Costa Rica
Key Facts
Best Time to Visit
December to April (dry season), but green season (May-Nov) has fewer crowds and lower prices
Language
Spanish (English spoken at tourist businesses)
Currency
Costa Rican Colón (CRC); US Dollar widely accepted
Time Zone
Central Standard Time (UTC-6), no daylight saving
Airport
Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), also Daniel Oduber Quirós (LIR) for Guanacaste
Population
5.2 million (country)
Climate
Tropical, 12 microclimates, 24-32°C at coast, 15-25°C in highlands
Safety Rating
Exercise Increased Caution (Level 2) — safest country in Central America
Biodiversity
5% of world's biodiversity on 0.03% of Earth's surface, 30 national parks
Top Highlights
Arenal Volcano & Hot Springs
Costa Rica's most iconic volcano (1,633m) with surrounding rainforest and geothermal hot springs. Tabacón Hot Springs entry: ~$99 USD (includes dinner). Arenal Volcano National Park: ~$15 USD. The volcano is 3 hours from San José. Best viewed on clear mornings.
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
A mystical cloud forest at 1,400m elevation with 400+ bird species including the resplendent quetzal. Entry: ~$25 USD. Guided night tours: ~$30 USD. Open 7AM-4PM. Book hanging bridges tour (~$55 USD) or zip-line canopy tour (~$50 USD). Allow a full day.
Manuel Antonio National Park
Costa Rica's smallest but most visited park — white-sand beaches meet rainforest full of monkeys and sloths. Entry: ~$18 USD, buy online at sinac.go.cr (limited daily visitors). Open Wed-Mon 7AM-4PM. Closed Tuesdays. Hire a guide (~$25/person) to spot wildlife.
Tortuguero National Park
The 'Amazon of Costa Rica' — accessible only by boat or small plane. Famous for sea turtle nesting (July-October, green turtles). Boat tours: ~$25-35 USD. Stay in jungle lodges (~$80-150/night including meals). Fly from SJO with Sansa Airlines (~$100 one-way).
Corcovado National Park
Called 'the most biologically intense place on Earth' by National Geographic. Home to all 4 Costa Rican monkey species, tapirs, and scarlet macaws. Guide required ($50-80 USD/day). Access via Drake Bay or Puerto Jiménez. Permits limited — book 2+ weeks ahead.
La Fortuna Waterfall
A 70-meter waterfall plunging into an emerald pool near Arenal. Entry: ~$18 USD. Open 7AM-5PM. Descend 530 steps to the base (the climb back up is the workout). Swimming allowed in the pool below. 5.5 km from La Fortuna town.
Playa Tamarindo
The country's top surf town on the Pacific coast, great for beginner surfers. Surf lessons: ~$50 USD for 2 hours. Consistent waves year-round. Also a base for Leatherback turtle nesting tours at Playa Grande (October-March). Lively nightlife strip along main road.
Planned Itinerary
7-Day Costa Rica Itinerary
Arrival in San José & Transfer to La Fortuna
Arrive at Juan Santamaría Airport (SJO) and transfer directly to La Fortuna, the gateway town for Arenal Volcano. The 3-hour drive through the Central Valley gives your first taste of Costa Rica's lush landscapes.
Private transfer or shared shuttle to La Fortuna(3 hours)
Interbus or Anywhere Costa Rica shuttle ~$55 USD per person. Private transfer ~$150 USD. The drive crosses the Continental Divide with coffee plantation views
Check-in at La Fortuna hotel(1 hour)
Stay in the Arenal area for volcano views — Arenal Observatory Lodge, Hotel Lomas del Volcán, or Arenal Backpackers for budget. Rooms from $50-200 USD/night
Evening at Tabacón Hot Springs(3 hours)
Geothermally heated rivers flowing through a tropical garden at the base of Arenal. Entry ~$99 USD including dinner buffet. Open until 10PM. The thermal cascade pool is the most atmospheric after dark
Arenal Volcano & La Fortuna Waterfall
Full day exploring the volcano's trails and the spectacular 70-meter waterfall, with a soda lunch and optional adventure activities.
