How to Plan Your Between Volcanoes: Irazú Turrialba and Guayabo Archaeological Site Tour in San Jose

If you are traveling to Central Costa Rica and are short on time, the Between Volcanoes tour is an excellent option to experience the natural beauty and cultural diversity of the region. The tour showcases two of Costa Rica’s impressive volcanoes, Irazú and Turrialba, as well as the community that lives in their shadows. Additionally, it offers a visit to the Guayabo Archaeological Site, where you can explore the history and culture of Costa Rica’s indigenous communities.

To make the most out of your trip, here is a step-by-step guide on how to plan your Between Volcanoes tour:

Step 1: Choose a Tour Operator

The Between Volcanoes tour is offered by several tour operators in San Jose. Viator is one of the best tour operators for this tour as it provides comfortable transportation, experienced guides, and excellent customer service. Viator’s package includes an air-conditioned vehicle, parking fees, lunch, and entrance fees to the Irazu National Park and Guayabo National Park. You can book the tour directly from their website using this link.

Step 2: Choose a Pickup Location

Viator offers pick-up service from any hotel or location in San Jose City or its surroundings. You can choose the location that is most convenient for you. Make sure to select the right pickup location and time when booking the tour. The tour usually starts at 6:30 AM, so be ready to depart early to enjoy a full day of adventure.

Step 3: Prepare for Your Tour

Wear comfortable shoes and clothing as you will be doing a lot of walking and hiking. Additionally, bring a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a camera to capture the breath-taking landscapes and cultural experiences. Keep in mind that the temperature is cooler at the elevated central regions, so it’s advisable to bring an extra jacket or sweater.

Step 4: Enjoy the Tour

The Between Volcanoes tour is a full-day tour with an experienced guide who will take you to visit the area’s most iconic destinations. You will begin your journey at Journeys Cartago, where you will board a comfortable and air-conditioned vehicle. Your guide will explain the essential details about the tour and what to expect from each destination.

Your first stop will be the Irazu Volcano. This active volcano is close to 11,000 feet high and is topped by a large crater filled with a green lagoon. On a clear day, you can see both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans from the top. The view from the summit is spectacular, and it’s an excellent opportunity to take photos and enjoy the scenery. The tour also includes a visit to the Orosi Valley, where the old colonial church and the ruins of an ancient Ujarras indigenous village are located.

After visiting the Irazu Volcano, the next stop is Turrialba, another active volcano. Turrialba is often referred to as the most active volcano in Costa Rica, and its ash eruptions can sometimes be seen from San Jose. The sight from the base of the volcano is awe-inspiring, and there is a chance to visit a local coffee farm to learn about the history and production of Costa Rican coffee.

The final destination of the tour is the Guayabo National Park. The Guayabo Archaeological Site is a pre-Columbian settlement that covers over 232 acres of land. The site includes a complex system of aqueducts, plazas, paths, petroglyphs, and sculptures, providing insight into Costa Rican history and culture.

Step 5: Return to San Jose

At the end of the tour, the vehicle will return you to your original pickup location. On the way back, you can relax, reminisce on your experiences, and enjoy the scenic views of the Costa Rican landscapes.

Conclusion

The Between Volcanoes tour is an excellent way to experience the natural and cultural beauty of Central Costa Rica in a day. By following these five simple steps, you can book the tour, choose a pickup location, prepare for the tour, enjoy the tour, and return to San Jose with unforgettable memories. Book the tour here.

Everything You Need to Know About San Jose

Are you planning to travel to the beautiful city of San Jose soon? Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a frequent traveler, it’s essential to understand everything about the city before your trip. San Jose is a fantastic place to visit, with its cultural attractions, amazing weather, and beautiful scenery. However, like any other destination, you may have some questions about the city. In this blog post, we will address some of the most frequently asked questions about San Jose, California.

1. What is the Best Time to Visit San Jose?

San Jose has a Mediterranean climate, which means the summers are warm and dry, while the winters are mild and wet. The best time to visit San Jose is during the summer months (June, July, and August), when the weather is perfect for outdoor activities. However, if you prefer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, it’s advisable to visit during the shoulder season (spring and fall).

2. How Do I Get Around San Jose?

San Jose has an excellent public transportation system that includes buses, light rail, and a commuter train. The light rail system connects downtown San Jose to various neighborhoods and attractions, while buses provide comprehensive coverage of the city. If you prefer to drive, renting a car is a great option, and there are numerous car rental companies in the city.

3. What Are the Must-Visit Attractions in San Jose?

San Jose is home to several incredible attractions that are worth visiting. Here are some of the top must-visit attractions in the city:

• The Tech Interactive
• San Jose Museum of Art
• Winchester Mystery House
• Happy Hollow Park and Zoo
• Santana Row

4. What is the Cost of Living in San Jose?

San Jose is notoriously expensive, with a cost of living that is higher than the national average. The cost of living index in San Jose is 91.8, which means that it is around 9% higher than the US average. Housing and transportation costs are particularly high in the city.

5. What Are the Best Food and Drink Spots in San Jose?

San Jose has a thriving food and drink scene, with several excellent restaurants and bars. Here are some of the top food and drink spots in San Jose:

• La Victoria Taqueria
• The Table
• Poké Bar
• Santa Clara Valley Brewing
• Five Points Cocktail Bar

6. Is San Jose Safe?

San Jose is a relatively safe city, with a crime rate that is lower than the national average. However, like any other city, it’s essential to take precautions when traveling in San Jose. Be cautious when walking alone at night and avoid leaving your belongings unattended.

7. What Are the Best Accommodations in San Jose?

San Jose has several excellent accommodation options, ranging from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious resorts. Here are some of the top accommodation options in the city:

• Hotel Valencia Santana Row
• Four Seasons Hotel Silicon Valley
• Hyatt Place San Jose
• Aloft Santa Clara
• San Jose Marriott

8. What Are the Best Day Trips from San Jose?

If you have some extra time during your trip to San Jose, it’s worth taking a day trip to some of the nearby attractions. Here are some of the best day trips from San Jose:

• San Francisco
• Santa Cruz Boardwalk
• Napa Valley
• Carmel-by-the-Sea
• Monterey Bay Aquarium

Conclusion

San Jose is an incredible destination, with plenty of attractions, food, and drink options to suit any traveler’s needs. We hope this blog post has answered some of your questions about visiting the city, and we wish you an enjoyable and unforgettable trip to San Jose!