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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.

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Golden sand beach with turquoise waves and lush rainforest on the coast of Costa Rica.

costa-rica

Habitats of Costa Rica

14 Nights from £4,112

San José - Tortuguero National Park - Arenal National Park - Manuel Antonio National Park

Bird 310

costa-rica

Highlands & Flooded Rainforest

10 Nights from £2,960

San José - Tortuguero - Arenal - Monteverde

Arenal Volcan

costa-rica

Arenal Volcano & Highlands In-Depth

12 Nights from £2,882

San Jose - Arenal / Various Excursions - Manuel Antonio

Bird 41

panama, costa-rica

Pachira Tour

15 Nights from £4,366

Panama City - San Jose - Tortuguero National Park - Arenal Volcano National Park - Nicoya Peninsula Beach

Hikers wonder through Monteverde's misty forest, surrounded by towering trees and lush moss-covered paths.

costa-rica

Natural Wonders & Character Lodges

14 Nights from £3,684

San José - Tortuguero - Arenal - Monteverde - Manuel Antonio

Riot of colours - Weavings and Flowers

panama, costa-rica, guatemala, belize

Blancaneaux Tour

30 Nights from £8,480

Panama City - Panama Canal - San Jose - Tortuguero - Arenal - Antigua - Lake Atitlan - Chichicastenango - Tikal - Mountain Pine Ridge - Ambergri…

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

A caiman rests motionless on a log in Cano negro's murky river, blending into the wetland wilderness.

panama, costa-rica

Naturalista Tour

22 Nights from £7,676

Panama City - San Jose - Tortuguero - Arenal - Turrialba - Osa Peninsula - Manuel Antonio

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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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