8-HOUR IRAZU VOLCANO, OROSI VALLEY &
LANKESTER GARDENS TOUR WITH LUNCH

This is an exciting full-day tour combining Irazu Volcano National Park, Cartago, and the Orosi Valley, home of the mighty Reventazon River and beautiful Bridal Veil Falls. First drive past the old capital city of Cartago (right), founded by the Spaniards in 1564, where you can see the shrine of the patron saint of Costa Rica, Our Lady of the Angels. Continue upward for 33 kilometers to the brink of Irazu Volcano (left). You will be able to observe the immensity of this volcano, at an altitude of 3,432 meters above sea level (the highest peak of the Central Cordillera and still growing!). This volcano was inactive for many years until it erupted in 1963, sending up clouds of black ash that covered the entire central valley, greatly enriching the soil and thereby fostering the growth of some spectacular vegetation. Enjoy the extraordinary panoramic views that can be seen from the summit — on a clear day it is possible to see both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans! Your route will then descend into the Orosi Valley (right), stopping at the Cachi Dam and the ancient monastery of San Jose of Orosi. Impressive Lankester Gardens (left), gathers one of the region's largest collections of orchids, bromeliads, ferns and anthruiums, attracting more than 100 species of birds, and allowing visitors to enjoy the beauty of one of nature's most delicate and impressive expressions, orchids in bloom all year! Lunch is included in one of the best restaurants in the valley. (L)