Our best tour in Costa Rica!
I am a bird lover, and booked the early bird watching tour through Pura Vida Tours. They picked me up by 5:00 in the morning and drove for 15 minutes to get to the rain forest by the National Park. My guide (Javier) was great; he pointed out so many birds, and even made some strange noises to attract them! He was extremely knowledgeable, friendly and professional. I highly recommend this tour, as well as Pura Vida Tours, they really provide excellent service.Published 23 feb 2010 - kulasito
great day with pura vida!
i did the all day combo/adventure tour with pura vida and it was a great day! it started early - got picked up at 7am and didnt get dropped off until 10pm - but it went by so fast! it started on the hanging bridges, then on to the la fortuna waterfall, lunch in la fortuna, hiking at arenal, watching for lava (which we saw!), then to the hot springs. our guide was so knowledgable about everything costa rica - the plants, animals, culture, everything - and didnt mind the gazillion questions that we asked. everything was perfect!
Published 26 ene 2010 - carolinah2137
Exceptional experience!
My boyfriend and I just got back from touring Costa Rica. While in La Fortuna, we booked a tour to the hanging bridges, La Fortuna waterfall, and a sunset hike at the Arenal Volcano with Pura Vida tours. Our guide was Javier, a former biology teacher. He will tell you that he only speaks 'un poquito' english, but it is near perfect. He was very engaging and knowledgeable about the flora and fauna. He helped us take pictures of birds from far away through his binoculars. At the very beginning of our volcano hike there was an absolutely miserable downpour and we were all completely soaked. I think that most of us on the tour were considering not completing the hike, but Javier convinced us to and the rain stopped in 10 minutes, the sun came out, and the hike was well worth it. The tour was very prompt and professionally run. I would seek out Javier for other tours if we go back (especially Rio Celeste!) - he really seems to love his job and meet new people. Highly recommended!!
Published 18 ene 2010 - puppy_doc
Excellent service for my student tour group
I connected with Pura Vida Tours several years ago when I first started bringing my college student group to Costa Rica for an ecological study tour. I will be using them for the fourth time this year. They have consistently provided me with great service organizing activities. They also provide knowledgeable, well spoken English speaking guides.
Published 10 nov 2009 - Toad_seeker
The tour an intense fun game of excursions where you will encounter three different adventures.
When ascending to the ground and near the Poás volcano we will notice a change of temperature and vegetation; We will see the coffee plantations, as well as fern farms, flowers and strawberries along the way, creating a beautiful range of colors and textures.
On the way to the volcano we will visit the Doka Coffee Estate for a delicious breakfast. Then they will take a coffee tour in a real coffee plantation where they learn the ancient techniques used to produce some of the best coffees in Costa Rica and in the world. The careful process involved in growing, harvesting and roasting the golden bean is illustrated, very practical, and then we will savor the delicious final product.
After the coffee visit, we will continue to the Poás Volcano, where we will not only admire the impressive main crater with its sulfur fumaroles, but also know the different ecosystems of this unique and protected national park.
After the visit to the volcano we continue to the Autumn Garden of La Paz for a delicious lunch and tour. As we get to La Paz, we will follow a path that will take us to a spectacular waterfall in the middle of the tropical forest. Inside the park we also visit the Hummingbird Gallery, the Serpentary, the Bird House, the Butterfly Garden and the Frog Display; It is a tour that all ages enjoy.
So do not wait and call us to know more about this unique and unforgettable tour...
*Transport –Breakfast–Lunch –Tour Guides – Entrances*
Departure: 07:00h – Back:16:30h.
This tour is the combination of the Irazu Volcano National Park and the excursions to the Orosi Lankester Botanical Garden. For this, the tour offers the mystique of the volcano Irazú and the unique charm that have gardens of Orosi.
The excursion will begin by heading south along the Panamerican Highway until reaching the base of the giant "Iztaru" (name of an indigenous village located on the flanks of the volcano, possible origin for the present name of Irazu Volcano).
The winding road crosses fertile lands where all types and forms of vegetation are cultivated, while offering a spectacular panoramic view of the surrounding hills and valleys. And, at the top of the summit, on a clear day, one can be aware of an unforgettable panoramic view of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
On our way down to the city of Carthage we will stop at the Basilica of the Virgin of the Angels - a famous place of pilgrimage for many believers, some of whom travel for days or even weeks on foot, on a pilgrimage of faith, to the place. The Basilica has large vaulted ceilings and exquisite examples of stained glass, is a must see.
Then, after visiting the Basilica we will stop at Lankester Gardens, a research center of the University of Costa Rica that protects more than 800 species of orchids, bromeliads and innumerable species of other plants.