Arenal Volcano National Park(3 hours)
Entry ~$15 USD. Hike the 3.4 km loop through lava fields from the 1968 eruption, now reclaimed by forest. The Peninsula trail has the best volcano views. Arrive by 7:30AM for clearest skies
Lunch at Soda Viquez in La Fortuna(1 hour)
Classic casado (rice, beans, protein, plantains, salad) for ~3,500 CRC (~$6 USD). The fried fish casado is excellent
La Fortuna Waterfall(2 hours)
Entry ~$18 USD. 530 steps down to a 70-meter waterfall plunging into an emerald pool. Swimming allowed. The climb back up is intense — go slow
Optional: hanging bridges walk(2 hours)
Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges — 3.2 km through rainforest canopy on 15 bridges. ~$28 USD. Great for birdwatching. Toucans and oropendola nests are common
Transfer to Monteverde Cloud Forest
Drive from La Fortuna to the misty highlands of Monteverde via the scenic lake-jeep-boat route, arriving in time for an unforgettable night walk.
Jeep-boat-jeep transfer to Monteverde(3.5 hours)
The scenic route crosses Lake Arenal by boat, then 4x4 up the mountains. ~$30 USD. Much better than the 5-hour road route
Check-in at Monteverde lodge(1 hour)
Hotel Belmar, Monteverde Lodge & Gardens, or budget-friendly Sleepers Hostel. Bring a light jacket — it's 1,400m elevation and noticeably cooler
Guided night walk in the cloud forest(2.5 hours)
~$30 USD with a naturalist guide. Red-eyed tree frogs, tarantulas, sleeping birds, and bioluminescent fungi come alive after dark. Bring a headlamp. Tours depart around 5:45PM from most hotels
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
A full day in one of the world's most biodiverse cloud forests, looking for the resplendent quetzal and exploring the canopy by hanging bridges or zip-line.
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve guided tour(3.5 hours)
Entry ~$25 USD, guide ~$30 USD per person. 400+ bird species including the quetzal (best spotted Dec-April). 2.5% of the world's biodiversity in this single reserve. Open 7AM-4PM
Lunch at Morpho's Restaurant(1 hour)
On the main road in Santa Elena. Good typical Costa Rican food. Casados ~$8-12 USD. They also have vegetarian options
Selvatura Hanging Bridges or zip-line(2.5 hours)
Hanging bridges: ~$55 USD for 3 km of walkways through the canopy. Zip-line: ~$50 USD for 13 cables across the forest. Choose based on your adrenaline level
Coffee at Café Monteverde(45 minutes)
Costa Rica's cloud forest produces exceptional coffee. This cooperative café serves single-origin brews and sells beans. Espresso ~$3 USD
Transfer to Manuel Antonio
Drive from the highlands down to the Pacific coast for Manuel Antonio National Park — Costa Rica's most popular park where rainforest meets white-sand beaches.
Shared shuttle or drive to Manuel Antonio(4 hours)
Interbus ~$55 USD. Rental car: 4WD recommended for the Monteverde section. The descent from cloud forest to coast is dramatic
Check-in at Manuel Antonio area hotel(1 hour)
Stay along the road between Quepos and the park. Hotel Si Como No, Gaia Hotel, or budget-friendly Wide Mouth Frog. Rooms $40-300 USD/night
Sunset at Playa Espadilla(1.5 hours)
The public beach just outside the park entrance. Swim in warm Pacific water and watch the sun drop behind the headland. Free
Dinner at El Avión(1.5 hours)
Restaurant built around a C-123 cargo plane from the Iran-Contra era. Ocean views and excellent seafood. Mains ~$14-22 USD
Manuel Antonio National Park
Full day in Costa Rica's crown jewel — white-sand beaches, three species of monkeys, sloths, and iguanas, all in the country's smallest national park.
Manuel Antonio National Park guided tour(3.5 hours)
Entry ~$18 USD (buy online at sinac.go.cr, limited visitors daily). Hire a guide (~$25/person) with a spotting scope — they find sloths and toucans you'd never see alone. Open Wed-Mon 7AM-4PM, closed Tuesdays
Beach time at Playa Manuel Antonio(2 hours)
Inside the park — one of Costa Rica's most beautiful beaches. Calm, clear water perfect for swimming. Watch your bags — monkeys steal food
Lunch at Emilio's Café in Quepos(1 hour)
The town's best café with fresh ceviches and smoothie bowls. ~$8-14 USD per plate. 10-minute drive from the park
Free afternoon to relax(2 hours)
Rest day vibes — use the pool, nap in a hammock, or stroll through Quepos' colorful downtown
Return to San José & Departure
Morning transfer back to San José, with time for last-minute shopping before your flight.
