Super Combo Tour: Waterfalls Gardens + Coffee Tour + Poás Volcano

Experience Costa Rica’s Natural Wonders with the Super Combo Tour: Waterfalls Gardens + Coffee Tour + Poás Volcano

This full-day adventure takes you beyond San José to explore some of Costa Rica’s most iconic sights. For $199.90 per person, you’ll spend about nine hours discovering lush waterfalls, learning about local coffee production, and marveling at the active Poás Volcano. Guided by friendly and knowledgeable locals, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of Costa Rica’s vibrant ecosystems and cultural richness.

Two things we really like about this experience: First, the small-group atmosphere (max 25 travelers) means you’ll get more personal attention from your guide, which greatly enhances the learning and viewing experience. Second, the variety of stops—from animal sanctuaries to volcanic craters—keeps the day dynamic and engaging.

A potential consideration is the long travel time for pickups and drop-offs, which some reviews mention as feeling a bit slow or winding. However, if you’re eager to see a broad swath of Costa Rica’s highlights in one day, this is a worthwhile trade-off.

Ideal for travelers who love nature, wildlife, and local culture, this tour suits those wanting a comprehensive look at Costa Rica’s natural beauty without the hassle of organizing multiple trips. It’s especially good for first-timers or anyone with limited time but a big appetite for adventure.

Key Points

• Diverse itinerary combining waterfalls, a volcano, and a coffee plantation
• Small group size for personalized attention and better interaction
• Comprehensive learnings about Costa Rican wildlife, coffee, and volcano activity
• Delicious food options included for breakfast and lunch
• Flexibility for weather changes, especially at Poás Volcano
• Value for money considering the multiple attractions packed into one day

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Start with the Coffee Tour at Doka Estate

We loved the way this tour begins with a hearty Costa Rican breakfast overlooking expansive coffee plantations, setting a relaxed yet eager tone for the day. The Doka Estate offers one of the most complete coffee experiences in Costa Rica, covering everything from harvesting to roasting. The guide’s enthusiasm shines through as they explain how coffee is grown, fermented, and exported—information that’s fascinating whether you’re a coffee enthusiast or just appreciate a good brew.

The tasting session is a highlight—expect to sample not only coffee but also chocolate and coffee liquor, which adds a flavorful twist. Reviewers highlight how this part of the trip provides a genuine glimpse into Costa Rica’s coffee-growing tradition, something many travelers find both educational and delicious.

The Active Poás Volcano

Next, you’ll visit Poás Volcano National Park, home to the second-largest crater in the world. At an altitude of 2,575 meters, the views are stunning, especially if luck is on your side and the clouds part to reveal the turquoise lagoon and bubbling fumaroles. Several reviews praise how “beautiful” and “impressive” the volcano is, with some mentioning they were lucky enough to see a clear view after waiting a bit.

Since Poás is an active volcano, eruptions are possible, adding a sense of excitement and urgency to your visit. The attraction of seeing an active volcano up close is a big draw for many travelers, making it a memorable highlight.

However, some noted that the short time at the park means you might want to be prepared for a quick visit—yet this is balanced by the experience of standing at the edge of an active crater.

The Waterfalls and Animal Sanctuary at La Paz Gardens

This is often described as the “best part” of the tour. La Paz Waterfall Gardens is a photographer’s paradise, featuring five majestic waterfalls and a lush, well-maintained trail. As you walk, you’ll encounter more than 110 rescued wild animals—including monkeys, jaguars, pumas, snakes, and many bird species.

Reviewers rave about the diversity of fauna and the chance to see animals that are often hard to spot in the wild. The hummingbird garden alone, with over 26 species, is a favorite for bird lovers. Expect panoramic views and the option to observe animals in naturalistic settings.

A highlight for many is the water curtain viewpoint, where you stand behind cascading water—a truly unforgettable experience.

The included buffet lunch boasts over 35 options catering to all tastes, making it easy to find something satisfying after a morning of exploring. Guests mention that the food surpasses typical tourist fare, adding to the overall value.

Transportation, Group Size, and Overall Experience

The tour uses a comfortable bus, usually with a maximum of 25 travelers, allowing for a more intimate experience. Guides like Erick, Hayro, and Adrian receive high praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and enthusiasm, making the day informative and fun. Reviews consistently highlight how guides go above and beyond—sharing stories, answering questions, and ensuring everyone feels included.

One common theme across reviews is the long pickup process, with some travelers feeling it takes over four hours just for pickups and drop-offs. While this can be a bit tiring, most agree the sights and experiences outweigh this inconvenience.

Value-wise, the tour’s price reflects access to multiple significant sites, with the included meals and guided insights adding to its appeal. It’s a great choice for those wanting a full day of adventure without the hassle of logistics.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Tips

Many reviewers mention the quality of the food—especially the breakfast at Doka Estate and the lunch at La Paz Gardens—as better than standard tours. The delicious options and fresh ingredients make it a treat, not just a meal.

If you’re interested in wildlife, waterfalls, and volcanoes, this tour hits all those notes. Be prepared for weather variability, particularly at Poás, and bring layers, as it can be cool at higher elevations.

Some travelers mention the cloud cover or weather affecting visibility, so patience and flexibility are key.

If you’re a photography enthusiast, you’ll love the varied scenery, from lush plantations to volcanic craters and cascading waterfalls.

The Sum Up

This Super Combo Tour offers a well-balanced, value-packed introduction to Costa Rica’s stunning landscapes and cultural highlights. You’ll appreciate the expert guides who bring the sites to life, and the variety of stops ensures your day feels full and rewarding. With included meals, accessible transportation, and a small-group atmosphere, it’s perfect for travelers who want to see a lot without stress.

While the pickup process can be lengthy, the sights and experiences make it worthwhile, especially for first-timers eager to cover multiple highlights in one go. If you’re passionate about nature, wildlife, and scenic views, this tour delivers a memorable taste of Costa Rica’s natural splendor.

Ideal for those with a flexible schedule, a curiosity for wildlife, and a desire to enjoy authentic Costa Rican food and scenery, this tour hits many of the right notes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $199.90 per person, which includes all entrance fees, guided tours, breakfast, and lunch.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately nine hours, starting at 6:30 am, including travel time, sightseeing, and meals.

Is pickup included?
Yes, pickup is offered from designated locations, and the tour uses a comfortable bus accommodating up to 25 travelers.

What are the main attractions?
You’ll visit a coffee plantation, see the active Poás Volcano, explore La Paz Waterfall Gardens, and observe rescued animals and waterfalls.

Can I see the volcano erupt?
Poás Volcano is active, and eruptions are possible during your visit, which can be both exciting and unpredictable.

Are meals included?
Yes, a hearty breakfast at the coffee plantation and a buffet lunch at La Paz Gardens are included, with over 35 options.

What should I bring?
Bring layers for changing weather, camera for photos, and rain gear just in case. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

What if the weather is bad at Poás Volcano?
The tour is flexible; if weather conditions prevent visibility, guides often adjust the schedule or offer alternative viewpoints.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Yes, the tour is generally suitable for most ages, but be prepared for some walking and elevation changes.

How can I book this tour?
You can reserve through Viator or contact Summer Travel Costa Rica directly via email or phone.

This tour offers a fantastic way to see Costa Rica’s natural treasures with knowledgeable guides, delicious food, and a memorable itinerary. Perfect for nature lovers and curious travelers alike.