. If you work your way back into the park, you can soak in the rainforest experience (you might even spot some howler monkeys, sloths, and exotic birds).

Cultural Experiences

If you love immersing yourself in different cultures, Costa Rica is a great place to go. On the tour, we explore the country’s intriguing history and culture through various visits and experiences. 

 

For example, on day two, we’ll visit a coffee plantation. Coffee is an integral part of Costa Rica’s cultural identity, often referred to as “el grano de oro” or “the golden bean.” The coffee plantations are more than agricultural sites—they’re living museums that teach of the historical and economic significance of coffee to Costa Rica. 

 

You can enjoy a guided coffee tour, where you’ll learn about the traditional methods of growing, harvesting, and processing coffee, often passed down through generations. You’ll learn how the country’s unique climate and volcanic soil contribute to the rich flavor of Costa Rican coffee (which you can usually sample!). 

 

Aside from coffee, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to explore the country’s culture. The markets and local communities are a window into Costa Rica’s history and culture. Engaging with the locals is one of the best ways to learn about Costa Rican culture. This way, you get to see the country through the eyes of its people and understand their customs, traditions, and way of life. 

 

If you visit at the right times of year, you might even be able to catch a festival. These are typically lively celebrations that reflect the country’s rich cultural diversity and joyful spirit. Whether you simply watch from the sidelines or participate in the festivities, these festivals are a fun way to connect more deeply with local culture. 

 

And, of course, you have to try the local cuisine. Food is a big part of Costa Rican culture. It’s a blend of Spanish, African, and Caribbean flavors. If you’re up for it, branch out of your comfort zone at one (or more) of the many mealtimes and try a local dish. 

 

For example, you could try casado, a hearty meal of rice, beans, meat, and plantains, or chifrijo, a dish of fried pork and red beans. Or, sample the high-quality chocolate (Costa Rica is known for its chocolate) on a chocolate tour. The dishes are so yummy (we have a soft spot for their many delicious desserts)!

Enjoy Your Costa Rican Vacation to the Fullest With Caravan

Costa Rica is a must-visit. There’s so much to see and do—there’s something for everyone, whether you’re a nature enthusiast or a history buff. When you travel with Caravan, you’ll get to stop at some of the best places along the way, including beautiful rainforests, soothing hot springs, and coffee plantations known for delicious coffee. 

 

But the icing on the cake? We plan the tour from San Jose, Costa Rica, for you in its entirety. We cover all of the details of the eight-day Costa Rica Natural Paradise tour, including lodgings, transportation, and food. This way, you don’t have to worry about planning all of the details of your trip. Instead, you simply arrive at the hotel for the welcome briefing, and we’ll take it from there!

 

Ready to book one of the best tours from San Jose, Costa Rica? Call 1-800-CARAVAN or 1 (312) 321-9800 to get started today.