What to do and see in San Jose, Province of San Jose: The Best Self-Guided Tours & Rentals

November 23, 2021 Rosalyn Ihle

Vibrant and packed with Victorian mansions, Costa Rica's rowdy, bustling capital was built on the profits of the coffee trade and working "golden bean" plantations still surround the city. Try freshly roasted local beans at Mercado Central. For shinier gold, visit the Museo del Oro. Many renovated landmarks now house stylish hotels. Usually viewed as a hub, rather than a destination, nightlife is concentrated in Spanish village-inspired El Pueblo. Don't miss the elegant 1897 National Theater.
Restaurants in San Jose

1. Irazu Volcano National Park, Cartago City and Orosi Valley from San Jose

Destiny Travel Costa Rica
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

In this day tour you will be able to enjoy beautiful views from the Irazu Volcano National Park, Orosi Valley and explore Cartago City. Irazu is an active strato volcano with an irregular subconical shape. It towers 3,432 meters above sea level and spreads over 500 square kilometers, which makes it the largest volcano in Costa Rica.

Inclusions: All taxes, fees and handling charges, National Park fees, Lunch, Driver/guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Transport by air-conditioned minivan

Exclusions: Gratuities (recommed)

Reviewed By meator3

I was in Costa Rica in January, now I have traveled to Colombia. I have waited several months but I cannot shake how HORRIBLE this tour was. We were supposed to have a tour bus but was instead packed into a sedan. At some point the tour guide was alluding to us going to a nicer restaurant and having us pay for his lunch because the office "did not send the money over" for the included meal. I have been on many tours before and many after but this one was easily the worst. Our tour guide was out taking pictures of his own on every site instead of actually guiding us. What took the cake was when we thought we were going to see a coffee plantation but instead he pulls over on the side of the road to a ditch to show us mounds of dirt that supposedly were growing coffee and he said he couldn't take us to an actual plantation because "The Nicaraguans are harder working and the Costa Rican youth are always on their phones now so it won't be worth it". We paid 100+ dollars EACH for a glorified taxi ride across the country. 0/10 don't recommend

2. Private Day Trip from San Jose to Cahuita National Park (Caribbean Coast)

Destiny Travel Costa Rica
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

When you think of Costa Rica’s Caribbean shores, things like a laid-back vibe, coconut dishes and calypso might pop up in your mind. People do not necessarily come to this side of Costa Rica for its wildlife, but if you’re a big fan of Mother Nature, the flora and fauna of the eastern side of the country have a great deal to offer as well.

Inclusions: All taxes, fees and handling charges, National Park fees, Bottled water, Breakfast, Lunch, Driver/guide, Professional guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off

Exclusions: Gratuities

Reviewed By meator3

I was in Costa Rica in January, now I have traveled to Colombia. I have waited several months but I cannot shake how HORRIBLE this tour was. We were supposed to have a tour bus but was instead packed into a sedan. At some point the tour guide was alluding to us going to a nicer restaurant and having us pay for his lunch because the office "did not send the money over" for the included meal. I have been on many tours before and many after but this one was easily the worst. Our tour guide was out taking pictures of his own on every site instead of actually guiding us. What took the cake was when we thought we were going to see a coffee plantation but instead he pulls over on the side of the road to a ditch to show us mounds of dirt that supposedly were growing coffee and he said he couldn't take us to an actual plantation because "The Nicaraguans are harder working and the Costa Rican youth are always on their phones now so it won't be worth it". We paid 100+ dollars EACH for a glorified taxi ride across the country. 0/10 don't recommend

3. Tortuga Island Cruises From San José

Destination Services
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4.3 based on 3 reviews

The Gulf of Nicoya is a paradisiac archipelago composed of several islands, with a rich natural wealth and a sanctuary that harbors seabirds and beaches of white sands, besides it has flora and fauna of our Central Pacific. In this beautiful archipelago is LOCATED: Isla Tortuga.

