Poas Volcano, Sarchi Oxcart Factory and Doka

This tour takes us to the unforgettable Poas Volcano; across coffee plantations and scenic vistas, and then into the heart of the artisans´ workshops in Sarchi. To embark on this tour we will take the Pan-American Highway towards the city of Alajuela. En route we will see the Agriculture Monument, the Monument to Juan Santamaria and the popular Mango Park. As we ascend towards the Poas Volcano we will stop to learn more about our golden bean, which is a term used to describe the unique and savory coffee of Costa Rica. Then we will continue our trip through the fern, flower and strawberry farms taking in the scenic vistas along the way. There is a noticeable change in temperature and vegetation, so be prepared to experience the cool and exuberant cloud forest of Poas Volcano National Park. At the volcano we will have time to enjoy the impressive main crater with its fumaroles and then go on a light hike traversing a trail to the beautiful Botos Lagoon to learn about the different ecosystems. Next, after visiting the volcano, we will have time to enjoy a scrumptious lunch at Doka Estate. Our third stop is the town of Grecia, considered one of the cleanest towns in Latin America. Grecia is home to one of the only Metal Churches in Central America. The church is a national monument that fills its inhabitants with pride. Then shortly after visiting the metal church, in order to experience the local lifestyle, we will also visit the central market area, unique to the area. Our last stop along the way is the town of Sarchi, known as the cradle of Costa Rican artisans. Here we will take in the artistic work of the local artisans, as they create the famous typical oxcarts. Then, we will be able to shop for that special souvenir to take home. And, if we are lucky we might be able to see the biggest oxcart in Latin America, a two-story spectacle unto itself.

Excursion Highlights