Experiences

Day Tours & Activities from San José

San José is the perfect base for exploring Costa Rica. From the capital you can experience volcanoes, rainforest adventures, coffee plantations, wildlife and beautiful coastal landscapes — all within a day trip. Our concierge team can assist with reservations and personalized recommendations.

Coffee Plantation Tours

Discover why Costa Rican coffee is considered among the finest in the world. Visit a working plantation to learn about the history, cultivation and roasting process behind the perfect cup of coffee, with tastings included.
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Rainforest & Chocolate Adventure

Explore the tropical rainforest and visit a traditional cacao plantation where you will learn how chocolate is made, from bean to bar. This immersive experience combines nature, culture and delicious local flavors..
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Canopy Zipline Adventure

Experience the thrill of flying through the cloud forest canopy on a series of ziplines and suspension platforms while enjoying spectacular views of the forest.
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White Water Rafting – Pacuare River

One of the most scenic rafting rivers in the world, the Pacuare offers an unforgettable journey through lush rainforest while navigating exciting rapids.
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Tortuga Island Catamaran Cruise

Spend a relaxing day sailing across the Gulf of Nicoya to Tortuga Island. Enjoy white sand beaches, swimming, snorkeling and tropical scenery while cruising aboard a comfortable catamaran.
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Poás Volcano, Coffee Estate & La Paz Waterfall Gardens

This popular excursion combines three iconic Costa Rican experiences: visiting an active volcano, touring a traditional coffee plantation and exploring the waterfalls and wildlife exhibits of La Paz Waterfall Gardens.
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Rainforest Aerial Tram

Glide through the rainforest canopy aboard an aerial tram while learning about Costa Rica’s ecosystems and wildlife from expert naturalist guides.
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Irazú Volcano, Orosi Valley & Lankester Gardens

Visit the highest volcano in Costa Rica, enjoy sweeping views of the Central Valley, explore the historic Orosi Valley and discover beautiful orchid collections at Lankester Botanical Gardens.
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Grecia & Sarchí Cultural Tour

Explore two charming towns known for Costa Rican traditions. Highlights include the famous red metal church in Grecia and the colorful artisan oxcart workshops of Sarchí.
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For a more personalized experience, private drivers and guides can be arranged to take you anywhere in the Central Valley and beyond. Popular private options include a full day exploring La Paz Waterfall Gardens, scenic countryside drives through coffee regions and custom cultural or shopping excursions.

San José Bites & Sights

- Guided Walking Tours in San José -
A food-focused walking tour through markets, parks and historic streets while sampling traditional Costa Rican flavors.
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Pura Vida Cultural Experience

- Guided Walking Tours in San José -
Explore local legends, street food and artisan crafts while learning about Costa Rica’s culture.
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Craft Beer Experience

- Guided Walking Tours in San José -
Visit local breweries and sample Costa Rica’s growing craft beer scene.
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Cartago Train & Bicycle Tour

- Guided Walking Tours in San José -
Take a historic train ride to the former capital city of Cartago and explore its markets and landmarks by bicycle.
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La Sabana Park & Costa Rican Art Museum

- Explore San José on Your Own -
Just a short walk from the hotel, this large urban park and museum are perfect for a relaxing morning or afternoon.
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Central Market & Pedestrian Boulevard

- Explore San José on Your Own -
Wander through lively streets filled with shops, cafés and the historic Central Market, a must-visit for local flavors and souvenirs.
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National Theater & Gold Museum

- Explore San José on Your Own -
Visit the architectural jewel of Costa Rica and explore the fascinating collection of pre-Columbian gold artifacts located beneath Plaza de la Cultura.
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National Museum & Artisan Market

- Explore San José on Your Own -
Discover Costa Rica’s history in the former Bellavista military fortress and browse handmade crafts at the nearby artisan market.
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Museums & Cultural Attractions

San José is home to several excellent museums and cultural institutions including the National Theatre of Costa Rica, Jade Museum, Pre-Columbian Gold Museum, National Museum of Costa Rica, Costa Rican Art Museum and the Children’s Museum.
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Enjoy the Hotel

If you prefer a slower pace, you can also enjoy the hotel’s amenities. Relax in our bar and lounge, unwind with a massage or spa treatment, enjoy the rooftop Jacuzzi terrace, take a stroll to nearby La Sabana Park or finish the day with dinner in our tropical Victorian restaurant.
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Don’t skip the San Jose experience! choose your luxury suite or guest room

You can rest assured that your stay is luxurious and sustainable. We are a founding member of the Small Distinctive Hotels Collection, and we are a member of The Cayuga Collection of Sustainable Luxury Hotels & Lodges.

Absolutely lovely
"Hotel Grano De Oro has been beautifully and sensitively done and is perfectly maintained... the rooms are lovely, and it has the most beautiful courtyards and fountains within the hotel. The restaurant was stunning and the courtyard just gorgeous..."

-San,