Early morning birdwatching from your hotel(1 hour)
The Manuel Antonio area is alive at dawn — toucans, scarlet macaws, and hummingbirds are common. Just sit on your balcony with coffee
Transfer to SJO airport(3.5 hours)
Interbus ~$55 USD. Depart by 8AM for afternoon flights. The route passes through the Central Valley with mountain views
Last-minute shopping in San José(1 hour)
If time allows, stop at the Mercado Central for coffee beans and local sauces, or the airport duty-free for Costa Rican rum and chocolate
Departure from SJO(30 minutes)
Allow 2.5 hours before international flights
14-Day Costa Rica Itinerary
Arrival in San José & Central Valley
Arrive at SJO and spend the first night in San José or the nearby Central Valley. Get acclimated and explore Costa Rica's often-overlooked capital.
Airport transfer to San José area hotel(30 minutes)
Uber or pre-arranged hotel shuttle. Stay at Hotel Grano de Oro in San José or Finca Rosa Blanca in the hills above
Walk through San José's Barrio Escalante(1.5 hours)
The city's restaurant and craft beer district. Stroll past Art Deco houses and street art
Dinner at Sikwa in Barrio Escalante(1.5 hours)
Indigenous-inspired Costa Rican cuisine. Tasting menu ~$40 USD. The most interesting food in the country's capital
Transfer to La Fortuna & Arenal
Drive to the Arenal Volcano area and spend the afternoon soaking in hot springs heated by volcanic activity.
Drive or shuttle to La Fortuna(3 hours)
Interbus shuttle ~$55 USD. Rental car ~$50-80 USD/day with 4WD
Lunch at Soda Viquez(1 hour)
Classic casado for ~3,500 CRC (~$6 USD). Fried fish version recommended
Arenal Volcano viewpoint(1 hour)
Drive to the Arenal Observatory Lodge viewpoint for the closest volcano view. Free if you buy a drink at their café
Tabacón Hot Springs(3 hours)
Entry ~$99 USD including dinner buffet. Thermal rivers through tropical gardens at the volcano's base
Arenal Volcano & La Fortuna Waterfall
Full day exploring the volcano's lava trails and swimming beneath a 70-meter waterfall.
Arenal Volcano National Park hike(3 hours)
Entry ~$15 USD. 3.4 km loop through 1968 lava fields. Peninsula trail has best views. Arrive by 7:30AM
La Fortuna Waterfall(2 hours)
Entry ~$18 USD. 530 steps down, swimming in the emerald pool below. The climb back is a workout
Lunch at Don Rufino(1 hour)
Upscale Costa Rican cuisine in La Fortuna town center. Their red snapper ceviche is exceptional. Mains ~$15-25 USD
Mistico Hanging Bridges(2 hours)
3.2 km through rainforest canopy on 15 bridges. ~$28 USD. Toucans and oropendola nests common
Arenal Adventures — Rafting & Canyoneering
Adrenaline day with class II-III whitewater rafting and waterfall rappelling in the Arenal area.
Whitewater rafting on Río Pacuare or Río Balsa(4 hours)
Desafío Adventure Company runs trips from ~$75 USD. Class II-III rapids through tropical gorges. No experience needed. Lunch included
Canyoneering (waterfall rappelling)(3 hours)
Rappel down 4 waterfalls up to 60 meters. ~$85 USD with Pure Trek Canyoning. All equipment provided. Minimum age 8
Evening at free Eco Termales hot springs(2 hours)
A quieter, more intimate alternative to Tabacón. ~$47 USD. Limited to 100 visitors at a time. Book ahead
Transfer to Monteverde Cloud Forest
Cross Lake Arenal by boat and climb into the misty cloud forest highlands for a completely different ecosystem.
Jeep-boat-jeep to Monteverde(3.5 hours)
~$30 USD. Lake Arenal boat crossing plus 4x4 mountain roads. Much more scenic than the all-road route
Check-in at Monteverde(1 hour)
Hotel Belmar for views, Monteverde Lodge for nature, Sleepers Hostel for budget. Bring layers — 1,400m is cooler
Guided night walk(2.5 hours)
~$30 USD. Red-eyed tree frogs, tarantulas, bioluminescent fungi. Tours depart 5:45PM
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
Full day in one of the world's most biodiverse forests, searching for the resplendent quetzal.
