San Jose – The Best City Day Trips

The biggest of all cities found in Costa Rica, San Jose is the diverse capital of this Central American country. Found in the Central Valley of the country, San Jose is well placed for those short on time – the centralized location allows for a variety of day trips that can be organized from the city. This ensures that anyone can enjoy the very best of Costa Rica, no matter how long you intend to stay in the country.

Due to the ever-changing topography of the landscape, as well as the many National Parks dotted around, journey times from San Jose can take up to a couple of hours. However, most can still be enjoyed in a day. There are a multitude of tour companies within Costa Rica, as well as the web, that organize stress-free tours departing from San Jose. Some trips may include multiple excursions. 

Whilst booking through a tour operator may be easier, by no means is this the only way. Public transport throughout the country is well maintained and relatively reliable. This allows visitors to book and enjoy trips in their own time. If possible, hiring a car will allow for maximum freedom and accessibility. 

Poas Volcano 

One of the first National Parks to be established in Costa Rica, Poas Volcano is just an hour-long journey from the capital. Due to the close proximity of the capital, this National Park is one of the most popular parks in Costa Rica. With good reason too. A staggering 2600m, you will be welcomed with mesmerizing views of the valley below and of the biggest crater lakes in the world. 

As this is an active volcano, guests are limited to just 20 minutes at the observation point. Here, you can witness the electrifying blue crater lake – a build-up of chemical compounds, causing some incredible geological spectacles; from fumaroles to geysers. Managed by SINAC, a government-affiliated organization, tickets must be independently purchased through their website beforehand. 

Doka Estate Coffee Plantation

The valleys around San Jose are some of the most fertile soils in the country. The slopes of Poas Volcano are no exception. Alongside a favorable climate, this is the optimal growing requirement for coffee. The slopes here are adorned with coffee plantations; one of the countries most prized crops. 

Whilst there are many coffee-growing families in this region, one of the most famed is the Doka Estate Coffee Plantation. Learn and discover the fascinating process of coffee production. The best time to visit Doka Estate is between September – January, as the entire plantation transform red – coffee berry season.  

La Paz Waterfall Gardens 

Still, on the slopes of Poas Volcano, discover the incredible reserve of La Paz. Within the Vara Blanca Cloud Forest system, La Paz offers a range of natural falls and spectacular scenery. Nature is at the very forefront of this reserve, from the beautifully landscaped gardens to the rugged jungle slopes. 

Hike the 3.5km of trails that extend through the forests and discover the rich array of life on offer. The site also houses a wildlife sanctuary. Working with the Costa Rican government, injured animals are rehabilitated here. Iconic animals such as jaguar and red-eye tree frogs can be found here. 

Sarchí

Rich in culture, Sarchí is an escape from the wild nature of Costa Rica. Here, visitors can engorge themselves with the historic nature of the region. 

Just under an hour from San Jose, Sarchí is an introduction to the countries artistic flare. However, there is one thing in particular that has put Sarchí on the map: oxcarts. These simple wooden structures are a nod to past farming practices and have now become a specialized trade. Carts are intricately painted and ornately decorated in a range of bright, vibrant colors. 

Arenal Volcano and Hot Springs

A slightly longer drive of up 3 hours, Arenal is certainly worth the trip. One of the most popular destinations in the country, Arenal is the home of the famed Arenal Volcano. Once one of the most active volcanos in the country, now attracts a range of tourists – from birders and thrill-seekers to those seeking relaxation. 

Although it is recommended to spend a few days here, there are many activities that can be done in a shorter time frame of a day. Hike in the National Park, explore the hanging bridges or relax in one of the many hot springs that can be found in the area. Hot springs are naturally found pools of water, heated by the power of the volcano. The perfect way to soak up the tranquil rainforest vibes. 

Manuel Antonio National Park 

Another popular day tour from San Jose, Manuel Antonio offers the luxury of a rainforest AND beach. Again, roughly 3 hours from the city, visitors to this Pacific coastal town will be rewarded with an opportunity to spot wild animals and relax on one of the best beaches in Costa Rica. 

Being the smallest National Park in Costa Rica, Manuel Antonio offers a series of activities, from hiking and snorkeling, to watersports and nature watching. Incredibly, for such a small park, visitors have the chance to spot many iconic, and endangered, species. Such animals include the Central American Squirrel Monkey, three-toed sloths, and scarlet macaws. 

Manuel Antonio is relatively easy to reach via bus from San Jose, and leaves multiple times throughout the day. 

Irazu Volcano 

The tallest volcano in Costa Rica, Irazu is a must-see. Just under 2 hours’ drive from the city, Irazu is perfect for a day trip from San Jose. 

Although the volcano viewpoint boasts incredible scenery and Instagram-worthy shots, there isn’t a great deal to do at the crater other than marvel at the beauty. If you are driving, you may have the opportunity to discover more about the slopes of Irazu. If you are an avid ghost enthusiast, then a stop at Finca Sanatorio Duran may just be for you. Thought to be one of the most haunted places in Costa Rica, this abandoned tuberculosis hospital is a hotspot for those brave enough to venture inside. 

If ghosts and ghouls aren’t for you, why not explore the forest of Prussia. Unlike many habitats in Costa Rica, which typically offer exotic tropical trees, Prussia offers an extensive pine forest and beautiful viewpoints.