Get ready to explore the San Jose region with a friendly personal guide from ToursByLocals. Your private guide is eager to give you an unforgettable San Jose tour, with a local's perspective on the best Costa Rica's Central Valley has to offer.

San Jose is Central America's most cosmopolitan capital and an excellent jumping off point for the tours our local guides offer. Go surfing in Jaco, savour the mountain vistas and coffee-scented air in beautiful Valle de Orosi, and explore the preserved colonial town of Barva - all with your knowledgeable local guide. And no San Juan tour is complete without a visit to the cloudforests of Braulio Carrillo National Park, or Poas Volcano, home to towering waterfalls and a steaming volcanic crater.

Book a unique San Jose tour with ToursByLocals and see why Costa Ricans really are the happiest people on earth! Make sure to ask your guide about customizing your San Jose tour to include exactly what you want to see around magical Costa Rica.

San-Jose

Despite being Costa Rica's capital and the busiest city in the country, San José's main landmarks and hoods can be explored on foot. Indeed, as a "Josefino"(a folk from SJ), I must say this is the best way to discover the city's hidden jewels and interesting details that one might overlook otherwise.

"Chepe" as many refer to the capital, is a vibrant and eclectic hub with a rich history and a local scene that is in constant change. The contribution of the different cultural groups settled in the city is another aspect that is easily perceptible as you walk from one block to the next.

During this tour, we will cover the downtown central area, its parks, plazas and boulevards, all while walking leisurely towards an up-scale classic "barrio" that has been turned into a gastronomic go-to area, where you will certainly have the chance to satisfy your cravings.

This tour is great for first-time visitors, history buffs, or simply anyone who wants to have a good time and make the most of it in San José :)

Even many locals ignore there is a piece of World's history in these gardens...

Barrio Amón, a "French neighborhood" in the late 1800's, features beautiful houses and little cafes with eclectic architecture

Barrio Escalante: pubs, restaurants, cafes around every corner

Have you seen raw jade? Our indigenous tribes were jade-masters

Three iconic buildings of San Jose's East Side

Stroll around the city & discover its eventful history and locals' favorite spots

San José Walking City Tour

My private expedition's main goal is, to take you out of the city, to go visiting the tropical rainforest wonders, for a whole day, full of new experiences about Costa Rica and its nature!. Places such as, Carara, Monteverde cloud forest, the Arenal Volcano, or even the Poas Volcano are at reach for a full day trip! Many places in between will give us the taste of costarican idiosyncrasy and culture. Let me be your host for a lifetime experience!!!
Pura Vida
Henry

This tour is compliant with the Animal Welfare Policy of ToursBylocals.

Monterverde continental divide, caribbean side!

Highland plants, usually shows hard shaped leaves

Picture time at the sky zipline main deck

Monterverde continental divide, pacific side!

Green violet ear Hummingbird, having breakfast!

Private natural day trips

San Jose Wildlife Expeditions

Explore Tortuguero Canals with a guide who's family founded Tortuguero Village in early 1900 's. Enjoy a boat or canoe ride inside the National Park, learning about one of the most diverse protected areas in Costa Rica, searching for wildlife and listening to local stories.

Walking in the village is part of the experience, meeting people and learning how it was like to live in such a remote area, the changes that the locals had experience and how tourism came to stay and change their lives forever.

A hike at Tortuguero Hill, an extinct volcano is an activity I like to offer also, it's definitely a workout; over 500 steps uphill to get to a platform with the best view of the Caribbean Sea and the river Canals.

During the green turtle season (June-October), a turtle tour is possible to do, it happens at night time, having the possibility of spotting any of the four species that nest in the area during that period of time only.

Exploring the Canals and Rainforest

Tortuguero Private Tour

Costa Rica From Coast to Coast Multi-Day Tour

Tortuguero is a unique region in Costa Rica, with a small island characterized by being visited by the turtles for spawning. A place with no cars, only paths for pedestrians and bicycles and an evergreen rain forest to load our lungs with fresh air. Here you can find great cultural wealth, delicious Caribbean cuisine and a dense flora harnessed by a rich fauna.