Monteverde Reserve guided tour(3.5 hours)
Entry ~$25 USD, guide ~$30 USD. 400+ bird species. Quetzal best spotted Dec-April. Open 7AM-4PM
Lunch at Morpho's Restaurant(1 hour)
Santa Elena main road. Casados ~$8-12 USD
Selvatura hanging bridges or zip-line(2.5 hours)
Bridges: ~$55 USD for 3 km canopy walkways. Zip-line: ~$50 USD for 13 cables
Coffee tour at Don Juan(1.5 hours)
Learn the bean-to-cup process with chocolate and sugar cane tasting included. ~$38 USD. Beans available for purchase
Rest Day & Santa Elena Town
A slower pace after five active days. Explore the charming small town, visit a butterfly garden, and sample local food.
Monteverde Butterfly Garden(1.5 hours)
Four climate-controlled habitats with blue morpho butterflies, leaf-cutter ant exhibit, and insect museum. ~$18 USD
Walk through Santa Elena town(1.5 hours)
Small but charming. Browse craft shops, pick up local cheese at the Monteverde Cheese Factory (~$5 for samples and tour)
Lunch at Tree House Restaurant(1 hour)
Built around a giant fig tree. Good burgers and casados. Mains ~$10-16 USD
Free afternoon to read, rest, or bird-watch(3 hours)
Hummingbird Gallery near the reserve entrance has feeders attracting 14+ species. Free to watch from the patio
Transfer to Manuel Antonio
Descend from the cloud forest to the Pacific coast for beaches, monkeys, and Manuel Antonio National Park.
Shuttle to Manuel Antonio(4 hours)
Interbus ~$55 USD. The descent from cloud forest to coast is dramatic
Check-in and beach time(2 hours)
Stay along the Quepos-Manuel Antonio road. Si Como No, Gaia Hotel, or Wide Mouth Frog for budget
Sunset at Playa Espadilla(1.5 hours)
Public beach outside the park. Warm Pacific water, free
Dinner at El Avión(1.5 hours)
Built around a C-123 cargo plane. Ocean views, seafood. Mains ~$14-22 USD
Manuel Antonio National Park
Costa Rica's most visited park — three monkey species, sloths, iguanas, and perfect white-sand beaches.
Guided park tour(3.5 hours)
Entry ~$18 USD (buy online at sinac.go.cr). Guide ~$25/person with spotting scope. Open Wed-Mon 7AM-4PM, closed Tuesdays
Beach time at Playa Manuel Antonio(2 hours)
Inside the park. Calm, clear water. Guard your bags — white-faced capuchins steal food
Lunch at Emilio's Café in Quepos(1 hour)
Fresh ceviches and smoothie bowls. ~$8-14 USD
Uvita & Whale Watching
Day trip south to Marino Ballena National Park — the whale-tail-shaped sandbar and, in season, humpback whale watching.
Drive or taxi to Uvita(1 hour)
40 km south of Manuel Antonio along the Costanera highway. Taxi ~$40 USD one-way or rent a car
Marino Ballena National Park(2 hours)
Entry ~$6 USD. Walk the whale-tail sandbar at low tide — visible only when the tide is out. Swimming on both sides
Whale watching boat tour (seasonal)(3 hours)
Humpback whales visit July-October and December-April. Tours from Uvita ~$80 USD per person. Dolphins year-round
Lunch at Sabor Español in Uvita(1 hour)
Spanish-Costa Rican fusion with excellent paella and fresh fish. Mains ~$12-18 USD
Transfer to Caribbean Coast — Puerto Viejo
Cross the country from Pacific to Caribbean for a completely different Costa Rica — reggae vibes, Afro-Caribbean culture, and reef snorkeling.
Drive or shuttle to Puerto Viejo de Talamanca(5 hours)
Interbus ~$55 USD. The route crosses the Central Valley and drops down through banana plantations to the Caribbean
Check-in at Puerto Viejo(1 hour)
Banana Azul (beachfront), Le Caméléon (boutique), or Rocking J's (budget). The town has a distinct Caribbean personality
Sunset bike ride to Playa Cocles(1.5 hours)
Rent a bike (~$8 USD/day) and ride the coastal road south. Playa Cocles is a gorgeous, less-crowded surf beach
Dinner at Stashu's Con Fusion(1.5 hours)
Caribbean-Asian fusion on the main strip. The coconut curry shrimp is legendary. Mains ~$12-20 USD. Book ahead
Cahuita National Park & Caribbean Culture
The Caribbean coast's top park with coral reefs, jungle trails, and monkeys. Donation-based entry makes it one of Costa Rica's best values.
