Tours in San José
San José, Costa Rica’s bustling capital, is not just the political and economic center of the country — it is also the heart of a flourishing tourism industry. Strategically nestled amid lush mountains and near active volcanoes, San José provides travelers with unparalleled access to the country’s rich cultural heritage, vibrant urban life, and proximity to some of Costa Rica’s most breathtaking natural wonders. The city’s tour operators play a vital role in crafting memorable travel experiences, blending authentic cultural immersion with exhilarating adventures. Those based in San José typically offer bilingual services, reliable transportation, and personalized tours designed to showcase Costa Rica’s biodiversity and vibrant traditions, making this city an ideal starting point for exploring the country.
Tour Operators
> Costa Rica Experts
Since 1987, Costa Rica Experts has crafted bespoke travel experiences that reflect the spirit, biodiversity, and charm of the country. Drawing from local expertise and a deep network of trusted service providers, this operator tailors journeys to each guest’s interests—whether that’s coffee culture, wildlife expeditions, rainforest treks, or unforgettable stays at boutique lodges. Their seasoned bilingual guides offer stories, anecdotes, and natural history insights that bring landscapes and traditions to life. From arranging specialty experiences like artisan workshops to organizing adventurous outings such as volcano hikes and whitewater rafting, Costa Rica Experts ensures every aspect of the itinerary is thoughtfully personalized and logistically seamless—without sacrificing immersion or authenticity.
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> TOP Costa Rica Experiences
TOP Costa Rica Experiences specializes in immersive, compact adventures departing from the heart of San José. Ideal for travelers seeking meaningful yet accessible excursions, their most popular options include guided ATV treks through verdant terrain, coffee tours that reveal the journey from seed to cup, and cultural city walks that illuminate San José’s colonial architecture and artist markets. These small-group tours combine local storytelling, eco-awareness, and active engagement—whether you're riding through rainforest trails or interacting with community artisans. Their guides are natural hosts, inviting guests to explore Costa Rica’s biodiversity and heritage through hands-on learning and discovery, fostering a connection that's as personal as it is enlightening.
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> Desafio Adventure Company
From heart-pounding river rapids to cloud-forest canopies, Desafio Adventure Company has been igniting adrenaline and curiosity since the mid-1990s. Based near San José, they offer a range of high-energy excursions such as whitewater rafting, waterfall rappelling, and aerial canopy tours near Arenal Volcano. But they also go deeper—guides are trained naturalists who explain the ecosystems, flora, and fauna that give Costa Rica its reputation as a biodiversity hotspot. Safety, ecological responsibility, and cultural respect form the core of Desafio's ethos. Each adventure is carefully designed to connect thrill with education, leaving participants with both heart-racing memories and a profound appreciation for Costa Rica's natural wonders.
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> Natural Expeditions
Natural Expeditions offers travelers a window into Costa Rica’s extraordinary biodiversity via specialized small-group and private nature tours. Based out of San José, their guides are expert naturalists, leading rainforest immersions, birdwatching walks, and wildlife-spotting expeditions in protected areas. Their tours delve into the layers of Costa Rica’s ecological richness—the hidden frog species in cloud forests, bird songs at dawn, the interplay of rainforest and river ecosystems. They focus on creating meaningful moments through expertly paced, educational, and environmentally respectful encounters. Guests who seek to truly understand and appreciate Costa Rica’s green heart choose Natural Expeditions for its knowledge, care, and lyrical appreciation of the living world.
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> Rainforest Tours
Rainforest Tours guides visitors through San José’s layers of tradition and modernity, weaving heritage-rich narratives with urban exploration. Their city tours encompass majestic landmarks like the National Theatre, Gold Museum, and Central Market, but it's the stories behind these places—the artisans, historical figures, and cultural traditions—that bring the city to life. Tours may include coffee tastings at local shops, visits with traditional craftspeople, and the chance to participate in community-led festivals or cooking demonstrations. With guides who embody both deep historical knowledge and genuine warmth, Rainforest Tours ensures guests see San José not just as a stopover, but as a destination of learning, discovery, and cultural immersion.
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Emails
Phone Numbers
Park Opening Hours
Reservations:
WhatsApp:
Phone: +506 86328760
Mon - Sun
7:00 am – 4:00 pm
Official Tour Operator:
Tour Reservations:
Phone: +506 27770932
Tuesday
Closed
Site Map
Manuel Antonio Activities
© Manuel Antonio National Park Online Services
To purchase your entrance ticket go to SINAC