What to do and Where to stay in
San Jose & Central Costa Rica

Over the years much of San Jose’s colonial architecture has been destroyed by earthquakes so the capital doesn’t have the same historic charm as other cities in Latin American but it is still the county’s cultural heart and home to some wonderful museums and beautiful sites such as the striking Teatro Nacional.

The Central Valley surrounding San Jose is an area of great scenic beauty, lush and green with plantations and rural farming villages. A cultural tour is a great way to discover Costa Rica’s history and traditions.  The quaint town of Sarchí is one of the main artisan centres and famous for the colourful hand-painted oxcarts that were once used to carry goods to market. If you’re a coffee lover then don’t miss the opportunity to stay on a coffee finca or take a plantation tour and pick up some quality coffee beans as a souvenir.

Poas Volcano National Park is one of Costa Rica’s oldest and most well-known national parks and home to Poas Volcano and the Irazu Volcano. A visit here offers the chance to see the huge smoking crater of Costa Rica’s most active volcano!

One of the region’s most popular attractions is La Paz Waterfall Gardens. Within this eco-park there are waterfall trails to follow, a hummingbird garden, butterfly observatory, serpentarium and wildlife exhibits for all ages.

The Central Valley is also well placed for exhilarating rafting adventures on the Pacuare River hidden deep in the jungle a 2-hour drive from San Jose.