3 day itinerary for Costa Rica

Itinerary

Costa Rica is a fantastic destination for adventure, and I’m excited to help you plan a thrilling 3-day itinerary. Let’s dive right in!

## Day 1: Arrival in San José & Arenal Volcano

Morning:

• Arrival in San José: Welcome to Costa Rica! After you land, take a moment to soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the capital. If you have time, grab a coffee at a local café—Costa Rican coffee is a must-try!
• Transfer to Arenal: Book a shuttle or a private transfer to La Fortuna, which is about a 3-hour drive. The scenery is stunning, with lush landscapes and views of the Arenal Volcano.

Afternoon:

• Check-in at a Unique Stay: Consider staying at a treehouse hotel or a boutique hotel with views of the volcano. Places like the Tree Houses Hotel or Arenal Observatory Lodge offer a unique experience.
• Lunch: Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant in La Fortuna. Try some traditional casado, a plate with rice, beans, plantains, salad, and your choice of protein.

Evening:

• Hot Springs: After lunch, unwind at one of the natural hot springs in the area. Tabacón or Baldi Hot Springs are popular choices. Soak in the warm waters surrounded by nature—pure bliss!
• Dinner: Have dinner at a restaurant with a view of the volcano. The Lava Lounge is a great spot for a casual meal with a fun atmosphere.

## Day 2: Adventure in Arenal

Morning:

• Canopy Tour: Start your day with an adrenaline rush! Book a zip-lining tour through the rainforest canopy. Companies like Arenal Canopy Adventure offer thrilling experiences with safety as a priority. You’ll get to see the forest from a whole new perspective!

Afternoon:

• Lunch: Refuel at a local eatery. Try a smoothie bowl or a hearty sandwich.
• Waterfall Hike: After lunch, head to La Fortuna Waterfall. It’s a short hike down to the waterfall, where you can swim in the refreshing pool. Don’t forget your camera—this place is Instagram gold!

Evening:

• Dinner: Enjoy a nice dinner at Don Rufino, known for its delicious local cuisine and warm ambiance.
• Night Walk: If you’re up for it, consider a guided night walk in the rainforest. You’ll get to see nocturnal wildlife and experience the jungle in a whole new light!

## Day 3: Monteverde Cloud Forest

Morning:

• Transfer to Monteverde: After breakfast, take a shuttle to Monteverde (about 3.5 hours). The drive is scenic, so keep your camera handy!
• Check-in: Stay at a cozy lodge or a unique accommodation like a cloud forest cabin or a glamping site.

Afternoon:

• Lunch: Grab a bite at a local café. The Tree House Restaurant is a fun spot with a unique atmosphere.
• Cloud Forest Reserve: Spend the afternoon exploring the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. Go on a guided tour to learn about the unique flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for the elusive quetzal bird!

Evening:

• Dinner: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. The Monteverde Beer House offers a relaxed vibe and tasty food.
• Night Tour: If you’re feeling adventurous, book a night tour in the cloud forest. It’s a magical experience to see the forest come alive at night!

Tips for Your Trip:

• Safety: Costa Rica is generally safe for solo female travelers, but always stay aware of your surroundings and follow local advice.
• Transportation: Consider using reputable shuttle services or renting a car for flexibility.
• Packing: Bring comfortable shoes for hiking, a rain jacket, and insect repellent.

There you have it! A fun-filled, adventurous 3-day itinerary in Costa Rica that’s perfect for a solo female traveler. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to embrace the pura vida lifestyle! 🌿✨