Home » Destinations » Costa Rica » San Jose & The Central Valley
This buzzing capital city is surrounded by a stunning valley of coffee plantations full of excellent lodges.
San Jose is surrounded by vast coffee bean plantations, whose profits helped build the city many years ago. You can sample the delicious “golden bean” in cafes throughout the city or take a day trip to nearby farms to see the coffee-making process firsthand.
Historical highlights in San Jose include the elegant National Theatre, built in 1897, and the Museo del Oro, which houses an impressive collection of pre-Columbian gold artifacts.
Many visitors choose to explore the rest of Central Valley, where San Jose sits. This attractive area offers coffee plantations, waterfalls, and short hikes, along with some fabulous lodges and hotels. These properties are ideal for an easy one-night stay after a late arrival but also provide excellent activities and abundant wildlife for a longer visit.
The Pacuare River runs through this stunning region and offers thrill-seekers some of the best white-water rafting in the world. Around its banks, visitors can also enjoy horse riding, zip lining, and mountain biking.
Located in the very heart of Costa Rica, San Jose makes a perfect base from which to start or finish a luxury holiday, combining cultural experiences with adventurous outdoor activities.

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