20 day itinerary
Costa Rica
Personalized with:Woman solo traveler Surf begginer45 years oldLove nature and wild
Itinerary
Costa Rica is a fantastic destination for a solo traveler like you, especially if you love nature and the wild. With its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and beautiful beaches, you’re in for an adventure! Here’s a 20-day itinerary that balances relaxation, exploration, and some beginner surfing. Let’s dive in!
Day 1: Arrival in San José
- Morning: Arrive at . Take a taxi or shuttle to your hotel in San José.
- Afternoon: Explore the city! Visit the and stroll through the vibrant .
- Evening: Enjoy a traditional Costa Rican dinner at a local restaurant. Try “casado” – a typical dish!
Day 2: San José to La Fortuna
- Morning: Take a shuttle or bus to La Fortuna (about 3 hours). Enjoy the scenic views along the way.
- Afternoon: Check into your accommodation and relax. Maybe take a dip in the hot springs!
- Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant with views of Arenal Volcano.
Day 3:
- Morning: Hike the trails in . Look out for wildlife and stunning views of the volcano.
- Afternoon: Visit . You can swim in the cool waters!
- Evening: Enjoy a quiet evening, perhaps with a spa treatment or more hot springs.
Day 4: La Fortuna to Monteverde
- Morning: Travel to Monteverde (about 3.5 hours). The drive is beautiful!
- Afternoon: Check into your hotel and explore the town. Visit the .
- Evening: Dinner at a cozy restaurant. Try some local coffee!
Day 5: Monteverde Cloud Forest
- Morning: Go on a guided tour of the cloud forest. Look for the famous quetzal bird!
- Afternoon: Try the hanging bridges for a unique view of the forest.
- Evening: Enjoy a night walk to see nocturnal wildlife.
Day 6: Monteverde to Manuel Antonio
- Morning: Depart for Manuel Antonio (about 3.5 hours).
- Afternoon: Check into your hotel and relax on the beach.
- Evening: Dinner at a beachside restaurant.
Day 7:
- Morning: Explore . Hike the trails and enjoy the beaches.
- Afternoon: Relax on the beach or go for a swim. Keep an eye out for monkeys!
- Evening: Enjoy a sunset dinner.
Day 8: Surfing Lessons in Manuel Antonio
- Morning: Take a beginner surfing lesson at a nearby beach.
- Afternoon: Practice your surfing skills or relax on the beach.
- Evening: Enjoy a casual dinner and maybe some live music.
Day 9: Manuel Antonio to Dominical
- Morning: Travel to Dominical (about 30 minutes).
- Afternoon: Check into your accommodation and explore the town.
- Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant. Try some fresh seafood!
Day 10: Surfing in Dominical
- Morning: Another surfing lesson or practice your skills on the waves.
- Afternoon: Relax on the beach or explore the nearby waterfalls.
- Evening: Enjoy a laid-back dinner.
Day 11: Dominical to Osa Peninsula
- Morning: Travel to the Osa Peninsula (about 2 hours).
- Afternoon: Check into your eco-lodge and explore the area.
- Evening: Dinner at your lodge, enjoying the sounds of nature.
Day 12:
- All Day: Take a guided tour of . Look for wildlife like tapirs, jaguars, and scarlet macaws.
- Evening: Return to your lodge for dinner and relaxation.
Day 13: Osa Peninsula to Puerto Viejo
- Morning: Travel to Puerto Viejo (about 6 hours). It’s a long journey, but the scenery is beautiful!
- Afternoon: Check into your accommodation and relax on the beach.
- Evening: Dinner at a local Caribbean restaurant.
Day 14:
- Morning: Visit for a hike and some snorkeling.
- Afternoon: Relax on the beach or explore the town of Puerto Viejo.
- Evening: Enjoy a lively dinner with some local music.
Day 15: Surfing in Puerto Viejo
- Morning: Take a surfing lesson at , known for its beginner-friendly waves.
- Afternoon: Relax on the beach or explore the nearby waterfalls.
- Evening: Dinner at a beach bar.
Day 16: Puerto Viejo to San José
- Morning: Travel back to San José (about 4-5 hours).
- Afternoon: Check into your hotel and relax. Maybe visit a local art gallery.
- Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner in the city.
Day 17: Day Trip to Poás Volcano
- Morning: Take a day trip to . Hike to the crater and enjoy the views.
- Afternoon: Visit a coffee plantation nearby for a tour and tasting.
- Evening: Return to San José for dinner.
Day 18: San José to Tortuguero
- Morning: Travel to Tortuguero (about 3-4 hours by bus and boat).
- Afternoon: Check into your lodge and explore the village.
- Evening: Dinner at your lodge, and if it’s turtle nesting season, you might have a chance to see turtles!
Day 19:
- All Day: Take a guided boat tour through . Look for wildlife like sloths, monkeys, and caimans.
- Evening: Enjoy your last dinner in the wild!
Day 20: Departure from San José
- Morning: Travel back to San José (about 3-4 hours).
- Afternoon: Depending on your flight time, do some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
- Evening: Head to the airport for your departure.
Tips for Your Trip:
- Safety: Costa Rica is generally safe, but always stay aware of your surroundings, especially as a solo traveler.
- Transportation: Consider using shuttles or buses for longer distances; they’re convenient and often provide beautiful views.
- Wildlife: Always respect wildlife and keep a safe distance. Bring binoculars for better viewing!
- Surfing: Don’t hesitate to ask your instructors for tips and guidance. They’re usually very friendly and helpful!
I hope this itinerary excites you! Costa Rica is a paradise for nature lovers, and you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience. Enjoy your adventure! 🌿🏄♀️🌊