Central Valley and San Jose
After an inspiring city break, head over to Poas Volcano National Park. Here, there are active volcanoes – including the largest open volcano in the world. Hike around the crater rim in a couple of hours and then return to San Jose via the La Paz Waterfall or one of the valley’s numerous coffee plantations. For pure architectural spectacle, Cartago is a must-visit. The local basilica is magnificently over-the-top and the ruins of the Plaza Mayor are a reminder of the Central Valley’s seismic activity.
- Lakes, volcanoes and cultural highlights.
- A vibrant capital city with excellent museums and monuments.
- Great hiking around crater rims and waterfalls.
- Architecturally dazzling city of Cartago.
- Fantastic region for culture and outdoor activities.
With extensive tropical forest, a winding river and three waterfalls, it is hard to beat El Silencio as an eco-lodge experience. The name – El Silencio (“silence”) – is appropriate to this remote and tranquil place where you will be able to experience the majestic environment of Costa Rica’s Central Volcanic Valley.
In this grand and decadent building, a former family home dating from Costa Rica’s Golden Age, you will be surrounded by details of Victorian elegance whilst enjoying modern comforts.
Set in the mountain highlands of central Costa Rica, Finca Rosa Blanca was one of Costa Rica’s first carbon neutral hotels. Unashamedly authentic, this beautiful family owned resort is set on an organic coffee plantation. Coffee lover or not, you can expect to enjoy a wonderfully personalised stay.
A quirky hidden gem in a little-visited part of Costa Rica, Trogón Lodge is a property high in the moss-covered hardwood woods covering the slopes of the cloud forest. It’s perfect for birdwatchers.
We are a boutique travel specialist. For over 30 years we have been crafting the finest tailor-made holidays to the world’s wild places. Your time is precious and with a world to see, we understand the importance of getting it absolutely right for you every time.We are a boutique travel specialist. For over 30 years we have been crafting the finest tailor-made holidays to the world’s wild places. Your time is precious and with a world to see, we understand the importance of getting it absolutely right for you every time.
We highlight the top ten must-do activities for your to enjoy in Costa Rica.
If you’re seeking an active family holiday of natural wonders and vanilla sand beaches we recommend Costa Rica. Choose between Pacific and Caribbean beaches where turtles nest and the reefs abound with colourful fish. Rainforests cascade down mountainsides to the ocean.
We highlight the top ten must-do activities for your family to enjoy in Costa Rica.
This experiential itinerary allows you to go deeper in some of Costa Rica's most spectacular regions. Embark on a hands-on conservation adventure, take to the ocean for a private yacht adventure, explore wildlife filled forests and contribute to the future of Costa Rica's sea turtle population.
At Journeysmiths, our team curates tailormade and bespoke luxury holidays in Costa Rica, with a network of stunning properties staffed by knowledgeable experts, putting our guests at the heart of the best locations for wildlife experiences. There are thousands of possibilities, but we’ve decided to highlight 15 of the best.