Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a stunning destination with so much to offer, and I’m excited to help you craft a fabulous 20-day itinerary that skips Corcovado and Tortuguero while including Puerto Viejo, Montezuma, and Playa Coco. Let’s dive in!

Day 1: Arrival in San José

• Morning: Arrive at Juan Santamaría International Airport.
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel in San José. Take a leisurely stroll around the city center, visiting the National Theatre and the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum.
• Evening: Enjoy a traditional Costa Rican dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 2: San José to Puerto Viejo

• Morning: Take an early bus or shuttle to Puerto Viejo (about 4-5 hours).
• Afternoon: Check into your accommodation and relax on the beach.
• Evening: Explore the vibrant nightlife and grab dinner at a beachfront restaurant.

Day 3: Explore Puerto Viejo

• Morning: Rent a bike and ride to the nearby Cahuita National Park. Enjoy a hike and some snorkeling.
• Afternoon: Have lunch in Cahuita and return to Puerto Viejo. Spend the afternoon at Playa Cocles.
• Evening: Try some local Caribbean cuisine, like rice and beans with coconut milk.

Day 4: Puerto Viejo Adventures

• Morning: Go on a guided tour to see sloths and other wildlife at the Jaguar Rescue Center.
• Afternoon: Relax at Playa Chiquita and enjoy some beach time.
• Evening: Attend a local music event or dance at a reggae bar.

Day 5: Puerto Viejo to La Fortuna

• Morning: Depart Puerto Viejo and head to La Fortuna (about 6 hours).
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel and take in views of Arenal Volcano.
• Evening: Soak in the hot springs at Tabacón or Baldi.

Day 6: Arenal Volcano National Park

• Morning: Hike the trails in Arenal Volcano National Park.
• Afternoon: Visit La Fortuna Waterfall for a refreshing swim.
• Evening: Dinner in La Fortuna, perhaps trying some local casado.

Day 7: Adventure in La Fortuna

• Morning: Go zip-lining through the rainforest or take a canyoning tour.
• Afternoon: Visit the Arenal Hanging Bridges for stunning views.
• Evening: Relax at your hotel or explore the town.

Day 8: La Fortuna to Monteverde

• Morning: Travel to Monteverde (about 3-4 hours).
• Afternoon: Check into your accommodation and visit the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve.
• Evening: Enjoy a quiet dinner and perhaps a night walk to see nocturnal wildlife.

Day 9: Monteverde Exploration

• Morning: Go on a guided tour of the cloud forest, spotting unique flora and fauna.
• Afternoon: Visit a coffee plantation to learn about Costa Rican coffee.
• Evening: Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant, sampling some fresh, local dishes.

Day 10: Monteverde to Manuel Antonio

• Morning: Depart for Manuel Antonio (about 3-4 hours).
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel and relax at the beach.
• Evening: Dinner at a restaurant with ocean views.

Day 11: Manuel Antonio National Park

• Morning: Spend the day exploring Manuel Antonio National Park. Hike the trails and enjoy the beaches.
• Afternoon: Look for monkeys, sloths, and other wildlife.
• Evening: Enjoy a sunset dinner at a beachside restaurant.

Day 12: Manuel Antonio to Playa Coco

• Morning: Travel to Playa Coco (about 5-6 hours).
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel and relax on the beach.
• Evening: Explore the local area and enjoy dinner at a beachfront restaurant.

Day 13: Beach Day at Playa Coco

• Morning: Spend the day lounging on the beach or trying water sports like snorkeling or paddleboarding.
• Afternoon: Visit nearby Playa Hermosa for a change of scenery.
• Evening: Enjoy a casual dinner and perhaps some live music.

Day 14: Day Trip to Rincon de la Vieja

• Morning: Take a day trip to Rincon de la Vieja National Park for hiking and hot springs.
• Afternoon: Explore the park’s volcanic features and enjoy a dip in the hot springs.
• Evening: Return to Playa Coco for dinner.

Day 15: Playa Coco to Montezuma

• Morning: Travel to Montezuma (about 5-6 hours, including a ferry ride).
• Afternoon: Check into your accommodation and explore the town.
• Evening: Enjoy a laid-back dinner at a local eatery.

Day 16: Montezuma Waterfalls

• Morning: Hike to the Montezuma Waterfalls for a refreshing swim.
• Afternoon: Relax on the beach or take a yoga class.
• Evening: Dinner at a restaurant with a view of the sunset.

Day 17: Explore Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve

• Morning: Take a day trip to Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve for hiking and wildlife spotting.
• Afternoon: Enjoy the pristine beaches and have a picnic.
• Evening: Return to Montezuma for dinner.

Day 18: Montezuma to San José

• Morning: Travel back to San José (about 5-6 hours).
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel and do some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
• Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a nice restaurant.

Day 19: Day Trip to Poás Volcano

• Morning: Take a day trip to Poás Volcano National Park. Hike to the crater and enjoy the views.
• Afternoon: Visit a nearby coffee plantation for a tour.
• Evening: Return to San José for your last night.

Day 20: Departure

• Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and pack up.
• Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure flight, taking with you unforgettable memories of Costa Rica!

And there you have it! A delightful 20-day adventure through some of the most beautiful spots in Costa Rica. Each day is packed with activities, relaxation, and the chance to soak in the stunning natural beauty of this incredible country. Enjoy your trip! 🌴✨