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San Jose lies amidst the central mountains, dividing the country between its Pacific, Caribbean coasts and its lowlands. Alajuela is the region just north, outside the city, with country lodges to explore the surrounding countryside, Poas and Irazu Volcanoes and La Paz waterfall Gardens.

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San José is located in a deep bowl that lies amidst the mountains that divide the length of the country between its Pacific and Caribbean coasts and lowlands. The capital spreads out over a grid, its tin roofs glittering under the sun, spreading out to the suburbs and coffee plantations.

The Poás and Irazú volcanoes can be seen from the city and one doesn't have to travel far to reach the forest of Braulio Carrillo National Park.

Tour Suggestions

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Bird Cr 088

costa-rica

Caribbean, Central & Pacific Eco-Systems

14 Nights from £4,176

Alajuela - Bajos del Toro - Arenal - Osa Peninsula - Manuel Antonio

A curious capuchin monkey peers through jungle leaves in the lush forests of Sarapiqui.

costa-rica

Quality Time for Families

14 Nights from £3,695

San Jose - Arenal - Esterillos Beach

Woman walking along a forest path towards the ocean at Kasiiya, Costa Rica.

costa-rica

Origins Deluxe

25 Nights from £12,434

San Jose - Tortuguero - Sarapiqul - Tenorio - Guanacaste - Alajuela - Osa Peninsula - Manuel Antonio Beach

Golden hooded tanager

costa-rica

Birdwatching for Experts

19 Nights from £6,946

San José - Tortuguero - Sarapiqui - Gulf of Nicoya - San Gerado de Dota - Turrialba Volcano

Guatemala

panama, guatemala, costa-rica, belize

Chapina Tour

35 Nights from £9,621

Panama - San Jose - Tortuguero - Sarapiqui - Arenal - Corcovado - Turrialba - Antigua - Chichi - Lake Atitlan - Tikal - Mountain Pine - Ambergri…

Brilliant red feathers and a piercing gaze - this scarlet macaws stands out against the rainforest canopy.

costa-rica

Birdwatching, Wildlife and Rainforests

12 Nights from £4,438

San Jose - Tortuguero National Park - Osa Peninsula - Arenal National Park

Birdwatching

costa-rica

Pura Vida Tour

25 Nights from £6,878

San Jose - Tortuguero NP - Sarapiqui - Tenorio NP - Bajos del Toro - Turrialba NP - Osa Peninsula - Corcovado NP - Manuel Antonio NP

Golden sunset over the forested hills of Guanacaste, with the sun setting above the Pacific horizon.

costa-rica

Grand Tour

28 Nights from £9,102

San Jose - Tortuguero National Park - Bosque del Toro - Arenal National Park - Rincon de la Vieja - San Gerado de Dota - Manuel Antonio - Osa Pe…

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Best time to visit San Jose and Alajuela

When is the best time to visit San Jose and Alajuela?

San Jose and Alajuela can be enjoyed throughout the year thanks to Coata Rica's mild Central Valley climate. The dry season, from December to April, is particularly popular for sightseeing and exploring nearby attractions, while the greener months bring fewer crowds and lush scenery.

Top things to do in San Jose and Alajeula

What are the top things to do in San Jose and Alajuela?

From fascinating museums and vibrant markets in San Jose to coffee plantations, volcanoes and lush gardens around Alajuela, there is plenty to discover. Many visitors also use the region as a base for a day to Poas Volcano National Park, La Paz Waterfall Gardens and other Central Valley highlights.

Why visit San Jose and Alajuela

Whether you are beginning your Costa Rican adventure or spending a few days exploring the Central Valley, San Jose and Alajuela offer a rewarding mix of culture, history and natural beauty, Their convenient location, excellent restaurants and easy access to national parks make them an ideal introduction to the country.

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