Private Tour from San José: Irazú Volcano & Cartago Sites

8 hours Free cancellation Private tour

Private Tour from San José: Irazú Volcano & Cartago Sites, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

This private day trip from San José blends Costa Rica’s natural beauty and cultural heritage in one journey. Begin at Irazú Volcano National Park, the country’s highest volcano, where you can stand on the crater’s rim and admire sweeping views. Continue to Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels in Cartago, Costa Rica’s most important pilgrimage site with remarkable architecture. The drive then takes you through the scenic Orosí Valley, where coffee farms, rivers, and traditional villages create a picturesque countryside. Finally, explore the Ujarrás Ruins, a 17th-century church surrounded by peaceful gardens. With a professional English-speaking driver, hotel pickup and drop-off, and fully customizable stops, this experience offers the perfect mix of history, spirituality, and breathtaking landscapes.

Full-day Tours Bus Tours Private and Luxury Private Sightseeing Tours Cultural Tours Historical Tours Additional fees New Product

At a glance

Duration: 8 hours
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Your group only
People per booking: 1–12
Guide: English, Spanish
Operated by: Welcome Pickups

Ages: Adults (0–99 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Hotel pickup and drop-off
Included: Fuel and Tolls
Included: Water
Included: On-board WiFi: WiFi on board
Included: Hotel or custom pickup and drop-off
Included: Professional English-speaking local driver/informal guide
Included: All taxes and handling charges

Not included

Not included: Meals and beverages
Not included: Tips and Gratuities
Not included: Admission fees: Irazú Volcano National Park
Not included: Licensed guides available to accompany you inside the attractions

Itinerary

Irazu Volcano National Park

2 hours Admission not included

Rising over 3,400 meters, Irazú is Costa Rica’s highest active volcano. On clear days, visitors can see both the Pacific and Atlantic coasts from its summit. The main crater, often filled with a striking green lake, is surrounded by lunar-like landscapes. Entrance ticket required and not included in the ride price.
Stop 2

2 hours

Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels. This grand basilica is one of Costa Rica’s most important religious landmarks and a popular pilgrimage site. Its blend of Byzantine and colonial architecture, along with the sacred statue of La Negrita, makes it a fascinating cultural stop. Free entry.
Orosi River Valley

2 hours

Orosí Valley Scenic Drive. A fertile valley filled with coffee plantations, rivers, and rolling green hills. The road winds past traditional villages and open landscapes, offering countless photo opportunities along the way. Free stop.
Ruinas de Ujarras

2 hours

Ujarrás Ruins. The remains of one of the country’s oldest churches, dating back to the 17th century. Surrounded by gardens and picnic areas, the ruins provide a peaceful glimpse into Costa Rica’s colonial history. Free entry.

Meeting point and pickup

The operator picks every participant up from their accommodation or the points below.

Pickup points

Hotel Portal Colonial
Courtyard by Marriott San Jose Escazu
Aparthotel Casa Reflejos
Eco Hotel Puerto Urbano
Hotel Terrazas Boutique
Hotel Bougainvillea
Luxhigh Hotel & Casino
Casa Conde Hotel & Suites
Hotel Santo Tomas
Hotel Inca Real
Hotel Vesuvio
Taormina Hotel and Casino

and 135 more pickup points

Your Welcome Pickups driver will be waiting for you at the selected pickup location and time.

Before your ride, you’ll receive your driver’s details — including their name, phone number, and car information — so you can easily recognize them.

Your driver will arrive on time and be ready to assist you and any special requests before starting your journey.

Please note that our sightseeing tours does not automatically include airport pickup or drop-off. If you wish to start or end your tour at the airport, simply select the option with airport pickup included when booking if available.

Kindly share any special requirements, such as traveling with a service animal or needing extra assistance, when booking your ride. This ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience for you.

Using your ticket

Please show this to your driver.

Cancellation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

If you cancel	You get back
At least one day before	100%
Less than a day before	0%

The operator may cancel if the weather does not allow it; you then get another date or your money back.

Good to know

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
For 1-5 people: A spacious minivan will be assigned to your group.
For 6-12 people: A private minibus will be assigned to your group.
Throughout your ride, our drivers serve as informal local guides—sharing stories, history, and local tips at every stop. Please note that drivers are not permitted to enter museums or archaeological areas, but they’ll ensure you make the most of your visit with suggestions and background information before you explore on your own.
Some stops on your itinerary may be closed on the date of travel due to public holidays, maintenance or special events. We recommend verifying opening hours on the attraction’s official website or contacting us before your tour. If a stop is unexpectedly closed, we will try to offer a suitable alternative.