Inclusions: Lunch, Snacks, Box Breakfast, Tour Guide, Transportation from Hotels in San José

Exclusions: Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase), Gratuities, Aditional Activities in The Island

Reviewed By 926RonS

The place didn't disappoint. The numerous waterfalls and trail was great experience. Definitely worth-visiting.

4. Day Trip from San Jose to Arenal Volcano & Baldi Hot Springs

Destiny Travel Costa Rica
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4.0 based on 1 reviews

Unforgettable experience...!! Be amazed by the volcanic colossus of Arenal , though it has not erupted recently, this cinder cone on the Costa Rican skyline is considered one of the world's most active volcanoes. Then soak up in the thermal benefits in the mineral-rich waters at Baldi natural hot Springs Resort

Inclusions: Bottled water, Buffet lunch, Buffet dinner, Professional guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off (if option selected)

Exclusions: Gratuities

Reviewed By meator3

I was in Costa Rica in January, now I have traveled to Colombia. I have waited several months but I cannot shake how HORRIBLE this tour was. We were supposed to have a tour bus but was instead packed into a sedan. At some point the tour guide was alluding to us going to a nicer restaurant and having us pay for his lunch because the office "did not send the money over" for the included meal. I have been on many tours before and many after but this one was easily the worst. Our tour guide was out taking pictures of his own on every site instead of actually guiding us. What took the cake was when we thought we were going to see a coffee plantation but instead he pulls over on the side of the road to a ditch to show us mounds of dirt that supposedly were growing coffee and he said he couldn't take us to an actual plantation because "The Nicaraguans are harder working and the Costa Rican youth are always on their phones now so it won't be worth it". We paid 100+ dollars EACH for a glorified taxi ride across the country. 0/10 don't recommend

5. Day Trip from San Jose to Jaco Beach & ATV Adventure

Destiny Travel Costa Rica
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4.0 based on 1 reviews

This tour has been designed with a view to offering a relaxing day at one of the most popular beaches in the country surrounded by an active and vibrant trade to enjoy the warm tropical climate, the long beach bathed by the Pacific Ocean and the pools included among the facilities and services offered by the beach hotel South Beach . Its proximity to the capital city makes the city of Jacó one of the most important holiday destinations in the country, where the offer of tourist services is extremely varied allowing you to enjoy all kinds of adventure, nature and entertainment activities to the fullest.  Tour includes: Profesional bilingual guide Comfortable air conditioning transportation Use of facilities Bottled water 2 Hours ATV Adventure Lunch Free wifi

Inclusions: All taxes, fees and handling charges, Bottled water, Lunch, Driver/guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Transport by air-conditioned minivan, Professional equipment

Exclusions: Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase), Gratuities

Reviewed By meator3

I was in Costa Rica in January, now I have traveled to Colombia. I have waited several months but I cannot shake how HORRIBLE this tour was. We were supposed to have a tour bus but was instead packed into a sedan. At some point the tour guide was alluding to us going to a nicer restaurant and having us pay for his lunch because the office "did not send the money over" for the included meal. I have been on many tours before and many after but this one was easily the worst. Our tour guide was out taking pictures of his own on every site instead of actually guiding us. What took the cake was when we thought we were going to see a coffee plantation but instead he pulls over on the side of the road to a ditch to show us mounds of dirt that supposedly were growing coffee and he said he couldn't take us to an actual plantation because "The Nicaraguans are harder working and the Costa Rican youth are always on their phones now so it won't be worth it". We paid 100+ dollars EACH for a glorified taxi ride across the country. 0/10 don't recommend

6. Jaco Beach & ATV Adventure one day tour from San Jose

Destiny Travel Costa Rica
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4.0 based on 1 reviews

