Poas Volcano La Paz Waterfall Tour – Nature, Wildlife & Culture

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Central Volcanic Range , Costa Rica
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Poas Volcano La Paz Waterfall Tour – Nature, Wildlife & Culture

8 Hours
8
San Jose, Heredia or Alajuela
3-85 +
8/8
English, Spanish (Costa Rica)
Select Date :
Ticket Type Price Availability Quantity

Adult

12 years and older (full price)
$ 250 Inc VAT
8 tickets left
0 of 8 sold

Child

Children’s rate applies to kids between 3 and 11 years old
$ 165 Inc VAT
8 tickets left
0 of 8 sold

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Overview

Poás Volcano La Paz Waterfall Tour – Nature, Wildlife & Culture

Experience two of Costa Rica’s most iconic natural wonders in one unforgettable day!
This small-group Poás Volcano La Paz Waterfall Tour takes you from the dramatic summit of Poás Volcano National Park to the lush rainforest and cascading waterfalls of La Paz Waterfall Gardens.

Perfect for families, couples, and nature lovers, this full-day adventure blends breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, authentic Costa Rican culture, and world-class guiding by a certified bilingual naturalist dedicated to providing personalized, educational experiences.

You’ll witness volcanic craters, emerald lakes, cloud forests, and vibrant wildlife — from toucans and hummingbirds to butterflies, sloths, and even big cats in the La Paz Wildlife Refuge. Every stop reveals a new facet of Costa Rica’s natural beauty.


✅ What’s Included

  • Certified bilingual naturalist guide

  • Entrance fees to Poás Volcano National Park & La Paz Waterfall Gardens

  • Delicious buffet lunch

  • Air-conditioned transportation with hotel pickup & drop-off (San José, Heredia, Alajuela)

  • Educational interpretation of nature, culture & conservation topics


🕓 Tour Details

Start Time: 6:30 AM
Duration: Approximately 10 hours
Difficulty: Easy to moderate — short walks and accessible trails


  • Poás Volcano National Park

Your day begins as you journey into the highlands toward Poás Volcano, one of Costa Rica’s most famous and visually striking volcanoes.
Stand at the edge of its massive open crater, admire the steaming fumaroles, and walk through refreshing cloud forest trails leading toward the peaceful Lake Botos.

Along the way, your naturalist guide will share fascinating insights into the volcano’s geology, its ecosystems, past eruptions, and the conservation measures that protect this unique environment.


  • Taste of the Highlands

Driving toward La Paz, you’ll enjoy scenic mountain landscapes featuring strawberry fields, flower nurseries, dairy farms, and panoramic views — a picturesque blend of rural life and rolling highland vistas.


  • La Paz Waterfall Gardens

Arrive at La Paz Waterfall Gardens, a world-renowned private nature reserve and wildlife sanctuary.
Explore beautifully designed exhibits home to toucans, scarlet macaws, butterflies, monkeys, sloths, ocelots, and jaguars.
These spaces provide safe and respectful opportunities to observe and photograph Costa Rica’s incredible biodiversity up close.


  • The Famous Waterfalls

Walk along lush rainforest paths and hanging bridges to admire five breathtaking waterfalls, each with spectacular viewpoints and photo spots.
These well-maintained, accessible trails make this experience perfect for families, photographers, and travelers looking for an easy yet immersive walk in nature.


  • Buffet Lunch

Recharge with a delicious buffet lunch featuring Costa Rican classics and international dishes, including vegetarian options — all enjoyed in a tropical, garden-filled setting.


  • Personalized Small-Group Experience

This tour is limited to small groups, ensuring a more intimate, comfortable, and enriching experience.
Perfect for families, couples, solo travelers, and nature lovers looking to avoid the crowds and learn from a professional naturalist guide.


📝 What to Bring

  • Light jacket — the highlands can be cool

  • Comfortable closed-toe shoes for trails

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Camera for wildlife and scenic photography 📸


Why Choose Poás Volcano La Paz Waterfall Tour?