Bike or bus to Cahuita(30 minutes)
15 km north of Puerto Viejo. Bike along the coastal road or catch a local bus ~1,000 CRC
Cahuita National Park(3 hours)
Kelly Creek entrance is donation-based (suggested $5 USD). 8 km coastal trail with howler monkeys, sloths, and iguanas. Snorkel the coral reef at the point — bring your own gear
Lunch at Miss Edith's in Cahuita town(1 hour)
The legendary Afro-Caribbean cook. Rice and beans in coconut milk with jerk chicken ~$10 USD. Cash only
Chocolate tour at Caribeans Coffee & Chocolate(2 hours)
Visit a cacao farm, learn traditional Bribri chocolate making, and sample fresh chocolate. ~$28 USD
Rest Day — Caribbean Beach & Jungle
A final free day to relax on Caribbean beaches, snorkel, surf, or explore the Gandoca-Manzanillo wildlife refuge.
Morning at Playa Manzanillo(3 hours)
South of Puerto Viejo. Calmer water, better snorkeling, fewer people. The reef near the point has healthy coral
Lunch at Bread & Chocolate(1 hour)
Brunch spot with homemade bread, brownies, and Caribbean breakfasts. ~$8-14 USD. Cash only. Closes at 2PM
Jaguar Rescue Center visit(1.5 hours)
Not jaguars, but a wildlife rehabilitation center with sloths, monkeys, and tropical birds. Guided tours at 9:30AM and 11:30AM. ~$22 USD
Sunset cocktails on the beach(1.5 hours)
Caribbean sunsets hit different. Grab a coco loco (coconut cocktail) from any beach bar in Puerto Viejo
Return to San José & Departure
Transfer back to SJO for your flight home, with one last stop for local provisions.
Early morning beach walk(1 hour)
The Caribbean coast at dawn — howler monkeys calling, toucans flying between palms, waves breaking on the reef
Transfer to SJO airport(4.5 hours)
Interbus ~$55 USD. Depart by 7AM for afternoon flights. Route passes through Braulio Carrillo National Park
Airport shopping and departure(1 hour)
The SJO duty-free has excellent Costa Rican coffee, chocolate, and Centenario rum
21-Day Costa Rica Itinerary
Arrival in San José & Central Valley
Arrive at SJO and spend the first night in San José or the nearby Central Valley.
Airport transfer to San José area hotel(30 minutes)
Uber or pre-arranged hotel shuttle. Stay at Hotel Grano de Oro or Finca Rosa Blanca
Walk through San José's Barrio Escalante(1.5 hours)
The city's restaurant and craft beer district. Art Deco houses and street art
Dinner at Sikwa in Barrio Escalante(1.5 hours)
Indigenous-inspired Costa Rican cuisine. Tasting menu ~$40 USD
Transfer to La Fortuna & Arenal
Drive to the Arenal Volcano area and spend the afternoon soaking in hot springs.
Drive or shuttle to La Fortuna(3 hours)
Interbus shuttle ~$55 USD. Rental car ~$50-80 USD/day with 4WD
Lunch at Soda Viquez(1 hour)
Classic casado for ~3,500 CRC (~$6 USD). Fried fish version recommended
Arenal Volcano viewpoint(1 hour)
Drive to the Arenal Observatory Lodge viewpoint for the closest volcano view
Tabacón Hot Springs(3 hours)
Entry ~$99 USD including dinner buffet. Thermal rivers through tropical gardens
Arenal Volcano & La Fortuna Waterfall
Full day exploring the volcano's lava trails and swimming beneath a 70-meter waterfall.
Arenal Volcano National Park hike(3 hours)
Entry ~$15 USD. 3.4 km loop through 1968 lava fields. Arrive by 7:30AM
La Fortuna Waterfall(2 hours)
Entry ~$18 USD. 530 steps down, swimming in the emerald pool below
Lunch at Don Rufino(1 hour)
Upscale Costa Rican cuisine. Red snapper ceviche. Mains ~$15-25 USD
Mistico Hanging Bridges(2 hours)
3.2 km through rainforest canopy on 15 bridges. ~$28 USD
Arenal Adventures — Rafting & Canyoneering
Adrenaline day with class II-III whitewater rafting and waterfall rappelling.