Arenal, the majestic perfect conical shaped volcano, becomes the main decoration of La Fortuna town, which also features great tourist attractions such as hanging bridges, waterfalls, hot springs and others, surrounded by beautiful rural and jungly landscape.

Guanacaste, with its warm climate and beautiful beaches, makes it the perfect place to combine adventure, culture and relaxation. This area is known for preserving with great pride many of the ancient traditions and where tourism and the daily life of farmers go side by side in paradise. Here, tourists have the chance to be "Sabaneros" for a day and graze cattle alongside a real cowboy.

Day 2
nocturnal and boat tour entrance (non meal included)

Day 3
Park hiking entrance (non meal included)

Day 4
Hot springs entrance and Dinner (non lunch included)

Day 5
Hanging bridges and waterfall entrance (non meal included)

Day 6
Chocolate tour entrance (non meal included)

Day 7
Vandara entrance(lunch included)

Enchanting Opportunity to Explore the Wonders of Tortugero, Arenal & Guanacaste

Join me on an extraordinary adventure to Poás Volcano and its enchanting cloud forest. We'll begin with a relaxing scenic drive through the lush Costa Rican countryside, passing by dairy farms, flower nurseries, and strawberry fields. We'll stop at a local café for a delicious cup of coffee or a similar drink.

Afterward, we'll visit a charming hummingbird garden before heading to Poás Volcano National Park. Here, you'll be awe-struck by the impressive volcanic crater and the tranquil Lake Botos.

Our journey continues to La Paz Waterfall Gardens, a breathtaking destination renowned for its magnificent waterfalls and a wildlife sanctuary home to over 100 species. Explore the aviary, butterfly observatory, and exhibits showcasing local wildlife, including jaguars and hummingbirds. Enjoy a buffet lunch of traditional Costa Rican cuisine before we return to your hotel in San José by mid-afternoon. This immersive tour perfectly combines nature, wildlife, and cultural experiences.

La Paz Waterfalls Entrance Fee & Buffet Lunch

Double Adventure in a Single Day Combo Tour

Experience the Wonders of Poas Volcano and La Paz Waterfall Gardens

Escazú is known in Costa Rica as the City of the Witches. The legends and myths say that back in colonial times, it was easy to find a lot of healers who used natural remedies with those local villagers seeking to feel better. Some older members of the community might tell you the story of Zarate, the witch that protects nature and wanders around the mountains.

The Cerros of Escazú Mountains are a protected zone that keeps the watersheds safe. For most of the people who live in the nearby areas, this is the source of water. They surround the Great Metropolitan Area and offer a lot of activities for hikers and visitors who love nature. It is possible to find a lot of types of hikes from beginner-level to advanced level.

Also, the picturesque little town of San Antonio is where most of the traditions were born since the Colony. The locals are proud to carry the heritage to the next generations and today you will have the opportunity to meet some of them along this tour!

Customizable itinerary:

Full day Tour in Costa Rica

Escazu Town, Folklore and Hike on the Hills 

San José is the capital and largest city of Costa Rica declared capital in 1835 . It is located in the Central Valley and contained within San José County.

San José is the home of all three branches of our national government, the focal point of political and economic activity, and the major transportation hub of Costa Rica.

Live the experience of walking the streets of San Jose and enjoy the important views of the city.

Discover our past.

Get immerse into our culture by walking in the city with the company of a local Private Tour Guide.

Feel being part of Costa Rica!!!!

Interesting view of Costa Rica's capital

San Jose Walking Private Tour

One of the most popular reasons why travelers come to San Gerardo de Dota is the bird watching opportunities. The surrounding cloud forest is a haven for both birds and a vast variety of insect species, both of which likely go hand in hand.

San Gerardo de Dota is home to a large population of one of the most beautiful birds in the Americas, the Resplendent Quetzal. With its metallic green plumage, crimson breast and bell and its incredible streamer-like feathers, watching a male Quetzal in its magical fly, is a unique and breathtaking experience.

This is one of my favorites places to bird watch in the country, the weather and the peaceful atmosphere of the area makes it a priceless spot for bird watching and nature lovers.

