Itinerary for 25 day trip to Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a stunning country with so much to offer, from lush rainforests to beautiful beaches. Since you’ll be staying with a friend, I’ll make sure to include some local experiences along with the must-see attractions. Here’s a fun and adventurous 25-day itinerary for your trip!

Day 1: Arrival in San José

Morning: Arrive at . Your friend can pick you up.
Afternoon: Settle in and relax. Maybe enjoy a home-cooked meal together.
Evening: Explore downtown San José. Visit the and grab dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 2: San José to La Fortuna

Morning: Head to La Fortuna (about a 3-hour drive). Enjoy the scenic views along the way.
Afternoon: Check into your accommodation and have lunch.
Evening: Visit . Take a dip in the refreshing waters!

Day 3:

Morning: Hike the trails in . Keep an eye out for wildlife!
Afternoon: Have lunch in town and then relax in the hot springs (Tabacón or Baldi are great options).
Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant. Try some traditional Costa Rican dishes!

Day 4: Adventure Day in La Fortuna

All Day: Go zip-lining through the canopy or take a white-water rafting trip on the Balsa River.
Evening: Enjoy a casual dinner and share stories about your day.

Day 5: 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 accommodation and have lunch.
Evening: Visit the for a night walk to see nocturnal wildlife.

Day 6: Monteverde Cloud Forest

Morning: Explore the cloud forest trails. Don’t miss the hanging bridges!
Afternoon: Visit a coffee plantation for a tour and tasting.
Evening: Dinner at a local eatery. Try the local cheese!

Day 7: Monteverde to Manuel Antonio

Morning: Depart for Manuel Antonio (about 3.5 hours).
Afternoon: Check into your accommodation and have lunch.
Evening: Relax at the beach and enjoy the sunset.

Day 8:

All Day: Spend the day in . Hike the trails, spot monkeys, and enjoy the beaches.
Evening: Dinner at a beachfront restaurant.

Day 9: Beach Day in Manuel Antonio

All Day: Enjoy a leisurely day at the beach. Try some water sports like snorkeling or paddleboarding.
Evening: Have a fun night out in town!

Day 10: Manuel Antonio to

Morning: Drive to the (about 4 hours).
Afternoon: Check into your accommodation and have lunch.
Evening: Relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.

Day 11:

All Day: Take a guided tour of . It’s one of the most biodiverse places on Earth!
Evening: Return to your accommodation and have dinner.

Day 12: Exploration

All Day: Go on a boat tour to see dolphins and maybe even whales (seasonal).
Evening: Enjoy a quiet evening with your friend.

Day 13: to Dominical

Morning: Depart for Dominical (about 1.5 hours).
Afternoon: Check into your accommodation and have lunch.
Evening: Explore the town and enjoy a beach sunset.

Day 14: Surfing in Dominical

All Day: Take a surfing lesson or just relax on the beach.
Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant. Try some fresh seafood!

Day 15: Dominical to

Morning: Drive to (about 1.5 hours).
Afternoon: Check into your accommodation and have lunch.
Evening: Go for a bird-watching tour. This area is famous for the Resplendent Quetzal!

Day 16: Hiking in

All Day: Hike the trails in the area. Enjoy the cool climate and beautiful scenery.
Evening: Dinner at a local lodge.

Day 17: to Cartago

Morning: Depart for Cartago (about 1.5 hours).
Afternoon: Visit the and have lunch.
Evening: Explore the local markets.

Day 18: Cartago to Turrialba

Morning: Drive to Turrialba (about 1 hour).
Afternoon: Check into your accommodation and have lunch.
Evening: Relax and enjoy the views of the .

Day 19:

All Day: Hike in . Enjoy the stunning landscapes.
Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 20: Turrialba to

Morning: Depart for (about 4 hours).
Afternoon: Check into your accommodation and have lunch.
Evening: Explore the vibrant town and enjoy some Caribbean cuisine.

Day 21: Beaches of

All Day: Relax at the beaches like or . Try snorkeling or just soak up the sun.
Evening: Enjoy a beach bonfire if possible!

Day 22:

All Day: Visit for hiking and snorkeling. Keep an eye out for sloths and monkeys!
Evening: Dinner in .

Day 23: to San José

Morning: Drive back to San José (about 4 hours).
Afternoon: Check into your accommodation and have lunch.
Evening: Visit a local market for souvenirs and enjoy a farewell dinner with your friend.

Day 24: San José Cultural Day

All Day: Explore museums like the and the .
Evening: Enjoy a nice dinner and maybe catch a local performance.

Day 25: Departure

Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast with your friend.
Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure.

This itinerary balances adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences, giving you a taste of everything Costa Rica has to offer. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures! 🌴✨