Basic Stats:
- Pick up from points all over San Jose
- Includes visits to:
Cartago City & Ruins
Basicilica Los Angeles
Irazu Volcano Crater
Lankaster Gardens
Orosi Colonial Church
- You will reach 3,400 meters above sea level
- Hot Lunch
- A Full Day excursion of approx 9 hours.
Perfect for:
- For all ages & Families with kids
- Basic Level of Fitness
- Those wanting a half day tour or longer
- Those wanting to be in a cool environment
- Pick up from points all over San Jose
- Includes visits to:
Cartago City & Ruins
Basicilica Los Angeles
Irazu Volcano Crater
Lankaster Gardens
Orosi Colonial Church
- You will reach 3,400 meters above sea level
- Hot Lunch
- A Full Day excursion of approx 9 hours.
Perfect for:
- For all ages & Families with kids
- Basic Level of Fitness
- Those wanting a half day tour or longer
- Those wanting to be in a cool environment
After being picked up in a comfortable minibus, tour guests are transported to the far east side of San Jose, a route that leaves the most urbanized areas as they give way to lush green farmlands with all kinds of vegetables and small towns.
This special day combo-tour begins with a visit to the city of Cartago, the first and former capital of Costa Rica. The city was granted a coat of arms by King Philip II of Spain in 1565, and served as Costa Rica's first capital until 1823, when the capital moved to the larger urban center of San Jose at a time when Cartago expressed their desire to lead Costa Rica into joining a new Mexican empire, a move opposed by the pro-republic aspirations of the provinces of San Jose and Alajuela. Cartago is home of La Basilica de Los Angeles, constructed in a Byzantine style and completed in 1924, it's the most important and well-known church in the country. Every August, hundreds of thousands of Costa Ricans make a pilgrimage to this basilica in hopes of being healed from a disease or to especially request a unique favor of "La Negrita." during the Romería pilgrimage walk, some, as a demonstration of their piety, choose to crawl the 22 kilometers on their hands and knees. At the basilica many wash themselves and drink the water from the rock on which the statue was found. Scientists have tested this water safe to drink. Inside, a large number of silver and gold pieces represent each person's prayerful petition. |
You will soon ascend out of the city of Cartago as you make your ways towards Irazú Volcano National Park, whose main feature is the highest active volcano in Costa Rica at 3,432 meters (11,257 feet). Once at the volcano top you can observe the main craters and on a clear day both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans can be seen. However those clear days are rare. It is more common for the crater to be covered in an enchanting atmosphere of mist. You will be able to go right to the rim of this natural wonder and take a close look inside the crater of this still active volcano. Of course, there is often cloud cover. So let's hope it's clear. |
The colonial Orosi Valley is generally considered one of the most beautiful in Costa Rica. The Reventazon River meanders through this steep-sided valley until it collects in the lake formed by the Cachi Dam. Named after a Huetar Indian chief who lived in the region before it was colonized by the Spanish. This quiet Costa Rica town is a nature lover’s delight. In town of Orosi itself, you can see the church of Iglesia de San Jose Orosi built in 1734, and declared a National Monument in 1920 by the Costa Rican government. This church sits on the west side of town and has a masterfully crafted wooden altar that is definitely worth a look. |
Soon after, you will stop by Lankaster Botanical Gardens, created in the 1940's by British naturalist and orchidologist, Charles H Lankester. "Don Carlos" (as he was affectionately known) dedicated his life to the creation of a private garden on his farm, which was donated to the University of Costa Rica in 1973. The Lakester Botanical Garden has become one of hte most active and important botanical institutions of the Neotropics. On these 11 hectares of land you will find over 3,000 species of plants. In particular, a wide variety of orchids, with many shapes and colors, make up some of the gardens favorite cultivated species. After a great combo day tour, now it's time to head back to a well deserved rest at your lodging in San Jose! |
Refund Policy:
Refunds of 70% are available up to 48 hours before the tour. No refund available for cancellations within less than 48hr.
Refunds of 70% are available up to 48 hours before the tour. No refund available for cancellations within less than 48hr.