Irazú, Playa Negra, Lankester's Japanese Garden and Lunch over Lake Cachí

Four stops in one day, an hour out of San Jose. Irazú is the highest active volcano in Costa Rica, 3,432 m. The guide covers the geography and history on the way round the park, and the main crater comes with its turquoise lagoon and fumaroles. There is free time at Playa Negra, a volcanic formation, and an optional short climb to the highest ground, where the Central Valley opens up and, on a clear day, both oceans are visible at once. The Orosi Valley was one of the important colonial settlements, and its history includes pirate attacks, earthquakes and floods, along with the Franciscan orders that ran the evangelisation and built the first Catholic churches in the country. The stop is at the valley viewpoint, where there are places in the park to sit for a while. Lankester Gardens is a research centre of the University of Costa Rica: more than 800 species of orchids and bromeliads, countless other plants, and a Japanese garden. Lunch is at the Casona del Cafetal, on a property above Lake Cachí, with trails through the coffee plantations and different angles on the water. The lake is artificial, built by the national electricity institute to supply hydroelectric power to Cartago. The day ends with a guided visit to the Basilica of the Angels: the stone of the discovery, the museum, the interior, and holy water to drink for anyone who wants it. Transport, guide, lunch and hotel pick-up and return are included. Cancel at least 24 hours before departure for a full refund.