Los Quetzales National Park: Birds Of Costa Rica

Bird Watching Half Day Tour In Dota

Cloud Forest at Los Quetzales National Park Nature Hike Half-Day tour

"I'd rather be hiking in the rain, than sitting inside at a desk on a sunny day. " - Unknown
There is no other word to describe this trail besides spectacular. After traversing through a dense forest filled with costarrican oak trees and many other species, you find yourself standing on a forest in the middle of the 10117 acres of the Quetzales National Park. Prepare to be awestruck as the views take your breath away.
Join me to Hike through the Cloud Forest at Los Quetzales National Park and enjoy the breathtaking views and scenery.
Discover the Savegre River and look for majestic oak trees and vegetation, while you listen to the songs of many different species of birds in the forest.
And don't worry about getting sweaty! Nature doesn't mind and neither do I. . .

Hiking, Wildlife , Cultural Adventure with private transportation

The Coffee County & The Folkloric Town Day Trip From San José

Have a wonderful day exploring the towns of Naranjo and Sarchí. Located northwest of San José, these towns preserve the essence of Costa Rican culture.

First, we will walk through a beautiful coffee estate, which will certainly be an experience for all your senses. The shining green leaves of the "cafetos", a beautiful choir of birds, centennial trees, the aroma of fresh coffee being roasted and poured for you to enjoy :) Our coffee tour takes place in Naranjo, my hometown and a world-known region amongst champion baristas, professional catadores (tasters). With no doubt this is the experience you need to become a coffee connoisseur

Then, we will learn about the importance of "Las Carretas", when visiting a 100-year-old water-mill-powered Oxcart Factory and souvenir workshop, known for being the "crib of Costa Rican Folk Art". The talented craftsmen and painters can be observed in their daily labor, manifesting through their work the passion for this ongoing tradition.

At the oxcart factory. A must-visit site in Sarchi

The time hangs still at the oxcart factory

"There are a couple of things you should know about coffee..."

Visit an award-winning coffee plantation & 100 year old wood crafts workshop

It's a 5 nights/6 days lifetime experience, where you will learn from experts how to take care of yourself, in and out while having fun exploring beautiful Costa Rica.
We believe in new beginnings, breaking unhealthy patterns and self-healing to become your best version and live life better.
The idea of this retreat was born during the pandemic, those two difficult years made me realize I wanted to design a different travel experience, staying in retreats instead of regular hotels, hiring a therapist to travel along with the group and combining wellness practices with nature and adventure activities.
I believe we all need a break sometimes, but also we can't stay still too long because life keeps going, nothing ever stops completely.
Spend the first two nights in a retreat surrounded by mountains where your well-being and mental health will be the main focus. Then let's go to the beach to have fun, learn about biodiversity and let your adventurous side flourish.

The tour costs $3750 per person with a minimum of 10 travelers.

Listen to this Podcast, we were invited to talk about the wellness retreat...

Dr. Nidia Moran our therapist & life coach

Your private guide stretching and enjoying some quiet time

This happens when a biologist & therapist collaborate

It's ok to take a break!

Wellness & Nature Retreat, Costa Rica.

Experience Costa Rica’s vibrant culture and history with this immersive San José tour. Start with a flexible pickup from your hotel between 1:30 PM and 2:30 PM. Dive into local culture as you explore captivating exhibits at the National Museum, gaining a rich understanding of Costa Rican history. Marvel at the National Theatre’s artistic brilliance and architectural grandeur, completed in 1897. Enjoy a cup of coffee or similar drink at the theater cafeteria.

Next, journey to my hometown, Coronado, where you’ll visit its beautiful church renowned for its eclectic architectural style. After exploring the church and residential areas, we’ll head to a mountain-top restaurant offering stunning views of downtown San José. Enjoy a traditional Costa Rican dinner while learning about local culinary traditions and ingredients.

The tour concludes with a convenient drop-off back at your hotel, leaving you with lasting memories of Costa Rica’s heritage and cuisine.

Admission to National Museum and National Theater.

Delve into Costa Rican history & culture.

Half Day City Tour of San Jose & the Heart of local culture

Herb Ark Farm Botanical Garden Visit - Half Day Tour in Costa Rica

This privately owned property its an example of how the love for plants and conservation can grow from a simple hobby into a business that aims to preserve plant biodiversity. As a biologist myself, I've spent a long time studying the wonders of plant ecology, natural history and taxonomy. I still remember the good old times volunteering at the Herbarium or just casually collecting plant samples for my botany class here, in this very same place many moons ago. The shapes, sizes, colors and fragrances still catch my attention.

