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2 in 1 Volcano Combo Tour Irazu Crater Turrialba Eruption Area

San José · Central Valley & San José

2 in 1 Volcano Combo Tour Irazu Crater Turrialba Eruption Area

No traveler ratings yetup to 9h

About this experience

Discover Costa Rica’s Iconic and Hidden Volcanoes in One Unforgettable Day This full-day adventure takes you to the iconic Irazú Volcano—the country’s tallest and most visited—and the rarely seen Turrialba Volcano, a raw and dramatic hidden gem that few tourists ever experience. From the sweeping views of Irazú’s crater to the untamed beauty of Turrialba’s active slopes, this tour offers an unbeatable contrast of Costa Rica’s volcanic wonders. Along the way, explore the historic city of Cartago and hear stories of culture, nature, and geology from your passionate local guide. Ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure travelers seeking more than just the typical tourist route. Small groups, epic views, and exclusive access make this a must-do experience for those wanting to go beyond the ordinary. Two volcanoes. One epic day. A lifetime of memories. Book this unique tour and experience Costa Rica’s volcanic best like a local.

Description supplied by the tour operator via Viator.

Getting there

Hotel pickup in San José

Picks up at 204 listed locations, including:

  • Hotel Portal Colonial
  • Courtyard by Marriott San Jose Escazu
  • Aparthotel Casa Reflejos
  • Canal Grande Lodge
  • Posada Nena Santa Ana
  • Studio Hotel Boutique
  • +198 more

Pickup details are confirmed with the operator during booking.

Pickup begins about 60 minutes before departure.

Where

Ruinas Sanatorio Carlos Duran

What you'll do

  1. We will stop in a viewpoint to see the Sanatorio Duran Ruins. Sitting in a beautiful area of the Cartago mountainside is the mysterious Finca Sanatorio Duran. Many people who visit Irazu Volcano drive right past it thinking it’s another abandoned farm when in reality, it was an important hospital back in the 1910’s – 1920’s for tuberculosis patients. Since the hospital closed in the 1960’s, it has decayed and now lays abandoned. Only in recent years was it turned into a tourist attraction for those curious and brave enough to venture into this place called the most haunted building in Costa Rica.

  2. During the journey of approximately one hour we will observe beautiful natural landscapes and agricultural fields on the slopes of these brother volcanoes, to go to our first destination, the highest volcano in Costa Rica, the Irazú Volcano. After observing the main crater and walking around the different craters of this volcano surrounded by an amazing lunar landscape we will go to the restless Turrialba Volcano where we will observe his volcanic cone with its characteristic activity of gases and ash.

    2h hereAdmission included

  3. Once in the Turrialba Volcano we will venture to walk through the impact zone of the 2014 and 2016 eruptions where we will be able to appreciate the destruction that these eruptions left as well as the changes in the vegetation and the affectation to the life of the local people.

    3h hereAdmission included

  4. We will visit the Basilica, it was constructed in honor of the apparition of the Virgin of the Angeles in 1635 who is the patron saint of Costa Rica. The stone statue is located in this church. The first building (chapel) was erected in 1639 and was later expanded, rebuilt and renovated. The current building is in Byzantine style and was constructed between 1912 and 1930 and designed by the architect Luis Llach. The facades were designed by the engineer Fabio Garnier. It was declared a historic architectural heritage site of Costa Rica in 1999. Our Lady of the Angels Basilica is a first-rate National Sanctuary. Hundreds of thousands of Costa Ricans make the pilgrimage to this site to profess their faith. It is one of the most important religious events in Costa Rica.

  5. We will visit the Cartago Church Ruins, built in 1575, Las Ruinas de la Parroquia's outer walls only remain today after being destroyed by two earthquakes, but the unique architecture and intricate design is still worth a visit. This isn't the only area of ruins that are worth a peek. Las Ruins of Cartago has a deep-rooted past that began with two brothers who were fighting over the same woman. After one brother killed the other one night, he decided to build a church on the site. Each time it was constructed, an earthquake destroyed it. After devastation in 1910, the ruins were left as they were, and it remains as the town square today.

What's included

Included

  • All applicable entrance fees are included in the experience.
  • WiFi on board
  • Bottled water
  • Local snacks or fruits, subject to availability
  • We will make sure you get great photos at some of the most scenic spots along the way.
1 more included
  • Travel comfortably throughout the experience in a premium SUV, offering a smooth, private, and relaxed way to explore at our own pace.

Not included

  • Guide tip
  • We recommend to have breakfast before departure, as time is more limited at the beginning, with flexibility for a proper meal later.
  • Lunch is not included, allowing you the flexibility to choose a place that best matches your preferences, with recommendations from your guide.

Good to know

  • Moderate fitness needed

Guided in en, es.

  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

The operator may cancel for poor weather, with a full refund or reschedule.

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