Whitewater rafting on Río Balsa(4 hours)
Desafío Adventure Company ~$75 USD. Class II-III rapids. Lunch included
Canyoneering (waterfall rappelling)(3 hours)
Rappel down 4 waterfalls up to 60 meters. ~$85 USD with Pure Trek Canyoning
Evening at Eco Termales hot springs(2 hours)
Quieter alternative to Tabacón. ~$47 USD. Limited to 100 visitors. Book ahead
Transfer to Monteverde Cloud Forest
Cross Lake Arenal by boat and climb into the misty cloud forest highlands.
Jeep-boat-jeep to Monteverde(3.5 hours)
~$30 USD. Lake Arenal boat crossing plus 4x4 mountain roads
Check-in at Monteverde(1 hour)
Hotel Belmar for views, Monteverde Lodge for nature. Bring layers — 1,400m is cooler
Guided night walk(2.5 hours)
~$30 USD. Red-eyed tree frogs, tarantulas, bioluminescent fungi. Tours depart 5:45PM
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
Full day in one of the world's most biodiverse forests, searching for the resplendent quetzal.
Monteverde Reserve guided tour(3.5 hours)
Entry ~$25 USD, guide ~$30 USD. 400+ bird species. Quetzal best spotted Dec-April
Lunch at Morpho's Restaurant(1 hour)
Santa Elena main road. Casados ~$8-12 USD
Selvatura hanging bridges or zip-line(2.5 hours)
Bridges: ~$55 USD for 3 km canopy walkways. Zip-line: ~$50 USD for 13 cables
Coffee tour at Don Juan(1.5 hours)
Bean-to-cup process with chocolate and sugar cane tasting. ~$38 USD
Rest Day & Santa Elena Town
A slower pace after five active days. Butterfly garden, cheese factory, and bird-watching.
Monteverde Butterfly Garden(1.5 hours)
Four climate-controlled habitats with blue morpho butterflies. ~$18 USD
Walk through Santa Elena town(1.5 hours)
Browse craft shops, Monteverde Cheese Factory (~$5 for samples and tour)
Lunch at Tree House Restaurant(1 hour)
Built around a giant fig tree. Mains ~$10-16 USD
Free afternoon to read, rest, or bird-watch(3 hours)
Hummingbird Gallery has feeders attracting 14+ species. Free to watch
Transfer to Manuel Antonio
Descend from the cloud forest to the Pacific coast for beaches, monkeys, and national park.
Shuttle to Manuel Antonio(4 hours)
Interbus ~$55 USD. The descent from cloud forest to coast is dramatic
Check-in and beach time(2 hours)
Si Como No, Gaia Hotel, or Wide Mouth Frog for budget
Sunset at Playa Espadilla(1.5 hours)
Public beach outside the park. Warm Pacific water, free
Dinner at El Avión(1.5 hours)
Built around a C-123 cargo plane. Ocean views. Mains ~$14-22 USD
Manuel Antonio National Park
Costa Rica's most visited park — three monkey species, sloths, iguanas, and perfect white-sand beaches.
Guided park tour(3.5 hours)
Entry ~$18 USD. Guide ~$25/person with spotting scope. Closed Tuesdays
Beach time at Playa Manuel Antonio(2 hours)
Inside the park. Calm, clear water. Guard bags from capuchins
Lunch at Emilio's Café in Quepos(1 hour)
Fresh ceviches and smoothie bowls. ~$8-14 USD
Uvita & Whale Watching
Day trip south to Marino Ballena National Park for the whale-tail sandbar and humpback whales.
Drive or taxi to Uvita(1 hour)
40 km south along the Costanera highway
Marino Ballena National Park(2 hours)
Entry ~$6 USD. Walk the whale-tail sandbar at low tide
Whale watching boat tour (seasonal)(3 hours)
Humpback whales July-October and December-April. Tours ~$80 USD. Dolphins year-round
Lunch at Sabor Español in Uvita(1 hour)
Spanish-Costa Rican fusion. Mains ~$12-18 USD
Rest Day — Manuel Antonio Beach
A full rest day on the Pacific coast. No schedule, just ocean and jungle.
Morning at Playa Biesanz(3 hours)
A hidden cove reached by a 10-minute trail. Calmer water, fewer people. Snorkeling possible
Lunch at Café Milagro in Quepos(1 hour)
Excellent Costa Rican coffee and creative sandwiches. ~$10-16 USD
Afternoon pool and reading(3 hours)
Listen to howler monkeys from your lounge chair. This is the pura vida they talk about
Transfer to Dominical & Whale's Tail
Move south along the coast to the surf town of Dominical and the artistic community of Ojochal.
