7 day itinerary for Costa Rica

Itinerary

Costa Rica is a paradise filled with lush rainforests, stunning beaches, and vibrant wildlife. Here’s a fun and adventurous 7-day itinerary that will let you soak in the beauty of this Central American gem. Let’s get started!

## 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 freshen up.

Afternoon: Explore downtown San José! Visit the National Museum of Costa Rica and the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum. Don’t forget to 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: After breakfast, head to Arenal Volcano National Park (about a 3-hour drive). The views of the volcano are breathtaking!

Afternoon: Hike the trails in the park, where you can see lava fields, diverse wildlife, and stunning views of the volcano. Keep your eyes peeled for sloths and toucans!

Evening: Relax in the hot springs! There are several options, like Tabacón or Baldi, where you can unwind in natural thermal waters surrounded by lush gardens.

## Day 3: La Fortuna Waterfall & Adventure Activities

Morning: Start your day with a visit to La Fortuna Waterfall. Take a short hike down to the waterfall and enjoy a refreshing swim in the natural pool.

Afternoon: Get your adrenaline pumping with some adventure activities! Choose from zip-lining, white-water rafting, or canyoning. The scenery is absolutely stunning!

Evening: Head back to La Fortuna town for dinner. Try a local pizzeria or a restaurant that serves fresh ceviche.

## Day 4: Monteverde Cloud Forest

Morning: Depart for Monteverde (about a 3.5-hour drive). The journey is scenic, so enjoy the views along the way!

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

Evening: Enjoy a cozy dinner in Monteverde. There are some great local spots that serve delicious Costa Rican coffee and homemade desserts!

## Day 5: Canopy Tours & Coffee Plantations

Morning: Experience the thrill of a canopy tour! Glide through the treetops on a zip-line adventure, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the cloud forest.

Afternoon: Visit a coffee plantation to learn about the coffee-making process. Enjoy a tasting session and discover why Costa Rican coffee is so famous!

Evening: Relax at your accommodation or explore the local shops. Grab dinner at a restaurant with a view of the mountains.

## Day 6: Manuel Antonio National Park

Morning: Depart for Manuel Antonio (about a 3.5-hour drive). Once you arrive, check into your hotel and get ready for some beach time!

Afternoon: Explore Manuel Antonio National Park. Hike the trails, spot monkeys, sloths, and colorful birds, and enjoy the beautiful beaches. Don’t forget your swimsuit!

Evening: Enjoy a beachside dinner at one of the local restaurants. Fresh seafood is a must-try here!

## Day 7: Relaxation and Departure

Morning: Spend your last morning soaking up the sun on the beach or take a leisurely walk through the park. You could also try some water activities like snorkeling or paddleboarding.

Afternoon: Head back to San José (about a 3-hour drive) for your departure. If time allows, stop by a souvenir shop to pick up some last-minute gifts.

Evening: Depart from Juan Santamaría International Airport, taking with you unforgettable memories of your Costa Rican adventure!

And there you have it! A week filled with adventure, relaxation, and the stunning beauty of Costa Rica. Make sure to pack your camera, as you’ll want to capture all the incredible sights! Enjoy your trip! 🌴✨