21-day culture itinerary

day 1

arrive in san josé

Touch down at Juan Santamaría Airport. After your flight, make your way to your hotel, eat some great food and relax.

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day 2

san antonio de escazú

San Antonio de Escazú is a small agricultural town with a rich rural history. The second Sunday in March is el Día del Boyero (The Day of the Oxcart Driver). Finely detailed painted oxcarts parade through the town with dancers and musicians. While you’re visiting, you’ll also discover exquisite wood carvings from local trees, which make stunning souvenirs.

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day 3

day trip from san josé

Outside the capital, you can choose from incredible short trips bursting with culture. Visit the Sarchi Oxcart Factory to learn more about this staple of Costa Rican artisanship. You could also make your way to Poás Volcano, which boasts one of the largest craters in Central America. Make your reservation in advance. When you arrive, you’ll watch a safety video and then take a short scenic walk to the crater. Or take a tour through one of the many local coffee farms. See how the craftsmanship and attention to detail creates unmatched flavor. Sample some of the freshest coffee you’ve ever had, directly from the artisans who create it.

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day 4

santiago de puriscal

Experience the country lifestyle in this rural area. You may see cowboys and farmers actively taking care of their herds and selling their crops. Oxen still pull colorful oxcarts, and visitors can explore small sugar mills and local coffee farms.

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days 5-6

turrialba

The history of Turrialba represents the history of Costa Rica. The site of Pre-Columbian Indigenous communities, this area was overtaken by Spanish Conquistadors in the late 16th Century. Luckily, many important traditions remain, including handicrafts and local celebrations. The Cheese Fair is one of the most popular. People from across the country bring in high-quality cheeses for visitors to try and buy.

Just outside the city of Turrialba, you’ll discover a monument to protect one of Costa Rica’s most important archaeological sites. These ancient structures were inhabited from 1000 BCE until 1400 CE. Structures include aqueducts, plazas, roadways, bridges and steps. Experts believe this site was a key regional hub for culture, religion and politics.

 

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day 7

el guarco

This area was named after a famous Indigenous chief who ruled the area before the Conquistadors arrived, El Guarco. It’s now home to an impressive sculpture park and many artisan workshops. You could also attend a local fútbol (soccer) match to experience an important part of Costa Rican culture.

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day 8

ujarras and orosi valley

The town of Ujarras is home to the country’s oldest church, the Ruins of Ujarras. This place of worship was built between 1575 and 1580, and to this day, local legends still surround it. It’s said that local fisherman once found a mysterious box with an image of the Virgin Mary on it. The fisherman tried but couldn’t remove this box from the site. Feeling that this was a miracle, they created Nuestra Señora de la Limpia Concepción over the box. Story has it that the Virgin Mary has performed many miracles for the villagers since then.

In the surrounding Orosi Valley, you’ll find the oldest church in Costa Rica that’s still in use, la Iglesia de San José. Be transported to the Colonial era through the architecture, paintings and altar. You can also take a tour of one of the local coffee plantations to see for yourself how local farmers create the world-famous quality.
 

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days 9-11

los santos

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Los Santos, a destination that offers a wide range of experiences. Whether you’re hiking, kayaking, or boating, soak in the incredible nature and the jaw-dropping landscapes.

Walk the trails and admire the lush environment. You could find a picturesque waterfall or take a tour of the area’s famous coffee farms. Learn about local farming techniques and sample the delicious flavors.

 

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day 12

santa ana

Santa Ana is a charming town that balances tradition with modern amenities. Maybe most famous for its incredible ceramics, this village is also home to artisan workshops and local agriculture. Stop by the farmers market on Sundays to find fresh produce and meet local growers.

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day 13

ciudad colón

In this multicultural city, you can choose which activities speak to you. The Anfiteatro de Villa is an old quarry with beautiful gardens, replicas of famous sculptures and scenic viewpoints. In the network of caverns below, you’ll find a medieval-style chapel, and local food.

Horseback riding tours take you through trials, across rivers and up to remarkable viewpoints.
 

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day 14

moravia and coronado

 In Moravia, you can take a sky chair through Braulio Carrillo National Park for some unique views of the rainforest canopy. The town center features charming shops that sell handcrafted items, including jewelry and leatherwork.

Nearby in Coronado, an impressive Gothic-style cathedral towers over the town, San Isidro of Coronado. This church was rebuilt on its original site in 1935, and its clock tower and bells hold a particular charm for visitors.
 

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days 15-16

arenal and guatuso town

Explore the nearby Arenal Volcano National Park. As the name implies, a soaring volcano dominates the landscape and a namesake lake just below. Conservation efforts keep this land pristine, so you can hike, kayak, fish or soak in one of the nearby hot springs.

In the town, local artisans create and sell incredible work. Don’t miss a chance to bring home a uniquely Costa Rican souvenir.

 

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days 17-18

grecia forest reserve

Go whitewater rafting along the Rio Sarapiquí or take a night tour of the Sarapiquí Rainforest. Once the outdoor adventure is finished, you can explore the Museum of Indigenous Cultures or enjoy the Chorotega pottery created by local artisans.
 

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days 19-21

orotina

Orotina is known as the “City of Fruits.” You can book tours of local farms or schedule your visit to see the Orotina Fruit Festival in March. This town-wide celebration honors the area’s heritage and rich agricultural traditions. Visitors enjoy the parties, open-air markets, parades and town pride.

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day 21

departure from Juan Santamaría International Airport

Head back to San José to catch your departing flight and start planning your next trip to Costa Rica.

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