Discover a fascinating combination of nature, history, culture and spectacular landscapes on one of the most complete excursions in the Central Valley of Costa Rica.

Our first visit will be to the majestic Irazú Volcano, the highest volcano in Costa Rica, located 3,432 meters above sea level (11,000 feet). This impressive colossus is one of the most emblematic volcanoes in the country and offers incomparable panoramic views of the Central Volcanic Mountain Range. Its last major eruptive activity occurred between 1963 and 1965, when columns of ash and gases were visible in much of the national territory.

Upon arriving at the national park, you will have the opportunity to contemplate its impressive volcanic craters, formed over thousands of years by geological processes that have shaped the landscape. On clear days, there is the extraordinary possibility of simultaneously observing both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, a privilege that few places in the world can offer.

Later we will descend to the historic city of Cartago, the first capital of Costa Rica, founded in 1563 by the Spanish conquistador Juan Vázquez de Coronado. Here we will visit the Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels, the most important religious sanctuary in the country and a place of pilgrimage for millions of faithful. This religious tradition has been kept alive since 1635 and is a fundamental part of the Costa Rican cultural and spiritual heritage.

Our next stop will be the prestigious Lankester Botanical Garden, a renowned research center of the University of Costa Rica dedicated to the conservation and study of tropical flora. This extraordinary garden is home to one of the most important orchid collections in America, with more than 800 species, as well as bromeliads, cacti, heliconias, palms and many other exotic plants.

During a guided tour we will explore its trails and themed gardens while we learn about the plant biodiversity of Costa Rica and the conservation efforts made to protect these valuable species.

We will continue our journey towards the charming Orosi Valley, considered one of the most beautiful and best preserved landscapes in the country. Surrounded by mountains covered with vegetation, coffee plantations, sugar cane and other traditional crops, this valley offers a natural setting of extraordinary beauty.

In addition to its natural wealth, the Orosi Valley has great historical importance. During the colonial era it was one of the country’s main development centers and the scene of events that marked national history, including pirate attacks, earthquakes, floods and the establishment of the first religious missions led by the Franciscan order.

During the visit we will visit one of the few colonial churches that still stand in Costa Rica, an architectural jewel that constitutes a valuable testimony of the country’s colonial past.

To finish this memorable experience, we will enjoy a delicious typical Costa Rican lunch in one of the most recognized restaurants in the region, surrounded by the spectacular landscapes of the Orosi Valley.

This excursion perfectly combines nature, history, culture and tradition, becoming one of the best options to get to know the essence of the Central Valley of Costa Rica.