17 day itinerary
Costa Rica
Personalized with:Make it a road trip, a mix of relaxing,
Itinerary
A 17-day road trip through Costa Rica sounds like an amazing adventure! With its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and vibrant culture, you’re in for a treat. Let’s create an itinerary that balances relaxation with exploration. Buckle up, and let’s hit the road!
Day 1: Arrival in San José
- Morning: Arrive at . Pick up your rental car.
- Afternoon: Check into your hotel in San José. Take a leisurely stroll around the city center, visiting the and the .
- Evening: Enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant. Try some traditional Costa Rican dishes like casado or gallo pinto.
Day 2: San José to La Fortuna (Arenal Volcano)
- Morning: Drive to La Fortuna (about 3 hours). Enjoy the scenic views along the way.
- Afternoon: Check into your hotel and have lunch. Visit for a refreshing swim.
- Evening: Relax in the hot springs at Tabacón or Baldi. Dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 3:
- Morning: Hike the trails in . Keep an eye out for wildlife!
- Afternoon: Have lunch in La Fortuna. Consider a canopy tour or zip-lining adventure for some adrenaline!
- Evening: Dinner in town and perhaps a night walk to spot nocturnal wildlife.
Day 4: La Fortuna to Monteverde
- Morning: Drive to Monteverde (about 3.5 hours). The road is bumpy but the views are worth it!
- Afternoon: Check into your hotel and have lunch. Visit the for a guided tour.
- Evening: Dinner at a cozy restaurant. Enjoy the cool mountain air!
Day 5: Monteverde
- Morning: Explore the hanging bridges in the cloud forest. Keep your camera ready for stunning views!
- Afternoon: Visit a coffee plantation for a tour and tasting.
- Evening: Relax at your hotel or enjoy a night walk to see the unique wildlife.
Day 6: Monteverde to Manuel Antonio
- Morning: Drive to Manuel Antonio (about 3.5 hours). Enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way.
- Afternoon: Check into your hotel and have lunch. Spend the afternoon at .
- Evening: Dinner at a beachfront restaurant. Enjoy the sunset!
Day 7:
- Morning: Visit . Hike the trails and spot monkeys, sloths, and colorful birds.
- Afternoon: Relax on the beach or go for a swim.
- Evening: Dinner in town. Try some fresh seafood!
Day 8: Manuel Antonio to Dominical
- Morning: Drive to Dominical (about 30 minutes). Check into your hotel.
- Afternoon: Spend the day relaxing on the beach or surfing. Dominical is known for its laid-back vibe.
- Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant. Enjoy the beach nightlife!
Day 9: Dominical to Uvita
- Morning: Short drive to Uvita (about 30 minutes). Visit the and the famous .
- Afternoon: Explore . Go snorkeling or take a boat tour to see dolphins.
- Evening: Dinner at a local eatery. Enjoy the sunset views!
Day 10: Uvita to Osa Peninsula ()
- Morning: Drive to (about 2.5 hours). Enjoy the scenic coastal drive.
- Afternoon: Check into your hotel and have lunch. Explore the town or relax at the beach.
- Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant. Prepare for your adventure in !
Day 11:
- All Day: Take a guided tour into . This is one of the most biodiverse places on Earth! Look for tapirs, jaguars, and scarlet macaws.
- Evening: Return to for dinner and relaxation.
Day 12: to
- Morning: Take a boat to (about 1.5 hours). Check into your hotel.
- Afternoon: Relax on the beach or explore the area.
- Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Day 13:
- All Day: Take a day trip to for snorkeling or diving. The marine life is incredible!
- Evening: Return to for dinner and relaxation.
Day 14: to
- Morning: Take a boat back to and drive to (about 3 hours).
- Afternoon: Check into your hotel and have lunch. Explore the area and enjoy the cool mountain air.
- Evening: Dinner at your hotel or a local restaurant. Enjoy the tranquility of the cloud forest.
Day 15:
- Morning: Go birdwatching! This area is famous for its resplendent quetzals.
- Afternoon: Enjoy a hike in the surrounding trails or relax by the river.
- Evening: Dinner and perhaps some stargazing in this remote area.
Day 16: to San José
- Morning: Drive back to San José (about 2.5 hours). Check into your hotel.
- Afternoon: Last-minute shopping or visit the for souvenirs.
- Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a nice restaurant. Reflect on your amazing trip!
Day 17: Departure
- Morning: Depending on your flight time, enjoy a leisurely breakfast and perhaps a final stroll around San José.
- Afternoon: Return your rental car and head to the airport for your departure.
And there you have it! A perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and exploration. Make sure to pack your camera, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure. Costa Rica is waiting for you! Enjoy your trip! 🌴✨