Irazu Volcano, Orosi Valley, and Lankester Garden

On this tour, you’ll go to the top of Irazu Volcano, visit the famous Cartago Basilica, be surrounded by tropical flora at Lankester Gardens, and check out the historical architecture while traveling in the scenic Orosi Valley. This is the perfect combo tour for nature lovers and those who want to learn about the history and culture of Costa Rica.

The tour begins when you are picked up from your hotel and driven through open farmlands, coffee plantations, and lush forest until you reach the small town of Cartago. From here your van will start the 30 minute ascent to the top of Irazu Volcano where you may be surprised by the almost freezing temperature and harsh sun. You’ll stand at the top looking out at the volcano’s otherworldly and barren appearance.

Your guide will take you on a short hike on trails that loop around three of the craters. In one of the craters there is an emerald green lake bringing color into the panoramic view. Only a very few tropical bird species can thrive in this cold climate. On a clear day, you may be lucky enough to view both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea from this high altitude.

You’ll return to the town of Cartago to see the famous Basilica church known as the “Lady of the Angels”. This is possibly the most cherished Catholic church in the entire country. You will be told the beautiful legend of how a statue was found here that is now the celebrated patron of all of Costa Rica. This statue is officially named the Virgin of the Angels but locals call it La Negrita or Reina de Cartago. Once a year there is a massive pilgrimage to visit the Basilica and some even walk the last 13 miles on their hands and knees.

You will then visit Lankester Gardens, a beautifully maintained wonderland of orchids, bromeliads, succulents, and other flowers and plants. The grounds showcase different growing environments including the beautiful Japanese garden. Going from one garden to the next is bound to give any green thumb enthusiast a boost of inspiration for ideas to take back to your home garden.

Traveling next through the expansive vistas of the scenic Orosi Valley, you will arrive at one of the few remaining colonial churches located near the gorgeous Reventazon River. This area is thought to be the location of the first Spanish settlement in Costa Rica and its church, built in the 1700s, is the oldest church in the country that is still in use.

After visiting the church, you will settle in at a cute local restaurant to enjoy a delicious Costa Rican style lunch. Then you’ll hop back into the van and enjoy the scenic drive as you return to your hotel.

This tour includes a bilingual guide, entrance fees, lunch and transportation from Alajuela and San Jose. One way transport can take between 1.5 to 2 hours depending on the location of your hotel. Combined time of all the tour stops, lunch and round-trip transportation typically takes between 9 and11 hours.

Please wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a jacket for visiting the volcano. It is best to wear sunscreen too as the high altitude and bright sun can be quite strong. In addition, you’ll want to have your camera, rain gear, and extra spending money if you would like to purchase souvenirs.