7 day itinerary for Costa Rica

Itinerary

Costa Rica is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers, and I’m thrilled to help you plan an exciting 7-day itinerary that includes hiking, waterfalls, zip-lining, and beautiful lakes. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in San José

Morning: Arrive at Juan Santamaría International Airport in San José. After checking into your hotel, take a moment to relax and freshen up.

Afternoon: Explore the vibrant capital city! Visit the National Museum of Costa Rica and stroll through the Central Market for some local snacks and souvenirs.

Evening: Enjoy a traditional Costa Rican dinner at a local restaurant. Try the “casado,” a typical dish with rice, beans, plantains, salad, and your choice of protein.

## Day 2: Arenal Volcano National Park

Morning: Depart early for Arenal Volcano National Park (about a 3-hour drive). Upon arrival, take a guided hike through the park’s trails, where you’ll see stunning views of the volcano and diverse wildlife.

Afternoon: After your hike, head to La Fortuna Waterfall. It’s a short hike down to the waterfall, where you can swim in the refreshing pool at the base. Don’t forget your camera!

Evening: Relax in one of the hot springs in the area, like Tabacón or Baldi. Soaking in the warm waters surrounded by nature is the perfect way to unwind after a day of adventure.

## Day 3: Zip-lining and Hanging Bridges

Morning: Get your adrenaline pumping with a zip-lining tour through the treetops! Companies like Sky Adventures offer thrilling experiences with breathtaking views of the Arenal area.

Afternoon: After zip-lining, take a stroll on the hanging bridges in the Arenal area. This is a fantastic way to see the rainforest from a different perspective and spot wildlife.

Evening: Enjoy dinner in La Fortuna. Try some local dishes and perhaps a refreshing “fresco” (a fruit drink) to cool off.

## Day 4: Monteverde Cloud Forest

Morning: Depart for Monteverde (about a 3.5-hour drive). The journey is scenic, so keep your camera handy!

Afternoon: Once you arrive, head to the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. Take a guided hike to learn about the unique ecosystem and spot exotic birds, including the resplendent quetzal.

Evening: Enjoy a cozy dinner in Monteverde. If you’re up for it, consider a night walk to experience the forest’s nightlife!

## Day 5: Lake Arenal and Wildlife Watching

Morning: Visit Lake Arenal for some kayaking or paddleboarding. The views of the volcano from the lake are stunning, and you might spot some wildlife along the shores.

Afternoon: After your water activities, head to the nearby Arenal Observatory Lodge for a hike. The trails here offer great opportunities to see wildlife and enjoy panoramic views of the volcano and lake.

Evening: Return to Monteverde for dinner. Try a local pizza or pasta dish, as the area has some great Italian restaurants!

## Day 6: Manuel Antonio National Park

Morning: Depart for Manuel Antonio (about a 3.5-hour drive). This park is famous for its beautiful beaches and rich biodiversity.

Afternoon: Spend the afternoon hiking the trails in Manuel Antonio National Park. Keep an eye out for sloths, monkeys, and colorful birds! After your hike, relax on one of the stunning beaches.

Evening: Enjoy a beachside dinner in Manuel Antonio. Fresh seafood is a must-try here!

## Day 7: Relaxation and Departure

Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and perhaps a final stroll on the beach or a quick swim in the ocean.

Afternoon: Depending on your flight time, you can either relax or do some last-minute shopping in the area. Then, head back to San José (about a 3-hour drive) for your departure.

Evening: If time allows, grab a final meal in San José before heading to the airport.

Tips:

• Always check the weather and trail conditions before heading out.
• Bring plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen for your hikes.
• Don’t forget your camera or smartphone to capture all the beautiful moments!

I hope this itinerary gets you excited for your adventure in Costa Rica! It’s going to be an unforgettable week filled with nature, adventure, and relaxation. Enjoy every moment! 🌿🌊🌋