Driving in Central Valley

Volcanoes, coffee farms and easy day trips close to San José airport, including Poás Volcano. Roads are paved but steep and congested around the city, so leave early, avoid rush hour and book volcano tickets in advance.

Any car

Poás Volcano

A giant active crater an hour from the airport — perfect for your first or last day.

✈ SJO (1h) ☾ Day trip

Routes to Central Valley

Any car

San José (SJO) to Poás Volcano

1h – 1h 20m 36 km

A steep, paved 1-hour climb through coffee and strawberry farms to one of the world's largest active craters. Tickets must…

Route guide →