This is one of the top-rated day trips from San José, offering a seamless combination of volcano exploration and waterfall immersion.
With expert guiding, comfortable transport, and exclusive small-group attention, you’ll enjoy a stress-free, educational, and deeply memorable experience.

Hotel pickup and drop-off included from San José, Heredia & Alajuela.

Places You’ll See :

Poás Volcano National Park Discover one of Costa Rica’s most iconic natural wonders, the impressive Poás Volcano. Located just a short drive from San José, this active stratovolcano features one of the largest open craters in the world, stretching nearly a mile wide and over 300 meters deep. On clear days, you’ll witness the dramatic turquoise crater lake surrounded by steaming fumaroles and rugged volcanic landscapes. The park also offers scenic trails through lush cloud forest, where you may spot hummingbirds, toucanets, and other highland wildlife. With its combination of breathtaking views, fresh mountain air, and fascinating geology, Poás Volcano is a must-see highlight for visitors seeking both natural beauty and adventure close to the capital.

1. Poas Volcano National Park

La Paz Waterfall Gardens Discover the enchanting beauty of Costa Rica’s rainforest at La Paz Waterfall Gardens, a private nature park that combines spectacular waterfalls, lush walking trails, and abundant wildlife. Explore a network of trails that wind through tropical gardens and misty forests, leading to five breathtaking waterfalls. Along the way, encounter colorful toucans, playful monkeys, butterflies, and other native species, and visit the park’s rescue animal sanctuary, which cares for injured and orphaned wildlife. With its mix of natural wonders, wildlife encounters, and scenic viewpoints, La Paz Waterfall Gardens offers a memorable and immersive experience for visitors of all ages.

2. La Paz Waterfall Gardens

Schedule Details

Poás Volcano & La Paz Waterfall Gardens Tour

🗓️ Poás Volcano & La Paz Waterfall Gardens – Sample Itinerary

6:45 AM – 7:30 AM | Hotel Pickup & Scenic Drive
Pickup from San José (7:00 AM), Heredia (6:45 AM), or Alajuela (7:30 AM). Enjoy countryside views of dairy farms, nurseries, and strawberry fields along the way.

8:15 AM | Coffee Stop
Pause at a charming local café for traditional Costa Rican coffee or refreshments. Great chance for nature photography and birdwatching.

9:00 AM | Poás Volcano National Park
Arrive at one of Costa Rica’s most active volcanoes. Visit the crater overlook, take a short walk to Lake Botos surrounded by cloud forest, and learn about local geology and conservation.

11:00 AM | Transfer to La Paz Waterfall Gardens
Scenic drive through rolling hills and forest landscapes en route to the private reserve.

11:30 AM – 1:00 PM | Wildlife Sanctuary & Exhibits
Explore diverse exhibits featuring toucans, parrots, butterflies, frogs, jaguars, ocelots, monkeys, sloths, and more.

1:00 PM – 2:00 PM | Buffet Lunch
Enjoy a hearty buffet with Costa Rican and international dishes (vegetarian options available), overlooking the rainforest.

2:00 PM – 3:30 PM | Waterfalls Walk
Take a gentle walk along forest trails and hanging bridges to see five breathtaking waterfalls. Ideal for nature lovers and photographers.

3:30 PM – 5:00 PM | Return to San José
Relax on the scenic drive back, arriving at your hotel in the late afternoon.


Helpful Tips:

  • Bring a light jacket, closed shoes, camera, and water.

  • Vegetarian options available at lunch.

  • Moderate walking on nature trails; suitable for most fitness levels.

F.A.Q

What time does the tour depart?

Your guide will confirm the exact pickup time after booking.