Drive to Dominical(1 hour)
45 km south. The road hugs the coast with dramatic ocean views
Surf lesson at Dominical Beach(2 hours)
Consistent waves for beginners and intermediates. Lessons ~$55 USD for 2 hours including board
Lunch at Café Mono Congo(1 hour)
Open-air restaurant in the jungle. Fresh smoothies and fish tacos. ~$10-16 USD
Dinner at Citrus Restaurante in Ojochal(1.5 hours)
French-Costa Rican fusion in a village that punches well above its weight culinarily. Mains ~$15-25 USD. Book ahead
Nauyaca Waterfalls & Jungle Day
A morning hike to one of Costa Rica's most stunning waterfalls, afternoon in the jungle.
Horseback ride or hike to Nauyaca Waterfalls(4 hours)
Two-tiered falls with natural swimming pools. Horseback ~$65 USD, hiking ~$10 USD. 4 km trail. The upper falls are 45m high
Swimming at the waterfall pools(1.5 hours)
Crystal-clear pools at the base of both tiers. Bring a packed lunch
Free evening and sunset(2 hours)
Dominical's sunsets over the Pacific are spectacular. Watch from the beach or Fuego Brewing Company with a craft beer
Transfer to Caribbean Coast — Puerto Viejo
Cross the country from Pacific to Caribbean for a completely different Costa Rica.
Drive or shuttle to Puerto Viejo de Talamanca(5 hours)
Interbus ~$55 USD. The route crosses the Central Valley through banana plantations
Check-in at Puerto Viejo(1 hour)
Banana Azul (beachfront), Le Caméléon (boutique), or Rocking J's (budget)
Sunset bike ride to Playa Cocles(1.5 hours)
Rent a bike (~$8 USD/day). Playa Cocles is a gorgeous surf beach
Dinner at Stashu's Con Fusion(1.5 hours)
Caribbean-Asian fusion. Coconut curry shrimp. Mains ~$12-20 USD. Book ahead
Cahuita National Park & Caribbean Culture
The Caribbean coast's top park with coral reefs, jungle trails, and Afro-Caribbean culture.
Bike or bus to Cahuita(30 minutes)
15 km north of Puerto Viejo
Cahuita National Park(3 hours)
Kelly Creek entrance is donation-based. 8 km coastal trail with howler monkeys and sloths
Lunch at Miss Edith's in Cahuita town(1 hour)
Legendary Afro-Caribbean cook. Rice and beans in coconut milk with jerk chicken ~$10 USD. Cash only
Chocolate tour at Caribeans Coffee & Chocolate(2 hours)
Visit a cacao farm, learn Bribri chocolate making. ~$28 USD
Rest Day — Caribbean Beach & Jungle
A free day to relax on Caribbean beaches, snorkel, or explore the Gandoca-Manzanillo refuge.
Morning at Playa Manzanillo(3 hours)
Calmer water, better snorkeling, fewer people. Reef near the point has healthy coral
Lunch at Bread & Chocolate(1 hour)
Brunch spot with homemade bread and brownies. ~$8-14 USD. Cash only. Closes at 2PM
Jaguar Rescue Center visit(1.5 hours)
Wildlife rehabilitation center with sloths, monkeys, and birds. ~$22 USD
Sunset cocktails on the beach(1.5 hours)
Grab a coco loco from any beach bar in Puerto Viejo
Bribri Indigenous Territory
Visit the indigenous Bribri community in the Talamanca mountains for a deeper cultural experience.
Transfer to Bribri territory(1.5 hours)
Community-run tours from Puerto Viejo ~$60-80 USD per person. Canoe ride up the Yorkín River
Bribri village visit and chocolate ceremony(3 hours)
Learn about Bribri cosmology, traditional medicine, and the sacred role of cacao. Watch traditional chocolate preparation. The Bribri have cultivated cacao for thousands of years
Traditional lunch in the community(1 hour)
Food prepared with local ingredients — plantain, yuca, heart of palm, and river fish. Cooked over wood fire
Free evening(2 hours)
Watch the sunset from Playa Cocles and process one of the most meaningful cultural experiences of the trip
Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge
A full day in the coastal wildlife refuge south of Puerto Viejo — pristine beaches, coral reefs, and howler monkeys.
