Most Scenic Road Trips in San José, Costa Rica
1. Costa Rica's Central Valley
Drive through the heart of San José, passing by lush coffee plantations and picturesque towns.
- Coffee Tour: Visit local farms for a coffee tour and tasting.
- Historic Towns: Stop by Alajuela, Heredia, and Cartago, each with their unique history.
- Scenic Vistas: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Central Valley from various lookout points.
2. Route 32 - Juan Santamaria Highway
Scenic route leading to Guanacaste province, featuring stunning volcano and cloud forest views.
- Volcan Arenal: Hike around the active Volcan Arenal or enjoy a night tour.
- Cloud Forests: Marvel at the misty forests of Monteverde and Santa Elena.
- Beaches: Relax on the beautiful beaches of Guanacaste after your journey.
3. Costa Rica's Pacific Coast Highway (27)
Stretch from San José to the Nicoya Peninsula, offering panoramic views of the ocean and jungle.
- Jacó Beach: Stop by Jaco for surfing, water sports, or nightlife.
- Carrara National Park: Visit the breathtaking Carrera National Park with its unique geological formations.
- Nicoya Peninsula: Experience the laid-back vibe of Santa Teresa, Mal Pais, and Montezuma.
4. Route 1 - Interamericana Highway
Travel from San José to Limón province, passing by the majestic Braulio Carrillo National Park.
- Braulio Carrillo National Park: Explore the lush rainforest, waterfalls, and abundant wildlife.
- Pacific Coast Views: Enjoy stunning views of the Pacific Ocean along the way.
- Caribbean Culture: Immerse yourself in Caribbean culture and cuisine in Limón town.
5. Route 27 - Pan-American Highway (Part)
Travel south from San José to the stunning Orosi Valley and Turrialba.
- Orosi Valley: Discover the picturesque Orosi Valley with its historic church and hot springs.
- Turrialba Volcano: Explore the scenic trails around the Turrialba Volcano.
- Adventure Sports: Participate in white-water rafting, ziplining, or horseback riding in the area.
6. Route 126 - San Ramon Highway
Scenic route to San Ramón, passing by the Poás Volcano and La Paz Waterfall Gardens.
- Poás Volcano: Visit the active Poás Volcano, with its turquoise lake.
- La Paz Waterfall Gardens: Marvel at the various waterfalls and diverse wildlife.
- San Ramón Town: Experience the relaxed atmosphere of San Ramón, famous for its cheese.
7. Route 702 - Parque Nacional Guanacaste
Scenic drive through the heart of Guanacaste National Park, offering views of dry forests and wildlife.
- Guanacaste National Park: Explore the diverse ecosystems within the park.
- Santa Rosa National Park: Discover Santa Rosa National Park, a haven for wildlife such as scarlet macaws and sea turtles.
- Beach Towns: Relax on the beautiful beaches of Tamarindo, Flamingo, or Conchal after your journey.
8. Route 2 - Irazu Volcano
Drive to the Irazú Volcano and experience its stunning views and various climate zones.
- Irazu Volcano Summit: Stand atop the Irazú volcano, enjoying panoramic views of both the Atlantic and Pacific coasts.
- Crater Lagoon: Explore the colorful crater lagoon at Irazu Volcano.
- Varied Climate Zones: Experience different climate zones as you ascend and descend the volcano.
9. Route 742 - Turrialba to Pérez Zeledón
Scenic route through the Talamanca Mountains, offering breathtaking views and coffee plantations.
- Coffee Plantations: Visit local coffee farms for a tour and tasting.
- Scenic Vistas: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Talamanca Mountains and valleys.
- Indigenous Culture: Learn about the indigenous Boruca culture in the community of Boruca.
10. Route 32 - Juan Santamaria Highway (Part)
Scenic route leading to the Nicoya Peninsula via Liberia, offering a mix of culture and nature.
- Liberia: Discover the vibrant city of Liberia, capital of Guanacaste province.
- Nicoya Peninsula: Experience the laid-back vibe of Nicoya Peninsula towns like Santa Teresa, Mal Pais, and Montezuma.
- Beaches: Relax on beautiful beaches such as Playa Samara, Playa Carrillo, or Playa Tamarindo.
11. Route 7 - Ujarrás Road
Scenic route leading to the city of Pérez Zeledón, passing by historic sites and waterfalls.
- Ujarrás Church: Visit the beautifully preserved Ujarrás church, dating back to 1743.
- Rancho León Waterfall: Explore the stunning Rancho León waterfall in the community of Río Frío.
- Pérez Zeledón Town: Experience the vibrant and friendly atmosphere of Pérez Zeledón town.
12. Route 3 - Orotina Road
Scenic route to the Pacific Coast, passing by charming towns and beautiful vistas.
- Orotina: Stop by the colorful town of Orotina for local crafts and souvenirs.
- Pacific Coast Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean along the way.
- Jaco Beach: Relax on the beautiful beaches of Jaco after your journey.
13. Route 2 - Irazu Volcano (Alternate Route)
Alternative route to the Irazú Volcano via Cartago, offering a historical perspective.
- Irazu Volcano Summit: Stand atop the Irazú volcano, enjoying panoramic views of both the Atlantic and Pacific coasts.
- Cartago City: Discover Cartago's rich history, including the Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels.
- Crater Lagoon: Explore the colorful crater lagoon at Irazu Volcano.
15. Route 70 - San Carlos Route
Scenic route to the Braulio Carrillo National Park and the town of San Carlos, offering diverse ecosystems.
- Braulio Carrillo National Park: Explore the lush rainforest, waterfalls, and abundant wildlife within the park.
- San Carlos Town: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of San Carlos town.
- Tortuguero National Park: Travel to Tortuguero National Park, a protected haven for sea turtles and diverse wildlife.