Your Guide to Costa Rica Day Trips

The Best Day Trips & Tours in Costa Rica from San José

San José is the perfect base for exploring Costa Rica's most spectacular destinations. Start with a San José Costa Rica city tour to discover the capital's vibrant markets, colonial architecture, and world-class coffee culture. For visitors looking to explore beyond the city, the range of Costa Rica tours from San José is unmatched — from active volcanoes to pristine rainforests, all within a few hours' drive. A city tour San José Costa Rica travelers consistently rate as one of the best introductions to the country and its Pura Vida culture.

For adrenaline seekers, Costa Rica ziplining through the cloud forest canopy is a bucket-list experience — and Costa Rica zipline Monteverde is the most iconic, sending you soaring above misty treetops on some of the longest zip lines in the world. Combine it with hanging bridges and night wildlife walks on a full Monteverde cloud forest tour for an unforgettable day in one of Costa Rica's most biodiverse regions.

On the Pacific coast, Costa Rica Manuel Antonio tours deliver white sand beaches, monkeys, sloths, and vibrant marine life all in one national park. Manuel Antonio day tours from San José are a full-day adventure with expert naturalist guides. And for volcano lovers, the iconic journey from San José Costa Rica to Arenal Volcano combines the thrill of an active volcano with lush rainforest hikes, waterfalls, and natural hot springs. We feature only top-rated, Viator-verified tours with local experts and free cancellation.