  • Pickup from Heredia: 6:45 AM

  • Pickup from San José: 7:00 AM

  • Pickup from Alajuela: 7:30 AM 

What is included in the tour price?
  • Entry fees to Poás Volcano National Park and La Paz Waterfall Gardens

  • Certified bilingual naturalist guide

  • Comfortable A/C transportation

  • Buffet lunch at La Paz Waterfall Gardens

  • Hotel pickup & drop-off from San José, Heredia, and Alajuela

How long is the tour?

The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, returning to your hotel in the late afternoon.

Is this tour suitable for children?

Yes. Children ages 4–11 receive 35% off the adult rate. Children under 4 typically join free of charge but may not be recommended for certain activities.

Do you offer group discounts?

Yes! Families and groups of friends with 4 or more participants enjoy special discounts of up to 20%, depending on group size.

What should I bring?

We recommend a light jacket, closed shoes, camera, water, and sunscreen. A rain jacket or poncho is also useful in case of showers.

Are vegetarian or special meals available?

Yes, the buffet lunch at La Paz Waterfall Gardens includes vegetarian-friendly options. Please let us know in advance if you have dietary restrictions.

Is the tour physically demanding?

The tour involves moderate walking on nature trails and is suitable for most fitness levels. It is not recommended for travelers with severe respiratory or altitude-sensitive conditions.

Get Enquiry

What's Included
  • Activity Level: Moderate
  • Cloudforest
  • Entrance Fee
  • Full-day
  • Lunch
  • Naturalist Guide
  • Transport
Activities
  • Animal Sanctuary
  • Hiking
  • Viewpoint
  • Volcanoes
  • Waterfalls
Why Book With Us?
  • ✅ Small Groups Only – We focus on intimate, personalized experiences. No big buses, no crowds—just authentic adventures designed for you.
  • ✅ Flexible Pricing – Rates vary depending on group size and payment method, ensuring you always get the best value for your travel plans.
  • ✅ Expert Local Guide – Your tour is led by a certified bilingual naturalist guide passionate about Costa Rica’s culture, wildlife, and hidden wonders.
  • ✅ Reliable & Comfortable Transport – Travel safely in our fully insured tourist vehicle with A/C, perfect for small groups and family adventures.
  • ✅ Easy, Hassle-Free Booking – Enjoy simple and secure reservations with flexible payment options tailored to your needs.
Got a Question?
  • We are here to help! Message us directly to check availability or reserve your spot. Minimum 2 participants required for this tour. We offer hotel pickup & drop-off from San José, Heredia, and Alajuela.
  • +506 8862-4218
  • info@wildlifetourscr.com
Meet our guide
Isaac Taylor

Isaac Taylor

Hi, I’m Isaac Taylor — a certified bilingual naturalist guide, professional driver, and founder of  Costa Rica Wildlife Tours . Born and raised in San José, with roots in both the Central Valley and the Caribbean (my father was from Siquirres, Limón), I’ve had the privilege of guiding travelers all across Costa Rica. While my journey began in the lush rainforests of Tortuguero, I’ve since explored and shared the wonders of every region — from misty cloud forests to sun-soaked coastlines.

I specialize in wildlife-focused and cultural tours across Costa Rica, with expertise in destinations such as Tortuguero (where I’m a certified turtle nesting guide), Arenal, Manuel Antonio, and Cahuita. Guests enjoy educational, flexible experiences that blend history, culture, nature, and adventure — all tailored to their interests. In addition, I lead San José city tours that bring the capital’s rich history, vibrant culture, and local life to light. As a licensed tourism driver (Type C2), I provide safe, comfortable transportation in a fully insured, A/C microbus with all permits up to date. My goal is to create meaningful connections and help you discover the real Costa Rica — from hidden forest trails and wildlife encounters to authentic city experiences and local flavors. Let’s explore Costa Rica together — with knowledge, heart, and a personal touch!

Credentials & Certifications:

  • Certified General Tour Guide by the Costa Rican Tourism Board (I.C.T) #2454
  • Tourism Promoter ACTO (Tortuguero Conservation Area)
  • Costa Rica Driving License: C1-110910710 – Type C2 Public Transport Tourism