Explore one of the largest coffee-growing regions in Costa Rica during this scenic and informative, half-day sightseeing excursion to Puntarenas.
Puntarenas, Countryside, Farmland, Forests, Naranjo Highlands, Espiritu Santo Coffee Plantation
Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately two-hour drive to the Espiritu Santo Coffee Plantation. En route, traverse the rustic countryside and pass by a variety of landscapes, including rich farmland, lush forests and mountain views, as you approach the highlands of Naranjo, an area famous for its coffee production. Upon arrival, marvel at the sheer size and natural beauty of the farm, which comprises approximately 640 acres (about 259 hectares) of prime coffee plantation. During a guided walking tour of the Espiritu Santo Coffee Plantation, discover the growing and production secrets that ensure the delicious taste of Costa Rica coffee.
Guided Tour, Nursery, Processing Plant, Local Home Visit, Brewing Demonstration, Coffee Tasting
Your guided tour begins with a nursery visit, and demonstration of the different stages of the coffee plant during its first year. The coffee is dried under the sun, using centuries-old methods to produce top quality coffee. From here, head to the processing plant. Here, view workers fertilizing the soil with the same organic solids produced during the cleaning and peeling processes, and sweeping the coffee under the sun to ensure it dries evenly. Meanwhile, other workers take care of the final process of preparing and packing the coffee for export. Following your tour and a visit to the gift shop, re-board your coach and drive to an old, authentic Costa Rican home for a coffee-brewing demonstration utilising a handmade, 200-year-old 'chorreador' instead of an electric coffeemaker. Afterward, sample the freshly-brewed, Costa Rican coffee.
Sarchi, Don Lolo Restaurant, Oxcart Factory and Production, Shopping
Next, re-board your coach for a delightful countryside drive to Sarchi. Situated on the outskirts of San Jose, Sarchi is known as the birthplace of Costa Rican craftsmen. It is most widely recognized for its colourful and decorative oxcarts, or 'carretas', that have been produced here for over a century. Upon arrival, proceed for a buffet lunch at the Don Lolo restaurant. After lunch, a visit is made to a famous oxcart factory. Observe skilled artisans produce handmade oxcarts, whose intricate painted sides and wheels are the epitome of Costa Rican folk art. Following your tour, browse the Eloy Alfaro Gift Shop for local and handmade arts and crafts, designs and Costa Rican souvenirs. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 1.75-hour drive back to the pier.
Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 547 yards (about 500 metres), at times over unpaved, natural surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach. This tour is suitable for guests with limited mobility, but is not wheelchair-accessible, nor recommended for guests prone to motion sickness. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection, insect repellent, and cash or credit cards for additional purchases from the ship. Guests must be at least three years old to participate on this tour. The driving distance between the pier and coffee plantation is approximately two hours in each direction.