Then we will continue to the Orosi Valley, an area that overflows with incomparable beauty. We can visit one of the few remaining colonial churches and stop for a delicious lunch in one of the local restaurants.
So do not hesitate to book this unique and memorable tour, lots to do and see.
One of the most popular tours we offer. This excursion shows the best of both worlds, the wild beauty of the imposing Arenal Volcano and the soothing Hot Springs Tabacon. All this contrasts with a background of lush vegetation and breathtaking views of the almost perfect conical lines of the volcano.
On the way to the Arenal Volcano there will be a stop at the famous town of Sarchi, known as the birthplace of Costa Rican Artisans. In Sarchi, you can see many of the crafts that Costa Rica has to offer, as well as the possibility to delight your eyes in the biggest ox cart in the world. For the record, according to the Guinness Book, the car stands nearly 45 feet long and weighs 4400 pounds (2 tons).
The trip will continue, crossing diverse plantations with agricultural products until arriving at the small town of La Fortuna, and stopping for lunch in a cozy restaurant with a magnificent view of the volcano.
Then you can relax in one of the best thermal baths in the area where you can enjoy the purifying and rejuvenating effects of the hot springs, as well as an optional massage or other special treatment, if desired, which must be reserved in advance for Ensure availability.
Tabacon Hot Springs combines the four elements of nature; The warmth of the volcano, the flowing waters of the hot springs, the fresh air of the rainforest and the fertile land of Fortuna de San Carlos, providing visitors with a first-class experience.
And for a perfect ending, before returning to San Jose, a wonderful dinner will be served with a great view of the volcano.
Departure from San José accompanied by a bilingual naturalist guide for a pleasant trip to Tortuguero National Park, after a scenic tour of Braulio Carrillo National Park, there will be a stop for a typical Costa Rican breakfast (juice, coffee, eggs and the popular "Gallo Pinto "included), in a restaurant in the area of Guápiles.
After breakfast, we continue with a Plantation of Banana, where your guide will explain the process of cultivation and export.
We continue to the embarkation pier, get off the bus and embark on the most exciting part of this trip: the boat trip in the jungle of Tortuguero National Park.
With an area of 29000 hectares. Tortuguero is one of the most important niche sites of the Midas chelonians, the green turtle, while its forests and waterways are home to endangered mammals such as sloths, monkeys, agoutis, coatimundis and manatees. There are also abundant birds such as toucans, trogons, egrets, herons and aninghas, as well as crocodiles, turtles and countless colorful butterflies, including blue morph.
You can enjoy a rich buffet typical to satisfy your appetite.
After lunch you can stroll through the Tortuguero Village where you will have the opportunity to know the history of the town and its inhabitants.
Returning to the bus, we go to San Jose, making a rest stop along the way.
*Transport - Breakfast – Lunch – Tour guides* (Entrance to National Park is not included). Departure: 06:00 – Back: 19:00h
We leave in our transportation to get to Puntarenas town, but in the way we will stop for a delicious breakfast, once in the port we'll take the Catamaran to Isla Tortuga, with live music onboard and some drinks we'll enjoy this trip. Enjoy a lunch and visit different parts of the island, in additional use our free-snorkeling equipment to explore the near by coral reef.. On the way back our boat will take us in a different route to see the famous San Lucas Island ... Return to San Jose.
The Manuel Antonio National Park is considered one of the most beautiful parks in Costa Rica. You will visit pristine beaches with coral reefs, lined with lush vegetation and the natural wonders of the rainforest. The beaches of Manuel Antonio are very coveted as some of the best that Costa Rica has to offer. Many popular activities such as world class surfing and snorkeling are available.
On the way to Manuel Antonio National Park, you will travel along the coast enjoying panoramic views, including African palm plantations. You will also travel through small towns along the Pacific coast, until arriving at the port of Quepos and finally the National Park.
Since access to the park itself is closed to vehicles, you will walk to the reserve, crossing a stream. Once in the park, you can simply relax and enjoy the beach, sunbathe or walk the park's trails, which will allow you to observe the abundant flora and fauna of Manuel Antonio.
INCLUDE: Transportation | Bilingual guide (English/Spanish) | Entrance fee to the park | Breakfast and lunch
PICK UP: 08:00h | DURATION: All day
Departure to the Sarapiquí area through the extraordinary rainforest of Braulio Carrillo National Park, one of Costa Rica's most important rainforest reserves. Upon arrival in Sarapiqui, a beautiful area known for its stunning natural wealth, you will board a boat for a relaxing stroll on the Sarapiqui River, where you will feel in touch with nature and admire the inspiring surroundings.
