Visit the highest volcano in the country with 3432 meters high above sea level. Then, visit the city of Cartago, the former capital of Costa Rica where a stop is made at the Basilica of the Virgin of the Angels, a place of pilgrimage for many faithful. Then, explore the Lankester Botanical Garden, created for the protection of more than 800 species of orchids. Continue to the scenic Orosi Valley, one of the important settlements during the colonial era. You will visit its colonial church, followed by a delicious traditional lunch in the area.

As we descend to the city of Cartago we will stop at the Virgin of the Angels Basilica – a famous peregrination site for many believers, some of which travel for days or even weeks on foot, in a pilgrimage of faith, to the site. The Basilica has large vaulted ceilings and exquisite examples of stained glass windows, and is a must see.

The tour will begin with us trekking south along the Panamerican Highway until we reach the base of the behemoth “Iztaru” (a name of an indigenous village that was situated on the flanks of the volcano, and a likely candidate as a possible origin for the current name of the Irazu Volcano). The winding road traverses fertile lands in which all types and forms of vegetation are cultivated, all the while affording us a spectacular panoramic view of the surrounding hills and valleys. And, at the very top of the summit, on a clear day, one can be privy to an unforgettable bird’s eye view of both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

We will stop at the Lankester Gardens, a University of Costa Rica Center for investigation that protects more than 800 species of orchids, bromeliads and countless species of other plants.

Valley of Orosi, an area that overflows with unparallel beauty. We will be able to visit one of the few remaining colonial churches and we will stop to enjoy a scrumptious typical lunch at one of the local restaurants.