3 day itinerary for Costa Rica

Itinerary

Costa Rica is a fantastic destination for families, and with a little one in tow, you can still enjoy the beauty and adventure the country has to offer. Here’s a fun and family-friendly 3-day itinerary that balances relaxation, exploration, and plenty of opportunities for your little one to enjoy!

## Day 1: Arrival in San José and Explore the City

Morning:

• Arrival in San José: Welcome to Costa Rica! After you land, take some time to settle into your hotel. Choose a family-friendly hotel with amenities like a pool or play area for your little one.
• Breakfast: Head to a local café for a traditional Costa Rican breakfast. Try “gallo pinto” (rice and beans) with eggs and fresh fruit.

Midday:

• Children’s Museum: After breakfast, visit the Museo de los Niños (Children’s Museum). It’s interactive and designed for kids, with plenty of hands-on exhibits that will keep your 3-year-old entertained.

Afternoon:

• Lunch: Grab a bite at a nearby family-friendly restaurant. Look for places with outdoor seating where your child can move around a bit.
• Parque La Sabana: Spend the afternoon at La Sabana Park. It’s a lovely green space where your little one can run around, and you can enjoy a leisurely stroll. There’s also a small lake and playgrounds.

Evening:

• Dinner: Head back to your hotel or find a nearby restaurant for dinner. Try some local dishes, and don’t forget to sample some fresh tropical fruit for dessert!
• Relax: Wind down at your hotel. If your little one is still awake, a quick dip in the pool can be a fun way to end the day!

## Day 2: A Day in La Fortuna (Arenal Volcano)

Morning:

• Travel to La Fortuna: After breakfast, set off for La Fortuna, home to the stunning Arenal Volcano. The drive takes about 3 hours, so pack some snacks and toys for the journey.
• Check-in: Once you arrive, check into a family-friendly hotel or resort. Many places have pools and activities for kids.

Midday:

• Lunch: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant with views of the volcano. Many places offer kid-friendly options.
• La Fortuna Waterfall: After lunch, visit the La Fortuna Waterfall. It’s a short hike down (and a bit of a climb back up, but you can take it slow). The waterfall is beautiful, and there’s a shallow area where your little one can splash around.

Afternoon:

• Hot Springs: Spend the afternoon relaxing in one of the family-friendly hot springs. Many resorts have their own, or you can visit places like Baldi Hot Springs, which has pools of varying temperatures and fun water slides.

Evening:

• Dinner: Enjoy dinner at your hotel or a nearby restaurant. Look for places with a relaxed atmosphere where your child can be comfortable.
• Evening Stroll: If everyone’s up for it, take a short evening stroll around the town of La Fortuna. The atmosphere is lively, and you can grab some ice cream for dessert!

## Day 3: Wildlife and Nature

Morning:

• Breakfast: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel.
• Arenal Volcano National Park: Head to Arenal Volcano National Park for a family-friendly hike. The trails are well-marked, and you can choose shorter routes that are suitable for little legs. Keep an eye out for wildlife!

Midday:

• Lunch: Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the park or head back to La Fortuna for a meal at a local café.
• La Fortuna Donkey Sanctuary: After lunch, visit the La Fortuna Donkey Sanctuary. It’s a delightful place where your child can interact with friendly donkeys and learn about animal care.

Afternoon:

• Butterfly Conservatory: If time allows, visit the Butterfly Conservatory nearby. It’s a magical experience for kids, with colorful butterflies fluttering all around. There’s also a small area with frogs and other critters!

Evening:

• Dinner: For your last night, treat yourselves to a nice dinner at a family-friendly restaurant. Enjoy the local cuisine and maybe even some live music!
• Pack Up: After dinner, pack up for your journey home or your next destination. Reflect on the wonderful memories you’ve made!

Tips for Traveling with a Toddler:

• Stay Flexible: Kids can be unpredictable, so be ready to adjust your plans as needed.
• Snacks and Hydration: Always have snacks and water on hand to keep your little one happy and hydrated.
• Rest Time: Don’t forget to schedule some downtime for naps or just relaxing at the hotel.

I hope this itinerary helps you have a fantastic family adventure in Costa Rica! Enjoy every moment! 🌴✨