Bike to Gandoca-Manzanillo(45 minutes)
Follow the coastal road south from Puerto Viejo. The ride itself is beautiful — jungle on both sides
Guided refuge hike(2.5 hours)
~$25 USD with a local guide. Spot howler monkeys, toucans, poison dart frogs, and sloths. The guide's trained eye finds what you'd miss alone
Snorkeling at Punta Manzanillo(1.5 hours)
The reef at the point has the best coral on the Caribbean coast. Bring your own gear or rent in Puerto Viejo
Lunch at Cool & Calm in Manzanillo(1 hour)
Beachside restaurant with fresh fish and Caribbean rice. Mains ~$10-15 USD. Feet in the sand
Free Day — Your Favourite Costa Rica
A final free day to revisit favourites or discover new corners of the Caribbean coast.
Morning yoga on the beach(1 hour)
Several studios in Puerto Viejo offer beachfront classes ~$10-15 USD. Or just stretch on the sand
Return to your favourite beach(3 hours)
Playa Cocles for surfing, Punta Uva for swimming, or Manzanillo for snorkeling
Lunch at Koki Beach in Puerto Viejo(1 hour)
Beachfront restaurant right on the water. The Caribbean seafood platter for two is ~$30 USD and feeds generously
Afternoon at leisure(2 hours)
Hammock, book, coconut water. This is your last Caribbean day
Farewell dinner at Selvin's in Puerto Viejo(1.5 hours)
The original Caribbean home-cooking restaurant. Rondon (coconut seafood stew) is the signature. ~$12-18 USD. Cash only
Return to San José & Final Evening
Transfer back across the country with a stop at a coffee plantation.
Early morning beach walk(1 hour)
The Caribbean coast at dawn — howler monkeys calling, toucans flying between palms
Transfer toward San José(4 hours)
Interbus ~$55 USD. The route passes through Braulio Carrillo National Park — misty cloud forest visible from the highway
Coffee plantation tour near the Central Valley(2 hours)
Stop at Café Britt or Doka Estate (~$25-40 USD). See coffee from plant to cup in the highlands where it grows best. Tasting included
Farewell dinner at La Casona del Cafetal(1.5 hours)
Traditional Costa Rican cuisine overlooking coffee plantations. Casado with fresh fish. Mains ~$12-20 USD. A fitting farewell
Departure Day
Final morning in Costa Rica. Airport transfer and departure.
Transfer to SJO airport(30 minutes)
Allow 2.5 hours for international flights. The SJO duty-free has excellent Costa Rican coffee, chocolate, and Centenario rum
Travel Tips
Visa & Entry
90-Day Visa-Free for Most Nationalities
US, Canadian, EU, and UK citizens get 90 days visa-free. You must show proof of onward travel (return flight or bus ticket out). Immigration sometimes asks for proof of funds (~$100/day). No visa extension — you must leave and re-enter (many do a 'border run' to Nicaragua or Panama).
transport
Rent a 4x4 — Roads Are Rough
Many roads to popular destinations (Monteverde, Drake Bay, Corcovado) are unpaved and require 4WD, especially in rainy season. Rent from reputable agencies (Vamos, Adobe) at ~$50-80 USD/day with full insurance. Drive during daylight only — roads lack lighting and signage.
Budget
Sodas Are Your Budget Friend
Sodas are small family-run restaurants serving casados (set meals: rice, beans, protein, salad, plantains) for ~3,000-5,000 CRC ($5-9 USD). Found in every town. Tourist restaurants charge 2-3x more for the same food. Ask locals for the best soda nearby.
US Dollars Accepted Everywhere
US dollars are accepted at most businesses, but you'll get change in colones. ATMs dispense both USD and CRC. The exchange rate at businesses is usually worse than ATMs. Avoid exchanging money at the airport — rates are the worst there.
Safety
Don't Leave Valuables in Your Car
Car break-ins at trailheads and beach parking lots are the #1 tourist crime. Take everything with you or leave it at your hotel. Lock all items in the trunk before arriving (thieves watch you hide things). Popular spots like Manuel Antonio and Arenal are frequent targets.
Riptides Are Deadly Serious
Costa Rica's Pacific beaches have strong riptides that kill several tourists each year. Swim only at lifeguarded beaches. If caught in a riptide, swim parallel to shore — never fight the current directly. Red or no flags mean no swimming.
Local Customs
Pura Vida Is More Than a Slogan
Ticos (Costa Ricans) use 'pura vida' as a greeting, farewell, and expression of contentment. Things move at a relaxed pace — 'Tico time' means appointments and buses may run late. Embrace it rather than stress about schedules. Patience is expected.
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