This tour has been designed with a view to offering a relaxing day at one of the most popular beaches in the country surrounded by an active and vibrant trade to enjoy the warm tropical climate, the long beach bathed by the Pacific Ocean and the pools included among the facilities and services offered by the beach hotel South Beach . Its proximity to the capital city makes the city of Jacó one of the most important holiday destinations in the country, where the offer of tourist services is extremely varied allowing you to enjoy all kinds of adventure, nature and entertainment activities to the fullest.  Tour includes: Profesional bilingual guide Comfortable air conditioned transportation Use of facilities Bottled water 2 Hours ATV Adventure Lunch Free wifi

Inclusions: All taxes, fees and handling charges, Bottled water, Lunch, Driver/guide, Professional guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Transport by air-conditioned minivan, Professional equipment

Exclusions: Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase), Gratuities

Reviewed By meator3

I was in Costa Rica in January, now I have traveled to Colombia. I have waited several months but I cannot shake how HORRIBLE this tour was. We were supposed to have a tour bus but was instead packed into a sedan. At some point the tour guide was alluding to us going to a nicer restaurant and having us pay for his lunch because the office "did not send the money over" for the included meal. I have been on many tours before and many after but this one was easily the worst. Our tour guide was out taking pictures of his own on every site instead of actually guiding us. What took the cake was when we thought we were going to see a coffee plantation but instead he pulls over on the side of the road to a ditch to show us mounds of dirt that supposedly were growing coffee and he said he couldn't take us to an actual plantation because "The Nicaraguans are harder working and the Costa Rican youth are always on their phones now so it won't be worth it". We paid 100+ dollars EACH for a glorified taxi ride across the country. 0/10 don't recommend

7. San Jose Sightseeing City Tour

Destiny Travel Costa Rica
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1.0 based on 1 reviews

Come, relax and enjoy this popular 4-hour sightseeing tour of the city and see the historic construction sites that include museums, theaters, markets and other interesting places in the city of San Jose. Tour includes: Bilingual profesional guide, comfortable air conditioning transportation, bottled water and lunch

Inclusions: All taxes, fees and handling charges, Bottled water, Lunch, Driver/guide, Professional guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off

Exclusions: Gratuities

Reviewed By meator3

I was in Costa Rica in January, now I have traveled to Colombia. I have waited several months but I cannot shake how HORRIBLE this tour was. We were supposed to have a tour bus but was instead packed into a sedan. At some point the tour guide was alluding to us going to a nicer restaurant and having us pay for his lunch because the office "did not send the money over" for the included meal. I have been on many tours before and many after but this one was easily the worst. Our tour guide was out taking pictures of his own on every site instead of actually guiding us. What took the cake was when we thought we were going to see a coffee plantation but instead he pulls over on the side of the road to a ditch to show us mounds of dirt that supposedly were growing coffee and he said he couldn't take us to an actual plantation because "The Nicaraguans are harder working and the Costa Rican youth are always on their phones now so it won't be worth it". We paid 100+ dollars EACH for a glorified taxi ride across the country. 0/10 don't recommend

8. Day Trip from San Jose to Arenal Hanging Bridges & Baldi Hot Springs Resort

Destiny Travel Costa Rica

Unforgettable experience...!! Be amazed by the volcanic colossus of Arenal, though it has not erupted recently, this cinder cone on the Costa Rican skyline is considered one of the world's most active volcanoes. Also, visit The  Arenal Hanging Bridges (Mistico Park) a series of suspension bridges in the Volcan Arenal National Park area, offering views of Lake Arenal and Volcan Arenal, finally soak up in the thermal benefits in the mineral-rich waters at Baldi hot Springs Resort & Spa

Inclusions: Bottled water, Buffet lunch, Buffet dinner, Professional guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off (if option selected)

Exclusions: Gratuities (recommendedl)

