Several sites of interest line the paved road that leads through the valley, whose deep seclusion fosters a balmy microclimate perfect of growing fruits.

6.4 km into the valley is Rivas, a rustic hamlet and setting for a farm famous for its traditional hand-operated sugarcane press and a boulder etched with pre-Columbian petro-glyphs. Its restaurant is charming and visitors can enjoy horseback rides and dips in the swimming pool.

Chirripo Cloud Bridge Reserve, at the end of the dirt road east of San Gerardo, offers forest hikes on the mid-level slopes of Chirripo. This 174 ha private reforestation project has trails and guides.