Doka Café, Poas Volcano and La Paz Waterfall Garden

Nestled amidst Costa Rica’s lush landscapes, the Doka Café, Poás Volcano, and La Paz Waterfall Garden offer a captivating tour that delves into the country’s rich coffee heritage and breathtaking natural wonders. From exploring the historic coffee plantation to marveling at the volcanic crater lake and cascading waterfalls, this excursion promises an immersive experience that tantalizes the senses and leaves visitors eager to uncover more of Costa Rica’s enchanting treasures. As the tour unfolds, visitors will discover the delicate balance between human cultivation and the untamed beauty of the natural world, setting the stage for a truly memorable adventure.

Good To Know

• The tour includes visits to Doka Café, Poás Volcano, and La Paz Waterfall Garden, offering a comprehensive experience of Costa Rican culture, nature, and wildlife.
• Doka Café provides a guided tour of a coffee plantation, a tasting session, and a visit to an on-site museum, immersing visitors in the country’s rich coffee heritage.
• Poás Volcano, a national park, features a turquoise crater lake and breathtaking views, though access to Botos Lagoon is restricted.
• La Paz Waterfall Garden showcases stunning waterfalls, a cloud forest, and a wildlife sanctuary housing rescued animals like jaguars, pumas, and monkeys.
• The tour is recommended for moderate fitness levels and is not suitable for certain health conditions or young children, with a 40-minute duration at Poás Volcano.

Tour Overview

The tour includes visits to Doka Café, Poás Volcano, and La Paz Waterfall Garden. It lasts 8 hours in total.

At Poás Volcano National Park, guests have 40 minutes – 10 minutes to reach the viewpoint, 20 minutes at the lookout, and 10 minutes to exit. Access to Botos Lagoon isn’t permitted, and there’s no extra waiting time in foggy conditions.

The tour is recommended for travelers with moderate fitness, and it’s not suitable for those with health issues, recent surgeries, or young children.

Pricing and Inclusions

The tour price starts at $185.00, which includes lunch and the government service fee (up to $20.00).

Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

Admission to Poás Volcano is complimentary.

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, infant seats are available.

Meeting and Pickup

Pickup availability is provided at all hotels in San Jose, Heredia, and Alajuela, as well as hotels along the tour route.

Guests should confirm the pickup time with the local provider in advance. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but infant seats are available.

It’s important to note that the pickup and drop-off locations are flexible, allowing for convenience and accessibility for all travelers.

With these considerations in mind, the tour offers a seamless and hassle-free experience from start to finish.

Customer Reviews and Experiences

Customers have largely praised the tour, with an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars based on 6 reviews.

Positive feedback highlights the knowledgeable guides and excellent service provided. Specific mentions include:

1. Enjoyable coffee tours at Doka Café.
2. Breathtaking views at Poás Volcano.
3. The beauty of La Paz Waterfall Garden.

However, one negative review claims issues with the agency’s communication regarding pickup.

Operating Hours and Booking

Operating hours for the tour run daily from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM, covering the period from July 1, 2022 through December 31, 2024.

The tour is operated by VIAJES NANA COSTA RICA. Guests can book the experience online or through the local provider, and are encouraged to recommend the tour to friends and family.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start of the tour. Pickup is available at hotels in San Jose, Heredia, Alajuela, and along the route, though it’s advised to confirm the pickup time in advance.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but infant seats are available.

Doka Café Experience

The Doka Café is the first stop on the tour, where guests can explore the rich coffee culture of Costa Rica.

Visitors can enjoy:

1. A guided tour of the coffee plantation, learning about the history and production process of Costa Rican coffee.
2. A tasting session, where they can sample different varieties and learn how to identify the unique flavors.
3. A visit to the on-site museum, which showcases the evolution of coffee farming and its significance in the country’s economy.

After the Doka Café experience, the tour continues to the iconic Poas Volcano and the picturesque La Paz Waterfall Garden.

Poás Volcano Exploration

After exploring the rich coffee culture at Doka Café, the tour proceeds to the iconic Poás Volcano.

Nestled within the Poás Volcano National Park, this majestic dormant volcano offers breathtaking views of its turquoise crater lake. Visitors have 40 minutes to take in the natural wonder, with 10 minutes spent at the viewpoint, 20 minutes at the main lookout, and 10 minutes for the exit.

Though access to the Botos Lagoon is restricted, the main crater provides ample opportunity to appreciate the volcano’s grandeur. Guests are advised to have moderate physical fitness, as the excursion may not be suitable for those with certain health conditions or restrictions.

La Paz Waterfall Garden

Following the tour of Doka Café and Poás Volcano, guests arrive at the captivating La Paz Waterfall Garden.

This natural wonder features:

1. A series of stunning waterfalls, including the iconic La Paz Waterfall, which cascades 120 feet (37 meters) down a dramatic cliffside.

2. An extensive network of walking trails that wind through lush cloud forest, offering glimpses of diverse flora and fauna.

3. A wildlife sanctuary home to rescued animals like jaguars, pumas, monkeys, and butterflies.

Immersed in this serene and picturesque setting, visitors can’t help but be awestruck by the sheer beauty and tranquility of the La Paz Waterfall Garden.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Visit Other Attractions Not Included in the Tour?

Guests can visit additional attractions not included in the tour, but they would have to do so independently and at their own expense. The tour price covers only the specified attractions and services.

Is There an Option for a Private Tour?

Yes, there’s an option for a private tour. The local provider offers private tours for those who prefer a more personalized experience. Prices may vary, so guests should inquire about the cost and availability of private tours.

What Is the Dress Code for This Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy walking shoes are recommended. Layers are advised as the temperature can vary at the different stops.

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Dietary-Restricted Lunch?

Yes, guests can request a vegetarian or dietary-restricted lunch when booking the tour. The tour provider will accommodate special dietary needs, but guests should inform them in advance to ensure the appropriate meal is provided.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Senior Citizens or Students?

The tour provider does not currently offer any discounts for senior citizens or students. However, the tour price is inclusive of lunch and government fees, providing good value for the overall experience.

The Sum Up

The Doka Café, Poás Volcano, and La Paz Waterfall Garden tour offers a captivating blend of Costa Rican natural beauty and rich coffee culture. Visitors can explore a coffee plantation, marvel at the iconic volcano, and enjoy a lush waterfall garden. This tour provides an unforgettable experience amidst Costa Rica’s stunning landscapes and vibrant ecosystems.