San Jose’s proximity to Irazu Volcano makes it an ideal day-trip destination, just 1.5 hours away. Without a rental car, public transportation can be a challenge, but you can rely on our partner tour operators to provide hassle-free Irazu Volcano tours from San Jose.
You’ll find this excursion to be one of the top day trips from San Jose for volcano enthusiasts. Plus, many tour companies will pair Irazu Volcano with another exciting destination like Cartago or Orosi, which we’ll explore further below.
Irazu Volcano Tours from San Jose (Half Day)
This half-day tour takes you to Irazu Volcano National Park, a captivating destination. Roundtrip transportation from San Jose, national park fees, and a bilingual guide are all included. As you leave the city and ascend to the volcano summit, your guide will regale you with fascinating facts about the volcano. You’ll have ample time to explore the national park, walking to the crater viewpoints and taking in the breathtaking views.
Next, your journey takes you to Cartago, where you’ll visit the renowned Virgin of the Angels Basilica. After exploring the Basilica, you’ll be returned to your hotel, arriving around 12-1 PM.
This tour focuses solely on Irazu Volcano National Park, but there are additional options that cover more ground. You may also consider the following tours that visit multiple destinations
Irazu Volcano, Orosi Valley and Lankester Itinerary
Your full-day adventure spans four captivating destinations: Irazu Volcano National Park, Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels, Orosi Valley, and Lankester Botanical Garden.
Your journey’s drive times are approximately: 1 hour 45 minutes from San Jose to Irazu Volcano, 45 minutes from Irazu to Cartago, and a short 10-minute drive to the gardens.
Irazu Volcano National Park
Cartago Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels
Your journey continues in Cartago, where you’ll visit the revered Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels, Costa Rica’s most significant Catholic church. This sacred site houses the esteemed rock relic and the statue of the Black Madonna.
This stunning church is a must-see for Catholics and anyone fascinated by religious architecture. You’ll have approximately 30 minutes to explore the church and its surroundings.
Next, you’ll head to the nearby botanical garden, just a short 15-minute drive away.
Lankester Botanical Garden
The Lankester Botanical Garden holds great significance for orchid research and study, but its diverse collection extends beyond orchids, featuring a wide range of plants, flowers, and trees. Flower enthusiasts, especially orchid lovers, will find this garden a true delight.
The garden boasts an impressive collection, including the world’s smallest orchid!
You’ll have a little over an hour to explore the garden’s wonders, followed by a leisurely lunch at a nearby coffee plantation.
Lunch
Savor traditional Costa Rican cuisine amidst the breathtaking scenery of a coffee plantation, where your lunch will be served. Vegetarian options are available, and your meal will be complemented by coffee and dessert.
En route to lunch, you’ll journey through the picturesque Orosi Valley, making a brief stop at a local church to capture some memorable photos.
After lunch, you’ll be returned to your hotel, bringing your journey full circle.
Irazu Volcano and Hacienda Orosi
Explore the wonders of Irazu Volcano National Park and Hacienda Orosi on this 9-hour tour.
Hacienda Orosi, a luxurious hot spring resort, is nestled in the breathtaking Orosi Valley, offering panoramic views of the surrounding rainforest and city.
You’ll spend most of the afternoon unwinding at Hacienda Orosi, where your visit includes entrance fees to the hot springs and a delicious lunch.
Take a leisurely stroll along the property’s short trails, featuring giant-sized, fun Costa Rican cultural statues – perfect for capturing memorable photos.
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