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A close up of the side of a brightly coloured hand painted traditional Costa Rican oxcarts (Las carretas), Costa Rica

San José & the Central Valley Holidays


south & central america
The sprawling city of San José has a dramatic setting, surrounded by the hills, mountains and plantations of the lush Central Valley.

San José, or Chepe as the city is locally known, is eccentric and chaotic but also incredibly laidback and friendly. It may not have the 'wow factor' on first glance, but it offers hidden charms for those who take the time to explore and boasts some fantastic dining options.

Outside of the city, in the wider Central Valley you can find soaring volcanoes, cascading rivers and numerous exciting activities all in easy reach. Situated in the middle of the country this is the ideal place to start or end your holiday.

Trailfinders offers a wide range of San José and the Central Valley holidays and our expert travel consultants are a mine of information about what to do here, often with first-hand travel experience. Whether you want to explore San José with its authentic collection of restaurants or museums, join a sociable small group tour to experience the Central Valley's many attractions, or are simply looking for advice on the best hotels – they are the perfect people to ask.
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OUR HOLIDAYS TO SAN JOSÉ & CENTRAL VALLEY

Here's a snapshot of some of our most popular San Jose and the Central Valley holidays.

If you don’t see what you’re looking for, click on the link below them to see our complete range of holidays and tours in the destination or give us a call and speak to one of our travel experts.
Costa Rica Luxury Adventure
Private Tour
16 days / 15 nights

This private tour will take you to lush forests, towering volcanoes, and beautiful beaches whilst staying in some of Costa Rica’s finest hotels.

Guide Price: €8,329 £7,029 pp

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Classic Costa Rica
Private Tour
14 days / 13 nights

Experience some of the highlights of this beautiful country on this classic journey.

Guide Price: €4,079 £3,299 pp

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Discover Costa Rica
Guided Small Group Adventure Tour
15 days / 14 nights

This tour is perfect for those wanting to see Costa Rica’s highlights while also exploring the country’s many hidden gems.

Guide Price: €4,200 £3,499 pp

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Wellness, Wildlife & Waves
Private Tour
11 days / 10 nights

Embrace the Costa Rican philosophy of ‘Pura Vida’ and immerse yourself in this tropical environment whilst enjoying yoga and meditation, nature walks and world-class surfing.

Guide Price: €4,755 £4,035 pp

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Enchanting Costa Rica
Private Tour
14 days / 13 nights

Discover the natural beauty of this enchanting country.

Guide Price: €5,049 £4,199 pp

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Costa Rica Adventure
Guided Small Group Adventure Tour
16 days / 15 nights

If you’re looking for a taste of Costa Rica’s world-class highlights but want to keep things spicy with a sampling of hidden treasures, this action-packed adventure tops the menu.

Guide Price: €1529 £1304 pp

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WHERE TO GO IN SAN JOSÉ & CENTRAL VALLEY

Each region of Costa Rica boasts it's own attractions and San José is no different. Explore the many barrios (or neighbourhoods) as you discover this bustling city. Visit the neoclassical Metropolitan Cathedral and the opulent National Theatre in the city centre, wander past Barrio Amon's old colonial mansions which house contemporary art galleries and museums, or spend an evening enjoying the excellent restaurants and quirky bars of vibrant Barrio Escalante.

Outside of the city lies the Central Valley, this is an excellent base for a few days if you want to be close to the airport but prefer to avoid the city. These green landscapes are home to coffee plantations, dense forests and towering volcanoes.
San José
San José
Costa Rica's capital has much offer; explore the city's museums, markets, and galleries before sampling the alfresco bars and excellent eateries of chic Barrio Escalante.
Central Valley
Central Valley
Sample delicious coffee from a charming hacienda, spot colourful bird life or try one of the many adventure activities on offer, as you discover the Central Valley.

OUR RECOMMENDED HOTELS IN SAN JOSÉ & CENTRAL VALLEY

We feature a great range of accommodation in this region, with something to suit all tastes. Maybe you're looking for modern, centrally located hotel perfect for exploring the city, or a tranquil resort where you can relax by the pool and wander along jungle trails to hidden waterfalls!

What you won't find here are thousands of hotels to wade through. We've done the hard work for you and selected the best places to stay and our travel consultants are on hand to help, often with first-hand experience.
Hotel Grano de Oro
4 star

San Jose

This charming hotel has been lovingly converted from a Victorian mansion and provides a peaceful sanctuary in the heart of the city.
The Retreat Costa Rica
4 plus star

Central Valley

Perched on the edge of the hillside in Atenas, a 45 minute drive from San Jose, with panoramic views of the valley below and out towards the coast of Nicoya Peninsula, The Retreat offers wellness and relaxation and is a wonderful place to unwind.
Costa Rica Marriott Hotel
4 plus star

San Jose

This hacienda style property has been designed with elegant colonial architecture and décor throughout.
Finca Rosa Blanca
4 star

Central Valley

This lovely hotel is perched on a hillside in the beautiful Central Valley and feels a world away from busy San José.
Gran Hotel Costa Rica Curio Collection by Hilton
4 star

San Jose

Set in a 1930’s historical building, the Gran Hotel Costa Rica Curio Collection by Hilton boasts an excellent location on the Avenida Central boulevard in downtown San Jose.
Xandari Resort & Spa
4 star

Central Valley

Although only a 20 minute drive from San José’s International Airport, the Xandari Resort & Spa provides a peaceful oasis in the Central Valley.

WHAT TO DO IN SAN JOSÉ & CENTRAL VALLEY

As well as some awe-inspiring sights, this region is also home to unforgettable experiences.

One day you might be paddling down thrilling rapids surrounded by verdant forest. Whatever you choose, our unmissable experiences will really help bring your Costa Rica holiday to life.
White-Water Rafting, Arenal & San Jose
5 hours
Departs: Arenal, San Jose

Get your adrenaline pumping with an exhilarating white-water adventure through the jungle! Paddle ...


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