Reviewed By meator3

I was in Costa Rica in January, now I have traveled to Colombia. I have waited several months but I cannot shake how HORRIBLE this tour was. We were supposed to have a tour bus but was instead packed into a sedan. At some point the tour guide was alluding to us going to a nicer restaurant and having us pay for his lunch because the office "did not send the money over" for the included meal. I have been on many tours before and many after but this one was easily the worst. Our tour guide was out taking pictures of his own on every site instead of actually guiding us. What took the cake was when we thought we were going to see a coffee plantation but instead he pulls over on the side of the road to a ditch to show us mounds of dirt that supposedly were growing coffee and he said he couldn't take us to an actual plantation because "The Nicaraguans are harder working and the Costa Rican youth are always on their phones now so it won't be worth it". We paid 100+ dollars EACH for a glorified taxi ride across the country. 0/10 don't recommend

9. Canopy & Rafting combo Adventure Tour at Hacienda Pozo Azul from San Jose

Destiny Travel Costa Rica

A 2000 acre working ranch, has become the adventure destination of choice in Costa Rica, at only 90 minutes from San Jose you will enjoy a great variety of eco adventures in a nature rich environment with first class equipment and trained guides to provide you a safe and unforgettable experience. Choose two of our three adventure tours  1- Rafting + canopy  2- Rafting + Horseback Riding  3- Canopy + Horseback Riding

Inclusions: All taxes, fees and handling charges, Buffet lunch, Driver/guide, Professional guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Profesional equipment

Exclusions: Gratuities, DVD (available to purchase)

Reviewed By meator3

I was in Costa Rica in January, now I have traveled to Colombia. I have waited several months but I cannot shake how HORRIBLE this tour was. We were supposed to have a tour bus but was instead packed into a sedan. At some point the tour guide was alluding to us going to a nicer restaurant and having us pay for his lunch because the office "did not send the money over" for the included meal. I have been on many tours before and many after but this one was easily the worst. Our tour guide was out taking pictures of his own on every site instead of actually guiding us. What took the cake was when we thought we were going to see a coffee plantation but instead he pulls over on the side of the road to a ditch to show us mounds of dirt that supposedly were growing coffee and he said he couldn't take us to an actual plantation because "The Nicaraguans are harder working and the Costa Rican youth are always on their phones now so it won't be worth it". We paid 100+ dollars EACH for a glorified taxi ride across the country. 0/10 don't recommend

10. Jungle Crocodile Safari & Jaco Beach from San Jose

Destiny Travel Costa Rica

Join us in this wonderful tour through the Rio Grande of Tarcoles on board of our comfortable and safe boats and finally spend and relax for the rest of the day at a Beachfront Hotel in Jaco Beach. Tour Includes: Bilingual professional guide  Comfortable & Air conditioning transportation from/to San Jose Crocodile Tour sailing through Tarcoles River and its mouth Visit to Guacalillo canal Brochure showing 60 commonly spotted bird species Cost rican coffee and refreshments Lunch Use of the facilities at the Beach Hotel

Inclusions: All taxes, fees and handling charges, Beverages, Lunch, Professional guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Guaranteed to skip the long lines, Transport by air-conditioned minivan

Exclusions: Gratuities

Reviewed By meator3

I was in Costa Rica in January, now I have traveled to Colombia. I have waited several months but I cannot shake how HORRIBLE this tour was. We were supposed to have a tour bus but was instead packed into a sedan. At some point the tour guide was alluding to us going to a nicer restaurant and having us pay for his lunch because the office "did not send the money over" for the included meal. I have been on many tours before and many after but this one was easily the worst. Our tour guide was out taking pictures of his own on every site instead of actually guiding us. What took the cake was when we thought we were going to see a coffee plantation but instead he pulls over on the side of the road to a ditch to show us mounds of dirt that supposedly were growing coffee and he said he couldn't take us to an actual plantation because "The Nicaraguans are harder working and the Costa Rican youth are always on their phones now so it won't be worth it". We paid 100+ dollars EACH for a glorified taxi ride across the country. 0/10 don't recommend

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