After the boat ride, you will continue with a stroll along the private trails of Selva Verde Eco Lodge, which are a paradise for nature enthusiasts. After lunch and en route to San Jose, a visit to the famous Aerial Tram is included to walk in a gondola through the tree tops with a naturalist guide who will talk with you about the wonderful rainforest.
The Rainforest Aerial Tramway is a private reserve of 475 hectares (1,200 acres) that shares a border of 10 km with the National Park Braulio Carrillo, constituting a buffer zone between the park and agricultural lands.
INLCLUDE: Transportation | Bilingual guide (English/Spanish) | Boat ride on the Sarapiqui River | Guided walk on Selva Verde Trails | Rain Forest Aerial Tram Tour | Lunch
PICK UP: 07:00h | DURATION: All day
Located in the placid cloud forests of the Central Valley region of Costa Rica, the San Luis canopy tour will take you on an exciting and safe adventure through a lush green canopy passing through the majestic River Falls. Carried safely through a system of zip lines, you will rise heavily through the extension of the virgin forest that founds the trip, and is in intimacy with the habitats of Costa Rica cloud forest diversity. The San Luis canopy tour also features the lift, an exciting feature that safely lifts visitors above the forest canopy, giving a supreme view of the surrounding area.
Although the customer's enjoyment is a central objective, San Luis canopy tour designates security primarily as a key principle: all personnel and facilities under its name have to date the certification of the Costa Rican Tourism Institute. San Luis canopy tour is proud of its credentials and by them guarantees with confidence that this tour is one of the most professional, informative and pleasant in Costa Rica.
INLCLUDE: • Round Trip Transportation | Bilingual guide (English/Spanish) | Canopy tour | Lunch
NOTE: Canopy with 12 different zip lines and 18 platforms.
PICK UP: 08:30h | Dropp Off: 15:00
This tour immerses you in the rich Costa Rican culture and history by experiencing the beautiful museums and historical sites of San José. It begins with an orientation and drive through the beautiful Parque Sabana. Then, we will make a tour on foot through the historic National Theater. Completed in 1897, the theater is a masterpiece in art and architecture. Then we will visit one of the many unique museums of Costa Rica.
We will continue directing us towards the University of Costa Rica, the Supreme Court and several sites of interest. A short stop will be made at a beautiful shopping craft shop that allows you to browse through it before returning to your hotel and why not, buy souvenirs for those who are waiting at home.
INLCLUDE: Round trip transportation | Bilingual guide (English/Spanish) | Entrance fees to Gold Museum and National Theater
PICK UP: 12:00h | Return: 17:00h
The tour Doka-Greece and Sarchi is a relaxing tour but very enjoyable.
The tour begins with a wonderful walk through some of the largest coffee and sugar cane plantations (Doka) in Costa Rica.
Then we will reach Greece, and we will see the famous metal church. The church has a rare architecture, with high ceilings, ornate stained glass and classic lines.
Then we will go to the art and craft factories of Sarchi recognized for their skilled workmanship and artistic talent; Although known mainly by the famous ox carts that are built there. And, if you're lucky enough, you'll see a two-story tall ox cart. To that end, the behemoth ox cart is listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the world's largest ox cart.
These oxcarts are adorned with abundant colors, like oranges and reds, and come in various sizes, and are appreciated worldwide for their unique beauty. That said, you will not want to leave Costa Rica without one. However, I would not recommend that you try to drag the two-story ox cart from the house.
Costa Rica Guides offers White Water Rafting experiences that are guaranteed to take your adrenaline to the highest levels and Canopy Tours where you perched high above the treetops. Now you can enjoy both activities in an extraordinary way.
INLCLUDE: Transportation | Bilingual guide | Equipment for canopy | Equipment for rafting | Lunch
PICK UP: ask for this | Duration: 9 hours
Experimenta la explosión y la emoción que es la emoción de rafting !. La ruta es pintoresca y el paseo es estimulante. La vegetación le rodeará, mientras que el poder crudo desenfrenado de las aguas le transportará en una gran aventura salvaje.
Disfrute de la explosión de emoción que es la emoción de rafting !. El paisaje que le rodea mientras hace rafting es simplemente maravilloso. La vegetación que le rodeará más el poder de las aguas lo transportará a una gran aventura salvaje.
INLCLUDE: Professional Bilingual Guide (English / Spanish) | Ground transportation of major hotels in San José (Roundtrip) | Specialized equipment (helmets, life jackets, pallets). | Breakfast and lunch
Note for price: Class IV Pacuare or Reventazon: $ 99.00 | Class III Río Chirripó: $ 80.00
PICK UP: ask for this | Duration: 1 Day