Cartago, Irazu Volcano & Orosi Valley Day Trip

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Duration: 8h
Location: Orosi, Costa Rica | Orosi, Costa Rica


Category: Tours & Sightseeing

Highlights:
Ornate Byzantine basilica in the former capital of Cartago
Incredible orchid collection at the Lankester Gardens
Chance to gaze down into the lake in Irazu's volcanic crater
Sweeping views over the verdant & rural Orosi Valley
Costa Rica's oldest colonial church in charming Orosi

Inclusions:
Guided tour of Cartago, the Irazu Volcano, and Orosi Valley
Admission fees
Lunch
Roundtrip transportation to and from your San Jose hotel
Commentary in English

Description:

Leave the city of San Jose behind to explore Costa Rica’s stunning natural surroundings and smaller townships. Visit the impressive basilica in Cartago, gaze down into the steaming crater of the Irazu Volcano, and be charmed by the colonial church and rural setting of Orosi.

After being picked up at your hotel, head out of town in the direction of Cartago, Costa Rica’s original capital city. Step inside the Basilica de Nuestra Senora de Los Angeles, which was built in 1639 and is a spectacular mix of colonial and Byzantine architecture. On your way out of town, stop at the Lankester Gardens to see thousands of orchids on display in a charmingly landscaped setting.

Leaving historic Cartago behind, wind your way toward Irazu Volcano National Park, where Costa Rica’s highest volcano looms 11,260 feet (3,432 m) over the Central Valley. Discover the expansive and barren moonscape of its massive crater and gaze from the rim down into the steaming green waters of mineral-rich Diego de la Haya lake.

Take in views out over the Orosi Valley from the craggy hillsides of the volcanic peak, and then drive down into this tranquil basin along the Reventazon River to the small town of Orosi. Visit the small colonial church in town—this 1735 parish is the oldest church in Costa Rica still used for worship—and admire its adobe and tile architecture. Spend some time strolling the shops, streets, and parks of Orosi before your return trip to San Jose.