How to Plan Your San Jose: Tortuguero Park Day Tour with Breakfast & Lunch

Are you looking for a unique experience where you can explore the luscious jungle landscape and canals in Tortuguero National Park, see native wildlife, learn about Costa Rica’s abundance of flora and fauna, meet local people, and enjoy a delicious Costa Rican breakfast and a hearty buffet lunch? Then the San Jose: Tortuguero Park Day Tour with Breakfast & Lunch is the perfect adventure for you!

To make sure you have an unforgettable experience, follow our step-by-step guide on how to plan your tour.

Step 1: Book your tour

The first step is to book your tour online at the following link: Book the tour here. You can browse different tour options and select the date and time that works best for you. Don’t forget to read the confirmation email carefully to ensure you have all the necessary details for your tour.

Step 2: Choose Your Pick-up Location

The pickup time for the tour starts at 6:00 am, and the tour company will pick you up from your hotel or accommodation in San Jose, Heredia, or Alajuela. Make sure to select your pickup location and be ready on time so that you don’t miss your ride.

Step 3: Get Ready for Breakfast and The Braulio Carrillo National Park

Once you’ve been picked up, start your journey to Tortuguero Park with a scenic drive through the Braulio Carrillo National Park. Along the way, admire rolling coffee plantations and the breathtaking mountains.

You will then stop for breakfast at a local restaurant serving traditional Costa Rican food before heading to the small town of La Pavona.

Step 4: Take a Boat Ride through the Tortuguero Canals

Once you reach the dock at La Pavona, you’ll board a boat for an incredible excursion through the canals of Tortuguero National Park. During the boat ride, you’ll get the chance to see green sea turtles, toucans, monkeys, crocodiles, and other native wildlife species.

Step 5: Arrive at Tortuguero Village

After the boat ride, you’ll arrive at Tortugero Village, where you’ll learn about the town’s history and culture and have some free time to explore.

Step 6: Enjoy a Buffet Lunch

After your village tour, head back to the boat and to the restaurant at La Pavona for a hearty buffet lunch.

Step 7: Return to Your Accommodation in San Jose

After lunch, it’s time to head back to San Jose. You’ll be dropped off at your hotel or accommodation.

Conclusion

The San Jose: Tortuguero Park Day Tour with Breakfast & Lunch offers a unique and exciting experience that you won’t forget. By following our step-by-step guide, you can plan your tour with ease and guarantee that you’ll have a fantastic adventure. Don’t wait any longer, book your tour today, and enjoy all the beautiful sights and experiences that Tortuguero National Park has to offer.

An Insider’s Guide to San José, Costa Rica

San José, the capital city of Costa Rica, is a bustling metropolis filled with history, culture, natural beauty, and delicious food. Located in the Central Valley of Costa Rica, San José is a great starting point for exploring the country’s many attractions. In this insider’s guide, we’ll explore some of the best things to do, places to eat, and hidden gems in San José.

Attractions

San José has a range of attractions that will appeal to travelers of all interests. Here are a few must-see sights:

– National Museum: Housed in an old fortress, the National Museum offers a fascinating look into the history of Costa Rica, from pre-Columbian times to the present day.
– Parque Nacional: This central park is a beautiful oasis in the heart of the city, with manicured lawns, fountains, and an iconic statue of former Costa Rican President León Cortés.
– Teatro Nacional: This beautiful neo-classical theater dates back to the late 19th century and hosts a range of cultural events, from dance performances to music concerts.
– Mercado Central: A vibrant and bustling market, the Mercado Central is a great place to try local fruits, vegetables, and other snacks. Be sure to haggle with the vendors for the best deals!

Dining

San José is a food lover’s paradise, with a range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. Here are some must-visit restaurants:

– Soda Tapia: A quintessential Costa Rican soda (small diner-style restaurant), Soda Tapia is known for its hearty casados, or traditional Costa Rican plates, which come with rice, beans, plantains, and your choice of meat or fish.
– La Esquina de Buenos Aires: This Argentinean steakhouse is a carnivore’s dream, with delicious cuts of meat cooked to perfection and served with hearty sides like mashed potatoes and grilled vegetables.
– Lubnan: For something a little different, head to Lubnan for delicious Lebanese food. The hummus, falafel, and shawarma are all must-tries.
– Café Mundo: With its funky, bohemian decor, Café Mundo is a great spot for brunch or lunch. The menu is eclectic, with everything from sandwiches to fish tacos to quinoa bowls.

Cultural Experiences

In addition to the attractions listed above, there are also a number of cultural experiences you won’t want to miss in San José:

– Pre-Columbian Gold Museum: Located beneath the Plaza de la Cultura, this museum features a stunning collection of ancient gold objects, including intricate jewelry and ceremonial artifacts.
– Museo de Arte y Diseño Contemporáneo (MADC): This contemporary art museum is housed in a beautiful old fire station and showcases the work of artists from Costa Rica and around the world.
– Barrio Escalante: A trendy neighborhood filled with art galleries, bars, and cafes, Barrio Escalante is a great place to wander and soak up the local culture.
– La Sabana Metropolitan Park: A massive public park located just outside the city center, La Sabana is a great spot for picnics, bike rides, and outdoor activities.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For those who want to get off the beaten path and explore some hidden gems in San José, here are a few suggestions:

– El Jardín de Mariposas: A beautiful butterfly garden located just outside of San José, El Jardín de Mariposas is a magical place filled with brightly colored butterflies and tropical plants.
– Finca Rosa Blanca Coffee Farm and Inn: Located in the hills outside San José, this coffee farm and inn offers a unique glimpse into the world of Costa Rican coffee production.
– Galería Namu: A charming little gallery that showcases indigenous art and crafts from all over Costa Rica, Galería Namu is a great spot to pick up a unique souvenir.
– Museo de los Niños (Children’s Museum): Although technically geared towards children, this interactive museum is fun and informative for visitors of all ages.

San José is a city that truly has something for everyone, whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or nature. With this insider’s guide, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience in this vibrant capital city.