Costa Rica is a rich and biodiverse country where ethnobotany (the science that studies plants and their cultural uses) becomes a very important topic. During our visit, we will have the chance to be immersed in a large variety of more than 1600 species of plants from all over the World that have being collected for the past thirty years.

I will be more than happy to share this treasure with you as we stroll through the garden trails learning about plant biodiversity and their uses.

Let me share the value of nature with you, one plant at a time!

Costa Rican Mountains' Agro Wonders Day Trip From San Jose

This full-day trip will take you to Alajuela which is the home town of Costa Rican National Heroe Juan Santa Maria. Here, we will visit the central market, Los Mangos city park and Alajuela's museum.

After touring downtown Alajuela, we will be heading towards Los Volcanes Coffee Farm, located in San Pedro de Poas, where a real local farmer will be our host. He will teach us about our coffee culture and the importance of our "golden bean" and of course the best way to taste and prepare coffee.

We will share a traditional lunch with the farmers' family and will have the chance to talk about the farm-life in these beautiful mountains and you can even get some coffee from the estate if you wish.

Not far from the estate, we will visit a little village, located next to the Poas Volcano. Here we will visit a strawberry grower-family and learn about their production while walking through the farm tasting the delicious "fresas" and finding spectacular views of the Central Valley.

Discover Alajuela & its culture. Learn about coffee, strawberries & rural life

Nature and Wildlife Photography Full Day Tour in Dota

This is the ideal tour to get the photo you are looking for.
Escape to one of the best places in Costa Rica to create memorable photographs of nature, landscapes and wildlife. You will have the opportunity to spend all day taking pictures at your own pace without the rush of being with other travelers or on a regular tour.

On this tour you will be able to photograph the stunning views of El Cerro De la Muerte Mountains, the coffee plantations of Dota and Tarrazu and the High peaks of Cerro Buena Vista and Paramo forest as well as a wide variety of colorful spectacular birds such as the Green Violet-ear hummingbirds, Volcano hummingbirds, Silver throated, Flame-colored, blue-gray tanagers, euphonias, woodpeckers and many others.

In addition, you will learn how to photograph moving water and create unique artistic photos.

San Gerardo de Dota at Sunset Photography session

Enjoy some of the best locations for landscape and wildlife Photograhy

Rescate Wildlife, Rescue Center - Half Day Tour in Costa Rica

Rescate is a non-profit organization established in 1989 with the main goal of preserving endangered wildlife that's been affected by poaching, animal illegal traffic, and destruction of habitat, among other reasons. It is located in a 14 has private tropical forest in the province of Alajuela, Costa Rica.

There are three main projects that Rescate works with: the first, Rehab Wildlife Center, the second, an endangered wildlife reproduction center and the third, a Wildlife Sanctuary that keeps more than 125 species of animals. Some of the most charismatic ones include sloths, monkeys, jaguars, pumas, macaws, and toucans.

Unfortunately, there's many rescued animals that cannot be set free due to health and behavioural reasons. Those are the ones that are kept in the reproduction centre where their offspring might have better luck to be set free in their habitat. Having said that, we'll have the opportunity to visit and learn more about those creatures' life stories in the Sanctuary.

Customizable itinerary:

Escaz tours

Explore with 18 tours and 8 guides.

Jorge V.

$ 300 (USD)

Henry G.

$ 790 (USD)

Priscilla A.

$ 850 (USD)

Jose R.

$ 3,748 (USD)

Isaac T.

$ 490 (USD)

Adriana D.

$ 450 (USD)

Jose Anibal A.

$ 229 (USD)

Andres Q.

$ 280 (USD)

Andres Q.

$ 245 (USD)

Jorge V.

$ 358 (USD)

Priscilla A.

$ 7,500 (USD)

Isaac T.

$ 300 (USD)

Adriana D.

$ 402 (USD)

Jose Anibal A.

$ 345 (USD)

Andres Q.

$ 520 (USD)

Adriana D.

$ 385 (USD)

Meet your local guides in Escaz

Customize your tour